FINAL PREPARATIONS FOR YOUR TRIP TO CAYMAN CASTLE

Please remember, You have rented a home, not a hotel suite at a resort. It is your home for your vacation; and I have a support system in place to help you if anything breaks or you need help. Thelda Whittaker (numbers above) is my manager. She is not a concierge—but she does do more than a standard manager. She can help with babysitters, cooks, doctor & dentist recommendations, etc. She is a professional Caymanian manager (cell 916-5312).

First things- Safety & Contact Information

Know the phone number. (Castle is 345-947-1681 & Guesthouse is 345-946-5594) so that you can give it to others back home—and provide it to the CI Government on your embarkation card you receive on the airplane. The Villa “Name” will suffice for address—but also know that we are in "Gun Bay" in East End.

Many cell services work in the islands (Sprint, Verizon, AT&T & Cingular from the USA). If yours doesn't work,  you might decide to rent a mobile phone. You can do that through www.emptysuitcases.com OR go downtown to Cable & Wireless and rent one from them (http://www.cw.ky/internet/products/visitor-services/temporary-mobile-daily-rentals/). The cell phones on the island are “pay-as-you-go”; so you buy minutes in advance and can “top-up” at banks, convenience stores, grocery stores, etc.)

If you are a diver—please invest the small premium with DAN (Divers Alert Network) for insurance should you have a dive accident and require evacuation. I think the annual family premium is $120.00; and the bill for recompression treatment on island is $8,000; Evacuation to Miami will run close to $25,000. I think it is better to be covered if you plan to dive a lot. www.diversalertnetwork.org . DAN is non-profit, research-based and operated in Durham, NC in conjunction with Duke University Medical Center.

Documentation-(IMPORTANT)

Passports.

AFTER Jan 23, 2007; passports are required for all Americans going abroad—that includes all children, regardless of age (http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/minors/minors_834.html). This is not the same world it was after 2001. Please get the applications in early.

There is a temporary exception (May 2007) - if you have a passport in process-- you can use a birth certificate and photo ID if you have the form from  USPO proving you have a passport in process.

After arrival in Grand Cayman, the immigration agent will stick a small piece of white paper in your passport. You will need that piece of paper to prove you have paid the exit fee when departing. Just leave it where they stick it and there will be no problems. If you lose it, arrive at the airport early to fill out another one and pay the departure tax (again).

What to Bring/Buy-(IMPORTANT)

Please click www.grandcaymanvillas.net/whattobring.htm . Stores are closed on Sundays. If you are arriving on Holiday or Sunday—you might consider having the villa pre-stocked with groceries. www.caymanshoppers.com does a nice job. He knows my manager and they will coordinate access.

Arrival/Departure & Directions-

Arrival Procedures

1.                   The airlines hand out both a Cayman Immigration form and a family customs declaration. You should fill out both before you land. Notice two things; your flight number and that they write their dates as DD/MM/YY, not MM/DD/YY. You are staying at a “private guest house”.  Write down the villa name and district where it is located.

2.                    Upon arrival, you will be directed to the embarkation area.  Proceed to the right-most "Visitors" line (next to where “Returning Caymanians” re-enter.  Although it moves slowly at first, once the Cayman nationals on your flight have gone through…the officers in that line will wave you over to the Nationals line!  There, you will need to show the Cayman Immigration Official your passport and both forms.  Once processed, you go to your right, and claim your luggage as it comes off the conveyor (the carts are plentiful and free, so no need to hurry). Grab some free brochures/literature from the Cayman Cottage-looking welcome desk. You then get in a customs line for “nothing to declare”, unless you are bringing in more than the allowed items stated on the Caymanian customs card. You allowed a case of beer or 2 bottles of wine or 1 bottle of spirits per adults (over 18).

3.                    After processing, take your bags/cart out the door to the left, to the traffic circle.  If you have contracted McCurley’s Tours to take you to the Castle, look for one of their Brown/Tan vans.  If you have rented a car, park your bags/cart to the left of the circle, and whichever person will be driving should walk to their left about 100yds to the car rental “strip mall” (about 10 car rental places) right across the street from the airport. Andy’s rental cars are in a new building directly across the parking lot from the arrival doors. If you need cash at this time, there is an ATM machine just inside the double glass door to the Departure Area (where the ticket counters are) right next to the traffic circle outside of the arrival gate. You can get either CI$ or US$ from your U.S. ATM card!

4.                    Drive on the Left!

Departure Procedures are easy as well:

1.                    The best plan is to call the airline on the morning of your departure to be sure your plane is on time. Then, plan your day around dropping the bags off (checking them in) about 2-3 hours early,  go have lunch/shop, turn in the rental car (across the street) and walk to the departure lounge. When you drop off your bags (2-3 hrs early), use the pay-parking lot across from the departure loop. It only cost CI$2.00/hour, and you won’t be there more than 30 minutes anyway, and then you won’t need the services of a “sky-cap”.  If you park your car out in front of the airport and leave it, they will attach an iron “boot” to your tire (fine required).  If you do need their (sky cap) services; use them, as they are always polite and will get your heavy bags to the front of the line (pretty much just $1-$2/bag, as in the states). The counters open about 3-4 hours prior to the flight departures. Make sure you have some CI$ singles for the parking ticket machine that is located next to the arrival gate-- you pay there FIRST and then exit the parking lot with your validated ticket (keeps you from walking back and forth across the lot!)

2.                    A couple of things to remember here. You need to have the little white immigration card from your arrival form in order to depart.  If you have lost it, just go to the departure line and fill out another (in boxes against the glass partition), no big deal.  Another thing to remember is that there are duty-free shops in the departure lounge, where you can buy liquor, perfume, cigars, etc…at pretty nice prices.  Dom Perignon (750ml) was US$85.00/bottle in January 2004 (Vodka at US$14.00/btl?)

