EXPLORING CAYMAN'S ATTRACTIONS

Pedro St. James Castle

The Castle is the oldest known stone dwelling in the Cayman Islands, built in 1780 by slaves brought from Jamaica, as the great house for mariner, plantation owner and early English settler William Eden. In the 1990s the government purchased the property and carried out a CI$7.5 million renovation, bringing the home and grounds back to their former glory. Set over 7.65 acres, the site encompasses a three-storey, early 18th century great house and its accompanying out-buildings, set amidst palm-lined walkways, a manicured great lawn and spectacular views of the sea. This is one of the most beautiful locations in Cayman and a state-of-the-art multimedia theatre and visitors centre also help place the site into historical perspective. Pedro St. James is located in the Savannah area of Grand Cayman and is open 9am-5pm daily. The multi media show starts on the hour from 10am-4pm. Admission is CI$8 for adults and free for children under 12, accompanied by an adult. There is also a gift shop and a small cafe on the premises. For information call (345) 947 3329 or email Debbie Bodden at Debbie@hotmail.com.

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park

The Botanic Park was originally begun by the National Trust for the Cayman Islands to preserve and protect an important area of the Island's native flora and fauna and was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth on her visit to Cayman in February 1994.

   The Tourism Attraction Board now operates the park, which is owned jointly by the government and the National Trust. The 65-acre site is made up of woodland walking trails, floral colour gardens, an undisturbed lake and wetland for wildlife, a heritage garden, a visitors centre and a plant nursery. Two new projects planned for completion in early 2010 are a palm garden and an orchid garden with a walkway. In the park you will see butterflies, birds, turtles, agouties, reptiles and a huge array of native plants and trees. The park also houses the Blue Iguana Recovery Programme, which has made great strides in protecting and captive-breeding the Grand Cayman blue iguana, a highly endangered species found nowhere else on earth. Recently, the Dart Foundation also helped establish an Orchid Propagation Unit. 

   The Park has two golf carts available for the elderly or for handicapped use. The best time of year to visit is between November and March because the foliage is green, the temperatures are cooler and more plants are in bloom. The best time of day to visit is in the morning before 11am or afternoon from 4pm-5pm.

   Located on Frank Sound Road in the district of North Side, the Botanic Park is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from George Town. It opens daily at 9am and closes at 5.30pm (April to September) or 6.30pm (October to March). Admission ends one hour before closing time. There is a cafe on the premises which serves light refreshments. Entrance to the Park is CI$8 for adults and free for children under 12. A special Discover Card is now available which gives admission to both Pedro St. James and the Botanic Park and provides a 20% discount. You can purchase one at either location. For Park information call (345) 947 9462.

Hell

This site consists of an area of sharp spires of calcareous rock approximately one million years old, blackened by fungus over time and named Hell. There is even a post office where you can purchase a postcard and have it mailed with a Hell postmark to prove to your friends you have been to Hell and back! There are also souvenir shops to buy t-shirts, bumper stickers and memorabilia, all with the Hell motif.

Stingray City & The Sandbar

Over the years Stingray City (written up in National Geographic as well as many other international magazines) has become a major attraction for Island visitors. There are actually two sites: Stingray City where divers swim in 20-foot-deep water with stingrays and the Sandbar where people can walk among rays in waist-high water. It is a wonderful experience to stand in shallow water while nearly four-feet (in diameter) stingrays brush against your arms and legs with their soft underbellies, begging for their favourite food, squid, which you feed them by hand.

   As long as you do not lift them out of the water, step on them (i.e., watch where you tread and please note that wearing water shoes is banned) and treat them with respect the rays are completely safe. Contact local dive operators for information on trips. Please note that on very rough and windy days the sandbar is sometimes closed by the Marine Police. If you visit the sandbar shortly after it has been reopened, you will find dozens of very hungry stingrays descending on you and it can be quite intimidating!

Boatswain’s Beach

Since 1980, Boatswain's Beach (formerly the Turtle Farm) has released more than 31,000 turtles back into the sea to help replenish Cayman's wild population. The farm is home to more than 8,000 loggerhead and green sea turtles, ranging in size from six ounces to 600 pounds each. The reproduction rate of the turtles is currently at an all-time low and an international research project is being undertaken to find out why. As a result, and until further notice, the annual turtle release in November has been suspended. 

   The Turtle Farm is a modern-day reminder of Cayman's history. When Christopher Columbus first discovered the Islands in 1503 he named them "Las Tortugas", meaning “The Turtles.” According to legend, there were so many turtles that the Islands looked like they were covered with rocks. (For more information see the Activities for Kids chapter)

Beaches

There are numerous wonderful beaches on Grand Cayman. The most famous is Seven Mile Beach, which runs the length of the western side of the Island north of George Town. Popular spots along this span include: Governor's Beach, located adjacent to the Governor's House (next door to the Westin); Public Beach, just north of Harbour Heights apartments on Seven Mile Beach, which has colourful, painted cabanas for shade, public restrooms and a children's play area; and, a little further north, Cemetery Beach, which is shaded by a number of large seagrape and casuarina trees. At Cemetery Beach, the snorkelling is only about a five-minute swim off-shore and is some of the best on Seven Mile Beach.

