In my first year of writing this blog, I wrote an article about all the UK words and phrases I had learned in Cayman. Some people loved it, some people were annoyed by it. Caymanians were quick to jump on my glaring lack of exposure to the local culture and language. And I mean, yeah, I had just moved to Island and all my friends were expats–a lot apparently from the UK. I work at a private school where all the teachers are expats, and many of the students too. The only time I interacted with Caymanians was maybe to get my driver’s license or go to the bank, and even then, it was not as if they were speaking to me freely and naturally in their local dialect. It was all business.
Fast forward three years. I’m finding myself a little more in the mix. A big part of that is thanks to my soccer team. All or most of my teammates are Caymanian, and spending time with them has done a lot to boost my awareness and exposure to Caribbean English. I also frequently deep-dive into the Cayman Wastes and Marl Road comments, and that’s been rather…educational. It’s not to say that I use any of these words in everyday speech. If I did, I would get laughed at. But I still think it’s important as an expat to learn and understand local dialect because it will teach you a lot about the culture and people. So without further ado, here’s a very preliminary guide: 10 Words You Should Know If You Live in Cayman. In three more years maybe I can write a part two.
Una / uneh
Pronounced [uh-nuh] — It means ‘you guys’ or ‘you all.’
Example: Una come read this (Everyone come read this)
It took me a very long time to figure this out. ‘Una’ sounded a lot like the name ‘Ana’ to me, so whenever someone who would ask if ‘una’ is coming or what ‘una’ is doing, I wanted to ask who in God’s name is Ana??
Gyal
Pronounced as it’s written [gee-yal] one syllable to mean ‘girl’
For me, after I said this word for the first time, I couldn’t stop saying it. With two feet planted firmly on Caribbean soil, the use of ‘girl’ now feels bland and basic. Hey girl? Who are you calling girl–I’m a gyal. It feels like a promotion. Even midwesterners like myself may already be familiar with this term via global party banger: “Gyal You a Party Animal.”
No sah
Pronounced as it’s written — (sah = sir)
There is nothing particularly enlightening about this phrase. It can be used as a simple ‘no’ or ‘no way.’ It is worth mentioning though, because of the attitude with which the phrase is delivered. It rolls off the Caymanian tongue in a way that casts judgement or disbelief.
Example: The referee had just made a truly awful call and one of my teammates responded with a swift and resounding “No sah!”
Mash up
Pronounced ‘mah-sh up’
This phrase, typical of the Caribbean, can be quite versatile in its usage. It is most commonly used as a verb to mean ‘break.’ For example, you could say ‘mi mash up mi phone,’ to mean, of course, that you broke your phone. It could also be used as an adjective to describe something as already being destroyed. My teammate once said that her cleats were ‘mash up.’ meaning they were old and useless.
Alternatively, I’ve heard ‘mash up’ used in soca songs within the partying context. You may, for example, find yourself wanting to “mash up di place,” or in other words, take the venue by storm. If anyone every tells you to ‘mash it up,’ you don’t actually need to break anything. Rest assured.
Wine
In the same vein as ‘mash up,’ I present to you another party-centric term: wine. Not the kind that you drink, it’s the kind that you buss. i.e. ‘buss a wine.’ If you’ve listened to a single soca song in your life, you will be plenty familiar with this term. What is it, exactly? Trust me, you would know if you’ve seen it. But if you haven’t, here is a rather graphic definition from jamaicanpatwah.com: “A form of dancing normally done by women, which involves gyrating the mid-section of body, specifically the waist and hips. This is done in a sexual manner, either fast or slow and is mostly performed to West Indian music such as reggae, soca or calypso.”
To receive a complete and proper education on wining techniques, I recommend you ‘jump in,’ or at least spectate at Batabano or CayMAS. Warning: you may witness physical acts that you didn’t know were legal in public. You may even find yourself partaking in said acts–wink, wink. Alternatively, save yourself from the ‘bacchanal’ and simply turn up at a local bar like Mango Tree or Cotton Club.