3.                    This is a pretty good plan. If you check-in your luggage early (11AM), and you have a 2PM flight, you can easily arrive back at the car rental place at 1:15PM and only be waiting 30 minutes in the departure lounge to board. Remember, there are no gates to run between! Just be sure you have a boarding pass (seat assignment) before you leave the airport for lunch. I personally go to the Sunset House, just south of Georgetown—so I can watch the planes land and be certain that my plane is actually here!

Ground Transportation-

Please click my link at www.grandcaymanvillas.net/transportation.htm for rental cars; McCurley’s Tours pick ups, etc.

Keys to the Villa-

The Castle and/or Guesthouse will be unlocked for your arrival with the keys on the rack or on the dining room table. I would recommend attaching a set to the car keys right away so you don't lock yourselves out-

Directions to the CASTLE-

Exit the Airport or Rental Car parking lot. Drive on the Left!! You are headed towards Northside or East End (via Boddentown) in case you get lost right away and need to stop for directions.

After leaving the rental car parking lot, turn right (into left lane!!) proceed about ½ mile, take a left turn at the first “T” intersection, you will then curve around to the right, and be driving parallel to the fenced runway, going South West. Look to your right & you will see a large supermarket…Foster’s Food Fair and other stores. Our Sam’s Club is called “Priced Right” and is on the left end of this shopping center.  This is one of two large supermarkets on the way to Northside. There is another (more) beautiful supermarket on the way (Hurley’s), so if Fosters is too crowded, or you don’t want to risk a right turn in heavy traffic just yet…don’t worry; keep going.

Stay in the left lane and proceed straight to the southwest end of the fenced runway (1/4 mile after Fosters..)  Turn left. Mark your odometer.

Proceed about 200 yards across the runway and turn left on Crewe Road going east towards Boddentown. It feels like you have just circled the runway! You will pass a gas station (I think it’s a Texaco). You will stay on this road for a few miles…so relax regarding turns. Just stay in the left lane. When you come to traffic circles, just go around 180 degrees…proceeding straight east along the southern coast of the island.

Hurley’s Grocery Store, Blockbuster, Toy Store, Pharmacy and Tortuga Liquors at Grand Harbour should be at approximately 2 miles on your odometer just at the second traffic circle on the left (look for tall palm trees on your left and a pastel-colored, gingerbread shopping center). You can get off here to shop, check out the wave/skateboard park in back and then get right back on Crewe Road.

You will follow Crewe road all the way along the southern side of the island. Along the way, you will drive through the areas of Savannah , Newlands, Lower Valley and ultimately Boddentown (keep an eye to the left for the Pirate Cave gift shop...8 miles on odometer). Stay within the speed limits (MPH).

After clearing Boddentown , you will drive about another 3 miles, and pass the Lighthouse Restaurant in a district called “Breakers”.  Lighthouse restaurant will be on your right. You have gone approximately11 miles so far. Wathc your speeding on the island-- they give expensive tickets.

One mile past the Lighthouse Restaurant (again, 12 miles total to center of island), is the main North/South road of the island. This road takes you towards Northside/Cayman Kai. There is a fountain and sign post on the left. Going straight here will take you to the East End.

Just follow this road along the southern coast of the island-- you will pass the district of "Cottage", a rocky coastline to the right and then drop to 25 MPH when you hit East End village-- drive slowly through East End-- they were hit hard by the hurricane in 2004 and are still rebuilding. After you pass Ocean Frontiers (Blue Buildings on the right)-- we are just 250 yds ahead on the right (oceanside). The gate doesn't lock-- it rolls open and should be open for you-

 Things to Do on the Island-

Please click www.grandcaymanvillas.net/activities.htm  for a list of fun things.

I would say the favorite things many of my family guests have done include:

• Having a private stingray city trip/snorkeling trip with www.boatsandbutlers.com
• Having a cook/chef cook a meal in their villa
• Being picked-up at the airport by McCurley’s Tours
• Having the villa pre-stocked by www.caymanshoppers.com
• Dinner at the Lighthouse restaurant
• Dinner at Portofino’s
• Sunday BBQ at the Driftwood in Northside (2-7PM)
• Renting kayaks, cribs, bicycles, etc from www.emptysuitcases.com
• Rum Point any morning/afternoon (except Sunday)
• Windsurfing at Morritt’s Tortuga Timeshare Resort
• Half-day Fishing Trip
• Stingray City trip on Red Sail Sport’s 65’ Catamaran (from Kaibo)
• A pleasant walking trek through the Queen’s Botanical Gardens (nearby)
• Taking the kid’s to the Turtle Farm (Boatswain’s Beach) on 7MB

You will notice that I have left off GOLF. The best 3-4 golf courses on the island are at 7MB. The "Links at Safehaven" is the only 18 hole really nice course--and it just re-opened in February 2007. The Government's website speaks best to golf on the island- http://www.caymanislands.ky/to_do/golfing.asp ; however it doesn't include the new Ritz golf course designed by Greg Norman. That course ("Blue Tip", named after the shark) looks pretty nice from the air. Personally, I can play golf at home, on better courses, for less money and headaches-- I leave my clubs at home. The water and warm sand is why I came this far for vacation!

CONVENIENCE TIPS (Live/look like a Local):

1.                  Fresh Fish for the grill. Pack a small cooler with whenever you go into town. When in Georgetown, look at the waterfront right where Mary’s Street terminates at the sea (Hammerhead’s Bar) and you will see a couple of umbrellas with 4-5 fishermen selling fresh fish on the quay. They are fresh-caught…and ask to see everything in their coolers as well. Snapper, Grouper, Wahoo, and Yellowtail are the best fish…don’t buy parrotfish or triggerfish. By having the cooler full of ice, you can shop in Georgetown or go to the Turtle Farm and don’t have to race back to the Northside. Closer by, many afternoons the fishermen in the Northside are cleaning fish at the pier next to "Over the Edge" in Old Man Bay too (about 1PM-2PM).