Many districts also have public beaches, including West Bay, Spotts, Bodden Town, East End and North Side. Rum Point in North Side is ideally suited to families and has shallow water, a restaurant and bar, and plenty of sun-loungers, hammocks and shade trees. A particular favourite of the editor's is Spotts beach - it can be quite deserted and though the walk along the beach is relatively short, it is beautiful.

   On the other side of George Town, just beyond the Grand Old House restaurant, is Smith's Cove. This is a small public beach with lots of shade, picnic benches and great snorkelling. It is also a lovely place to watch the sunset.

   Please note that there are no private beaches in Cayman and all beaches are public up to the high-water mark. If you want to put your towel on a beach in front of a hotel or condominium complex you are more than welcome to do so as long as you stay near the high-water mark and do not use one of their lounge chairs. There are some places that welcome residents, especially on weekends, and do not mind you using their beach chairs. Four that come to mind are Royal Palms and the Beach Club on Seven Mile Beach and Kaibo and Rum Point in North Side.

Helicopter Rides

A great way to explore the Island, get a feel for its size, and better orient yourself is to take a helicopter ride with Cayman Islands Helicopters (Tel: (345) 943 4354). Helicopter rides for residents cost CI$85 per person (20 minutes) and CI$235 per person (50 minutes, full Island). They also offer a package deal for CI$696, which includes limo service, a helicopter flight and dinner for two at Ristorante Pappagallo (wine is not included). You can extend your party to six people for an additional CI$65 per person. For information contact Natalie Begot on (345) 926 6967 or visit their website www.caymanislandshelicopters.com.

Motorcycle Rides

You can enjoy great scenery, beautiful weather and fascinating sights while hitting the Cayman road on a motorcycle. Call (345) 927 8500 and get a 10% local discount. For those who are slightly less adventurous, but still want to feel the wind on their face, scooters are available at Island Scooter Rentals on (345) 949 2046.

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

MUSEUMS

Cayman Islands National Museum

At print time, the Cayman Islands National Museum is still under repair following Hurricane Ivan. The Museum is expected to re-open fully in September 2009, although the gift shop is currently operating.

   Since 1990, the National Museum, overlooking George Town harbour, has been housed in one of the most historically significant buildings in the whole of Cayman. Once the old Courts building, the Museum had evolved into one of the most important attractions on the Island prior to Ivan's arrival in 2004. Permanent displays on the Islands' natural and cultural histories were linked by hallways proudly portraying Cayman's heritage through artefacts, displays, artwork and murals, and regularly changing exhibits kept the subject matter fresh and interesting. The Museum's Visitor Orientation Centre showed video and slide presentations on the hour, every hour, while the special interactive Children's Gallery was full of creative ways for youngsters to experience the past in a "hands-on" manner!

   A larger interactive attraction was offered on the last Thursday of each month: the roads around the Museum were closed off, tents were erected, and the festivities would begin. An array of local arts and crafts were featured including thatch plaiting, rope, net and kite-making, along with Cayman folk music and "steel pan," storytelling and dancing. Mouth-watering local food specialties like whelk, conch, turtle and lobster were also available. It is possible that once the Museum is reopened, the event will return. Important Museum dates should include International Museum Day (celebrated annually in May), the Museum's anniversary in November, and the spectacle of the governor being taken prisoner on the steps during the Cayman’s National Festival (Pirates Week), also in November.

The Mission House

Located at 63 Gun Square in Bodden Town, this historic site includes a traditional Caymanian home situated on a mixed area of dry and wetland frequented by a variety of local wildlife. This site is known to have been utilised in the 1700s by early settlers due to its abundant waterfowl and supply of fresh water. Glass and ceramics found on site from this time period are on display. The house rose to prominence in the 1800s and became known as the Mission House to early missionaries, teachers and families who lived in it and contributed to establishing the Presbyterian ministry and school in Bodden Town.

   The Mission House takes visitors back to an earlier time in Cayman's history by recreating the living situations of the three families known to have owned the home. As your guide leads you through each of the rooms, you will see many of the genuine artefacts owned by the Watler family, who lived there for 77 years. A real sense of family is evident in the home as well as a better understanding of the challenges faced by the early missionaries and teachers in Cayman. Through the assistance of the National Archive, the Mission House also houses a small resource room and a revolving display from the Cayman Islands National Museum. One can purchase children's toys and refreshments, as well as locally made crafts. Regular opening hours are 9am-5.30pm, Tuesday through Saturday, but call ahead for revised hours from July through September. Admission is CI$5 for adults and CI$2.50 for children. For information call (345) 947 5805 or email: mission@nationaltrust.org.ky.