Batabano, May 2022
Bruddah
Bruddah is an alternative spelling of ‘brother,’ but its use is not limited to men. Many girls on my team use ‘bruddah’ when speaking with other females. It reminds me a bit of the use of ‘dude’ in the Midwest, as dude originally referred to men but became so pervasive in colloquial speech that it lost its true meaning. In Wisconsin you might say, “No dude, I don’t know know you’re talking about.” The Caymanian version would be, “Nah bruddah, wha you say?” Something like that, anyway.
Marl Road
Cayman Marl Road is, I guess you could say, an alternative news source. But I’m pretty sure most people who follow do so for the Island tea rather than the hard-hitting news. Posts include ‘jackass of the day,’ which usually features vehicles parked in handicap parking spots, stolen jet skis, missing dogs, found keys, and birthday shoutouts to people who probably would like literally ANYTHING else for their birthday. On more exciting days we can enjoy long-winded live rants from the lead journalist herself, Sandra. Recently this revolved mostly around Miss Universe drama as it seemed Sandra had a personal vendetta against former Miss Cayman. That’s a story for another day.
When it comes to Marl Road, you hope to keep yourself off it. But what does Marl Road actually mean? It’s basically Cayman’s version of ‘hearing it through the grapevine.” Marl is a type of rock, so a marl road is kind of like a gravel road. It refers back to an era of Cayman in which the only way to get information was by leaving your house, walking down the marl road, and chatting with neighbors. So when someone says “I heard it on the Marl Road,” it has almost a double meaning. Kind of like, “I heard it through the grapevine,” or alternatively, they could have heard it on the actual Cayman Marl Road “news source.”
Vex
Vex means that you are upset or angry. It can also be used as a verb meaning to annoy or upset someone. Additionally, my friend told me that vex can also be used as in “vex money,” basically cash stashed on your person or in a secret place. This money is to be spent only in case of emergency in the event that a once stable situation suddenly becoming “vexed” — usually but not always because of a man. Vex money could be used during a date if you need to get a cab (escape) fast or pick up the tab because the guy is too cheap.
Examples:
-Who vex Sandy this time?
-She vex because she got locked out
-Thank God I had my vex money
Town
For someone who doesn’t live in Cayman, you have to know that the island is broken into districts such as West Bay, Georgetown, Bodden Town, North Side, etc. You will also hear Seven Mile Beach and South Sound frequently thrown into the mix as many expats live in those areas. It took me nearly three years of living here to figure out that when people say Town they are referring to Georgetown. For example, you may hear “Do you want to meet in town?” or “I live in town, where do you live?”
Growing up in Wisconsin, “going into town” was an expression that people who lived out in the country would use when they needed to go shopping or to the bank. So yeah, it took me a while. I was like, what do you mean you’re going into ‘town’? We live on an island. Anyway, it’s good to know and will save you some confusion later on down the line.
The Fish Market “In Town”
Mon
Not necessarily ‘Caymanian,’ (most famously Jamaican) but you sure will hear it a lot here. What surprised me about ‘mon’ is that is can be used while talking to anyone. Mon can be men, women, or even children.
That’s it for now 🙂 Tell me your favorite words and expressions that you learned in Cayman!
In my first year of writing this blog, I wrote an article about all the UK words and phrases I had learned in Cayman. Some people loved it, some people were annoyed by it. Caymanians were quick to jump on my glaring lack of exposure to the local culture and language. And I mean, yeah,… Read more
Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, stunningly diverse in both its geography and lifestyles. To have a more complete picture of the country, you have to travel outside of Havana. One of the best places to go, because of its proximity and beauty, is Viñales. Less than a three-hour drive outside the city,… Read more
My first trip to Havana was a long time in the making. I have wanted to visit ever since meeting my husband, Bryan in 2015; it’s where he was born and spent the better part of his childhood. If you’ve ever met Bryan, you know his contagious energy, brimming with vibrance and with a healthy… Read more
Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, stunningly diverse in both its geography and lifestyles. To have a more complete picture of the country, you have to travel outside of Havana. One of the best places to go, because of its proximity and beauty, is Viñales. Less than a three-hour drive outside the city, Viñales is a gorgeous farming community that envelopes you with its lush greenery, unexpected mountainscapes, and warm Cuban hospitality. Keep reading for the perfect two-day Viñales itinerary.