2.                  Visit any Beach. While (technically) property owners own their land to the high water mark, all of the hotels, condos and resorts want you to visit them. Specifically; Rum Point, Royal Reef, Morritt’s Tortuga, The Westin & Hyatt, Sunset House, Marriott, Treasure Island, etc…welcome you to swim on their beach, use their restaurants, bars, watersports, etc...They may not want you using their lounge chaises however. There are also public beaches all around the island that the local Caymanians rarely use. They are usually pristine, and have some facilities. Do not feel like an outsider on this island. The people are friendly and want you to have a good time. The only look you might get is if you use a ton of water at their shower (water is precious).

3.                  Know the Calendar. My arrivals are mostly on Saturday, and Sat. evening Lammie (calypso music) plays at Morritt’s. Barefoot Man plays Tues/Thur at Royal Reef. The “Big Kahuna” comedian plays Morritts on Wednesday nights.  Red Sail Sports has the best KAIBO Stingray City trip on their 65’ catamaran Tu/We/Th (call 345-945-5965 ask for Lashan). It is the most convenient snorkel trip to you...near Rum Point. Reminder, all stores and grocery stores are closed on Sundays. Driftwood in Rum Point has 4 satellite dishes..all the games..and cheaper beer. Usually no cruise ships on Sundays; and Wednesdays are the worst in town for cruise ships (up to 5-6 of them!). See the cruise ship schedule for your week below.

4.                  Don’t Overdress. The island is casual. Everyone expects you to be very comfortable. Shorts and T-shirts (or collared polo shirts for restaurants) are fine. Many ladies just wear a cover-up or wrap skirt over their bathing suit out to dinner. No Thurston Howell III’s (blazer & ascots).

Cooks, Chefs (& Maids)

The availability of cooks for private hire is very much a function of the strength of the local economy.  In Jamaica, Mexico, Dominican Republic unemployment runs anywhere from 5% to 25%.  In Grand Cayman, unemployment is very low (around 3%).  We import labor from those other countries. Chefs are very well paid on the island. I have a local lady who will cook a nice dinner for you & family (which I recommend). She offers great service. Our guests have hired her with excellent results. Carolyn buys the food, drives herself to the house, prepares, serves and then cleans up afterwards. It is a real luxury to have dinner served outside or around the pool. There are many great restaurants on the North side…. you will want to try them. I also recommend Sean Collins at Mise En Place for “fine-dining” dinners. They are awesome and do most of the weddings at the Castle in the East End. www.miseenplace.com.ky

My personal view on hiring a full-time cook (I have had them before on other islands)…I felt obligated to hang around for lunch/dinner instead of going to the great restaurants…and not all in the group are ready to eat a big lunch/dinner at a specific time. I also was uncomfortable in Jamaica having strangers in the house while we were at the beach or shopping. That island has a ton of crime, as opposed to Grand Cayman.  I would rather the house be locked when we are not there. Same with daily maid service; however our maids are very trustworthy. They are available for extra maid-service for about CI$25/hr. Contact your property manager in advance of your trip if you would like to schedule extra maid service

Some of the other islands have to offer cooks because they either don’t have enough restaurants (Mustique) or the local restaurants (other than the resorts’) aren’t particularly safe (D.R., Jamaica, and Mexico). They also need to offer every imaginable service to get you to go there. My personal view only; I want my privacy when I want it and maximum flexibility when I want it…  I am on vacation!

• Carolyn Carter – 345-947-9642
• Burton Ebanks – 345-949-6598
• Hansel Rankin – 345-928-2268

Cruise Ship Schedule

If you would like to know how many cruise ships will be in the port of Georgetown during your week and on what particular day—Please click this link below to the Cayman Islands Port Authority. It may help keep you from making a big mistake and driving into town on a day when there are 7 cruise ships in port!

http://www.caymanport.com/schedule.htm

LASTLY—

I want you and your guests to have a great time. I know many people on the island and they know me. I work hard to maintain a great relationship with all of them (restaurants, dive operations, etc.)  I send a lot of business their way each year—rental cars, etc. As long as they treat my guests well—I will keep referring them. If you have a great time or bad experience on the island—I want to know about it please. If you have a celebration dinner of 8 or more people—I would strongly recommend the “Port Room” at the Lighthouse Restaurant. You have the room to yourself—and their wine list too (trouble). We enjoyed many great meals there. Giuseppe is a great host.

 Thanks again for your business—and I trust this has been informative. Please feel free to ask any questions or make recommendations that I can include for subsequent guests.

CONCIERGE SERVICES FOR YOUR STAY:

I.          PRE-STOCKING THE VILLA WITH FOOD AND BEVERAGES:

             www.caymanshoppers.com

             www.boatsandbutlers.com

II.        MAID SERVICE (Daily or on Demand):

            Contact your property manager to set up extra maid service. Figure $30/hour. They will collect by either credit card or cash directly from you.

III.       BOAT RENTAL & CAPTAINED PRIVATE BOAT/DIVE TRIPS:

            www.boatsandbutlers.com ( Private Snorkel/Dive/Fishing/Stingray trips on nice boats) 916-2838

            www.aquazure.net (Private Snorkel/Dive/Stingray Sandbar trips on a 43' boat) 925-8381

            www.divenstuff.net  (Private dive boat will pick up at Kaibo, Rum Point or Private Dock) 947-2822

            www.caymanislandboatrentals.com  (Boat rental- to be kept at Kaibo Yacht Club)