MUSIC

Cayman National Choir & Orchestra

Tel: (345) 916 4782

Email: musicroomcayman@yahoo.com

Musical Director: Sue Horrocks

NOTE: If you are looking for a band, try the Cayman Music and Entertainment Association on cmea@caymanmusic.ky. See the Clubs & Associations chapter for more information on the National Choir and Orchestra.

CULTURAL, EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES & EXHIBITIONS

The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands

Nestled in Harbour Place in George Town, the 1,200-square-foot National Gallery is home to a dynamic and inspirational non-profit organisation. They host local and international exhibitions approximately eight times a year, and occasionally have satellite shows at various venues around the Island. Admission is free to the public Monday through Friday 9am-5pm and Saturdays 11am-4pm, although donations are always gratefully accepted. In fact, US citizens can receive a tax credit for donations. Membership options range from CI$25 for an individual to CI$1,000 for corporate sponsorship.

The Gallery also runs an active volunteer programme. If you have a few hours a week or a month and are interested in joining the artistic community in Cayman, volunteers are always welcome. The Gallery runs a wealth of first-rate community programmes such as "Inside Art" for prisoners, "Art Magnet" for the elderly, "Art Trek" for youngsters and "Art Zone" for high school kids. Public slide shows, debates, lectures and "Art Flix" (art documentaries) run in conjunction with current exhibitions. In addition, the Gallery houses part of the Cayman Islands' National Art Collection, along with a comprehensive art library open to all members.

Annual National Gallery events not to be missed include "Late Nights at the Gallery", the Art at the Governor's (January), Chalkfest and the ECO Art Party (April), the Affordable Art Fair (November) and other fundraising events throughout the year. They also have a CineClub showing international movies every second and fourth Monday of the month; free for members, CI$5 for non-members. For information call the National Gallery on (345) 945 8111 or email: nat.gal@candw.ky.

The National Trust

The National Trust has monthly activities which not only teach you a great deal about the Cayman Islands, but also provide a great way to meet other people and make friends. Programmes include: traditional Caymanian cooking classes, where a local celebrity chef demonstrates the art of preparing traditional Island dishes; a presentation series on historical and environmental topics relating to the Cayman Islands; guided tours of the Mastic Trail, and daily guided tours of the Mission House. The Trust also offers privately guided historical and nature walking tours, bat watching, bird watching and cultural classes, along with numerous other fundraising activities throughout the year.

You can visit the National Trust at their Visitor's Centre in the South Sound Dart Park. There is a small gift shop and staff on hand to offer free advice/information about the history and environment of the Islands. Opening hours are Monday through Friday from 9am-5.30 pm and Saturday from 9am-1pm. You can also contact the Trust by calling them on (345) 949 0121 and ask to be emailed their calendar of events.

Cayman Drama Society

The Cayman Drama Society presents a new play or musical approximately every two months at its Playhouse located in Prospect. Production standards are very high and presentations range from comedy and farce to drama and musicals. The Society welcomes new members and offers opportunities for everyone, including acting, production, direction, set design, decoration and costume. From time to time members enjoy social events such as car-based treasure hunts, improvisation nights, workshops, and other forms of in-house entertainment. For information contact the membership committee on email: membership@cds.ky and request a calendar of events.

Cinema

Hollywood Theatres at Camana Bay is a state-of-the-art, six-screen, 900-seat cinema located at the entrance to Jasmine Court in Camana Bay. Staggered show times for the latest US and international releases begin at noon daily. The theatres also feature dedicated seating areas and facilities for wheelchair users. Online tickets may be purchased at www.gohollywood.com. (NOTE: we recommend you take a sweater or jersey with you as the air conditioning in the cinema can sometimes be set very low).

SPORTS ACTIVITIES

Jogging and running are very popular in Cayman. This might seem a little strange as it is so hot and humid, but you will soon find that a lot of people participate in all sorts of running, cycling and swimming events. It is, if nothing else, a great way to stay in shape and good for the community, as many of the events are fundraisers for local charities. A useful website, which covers all upcoming sporting events, fitness classes and seminars, is www.CaymanActive.com. It has a comprehensive events calendar which is updated daily and is also a forum where people with shared interests can connect. You can also contact Jerry Harper at the Phoenix Athletic Club on (345) 945 3970 or email: fatcalves@hotmail.com, as he is involved in almost every charity sporting event on the Island.

Don't worry if you are not super fit, as people of all abilities join in. The purpose is to socialise, have fun and perhaps win a prize or two. There are more than 33 sporting associations and many one-off sporting events ongoing year round.