Transportation
There are two convenient options for getting to Viñales from Havana. One is with the bus company called Viazul.They run daily bus trips to and from Viñales for $12 one-way. We originally planned to use Viazul for our trip; however, the routes were suspended due to the recent cyclone that had passed through the western part of the island.
Plan B turned out to be a more convenient alternative but at double the price ($25/person one-way) We took a taxi colectivo which picked us up at our Airbnb and dropped us off at our accommodation in Viñales. A taxi colectivo means that you are sharing the car with at least one other person, with four passengers maximum in the car. You have to reserve a day in advance. Most likely the host of your room share or Airbnb can do this for you. If you’d like to reserve on your own, you can email me and I’ll share with you the contact information of our taxi driver. 🙂
DAY 1
Road Trip
Our taxi picked us up at 8:30 am and we rode to Viñales with two interesting Italian girls. I thought there might be some cute stops along the way, but there was none of that. Just a few random pan con lechón stands and smatterings of horse carriages and roadside breakdowns. If you need to use the bathroom, your driver will pull over on the side of the road and you can find yourself a nice bush. I chose to hold it.
Arriving in Viñales
Pulling into Viñales was like traveling back in time. Even though it seemed like we were in the middle of nowhere, there were people and animals everywhere. Ox-pulled carriages crowded the dilapidated country roads. Dogs happily trotted down the center lanes, nimbly dodging the passing cars without a care in the world. Dads were taking their daughters to school on horseback. Moms were outside hanging the laundry on the clotheslines. Beat-up classic cars swerved around potholes, leaving a trail of exhaust and dust clouds in their wake. All of this was taking place against the backdrop of verdant mountains, towering jungle-like palms, and rolling farmscapes. It was fascinating.
The driver dropped the Italian girls off in town at their room-share, but we continued on, rumbling past the tiny city center and deeper into the countryside. Our driver was not in the best of moods, and it certainly did not help that our Airbnb was on the outskirts of town, past a flooded road, and up a bumpy grass driveway. But eventually, we arrived at Villa Las Palmitas and were greeted by our lovely host, Alexander.
Alexander’s place sits on an idyllic hillside oasis, surrounded by mountains, palm trees, and chatty farm animals. We loved that the doors and windows to the villa were flung open. It invited a feeling of purity and clean energy that we happily embraced, along with a particularly friendly chicken who kept wandering inside.
After the property tour, Alexander set us up with our excursion for the day, a farm tour complete with tobacco rolling, horseback riding, and homemade country cocktails. No more than twenty minutes after arriving our taxi driver was there to pick us up.
Viñales Taxi Driver
The Viñales taxi experience was like something out of a movie. Our driver, Eddy, came lurching up the hill in his classic almendrón car and pulled up outside the villa. Not sure if it was just that they had the same name, but he reminded me so much of Cousin Eddie from Christmas Vacation. He just had that vibe about him. He apparently knew everyone in town, constantly yelling and waving out the window to people. Later when we asked him what we owed him, he responded, “Eh, whatever ya got.”
Farm Tour
Price: Farm Tour & Horseback Riding – $5/hour per person
Eddy dropped us off on the side of the road and we were promptly met by a farmer from Finca Pipo Perez. We quickly realized we’d made a grave mistake by wearing white shoes to a farm tour. It had been raining all day and the pathway to the farm was full of mud (fango). Things got interesting as we had to shuffle across a 2×4 over a river of muddy water and scramble up a steep hill, but we made it.
Jerry was waiting for us on top. He looked like he could have been Bryan’s brother. I kid you not, I think they’re legit third cousins. Anyway, Jerry works there on the farm and he explained to us the tobacco growing and harvesting process in detail, demonstrating how to roll the leaves and giving us a cigar to try. He had us dip the end of the cigar in honey. Apparently, Che Guevara swore by this — he was asthmatic and claimed honey helped soothe his throat. Cada loco con su tema. I do think it makes for a nice flavor though.
While sitting there with Jerry, we also talked about their coffee bean harvest. Unfortunately, a cyclone had just passed through Viñales and had taken a great deal of their tobacco and coffee bean plants. But, we enjoyed the explanation and ended up buying a few cigars and a container of coffee beans. (I just prepared the coffee beans at home, and can confirm: el café está riquísimo). A woman also prepared for us their specialty farm cocktail with rum, honey, and coconut water.