            Blair Philpott also has a small boat and does smaller boat trips 516-1978

IV.       EQUIPMENT RENTAL (Kayaks, Bicycles, Wheelchairs, Umbrellas, Rollaway Beds, etc.):

                www.emptysuitcases.com

V.        COOKS/CHEFS FOR PREPARED MEALS AT YOUR VILLA:

            Contact: Carolyn Carter at 345-947-9642  -OR-

                            Hansel Rankin at 928-2268

            Chefs--  Sean Collins at Mise en Place  345-943-CHEF

 VI.       MASSAGE/SPA SERVICES AT THE VILLA:

Spa-2-Go at 345-949-1525

The Healing Touch - 949-2034

VII.     PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY:

David Wolfe Photography  - 345-916-4146

VII.     DEEP-SEA FISHING CHARTER:  

Jerry Whittaker- Au'sum (33' Blackfin Sportfisherman) - 345-916-4069

Joey Welcome- Eco-Panga (26’ MerPanga center console) – 345-947-5200

Carl Edwards- Small Boat (5 people max) for reef fishing (cheaper) 916-0432

VII.     FLY-FISHING CHARTER:

HOMEOWNER NOTES

I need to ask you to please do a few things for your new home while you are on the island: (I will repeat some of these too)

• Please take any/all garbage out of the houses and put it in the trash cans on the road. Otherwise, you may see things that you don’t want to see on an expensive Caribbean vacation! Trash is collected twice a week (TUESDAY AND FRIDAY EVENINGS). DO NOT pile the trash bags by the front door, or neighborhood dogs will find their way to tear into them.
• The pool is relatively easy. There should be a bucket of chlorine tablets near the pump. Try to keep at least one or two tablets in the skimmer basket during the week, and keep the water level halfway up the tile border for the guesthouse, up  to the row of tile  on the infinity TROUGH (behind the pool). There is a fill valve on the trough for this purpose. You can also use the hose--but the valve is easier.
• Please leave the keys on the dining table  when you leave. You can leave the front door unlocked, as the maids will probably already be there anyway
• Lastly; please  leave the furniture/electronics as you found them.. Do not separate bunk-beds or move the beds around. Most have block supports underneath for stability. Don't disconnect any cables on TV's please, and don't take any (fixed) stereos outside. I have a small portable boombox at the Castle that can go under cover outside.

Items Provided for Cayman Castle (or guesthouse) Guests

Bedrooms:

                        Each Bed has at least two full changes of linens, one blanket and one comforter.  All beds have at least two pillows, with the queen/king beds having at least six (check closets). Extra bedding will be in either the bedroom armoires, bathroom closet or laundry.  Each bedroom has at least one dresser. At least one table lamp per bedroom is provided (in addition to a ceiling fan with light fixture).  Each bedroom has central air-conditioning.  I own two portable cribs (in 1st floor castle storage room off of tangerine bedroom)..and have two booster seat/high chairs.  If you need more than that, I will put you in touch with www.emptysuitcases.com . Please put cribs back in storage room when finished.  The yellow (queen & bunks) room on second floor has a commercial door closer to prevent a "wind-induced" door slam from smashing little fingers. It is a little harder to open--but believe me it is safer if you open up the windows and doors for a breeze. The beds are supported with concrete blocks and heavy timber-- please don't try to move them.

Bathrooms:

                   All bathrooms have the same (interchangeable!) color/brand of towels and washcloths. You should find at least 4-6 towels in each bathroom/vanity. There will be a starter roll or two of toilet paper in each bathroom, and potentially more in the bathrooms. Please put nothing (inorganic) in the toilets. We are on a septic tank/well system in the islands. Also, be mindful of water usage, as it comes from the minimal rainfall we get (20 inches/year). You will need to buy your brand of toilet paper at grocery store. I don't provide shampoos, hairdryers, shavers, etc. Our voltage is the same as in the USA.

 TV Area:                           

                        The furniture in the TV Area consists of a sofa and entertainment center.  The sofa is convertible to a bed for overflow/snoring guests. Please do not use the other sofas or their cushions for sleeping  (use the beds please).  We use a  DSS satellite system on the island. You can switch from Satellite to DVD inputs by pushing the function button on the Samsung DVD/Tuner/Amp for the large Plasma (AUX1 is Dish, DIGITAL1 is DVD).  We do not use VCR tapes on 2nd floor of castle, as the heads on the VCRs erode quickly in the salt air.  If you need the remote control instructions, they are either in the entertainment unit (please replace) or in a coffee table drawer.  NOTE* we do not receive all satellite channels broadcasted (especially adult channels).  Please supervise your minor children.  A small library of DVD disks and kiddie VCR tapes are in the entertainment center. You will also find a portable Stereo/CD player for your use.  PLEASE DO NOT TURN OFF THE SATELLITE RECEIVER DURING YOUR STAY. IT WILL HAVE TO RESET ITSELF AND RELOAD THE PROGRAMMING AND CAN TAKE A LONG TIME TO DO THAT.

Living Area:

                        The living area has a two large sofas, a coffee table, desk/chair, and accessories. Neither of the sofas convert to a bed. This area has its own thermostat and air-conditioning zone, so please keep the french doors closed if you have the A/C on…If you find that you want to leave the french doors open (A/C off); watch the bedroom doors, so they don't slam shut HARD with the breeze. The window screens will keep any bugs/pests/ out of the house beautifully.  The trade winds here will actually cool the house down into the low 70’s in the winter (you may use the blankets), and the high 70’s in the summer. We rarely use the air conditioning in the winter months in any part of the house, and have found ourselves putting on light blankets in other beachfront properties! You are the guests, so you decide whether you want A/C.  Just please do not set any of the 4 thermostats below 75 degrees, or the fan to “ON”.  The fan should be left on “automatic”..and setting the temperature below 75 degrees will  freeze-up the unit. If you do leave it “off” in the main room, please make sure you keep the 3rd floor bedroom and laundry doors closed that are receiving A/C (moisture collects/wasted energy). The windows are sliders-- and are you need to make sure they are completely shut before locking them Sorry to dwell, electricity is grossly expensive (close to $2,500/month).

Dining Area:

                   The dining area has a round teak table with 6 upholstered chairs for seating (2 extras to left of the Plasma).  Additionally, there are 6  bar stools for eating at the island counter in the kitchen.