Badminton

Chris Cole is the main contact for the Island's Badminton Association and Club. They play three nights a week on three courts at Cayman Prep School on Walkers Road. All visitors and levels of players are welcome, but please wear non-marking shoes. Some rackets are available. There is a per-session or yearly membership fee. For information call (345) 925 3620 or email: caybadm@yahoo.com.

Ballooning

The Ritz Carlton is slated to start hot air balloon rides in late 2009. Flights will take off at dawn, as that is when the wind conditions are ideal, and cost in the region of US$450-$500. Call (345) 943 9000 for more information.

Baseball

Co-ed adult slow-pitch leagues play at the Field of Dreams complex on the corner of Fairbanks Road and Aspiration Drive and have two seasons: a winter season (January to May) and a fall season (September through early December). Games are played Monday through Thursday evenings and occasionally on weekends. If you are interested in joining an adult team, or wish to add an entire team, please call the Little League on (345) 916 5643 or (345) 945 3553 or email: littleleague2@candw.ky.

Basketball

The Cayman Islands Basketball Association (CIBA) organises and operates various leagues throughout the year and it is anticipated that most of these leagues will be operated within the new indoor Arts and Recreation Centre at Camana Bay. This new facility has a shock-absorbing surface and retractable bleachers seating for up to 430 people. Games are played throughout the year for kids, teens, young adults and adults. For information on CIBA’s leagues and programmes call Coach Voot on (345) 916 5083.

Boxing

Cayman Sports offers a one-hour boxing fitness class called Box Fit on the roof of the Grand Cayman Beach Suites. The cost is CI$15 per class. For information on class dates and times, call Warren on (345) 926 2776 or email: warren@caymansports.net.

Cricket

There is a talented cricket team that plays in the local league called the “Village Greenies”. The Greenies have teams in both the first and second-grade competition and are always on the lookout for new recruits. The season runs from January through June, with some pre-season play in December. It is a very social club and a great place to meet people. If you are interested in playing call Tom Stephens on (345) 928 9695. For the official cricket league, call the CI Cricket Association on (345) 945 6447 or email: cicaadmin@candw.ky. You can also email Coach Cuffy (cccoach@candw.ky) for additional information. If you don’t have your own equipment, cricket gear can be bought at Sports Supply in the Galleria Plaza on West Bay Road.

Cycling & Spinning

Cyclists meet at the Grand Harbour shopping centre in Red Bay most Sunday mornings at 6.30am. The group is made up of a mixture of serious cyclists and triathletes who cycle 20-40 miles at an average pace of between 15-18 miles per hour. Call Steve Evans, Cayman Islands Cycling Association vice president, on (345) 323 0946 to ask about meeting locations and times.

There are also spinning classes (indoor cycling) at Revolutions, located at the Barnett Building (next to the Red Cross). Special events, such as the two-hour "Tour de France" class, are scheduled throughout the year. There are also early morning, early evening and lunch-hour classes, Monday through Saturday. With a monthly membership, class prices vary from CI$12.50-$15. If you prefer to drop-in, classes cost CI$16 each. For class availability and monthly updates, call Jerome on (345) 516 2453 or email: revolutionscayman@hotmail.com. World Gym (Tel: (345) 949 5132) and Powerhouse Gym at the Kings Sports Centre (Tel: (345) 946 5464) also both offer one-hour group riding classes.

Dance

Miss Jackie's School of Dance (Tel: (345) 949 7296) offers adult dance classes in a number of styles, including classical ballet, modern, jazz, jive/rock and roll, flamenco, salsa and ballroom, belly and line dancing. Please note certain classes meet only if there is enough interest.

   Free dance lessons are also offered at Cafe Med Restaurant on West Bay Road every Thursday at 9pm and at the Wharf Restaurant Tuesday nights at 9.15pm.

   KRI Performing Arts School, Kirk Rowe has classes for kiddies, juniors, teens and adults every day (except Sunday) depending on age and class. Dances include salsa, jazz, modern, hip-hop, contemporary, Afro Caribbean and reggae. For more information please contact Kirk on (345) 925 4757. 

Football/Soccer

The Cayman Islands Football Association (CIFA) currently administers a number of tournaments and leagues per year. Senior men's and women's seasons are from September to May.

CI Football Association Centre for Excellence

Pointdexter Road, Prospect

Tel: (345) 949 5775 Fax: (345) 945 7673

Email: info@caymanfootball.ky

Adult Tournaments:

CIFA Foster's First Division

CIFA Cayman Premier League

CIFA Men's FA Cup

CIFA Simon Robshaw - CAYTECH Women's League

CIFA Women's FA Cup

CIFA Digicel Cayman Cup

Individuals can register with one of the existing member clubs. The teams are friendly and welcome new players. However, Association rules govern the number and type of players which a club can register.