Horseback Riding
Showtime. A guy named Flaco came to set up with our horses. Mine was named Coco Loco, apparently, after the signature coconut cocktail at the bar we would be stopping at later. I remember thinking: 1. This is definitely my kind of horse. And 2. A bar in the middle of the boondocks? Is this Wisconsin?
The first part of the journey was a bit rough. The path was full of “fango” — bright orange mud about a foot deep. The horses didn’t want to go in there any more than I did, and were frantically trying to climb up the sides of the path. My horse and I narrowly escaped a barbed wire entrapment while Bryan’s horse tried to jump over the fango, causing Bryan to almost fall off. Think ‘bucking bronco.’ Five minutes in and we were covered in fango, our shoes dyed an unfortunate orange. Flaco was stoic and professional, but I knew he had to be laughing at us on the inside.
An hour later we arrived at the bar and I let out a sigh of relief. I was alive and ready to order the highly anticipated Coco Loco. There at the bar, there were some practice horse races going on. Boys as young as eleven were riding bareback, their horses pounding wildly down the makeshift race track. The bartender prepared us our Coco Locos, (rum, coconut water, honey, and lemon), served inside the whole coconut with a straw. While we were drinking them, a farm dog named Grut came over to keep us company. When we finished the cocktail, they sliced up the coconut for eating. We devoured it. We were so hungry. We also gave quite a few pieces to Grut — he was apparently as hungry as we were.
On the way back to Finca Pipo Perez, we stopped at a farm house paladar for a late lunch with Flaco. There were baby pigs and chickens everywhere. We sat at the back of the house facing the fields and placed our order. They brought us huge homestyle dishes of rice and beans, yuca, and cucumber. Bryan ordered ropa vieja and I had to go with a vegetarian option — fried egg. I was thrilled to be eating anything. Feeling satisfied and with renewed spirits, we got back on our mighty steeds and returned to the Finca.
Buenas Noches
Eddy collected us at the Finca and took us to pick up some dinner in town. (Two cheese sandwiches with chips). Outside Viñales center, there was no electricity. Alexander had a generator which granted us electricity for a few hours out of the day, but otherwise, the countryside was pitch black. We showered in icy cold water and promptly passed out. I don’t know how many hours later I awoke to complete darkness. I felt like it had swallowed me up. I blinked wildly, trying to make out the shape of anything at all—nada. The feeling was one of claustrophobia.I flung my arm to the side various times, reassuring myself that Bryan was next to me. He was. Thank God. I thought, I am not cut out for this country life.
I was never so happy to see the light of morning as waking up after that first night in Viñales. I threw open the windows and doors, giddy with relief. I even gladly welcomed back Juana, the persistent hen who seemed to think she had been upgraded to an indoor pet status.
The day prior we reserved breakfast with Alexander for $5 per person. He served the meal on the back terrace, bathed in morning light and a gentle breeze. In Grand Cayman $5 at breakfast time gets me two croissants if I’m lucky. In Viñales it got us a thermos of coffee, freshly cut pineapple, eggs, ham and cheese sandwiches, a breakfast pastry, and enough bananas to feed a soccer team.
Out on the Town
We called our old friend Eddy for a lift into the village center. We were on a mission to buy a Cuban SIM card from the Etesca office. They weren’t open yet, so naturally, we killed the time at a nearby bar with a couple mojitos.
Viñales, despite being a country town, has a commendable offering of bars and restaurants on the main road, all with open-air terraced seating facing the street. We posted up at Bar Razones,y razones no nos faltaban 😉 Mojitos were 200 pesos and the activity from the street kept us more than entertained — ox-drawn carriages, idle military men, truckloads of intertown travelers, and a relentless parade of street dogs.
After securing our SIM card, we went to a pizza stand and each ordered neapolitans and one jugo de guayaba. This is a quintessential Cuban “culinary” experience that cannot be passed up. The Neapolitan pizzas are 90 pesos, less than 1 US dollar, and taste like a cross between grilled cheese and Domino’s breadsticks. Muy cubano.