Kitchen:

                        The major appliances include a side-by-side refrigerator ; a Microwave oven over the electric (radiant) stove; an Bosch dishwasher that saves a lot of water; an ice machine and granite countertops that are very durable.  The minor appliances include a coffeemaker (and a spare in the cabinet), toaster, blender (spare too) and mixer. You will find a strong vacuum and cleaning supplies in the laundry. There are too many items to name in a kitchen, however, if you see we missed one, please bring it to our attention. We try to keep some Electrosol dishwashing tablets under the sink, but you should buy a small box too. While we tell guests not to leave food/condiment items behind unless not opened….sometimes guests just don’t want to waste something they think another can use…feel free to pitch opened items..or not.  We start you out with a few garbage bags either under the sink or in the Pantry—but bring some tall 13 gallon kitchen bags (yellow integral ties) with you..  Take garbage all the way down to the cans at the street. Garbage is picked up twice a week…when exactly remains a moving target..as it depends how full the truck gets! (TUESDAY & FRIDAY NIGHTS) Don’t store garbage outside the front door…as it will attract things (dogs, rats, ants) you don’t want to see on an expensive Caribbean vacation!! Clean up food spills or anything that would attract ants…as they can find their way in for a snack! Our first guests (at Cayman Sands) dropped a candy wrapper on the floor next to the bed, and in the morning it was covered with ants (I had just sprayed the foundation!). Lastly-- we have neighborhood dogs that will tear into garbage - so try not to put smelly garbage on the ground next to garbage crib.

Laundry Room:

                        The laundry room has an  ironing board with iron; (2) sets of  High-capacity (DUET) washers and dryers. Also, you will find laundry baskets and we try to leave some detergent (purchase your favorite "high-efficiency" liquid at Hurley's) in the wall cabinet. Behind the laundry is a storage room with a tool bag, spare parts, etc. If you are handy and can fix things, I invite you to try or call Thelda at 916-5312 and she will send someone over after work.

Balconies, Deck & Infinity Pool:

                   The First floor deck/pool area is more of an “outdoor living room” for us….In addition to the pool (which is maintained weekly on Fridays by "Pool World"), we have a  charcoal grill to the left of the parking area (out of the breeze), Teak sofas with cushions, teak chaise lounges, and some Adirondack chairs/tables on the balcony.  A warning again here, POOLS ARE PATENTLY DANGEROUS TO CHILDREN. Please supervise your children and non-swimming guests.  The pool is only 4 feet deep in the shallow end and 6 feet in the deep end, so NO DIVING IS ALLOWED.  Please warn your children not to dive. No pools in Cayman have pool fences, so you need to be mindful.  Charcoal grill is outside front door...step over short wall towards guesthouse. The grill is here to keep it out of the prevailing breeze. It does swivel if the breeze is blowing the wrong way.

Beach:

                        We own the beach about halfway to the blue-roofed house. I have it mechanically sand-raked once a month and have the shoreline hand-raked weekly. I would still send my children with shoes on until they inspected the area they are going to play in for any flotsam or manmade trash. There are also some rocks to climb on that are sharp..so shoes for kids are a good idea. The beach we own is about 250 ' wide, so you will see where my landscaper stops maintaining it. There is now a chainlink fence marking my neighbor's lot-- where he intends to build a home.

Security:

Although we are adjacent to the East End constable's residence, it is advisable to lock up the house in the evenings, before you go out and at bedtime. The “Bahama-style” shutters on the side of the guesthouse permit privacy, security, rain protection and allow a  breeze on cooler nights.  Since we don't have screens on the french doors--I would advise sleeping with the first floor doors closed/locked at night.....more to keep out insects, lizards and hermit crabs than security issues.  There are several motion-activated floodlights which will illuminate should someone walk through them.   We have very little crime in the Cayman Islands, and what crime we have is usually petty theft, so lock up each house when going out to dinner please.  Rather be safe than sorry.

WHAT TO BRING/BUY AT GROCERY STORE

1.                  We provide a couple days worth of toilet paper, facial tissue, a roll or two of paper towels and personal (facial) soaps for the bathroom.  You need to bring your own hair dryers, shampoo, laundry detergent (high efficiency Tide is best), dishwasher (electrosol) tablets, extra paper towels/toilet tissue, 13 gallon garbage bags (tall kitchen size with integral ties), lotions, soaps and toiletries. You also may want to buy some paper plates/napkins, etc…you may not want to do dishes on vacation!  If you think you want to have some spring water bottles around, the groceries sell it in large "kegs" for the refrigerator. Many of the homes on the island use rainwater (caught off roofs) and the guests would prefer to have delivered spring water. We don't have that problem-- the tap water is "spring water pure". Grocery stores are closed on Sunday, so shop when you arrive (Saturday). Holiday/Sunday arrivals can contact  www.caymanshoppers.com to pre-stock either house. If you plan to grill out, buy charcoal, lighter fluid and matches.

2.                  We have plenty of bed linens, washcloths and face/bath towels. We have about 12 beach towels. Most of the good dive operations supply you with towels…so please don’t take our bath/beach towels off the property; thanks. We provide enough towels for each bathroom, but you will probably want to do some laundry during the week.

3.                  Bring a small bottle of  “Deep Woods OFF” or “Cutters”, if you are going to eat at the Driftwood, Roland's, Vivine's or the Kaibo Marina outdoor tables. If there is no breeze (rare) the bugs can be bothersome…and it is good to be prepared.

4.                  The regular beach stuff is good: Sunglasses, suntan lotion, aloe lotion (for the sunburned), bathing suits, wading shoes and a good hat. Be certain everyone has a pair of hard-soled (rubber) stretchy nylon “wading/pool shoes”. Even if the sand looks pure white..we wear them. Sea urchins, shell shards, etc. can all hurt the feet.  I even wear them around the house (tile floor-hard on the heels).

