Global Traveler

CAYMAN ISLANDS

The warmth of the Caymans makes visitors feel right at home.

- BY EUGENIA LAZARIS

When the Cayman Islands reopens to global tourism after the restrictio­ns of the COVID-19 pandemic, it will be waiting with open arms. Visitors will once again be able to experience what makes the Caymans a world-class destinatio­n — pristine beaches, stunning scenery, magnificen­t wildlife and its very own brand of kindness: Caymankind.

Caymankind is all about the beauty, culture and heart of the islands. From the welcoming hospitalit­y and the laid-back lifestyle to the incredible landscape and wildlife, the Caymans offers a piece of true Caribbean paradise.

Boasting more than 1.7 million visitors in 2019, the Caymans is clearly wellequipp­ed to show guests a good time. To get a true feel for the island vibe, head to the big island of Grand Cayman where iguanas roam free, waves crash gently on sandy white beaches and smiling locals happily show off the home they love.

In 2016, Troy Leacock, a 10thgenera­tion Caymanian, started Crazy Crab because he wanted to offer a premium tour experience on an intimate level that can turn strangers into friends. This family-run business offers small-boat, chartered tours where guests choose their destinatio­ns and tour lengths. This relaxed flexibilit­y epitomizes the easy-going style of the Caymans.

The most popular attraction on the island is Stingray City. Located on a sand bar in the island’s North Sound, this attraction consists of a waist-deep sandbar home to a population of southern stingrays. These gentle giants will swim right up to you and eat squid out of your hands. Crazy Crab’s guides help guests navigate the experience, making sure everyone explores at their comfort level. The rays are so friendly they will even give lucky visitors a stingray “kiss,” proving it’s not just the local humans who understand Caymankind.

Crazy Crab also helps visitors experience the diverse culinary culture, showcasing locally grown produce and fresh-caught seafood. A seaside meal is the perfect way to enjoy a beautiful sunset before you segue into a nighttime swim in Biolumines­cent Bay. One of only a handful of locations in the world where this natural phenomenon occurs, Biolumines­cent Bay is home to microscopi­c plankton that flash in brilliant shades of bright iridescent blue when disturbed by movement in the water.

On an intimate tour of Grand Cayman, each visitor feels welcomed into the island’s heart. It’s no wonder visitors return year after year to a paradise that, thanks to the Caymankind spirit, makes them feel like they are coming home.

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 ?? PHOTOS: © CRAZY CRAB ?? In the Swim:
Family on a
Crazy Crab tour interactin­g with a stingray in the shallow waters at Stingray City (above), and Crazy Crab boat (left)
PHOTOS: © CRAZY CRAB In the Swim: Family on a Crazy Crab tour interactin­g with a stingray in the shallow waters at Stingray City (above), and Crazy Crab boat (left)

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