We also visited a street market where we forfeited any sense of locality that had been earned at the pizza stand. We fell straight into the tourist trap, but left armed with a key chain, earrings, and Cuban figurines. If there’s one thing Bryan and I know how to do, it’s shop.
After shopping, we had a drink and appetizer at Bar Los Robertos. I ordered a banana-flavored daiquiri which was a horrible, horrible choice. Bryan ordered a mojito and we shared mariquitas. Thinking ahead to our evening sans electricity, a kitchen, and groceries, we ordered a pizza and some pasta to go. We would figure out how to heat them up later.
Eddy, proving to be a very reliable taxista indeed, picked us up from Bar Los Robertos and took us back to our humble abode.
Puppies
Remember how I said we had enough bananas to feed a soccer team? Well, I found out how we were going to ration them. Every time we rumbled up the driveway to the villa, a litter of four puppies would run out of a bush in reaction to the noise. At that point in the Cuba trip, I had already caressed a startling amount of stray animals, so there was nothing stopping me from loving on these bush puppies. We hand fed them banana chunks, which they seemed to love. Clearly, bananas are not dog food, but it’s the best we could do. The poor things didn’t even have their eyes open all the way and Mom was no where in sight. 🙁
R&R
I had to tear myself from the puppies, even though I was ready to pack them in my suitcase… Back at the villa, we enjoyed our cigars from Finca Pipo Perez, read our books, and fed the neighbor donkey some grass. There were no distractions, minus Juana, our pet chicken, and the oinks of a pig whose owner was late for supper time. It was a setting that allowed us to be completely in the present. We felt gratitude for our trip to Viñales and the people we had met along the way.
The Darkness Returns
Night felt swift and heavy on the Villa, but luckily, Alexander came around 7:30 to turn on the generator, so we could have electricity for a couple hours before bed. He was also generous enough to heat up our pasta and pizza from the restaurant earlier. (There was a kitchen next door to our villa). We skipped the shower, still scarred from the icy water from the night prior. Once we’d eaten, we turned in for an early bedtime. There are plenty of bars in town that lend themselves to a nightlife crowd, but we were several miles out of the way. We couldn’t bother cousin Eddy to pick us up and we didn’t want to end up stranded at midnight.
Adiós Viñales
I slept much better the second night, leaving a window open to let in a tiny bit of illumination from the moon and stars. I at least didn’t feel like I was inside a coffin anymore. The next morning, we arose early. Alexander was coming to prepare us breakfast again before our taxi driver picked us up. We enjoyed another incredible spread, complete with coffee, eggs, sandwiches, and fruit. I saved all of the ham in a crumpled napkin for the bush puppies.
We packed our bags, said goodbye to Alexander, and hopped in the taxi. On the way to the main road, we asked the driver to pull over so I could give the bush puppies their ham. Big improvement from the banana dinner the night before. We picked up a Norwegian couple on the way out of town, rolling past the ox-pulled carriages and guajiros of Viñales, the mountains disappearing in the rearview mirror.
I was so thankful we had visited, and satisfied with the amount of time we had spent. It granted us a distinct perspective of Cuba and the diverse lifestyles within such a large country. The pace of living is much slower, which comes with its own kind of beauty and unique values. We loved getting to know Flaco and the people at Finca Pipo Perez. We also loved our stay with Alexander at the Villa, and being so close to nature.
I recommend Viñales to anyone who is visiting Cuba and has a day or two to spare. You will leaving with a renewed sense of peace, and maybe even a puppy.