5.                  As far as clothes, regardless of season, bring a sweater or windbreaker just to be sure you have something if the wind whips up. I only bring shorts year-round, but others may want at least one pair of trousers. Nice golf-shirts are acceptable at all restaurants. I rarely wear anything but t-shirts and flip-flops--again, it is a casual island.

6.                  If you plan to snorkel, bring a mask that fits. Some of the places ( Stingray City, Rum Point) are so shallow you may only need goggles, as they are easier to wear, carry, etc.

APPLIANCES/MECHANICAL

AIR-CONDITIONING.  The castle has four air-conditioning zones:

If you find you need air-conditioning, please close all the windows/doors in the house.  We can't air-condition just one or two floors-- as the Castle is vertically open and the cool air will get sucked out of it if the upper windows are open.. If you need to air-condition the whole house, feel free to do so…just please set the thermostats no lower than 75 degrees..and be sure the windows are fully closed/locked--as we will have a condensation/moisture problem if it goes lower, and the unit will freeze up (there will be no air conditioning until a repairman gets there..which sometimes takes a week!! & I will have to charge your deposit).

LAUNDRY. Is pretty self-explanatory. We have a pair of oversized DUET Front Loader units. Please clean the lint filter after each load in the dryer.  There are both large and small coolers in the laundry for beach trips.

DISHWASHER.  Self-explanatory, the controls are on the top edge. The dishwasher is Bosch (German), and is very quiet-running.  Just use ONE Electrosol tablet per wash. It has a rinse agent in it as well as detergent.  

TV's- 

The first floor (Tangerine Suite)  TV is a Sharp LCD model. It is only for DVD/VCR movies/games--there is no Satellite Service here.  Do not disconnect any cables please.

The second floor PLASMA is run through the Samsung receiver/DVD/CD player/tuner. Do not disconnect/reconnect any cables please. The Satellite TV signal comes through "AUX1"  on the function button on the receiver. The DVD signal will come through "Digital 1".  The SAMSUNG controls the volume. PLEASE DON'T TURN OFF THE SATELLITE RECEIVER DURING YOUR STAY.

The PLASMA is just the monitor. You use the NEC remote only to turn it on/off (the remote does nothing else). Volume is controlled by the Samsung volume knob.

The third floor (Yellow Honeymoon Suite) TV is a SONY LCD. It is just like the first floor setup (no satellite). VCR/DVD is on INPUT 2. 

BASIC INFORMATION

CHECK-IN TIME IS 3PM AND CHECK-OUT TIME IS 10 AM.  As this house is one of the larger ones on the coast, the maids may arrive earlier than departure to begin the laundry. Any laundry you can start will be greatly appreciated.

KEYS.             You should find 2-3 sets of front door keys. If you rented the guesthouse too, there will be  keys over there (they are the same). If you need more, call Thelda. Word to the wise-- put the house keys on your car key ring immediately!  

ELECTRICAL.          Our voltage is 110. Outlets are the same as in the United States.

TELEPHONE.           The phone number is 345-947-1681 for Castle, 946-5594 for Guesthouse. Your long distance phone calls will be deducted from your deposit. You can, however call 1-800-CALL-USA in order to use your own credit card (for business calls?).  Very few  “800” numbers work from the Cayman Islands. Cable & Wireless has a monopoly, and the only way to use an ATT/MCI/Sprint calling card is from a payphone.

POOL/POOL SERVICE.     The pool measures only 4 feet to 6 feet deep…so absolutely no diving.  It is also deep enough to be dangerous to small children. We may have some water wings and life jackets in the pool box, but to be sure for your small ones-- bring some water wings. Please DON'T bring inflatable rafts, rings, etc. If the breeze whips up, they will end up in the ocean or on the beach. You don't want to be chasing those things around!

We have the pool (s) cleaned and sanitized weekly on Fridays by "Pool Patrol". The pool service does not need access to the house. The service normally takes him no more than an hour. If there are any problems with the pool, please call Pool Patrol.

LANDSCAPING SERVICE.  We have the yard picked up weekly as well. That service is not as timely as the pool man, due to weather. If the grass requires mowing, he will do that too.  As we are directly on the Caribbean, we sometimes do get flotsam/trash washing up on our beach. We can’t pick it up daily, but do it weekly. East End Gardens & Gifts provides this service and can also provide you flowers as well. He is located between the Castle and Ocean Frontiers.

CAYMAN ISLAND LAWS. Just a few laws to keep in mind:

BREAKAGE.   Should something break while you are in the house, please contact Thelda so she can have it replaced/repaired for the next guest. The damage deposit I require is nominal, and its purpose is to encourage responsible treatment of the house/contents, not to punish the guests for normal wear/tear. We want to keep it nice for all to enjoy, so if you notice the sheets are getting worn, or something is loose, please advise Thelda.

DOGS. We have local dogs who may stray onto the property. The biggest offenders are the two German Sheppard mutts owned by Ocean Frontiers. Please DO NOT FEED OR WATER these dogs or else they will be your dogs for the week. I keep the gate closed at night when I am at the Castle. In no case let the dogs into the house-- I don't want their hair or fleas in the house. If they show--chase them off please.

INTERNET ACCESS FROM CAYMAN CASTLE

It is very easy to connect to internet:

I have a DSL modem  in the king bedroom (don't move it please!). The SSID (network name) is “caymancastle” (one word). If it asks for a password—it is “cayman”.

You can plug in your computer with the CAT5e cable attached to router –or use a wireless card if the router is working (no promises there).

I am paying for this, not you...so feel free to keep it plugged in all day!! You can also sometimes pick up OFHQ (Ocean Frontiers Headquarters) network as well (wireless).