Gaelic Football

Due to a relatively strong contingent of Irish expats, Gaelic Football has emerged as a popular sport in Cayman, with several men's and women's teams forming a league and the Cayman Gaelic Football Club. Play runs from January through June, with training beginning in November. There are also Mixed-10s tournaments in October and January. Call Brian Harley on (345) 327 6052 or email: caymangaelic@gmail.com.

Indoor Football

If the weather is poor for playing football outdoors, then Kings Sports Centre offers indoor football on Monday nights. With more than 700 players, indoor football has become very popular. Women's, men's and co-ed teams are welcome. Dates and times are subject to change, so for information call Ray Singh on (345) 946 5464.

Golf Courses

Britannia

This is a nine-hole, par-35 course that can be played as an 18-hole, par-70 course. Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, the course is part of the Grand Cayman Beach Suites. A variety of memberships are available and children under 12 play for free with parents. For information call pro Dave Johnson on (345) 745 4653 or email: djohnson@gcbs.ky.

North Sound Club

The North Sound Club, formerly known as the Links at Safehaven, is an 18-hole, par-71 course. A variety of memberships are offered and a full calendar of events is available for members. Call Kevin Mumford, the course PGA professional, for details on (345) 947 4653 or email: golfpro@northsoundclub.com.

Ritz-Carlton

This is a nine-hole, par-36 course offering five sets of tees for varied play. It is only open to guests of the hotel and Ritz-Carlton residence owners. For information contact Pro David Loomis on (345) 815 6500.

Gymnastics

Motions Unlimited is a serious gymnastics operation! They have 11,500-square-feet of air conditioned gym space with men's and women's gymnastics apparatus, an Aussie string bed trampoline and a 40-foot "tumble track." For information on these and other programmes, see the Activities for Kids and Teens section or call (345) 749 8365.

Gyms

Gym facilities are widely available and are spread between Seven Mile Beach, George Town, South Sound, Red Bay and Savannah. Annual memberships start at CI$250.

   All gyms provide the usual weight training areas and fitness machines, along with certified instructors. You will also find good fitness classes being held throughout the day, starting as early as 5am.

Body Sculptor Fitness Centre

Tel: (345) 746 3432 or (345) 939 5288

Email: bodyscul@westartv.com

In addition to normal gym amenities, Body Sculptor offers a 12-week weight-loss programme for women over 200 pounds and a four-week Women's and Men's "Cayman Get Sexy Boot Camp." The Boot Camp is offered in both indoor and outdoor versions, with a choice of early morning and evening classes. An Industrial Boot Camp is also available.

Fitness Connection

Tel: (345) 949 8485

Located in the heart of South Sound, this is a family fitness and aquatic facility offering a number of adult group fitness classes including water aerobics, pilates and yoga, as well as personalised training sessions. They also have a very popular kid's swim programme and summer camp. See the Activities for Kids section for more information.

King's Countryside Express

Tel: (345) 947 5464

Located in the Countryside Shopping Village in Savannah, King's Countryside Express offers a complete circuit training facility and aerobics studio. Annual membership includes aerobic classes at King's Sports Centre in Red Bay. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday 5am-9pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am-5pm and holidays 10am-3pm.

King's Express Gym

Tel: (345) 749 5464

Located at Treasure Island Resort on West Bay Road, King's Express is a circuit training gym designed for an efficient, full-body workout. Open Monday through Friday 6am-9pm and Saturday and Sunday 8am-5pm. Annual membership also includes aerobic classes at King's Sports Centre in Red Bay.

Powerhouse Gym (at King's Sports Centre)

Tel: (345) 946 5464

Located near Grand Harbour in Red Bay, the Centre offers the usual exercise and weightlifting equipment along with two squash courts, studio and aerobic classes, indoor hockey, spinning, basketball, indoor football, roller skating, karate, Ju Jitsu, dance, a nutritional centre and steam rooms. They are open Monday through Thursday 5am-10pm, Fridays to 9pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am-5pm and holidays 10am-4pm.

Revolutions Indoor Cycling

Tel: (345) 516 2453

Revolutions is located in the Barnett Building next to the Red Cross in George Town (near the cricket pitch). For information on their programmes and facilities email: revolutionscayman@hotmail.com.

The Hypoxi Studio

Tel: (345) 769 7555

Located at Galleria Plaza, Hypoxi offers a combination of targeted fat-burning and training using high and low pressure. If you are looking to lose weight from specific problem areas, then this new body reshaping therapy may be for you.

World Gym Fitness Centre

Tel: (345) 949 5132

Located in the Largatos Building off Seven Mile Beach (opposite Marquee Plaza), World Gym offers state-of-the-art cardio equipment, free weights and motion equipment, group fitness classes, personal training, a steam room, a sauna and ZUMBA classes. 

Note: For individualised fitness sessions, consider contacting one of these personal trainers: Laura Ribbins (345) 949 8485; Agueda Broderick (345) 926 0856; Jennifer LaGrande (345) 926 5681 or Trina Gillis (345) 928 8192. Jeanna Parsons at Mobile Fitness Solutions on (345) 926 0901 provides in-home training and nutrition services as well as group and corporate classes. Private sessions with trainers normally start at CI$60 per hour.