In my first year of writing this blog, I wrote an article about all the UK words and phrases I had learned in Cayman. Some people loved it, some people were annoyed by it. Caymanians were quick to jump on my glaring lack of exposure to the local culture and language. And I mean, yeah,…
My first trip to Havana was a long time in the making. I have wanted to visit ever since meeting my husband, Bryan in 2015; it’s where he was born and spent the better part of his childhood. If you’ve ever met Bryan, you know his contagious energy, brimming with vibrance and with a healthy…
So you have an upcoming event…maybe it’s a brunch, a boat party, or even a long weekend getaway. You’re so excited until you remember…you have nothing to wear! We’ve all been there. In Cayman, this wardrobe crisis is multiplied by ten, given the shortage of cool and affordable clothing stores. We’re living in the land…
My first trip to Havana was a long time in the making. I have wanted to visit ever since meeting my husband, Bryan in 2015; it’s where he was born and spent the better part of his childhood. If you’ve ever met Bryan, you know his contagious energy, brimming with vibrance and with a healthy dose of ‘guapería’– a Cuban word meaning confidence. He’s the kind of guy that seems to know everyone. A guy that can break into a salsa dance at the drop of the hat. I learned over time that many of these traits were greatly influenced by his Cuban roots and formative upbringing in La Habana. For this reason, I had to see for myself the place that he called home for so many years; the land of music, mojitos, and ‘asere qué bola.’
Everyone will experience Cuba differently. My experience was unique given that I had my own Cuban ‘insider’ with me at all times. Also, being fluent in Spanish was definitely a bonus. At any rate, you can have a great time in Cuba no matter where you are from or your level of Spanish.
In this Guidebook to Havana, I share recommendations for where to stay, restaurants, bars, and things to do. I will also give details on transportation, what to pack, as well as how to exchange money, and get a Cuban SIM card. I hope you find it insightful!
Entering the Country
There has been quite a bit of confusion given the recent news of US labeling Cuba a “state sponsor of terrorism.” The warning is that anyone who has been to Cuba and obtains Esta clearance for the US could in theory be turned away upon arrival. I myself am not an Esta holder, but I can speak about my customs experience with my US passport (traveling from Cayman). I purchased a visa at the Cayman Airways counter for around $40. When I arrived in Cuba, I presented to the customs agent my passport and visa and asked them to please not stamp my passport. They said not to worry and instead stamped my visa. Everyone I’ve spoken to has said the same–they asked for the passport not to be stamped and the agent obliged without any question.
Where to Stay
While in Cuba, we stayed at three different Airbnbs. One near El Capitolio,one in Viñales, and the last in La Habana Vieja, right next to La Bodeguita del Medio. I highly recommend Airbnb over a hotel because it will provide a much more immersive vibe. In the hotels, you will be surrounded by tourists and given a more cookie-cutter experience. The Airbnbs, on the other hand, will have you smack in the middle of an authentic neighborhood, living life a lo cubano.
My favorite Airbnb was Lizandra’s rental unit on Calle Cuba, by La Bodeguita. It’s a spacious one-bedroom that emanates a vintage traveler aesthetic. The French doors open up onto the balcony, overlooking the bustling Calle Cuba. The sounds of salsa from La Bodeguita blend together with neighborhood chatter to set a perfect backdrop for espresso-sipping and people-watching.
Money Exchange
Most Cuban businesses are currently accepting US dollars, euros, and la moneda nacional (AKA pesosor CUP). We took out all the money we needed for our trip in USD at a Cayman ATM. There are ATMs in Cuba that accept major bank cards like MasterCard and Visa, but we didn’t want to risk it. The current exchange rate (which fluctuates a lot) is 160 pesos to 1 US dollar on average. At Cadeca, the exchange rate is 110 to 1 US dollar.
You can pay with US dollars anywhere (except the airport), and they will give you your change in pesos. People will also approach you to exchange in the street for up to 200 pesos, but these situations call for a bit more skepticism. There is some risk your change could be counterfeit. You should always ask what the exchange rate is before handing over money so you can check that you have the correct change. You will use your calculator a lot. Good thing I had my accountant with me!
*In certain restaurants and bars, it is better to pay in pesos. For example, in La Bodeguita del Medio, a mojito was 200 pesos (roughly USD $1.50), but if you pay in USD, it’s $5.00.
How Much Money to Bring
It depends on your budget. We ate in restaurants two to three times a day, drank our weight in mojitos, took a trip to Viñales, went horse-back riding, did a classic car excursion, and bought gifts and cigar boxes to take home. All of this considered, we spent roughly USD $80 per day per person. Basically, we went all in. You could definitely get by on much less, but it depends on what you want out of the experience. The most expensive meal we had was $90 total at La Guarida and the cheapest was $1.50 at a street pizza stand. So, yeah—lots of room for budgeting.