Money-Saving Ideas

BRING YOUR OWN ALCOHOL.  Everything on the island is imported, so there is a 20% duty to pay plus the cost of shipping. A case a beer (whether Heineken or Budweiser) will cost close to CI$40.00 (US$50.00). I, along with friends, bring a case or two of beer in my luggage. Some people bring soda too! You are allowed a case of beer per adult, 2 bottles of wine or 1 liter of spirits. Likewise, wine is expensive…do the same. You don’t need a lot of clothes on the island, so why not fill another suitcase with beer, wine, etc?

EAT AT CHEAPER PLACES.  While in Georgetown or 7MB, we try to eat at Chicken! Chicken! a rotisserie chicken café in one of the first shopping areas (pink colored buildings) you come to in 7MB. They have great side orders, and the chicken is so good, we normally buy extra for the road! Also in downtown Georgetown , while shopping for jewelry, etc…there is a large deli/convenience store called Fort Street Market. Fort Street runs (east/west) right into the harbor, and this deli is on the first corner (off the ocean) towards the financial district. It has a prepared food line, and charges you by the pound..whether salad or jerk chicken!  One other money-saving strategy is to split entrees at the expensive restaurants. By the time my wife & I have  drinks, appetizer and a salad, we just aren’t ready to eat a large entrée too. Especially if the restaurant offers great desserts! I try to make room for those.  The Sunday afternoon (4-7PM) Barbeque at the Driftwood Village on Northside is worth attending. I think it is about CI$12.00, but you can have ribs, chicken, shrimp, etc…and side orders. Be sure there is a breeze, as there is no screen porch to keep the bugs away from the beachfront picnic tables.  Vivine’s backyard is a great local (cheap) lunch spot in the far east end of the island. Don’t be put off by the “casualness”..it is very nice, and has a great view of the ocean from her picnic tables. She also has a covered area in case the weather threatens. Look for the black/white checkered sign. One last idea to save money while eating out is to remember that most restaurants add-in a gratuity automatically…don’t tip on the tip!!

USE DISCOUNT COUPONS you pick up at the rental car places. Many of the restaurants/shops/dive operators advertise via these discount packages.

DIVE FROM SHORE, NOT FROM BOATS.  Shore dives from Sunset House, Seaview Hotel, Eden Rock and Dive Tech (under Cracked Conch restaurant) are no more than CI$10.00 for a tank/weight rental, and are some of the nicest dives on the island. You can dive anytime you want to, and don’t have to deal with other people getting in your way. Additionally, I know that my friends always like to do an easy shore dive as their first dive on the island, just to get re-acclimated to the equipment.

Snorkel Trips from Kaibo

 These are all offered by Red Sail Sports ( www.redsailcayman.com )

1/2-DAY SNORKEL ADVENTURE: aboard our 65’ luxury sailing catamaran, this trip includes two (2) snorkel stops (including Stingray City Sandbar), and equipment. Ice water and a cooler are available; Soda’s are available at extra cost.

ALL-DAY SNORKEL ADVENTURE: aboard a luxury sailing catamaran, this trip includes three (3) snorkel stops (including Stingray City Sandbar) and two stops at the barrier reef, plus equipment.  A buffet lunch is included and Ice water and a cooler are available; Soda’s are available at extra cost.

Days:  Monday & Wednesday only

Times: Check-in time at Kaibo is 9:45 am. Boat departs 10.00am, returning 3.00pm.

Cost:  US$70.00

SUNSET SAIL:  aboard a luxury sailing catamaran, the catamaran ventures into the North Sound for a beautiful view of a Cayman sunset. This is a fantastic way to begin an evening or to end your vacation. A complimentary rum punch and appetizers are provided and there is a cash bar on board should you desire additional beverages.

Days:  Sunday & Thursday.

Times: 5:30pm – 7:30pm Check with the dive shop for check-in time, duration approx. 2 hours. 

Cost:  US$30.00

Cash only will be accepted for payments to the bar once onboard. Credit cards and room charges will not be accepted.

All persons must complete waiver forms prior to boarding boats.

We have excellent boats and crew, (all Instructor/Divemaster rating), who are there to assist you regardless of your experience or ability.

An adult must accompany all children under 18 years.  There will not be any charge for infants or children under 2 years, but older children will be required to pay full price.

In the event that a snorkel trip is canceled by Red Sail/Tortuga Divers due to weather or sea conditions, guests will be rescheduled if possible or at the purchasers request a full refund will be issued.

Last Minute Ideas/Thoughts

1. http://www.heavens-above.com/main.asp?Loc=George+Town&Lat=19.300&Lng=-81.383&Alt=4&TZ=UCT5   A website that can give you where the Space Station, satellites, etc are for star watching from the sundeck in Grand Cayman. Great astronomical maps, etc…will make you look like Magellan to your kids!

2. Concierge Service.  Boats & Butlers, Ltd. is a service I put you in touch with if you would like to hire a private boat charter for a snorkeling trip or have groceries/liquor delivered to the house before you arrive. Contact Shawn Lunt or Jodi Hunter 926-2838; Fax 345-946-2707

3. Bugs on the island. I can’t stress the importance of picking up spills in the kitchen and keeping foods stored properly. We have small ants that can get in under doors and thru windows…no way to keep them out if they smell sugar. Put garbage in the cans out front. If you don’t, flying cockroaches and rodents will smell it.

 SAMPLE  ITINERARY FOR  GRAND CAYMAN

I offer some advice for the first three/four days because after that you will know what you want to do!

Arrive Saturday:

Clear immigration & customs; grab cars, vans; go to Hurley's grocery store & blackbeards liquor next door..on to the Castle (about 30 minutes)..arrive right on time at 3PM. Have Dad collect all passports, birth certificates and airline tickets and keep them together someplace safe. Put car keys on a Castle Key Lanyard. Unpack, put away groceries..send the kids to the beach to explore..then into pool. Chill out, reconfirm any boat/dive trips with Shawn, Ocean Frontiers or Redsail, reservations with restaurants, Roland's Garden, etc.. Do not cook this night..but go to Portofino's (take a right out of the driveway--1.5 miles) for dinner kind of early (everyone travel weary, I am sure). Evening swim when you return. This is a great strategy for starting to unwind..don't make parents cook dinner in a strange kitchen the first night! Unwind after a long day.