Horseback Riding

Organised beach rides can be arranged for residents with a maximum group of 11 people. Nicki’s Beach Rides (Tel: (345) 945 5839) takes riders along one of West Bay's deserted beaches on a ride lasting approximately 1� hours, at a cost of US$50 per person. Pampered Ponies (Tel: (345) 945 2262) offers 1�-hour beach rides or two to three-hour beach rides and swim sessions. Locals receive a discount and pay CI$40. You can also try Coral Stone Stables Beach and Trail Rides (Tel: (345) 947 2323) for their rates and packages. Incidentally, it is illegal to ride a horse on Seven Mile Beach at any time or to ride a horse on the beach or road after dark.

Life Skills

F.A.S.T. Defense 

F.A.S.T. Defense, or Fear Adrenal Stress Training, teaches valuable life skills for men, women and children. The goal of the programme is to create a less violent society and more harmonious way of living. F.A.S.T. Defence offers empowerment and confidence training; for example, students are taught to use the power of their voice to de-escalate most situations before they ever become violent. Voted the best self-defence programme in the industry by Blackbelt magazine, F.A.S.T. also teach awareness skills to adults and how not to look like a potential victim. This programme is not about fighting, but about living without fear. For information on class and seminar times and schedules, contact Bob Daigle on (345) 925 6946 or email:fastdefence@yahoo.com.

Cayman Islands Red Cross offers HIV and AIDS peer-education and numerous training programmes for first aid, CPR and AED. Classes need to be booked in advance. For information on the full activity schedule call (345) 949 6785.

Martial Arts

There is a variety of martial arts training on the Island. The Purple Dragon School of Martial Arts (Tel: (345) 946 1241), in the Largatos Building on Lawrence Boulevard, runs adult classes in Don Jitsu Ryu and self-defence. King's Sports Centre on Crewe Road offers CASK karate lessons. For information call Greg Reid on (345) 925 3367 or email: caskcaribbean@hotmail.com. Blue Iguana Dojo in Dorcy Place teaches ju jitsu. For details call Guglielmo (William) at (345) 917 6413 or email: caymanjujitsu@live.com. Master Graham also offers evening taekwondo classes at 7pm on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at Cayman Prep School (Tel: (345) 916 5425).

Netball

The netball season usually runs from early November through June, with pre-season practice sessions beginning in August when the Mixed League (males and females) begin. There are more than 1,000 children and adults (mostly women) in the various leagues, teams, clubs and rallies. There is also an under-16 national squad which practises every Monday. Qualified umpires are encouraged to join the umpire's pool and new players are always welcome. Contact the Netball Association through Lucille Seymour on (345) 916 4842 or Norma Ferryman at (345) 946 7566.

Roller Hockey

If you’re looking to try something new, then men's roller hockey is offered at the Kings Sports Centre on Tuesday nights at 8pm. There is also a kids and teens division (see the Activities for Kids chapter). For information call Ray Singh on (345) 946 5464.

Rugby

The Cayman Islands Rugby Football Union has its own pitch and clubhouse on South Sound Road. There are leagues for men's, women's and junior rugby and games are played most Saturdays and on weekends between September and June. Adult training is held twice a week, with a full time coach available to coordinate and coach players and teams. Junior rugby training is held on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evenings from 3.30pm-5.30pm from September through April. Specific events are also staged at the club, including the Heineken Rugby Sevens tournament in February, which invites teams from neighbouring islands to compete against local teams. There is also a summer touch league from June through September. For information call Coach Richard Adams on (345) 916 7937.

Running

Grand Cayman offers running opportunities for people of all abilities, from marathoners to Sunday afternoon joggers. There are frequent competitive running events and there is usually something scheduled each month, plus you have the added benefit of a chance to win spot prizes just for competing. These can range from airline tickets to a fridge magnet, so it is well worth entering! If you want to join a running club, the Hash House Harriers meet on Monday evenings, usually somewhere in South Sound. For information call Stephen Porter on (345) 326 3252.

Squash

The South Sound Squash Club has three coaches who can help fine-tune your game and features seven air conditioned international courts (six with glass backs and one hard back court) which can be booked 7am-11pm, Monday through Saturday, and until 10pm on Sunday. There are more than 350 members who play regularly. The club also provides a healthy junior programme to encourage the future growth of the sport. Club members may book courts, enter tournaments and take part in social events throughout the year. There are regular Squash Club nights in which members play three matches against a variety of levels, with refreshments provided afterward. There are group sessions for all levels, and individual lessons can be arranged with the club pros. Annual membership fees range from CI$50 (junior), CI$375 (single) and CI$550 (family). For membership information call on (345) 949 9469 or email: dan@candw.ky.