Phone Usage / Data
It is possible your Airbnb will provide a Cuban SIM card—message before and ask. Our first Airbnb loaned us two SIM cards, included with our stay, our second offered nothing, and our last Airbnb was renting them for twenty euros a day (don’t fall for that). What I recommend is finding an Etesca office. There are quite a few in central Habana and La Habana Vieja, open from 9-5 pm, some until 7 pm. There, you buy a SIM for USD $10 which comes with 3.5G. You will also be able to call and text. This should last you quite a few days, but you can add more data at the offices for $2 for 2 gigs. Don’t forget to bring your passport, as they won’t let you buy a SIM without it.
Transportation
The best way to maneuver around La Habana is by taxi or on foot. There are many different kinds of taxis which I will explain below. There is no Uber, but apparently, there is an app that is similar, called La Nave. We did not use it, but it’s worth checking out.
From Airport
When you leave the airport, you can expect a taxi driver to approach you in a matter of ten seconds. They are quick. The average rate is $30 to Havana, so if someone tries to charge you more than that, you have some wiggle room to negotiate.
Coco Taxi
These are the adorable yellow three-wheelers that are shaped like, you guessed it–coconuts! This was my absolute favorite way to get around Havana because I had a front-row seat to the city. You notice things that are simply unobservable from inside a car. If you’re lucky, your coco taxi engine will die and the driver will recruit you and a random bystander to help push it back into life. No, I’m serious. “Oye, hermano–échame un cabo!” Havana at its finest. Average fare: USD $5-10. A lot of negotiating can be done here.
If you want to sound like you know what you’re talking about, you can ask in Spanish: “¿Te cuadran cinco dólares para ir hasta Hotel Nacional?” It means, does five bucks sound good to you to go to…[insert your destination]. If you really want to come off local, you can throw in an “oye mi hermano” at the beginning.
Bicycle Taxi
We never took one, but it wasn’t for a lack of offers. They are similar to Coco taxis in that there is one “driver” and space for two people in the back. Great for short distances at a low price. The bikes all have names and the drivers like to blast reggaeton, so you definitely won’t be bored with this taxi ride.
Yellow Taxi & Almendrón
There are plenty of your standard yellow taxis as well as the classic almendrón car. The almendrón taxis are harder to spot, as there are hundreds driving around at all times. Look out for the taxi sticker on the windshield, or just hold out your hand on the sign of the road, and eventually, someone will stop for you.
Taxi Colectivo
This could be in a yellow taxi, almendrón, or even a sidecar motorbike. Colectivo just means ride-sharing AKA “fill the vehicle up.” Our taxi to Viñales was a Colectivo. We shared it with two Italian girls on the way there, and a Norwegian couple on the way back. You never know who you may meet in the back of a taxi!
Things to Do
Havana has something for everyone. I will tell you upfront that Bryan and I are not museum people, and we have an acute aversion to cut-out experiences. For that reason, we did very few organized activities on our trip and we didn’t go into a single museum. We like to wander and go with the flow, preferably with a drink in hand. In my opinion, this is the best way to travel. Now that you know this about us, let’s see what there is to do in Havana!
Classic Car Tour
This is the one organized tour we did in Havana and would highly recommend it to visitors. Alain and Daimir took us on a two-hour tour around Havana in their pink, 1952 Ford Mercury convertible. They of course gave us a lot of historical info on Havana, but what was cooler than anything was getting to know them personally and seeing Havana through their eyes. Tours prices are between $20-$30 per person per hour. The cars are all parked in front of Hotel Inglaterra by El Capitolio. If you want to guarantee great guides in a cool car, email me for Alain’s contact info.
Live Music
Live bands are everywhere in La Habana! Walking around, you will hear salsa rhythms echoing throughout the streets. There’s no need to plan in advance, just let the son cubano guide you. The spots that guarantee live music almost all day are La Bodeguita del Medio, La Floridita, and La Vitrola–but live music can be found everywhere in La Habana Vieja.
Ride in a Coco Taxi
It’s more than just transportation! It’s the best way to see and feel the city. You can ride the entire length of El Malecón, wind in your hair, sea spray on your face–¡que rico!