Sunday:

All stores are closed..so I would recommend that if you aren't booked on a dive trip, to leave the Castle about 9:30 ish for Rum Point. Bring beach towels and kids masks/fins. Arrive Rum Point 10AM ish; before the 11AM ferry arrives, so that you have your choice of beach chairs. The grill and bar opens at 11AM..but if bartender shows up early--he might take care of you. Kids will love this place. Sunday usually gets very crowded in the afternoon with locals bringing their boats over..but if you have your chairs/spots--you will be golden.  I would recommend ordering lunch around 11:30 before the rush..great day to relax on the beach and do nothing. Rum Point has wispy pine trees on the edge of the beach that shade the kids.. Remember that  Driftwood (you passed it on the way to Rum Point) has a great BBQ special from 3PM-7PM for an early dinner; OR Portofino's offers a Sunday Brunch (11AM - 2PM) that is really great (if you decided to stay at Castle today). Otherwise, I would recommend cooking chicken on the grill or something easy at home Sunday night.

Monday:

Today is one of the quietest days in Georgetown (fewest cruise ships)..so I would recommend a trip to 7 Mile Beach (visit the Westin beach and giftshop).  Hang in their pool..drink their beverages. Their chaises are for their registered guests only...they have a beach shower there..so use it!  I would take everyone to the Turtle Farm afterwards (North)..and bring their masks/fins in case you want to swim in the big tank at Boatswains Beach.  Tour the turtle farm..great gift shop..Tortuga Rum Cake store too...Then go across the street to the Cracked Conch restaurant..they have a dive operation ( www.divetech.com ) in back with a sea entry ladder into the water. If the waves are light-- enjoy the snorkeling here...(divers can rent tanks too). Afterwards, the Cracked Conch serves a great lunch..After lunch, drive into Georgetown and enjoy the shopping area and just walk around the small town. If you want to grill fish tonight on the grill..you will have needed to bring the cooler with ice--the fishermen sell fresh fish on the quay near Hammerheads--corner of Front street and Mary Street. Otherwise, you will be tired and want to go home. If you have little ones..you might stop in Boddentown on the way home and tour the Pirate Caves/Gift Shop..just a 30 minute stop on the way home and the kids will enjoy it.

Tuesday:

Barefoot Man plays tonight at Royal Reef (dinner show)  if you are interested (call ahead for reservations). Lots of cruise ships in harbor--stay away from town if possible. The morning I leave open for divers, kids in pool, etc..the last thing you want on vacation is for the guests to feel like they are on a "forced march". Maybe 11AM lunch next door (walk) to Vivine's (very cheap..and Cayman style..good cheesburgers and BBQ chicken).I would try to have scheduled an afternoon (1PM - 4PM) snorkel trip with www.oceanfrontiers.com  I would recommend the Lighthouse restaurant tonight because you may want to come back later in the week (make a reservation). Tuesday nights are night dives with Ocean Frontiers..so whether you are diving or just watching them off the Castle..it is pretty cool. For those not into snorkeling..the Queen's Botanical Garden is a great afternoon walk..closeby too. Since the rest of the family has walked to Ocean Frontiers..you can take the car to the Botanical Garden (Or back to Rum Point!).

Wednesday:

A day on the beach at the Reef Resort or Morritts Resort (just North of Castle) is pretty nice. They have rental jetskiis, etc.. and a beach bar for lunch/snacks and a great gift shop. An alternative is to return to Rum Point since you already know about it..and it is great on Weekdays. I would try to make Wednesday "Adult Dinner" night...with a trip to Roland's Garden. You have to call him in advance. Bring your own wine/beer in the cooler; and cash (no credit cards).  Cook spaghetti for the kids early..if they are old enough to watch each other--you will be 10 minutes away (give them Roland's cell number 926-7670). Another thought is to have Carolyn Carter come in and cook dinner for you. If it is a big family; she normally cooks for the kids/serves them first and then serves the adults.. call her in advance (like Roland) too.

Thursday:

A morning trip to Sting Ray City and snorkeling at coral gardens reef is a great idea..followed up by lunch at the Kaibo Yacht club (you'll be close by anyway). Kaibo also has a nice beach, a floating dock in the marina for the kids to play on (bring goggles or masks from stingray city trip)...clean bathrooms; great beach bar.  Since you are already salty..you might consider (if the water is very calm on Northside when you drive back toward Castle)..snorkeling at Babylon Reef...right next to the pink house by the same name just past Old Man Bay on the way along the North Coast towards castle. You will know you are there when you see the 50 MPH speed limit sign on your left (near the queen's highway monument). Just pull off on the left...and walk out to the beach thru the brush. You don't really even need fins..just aqua sox or shoes for the tender feet. I think this area (if it is calm) is the best snorkeling on the island. Barefootman sings on Thursday nights at the Reef and Thursdays are also night dives at OF.  You might try Kaibo for dinner if you haven't eaten there yet-- TV's, scenery, etc.. If you go into town for an early dinner--I recommend the dusk submarine trip at Atlantis.

Friday:

This is your last full day...you know the island well enough to decide where you want to go back to. I love the casualness of Portofino, but the food is better (yet more $$) at Lighthouse. You could eat dinner at Kaibo downstairs for less or at Over the Edge in Old Man Bay on the dock with illuminated shallows (cheaper too)..  Kaibo has a sunset view...which is a great afternoon tan while sitting on their chaises..

Saturday:

Read my arrival departure page above...Great strategy for day of departure so you can get finished with the stressful component of checking in early, and then relax for a couple of hours before your flight arrives.