   There are also two squash courts at King's Sports Centre (Tel: (345) 946 5464). Courts can be reserved for one hour for CI$10 per person for non-gym members and CI$5 for gym members. Remember to book well in advance as popular times get booked up.

Swimming

If you enjoy recreational swimming, then the ocean off Seven Mile Beach is your best bet, but there are also pools at almost all condominium complexes.

   For competitive swimming, Masters Sessions meet at the Lion's 25-metre training pool from 6.15pm-7pm on Mondays and 6pm-7pm on Thursdays. Lanes are graded to cater to swimmers of various abilities and fitness levels. The cost is CI$3 per session and all are welcome. For information contact the Cayman Islands Amateur Swimming Association at email: ciasaboard@gmail.com.

   Early morning swim training is now available for experienced triathlete swimmers who are members of the CITA (CI Triathlon Association). It is held at the pristine, 8 lane pool at the Cayman International School at Camana Bay at 6.15am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for members only. The cost has yet to be decided but will range between CI$4-$6 per session. There is no coaching or set workout posted, and there is no lifeguard. You are free to do your own swim workout, or just get in and do an endurance distance swim to complement your interval workouts and ocean swims. New CITA memberships can be purchased through CITA at any time for CI$10 per year. Non-members can swim for an extra drop-in fee, but pool space goes to members first. As this is a brand new pool and used by children throughout the year, a high standard of hygiene is required. Make sure you wear your swim cap and rinse off at the on-deck showers before you get in. For more information call Murray Harris on (345) 926 0067. 

   Fitness Connection also offers swimming lessons to triathletes wanting to perfect their stroke as well as adult non-swimmers who are afraid of the water. They also offer in-water exercise classes which are popular and a great way to meet people. Finally, Donna from Lifestyles holds water therapy classes based on the Burkenko method. These one-hour sessions are geared towards improving balance, coordination and flexibility. For information call (345) 929 7512.

   Competitive sea swims also take place throughout the year, with distances ranging from 800 metres to 10 kilometres. The Flowers One Mile Sea Swim is held every year in mid-June and has become highly popular. More than 700 swimmers typically take part and lots of amazing prizes are available! For information call Bill McFarland at the Cayman Islands Amateur Swimming Association (CIASA) on (345) 815 7600. The annual Sea Swim schedule is below. (Ask CIASA for specific dates):

March              Lime                                800-metre

April             CNB (Cayman Brac)            800-metre

May              Butterfield Bank                 800-metre

June             Flowers Sea Swim              1 mile

September   Foster's Food Fair              800-metre

October        Caribbean Utilities              800-metre

November    Texaco Pirate's Week          5 kilometre

November    CIASA                              10 kilometre

Tennis

Many condominium complexes have their own floodlit courts for use by residents and guests, but for those seeking professional training, the Cayman Island's Tennis Club offers private and group lessons as well as a popular Junior Programme. The Club features nine floodlit courts with two playing surfaces, six hard courts and three classic clay courts. The club has two pros, Rob Seward (also Club Manager) and Adam Bayley (Teaching Pro). They also offer after-school programmes and camps over Christmas, Easter and summer holidays. Drop by the club to join, as the staff are on the court teaching most of the day.

Details for the Tennis Club:

South Sound

Tel: (345) 949 9464

Email: citennis@candw.ky

Single membership:

     Initiation fee: CI$200

     Annual fees: CI$250

Husband/Wife membership:

     Initiation fee: CI$300

     Annual fees: CI$400

Junior membership (six and up): CI$50

Junior Programmes:

      Age four to five: CI$32.50 for six weeks

      Age six to fifteen: CI$65 for six weeks

Anyone wanting to brush up on their tennis skills, or learn the game from scratch, can get individualised private lessons with ex-Wimbledon coach Warren Urquhart. He usually gives lessons on your own tennis court or at Camana Bay. He also runs a daily one-hour group cardio tennis class (times vary) at a cost of CI$20 per session. Call Warren on (345) 926 2776 or email: warren@caymansports.net. The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman and internationally renowned tennis coach Nick Bollettieri have teamed up to design The Courts Tennis Centre. The Centre features three French-style clay courts and a professional grass court. You can be instructed by a Bollettieri-trained pro in the following programmes:

> Private/Semi-Private Lessons - Clinics

> After School Tennis - Junior Tennis (Ages 6-16)

> Mini-Tennis (Ages 4-5)

> Cardio Tennis - Doubles Matrix Tournaments

> Corporate Outings

Prices for court rental (per hour) range from CI$32 and tennis instruction is CI$100. Hourly packages are also available. In addition, the Centre offers a tennis clinic (three or more players) which is CI$36 per person. For information and court reservations call (345) 815 6599.

Triathlons

If you find the challenge of an individual run, cycle or swim is not enough, you can always try your hand at duathlons or triathlons. The Cayman Islands Triathlon Association (CITA) organises well attended events throughout the year, including build-ups to certain main events (to prevent you from having to dive straight in at the deep end as it were). CITA offers duathlons or triathlons of various distances, as well as Caykids (a junior programme) and the "Stroke and Stride" series. For CITA information call Celine Macken on (345) 925 1751 or email: info@caymantri.com.ky.

Volleyball & Beach Volleyball

The Cayman Islands Volleyball Federation provides many opportunities to play at both a competitive or recreational level. There are various leagues, including indoor and outdoor courts as well as beach volleyball. In addition to playing in leagues, training clinics are hosted by local players, coaches and visiting professionals. For information about indoor or outdoor court volleyball email: civf_coach@yahoo.com.

Walking

Looking for a walking group? Try the 30-Minute Walk with exercise physiologist Deanna Smith. Registration is only CI$2 and refreshments are provided. Walks begin at Royal Palms every Wednesday at 6.30am and Saturday at 8am. For information call (345) 926 1053.

Yoga & Pilates

Yoga and pilates are increasingly popular and the standard of teaching on the Island is exceptional. In addition to most gyms, the following establishments also offer yoga and/or pilates classes: Energy, Cricket Square, Elgin Avenue, (Tel: (345) 946 6006) has the only fully stocked pilates apparatus studio on the Island and does pilates reformer training; Body Works (Tel: (345) 945 6485) offers a variety of pilates, yoga and stretch therapy classes for beginners through to a yoga teachers training course; Donna from Lifestyles (Tel: (345) 929 7512) does private one-and-a-half-hour yoga sessions in the evenings; The Prana Yoga Studio (Tel: (345) 925 6047) offers yoga, as does Fitness Connection (Tel: (345) 949 8485) and also Roof Top Yoga (Tel: (345) 926 2776) does a one–hour class on the roof of the Grand Cayman Beach Suites at dusk and dawn - the view is amazing! Finally, Lindsay McFee (Tel: (345) 949 8828), at Cayman Physiotherapy in Pasadora Place, holds core strength and stability classes, similar to pilates, on Mondays at 8.30am and Thursdays at 5.30pm. These classes are particularly beneficial to people with back problems.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Painting, Pottery & Mosaics

A really nice way to pass an afternoon, with or without your kids, is to paint your own pottery or design a mosaic at All Fired Up! They have a vast selection of pottery to paint, examples to inspire ideas and art and craft supplies for the budding artist. They also offer educational programmes, camps, and special evenings and the shop is a great place to go on a rainy day. Located at the Strand Shopping Centre on West Bay Road, All Fired Up! is open Tuesday through Thursday, 12pm-8pm and Friday and Saturday, 10am-6pm. For information call (345) 947 8517 or email: allfiredup@candw.ky.

Card Games

The Grand Cayman Bridge Club meets every Tuesday at 7.15pm at Comfort Suites Resort and visitors are always welcome. For more information see the Social chapter.

Poker is played in the lobby of the Treasure Island hotel on Wednesday nights at 6.30pm. Also, between 30-60 people meet at the Oasis Bar in the Grand Pavilion Complex on Tuesday nights and play from 7pm-9pm. All are welcome. For information call Larry Bang on (345) 769 3887.

   Finally, there is a club which meets bi-weekly to play the card game Magic (MTG), and also the board games Warhammer and Settlers of Catan. For the schedule, call Steve at the Game Shack (Tel: (345) 923 4363) or email: info@gameshack.ky.

CONTINUING EDUCATION

Courses in computing, languages, secretarial skills, painting, photography and pottery are frequently available. See occasional ads in the Caymanian Compass newspaper and also our Education chapter for places offering such courses.

Cooking Classes

Bon Vivant

Located in Governors Square, Bon Vivant offers a Wednesday night interactive cooking class in their full service kitchen. Each week different chefs teach a small group how to make a variety of dishes based on a weekly theme. Subjects might include how to make tapas, fresh pasta or Asian cuisine, and future classes are selected based on participants' interests. If you are single or want to go without your spouse, you will feel very comfortable and included. It is a nice way to meet new people and the evening often turns out to be very social and good fun. Classes are very popular and fill up quickly. For information call (345) 623 2665 or email: info@bonvivant.ky.

The National Trust

The National Trust offers a monthly Traditional Caymanian Cooking Class with local Chef Jaime Azan. Recent demonstrations have showcased fish and fritters, local beef stew and cassava cake. Recipes and samples of the finished product are included. Classes are held at the Mission House in Bodden Town. For more information or to reserve your spot call (345) 949 0121.

For information on watersports, water-based excursions, fishing, kayaking, kite boarding, submarine rides, sailing, parasailing, wakeboarding, waverunning, boating in Cayman and buying a boat please visit the page on our website dedicated to Watersports & Boating.