Buy / Smoke Cigars
From day one in La Habana, people will constantly be asking you if you want to buy cigars. They make wonderful gifts and it is legal to travel internationally with two boxes per person. Walking through the streets of Havana with a cigar balanced between your lips is a total vibe. This was Bryan basically the whole trip; I just enjoyed the occasional, sophisticated puff á la Sex in the City.
Our purchasing experience was interesting, to say the least. A guy approached us, and asked if we wanted to check out “La Feria de los Puros.” The Cigar Festival… “Happening this week only.” I don’t know what I was envisioning, but where we ended up was far from a festival. The man took us on a ten-minute walk to a ramshackle building, down a dark hallway, and into a tiny room that featured a collection of cigar boxes and a haphazard shrine for the Orishas. From there, I silently watched as Bryan negotiated the boxes to nearly half the original price they were offering. I also petted a dog. We walked away unscathed and with lots of puros.
Orisha Shrine at “Cigar Festival”
Drink Rum
Never in my life had I ingested so much rum as I did in Havana. Cuba has a kind of transformational power that turns White Claw-drinking girls like me into rum and cigar aficionados. WHO HAVE I BECOME? You have to, of course, go to La Bodeguita for their famous mojitos and La Floridita for their daiquiris. You can also vary your rum drinks with the Ron Collins, which I really enjoyed, or the classic Cuba Libre.
Walking Tour / People Watch
Turn on your anthropological lens and take to the streets. Everywhere you go, you’re enveloped by the movement and vibrance of the city; it’s enrapturing. Havana is like the Manhattan of the Caribbean, cloaked in color, music, and 1950s car fumes. On one single street, you’ll see a dog riding a scooter, a Yoruban Santo head-to-toe in white, and a vendor yelling about his ice cream bars. You’ll hear salsa rhythms, reggaeton, crying babies, “Oye, mi hermano’s,” and the rumbling of beat-up almendrones. It’s equal parts exhausting and addicting.
El Bosque de La Habana is an unexpected oasis of greenery in the middle of the city. There you can take a peaceful time-out alongside the Río Almendares. Alain told us that it considered a holy place, where Cubans of the Yoruban faith come to worship Oshun, the river deity and Orisha of divinity, femininity, fertility, beauty and love. Women especially will come to the Bosque and make a small offering ot the river.
There is also a small bar at the entrance where they give you full reign of the rum bottles. Order a mojito and treat yourself to a holiday pour.
El Malecón
Since hearing the song Hasta Que Se Seque El Malecón by Jacob Forever, I have been dying to see the emblematic five-mile sea wall that serves as a common hangout for Cubans of all ages. I knew it was popular, but I didn’t expect a New Years’ Eve-level turnout on an average Saturday night. All along the sea-sprayed stretch, you’ll find couples, friends groups, and families chilling and enjoying music, food, and unas cervecitas. There are pop-up vendors selling canned beer and street food like pizzas and pan con lechón. This is the place to be if you’re looking for full Cuban immersion and nightlife al aire libre.
We ate and drank our way through the city. Here are our favorite bars and restaurants–places worth repeating! I am going to start with the most famous and obvious spots: La Bodeguita and La Floridita.
My favorite of the two Hemingway spots—open-air, hole-in-the-wall drinkery famous for their mojitos, live music, and writing on the walls. Though a well-known tourist attraction, it maintained an authentic Cuban character that kept us coming back for more. Mojitos were 200 pesos, or roughly USD $1.50.
The more elegant of the famous bar duo, La Floridita is known for their daiquiris and similar to La Bodeguita, their live music. We preferred the al fresco ambiance of la Bodeguita, but it’s definitely worth a visit!
Havana meets Soho rooftop, an Insta influencers bread and butter. The panoramic vistas from la Guarida are unparalleled, allowing you to drink in all of the city as you sip on expertly crafted rum cocktails. We started with a drink and then went downstairs for our dinner reservation. Although pricey, it’s an elevated dining experience where the prestige and service is palpable from start to finish. It’s also where they filmed Fresa y Chocolate. You don’t need a dinner reservation to check out the building. It’s worth going up even for just a sunset cocktail.
El Mirador de Doña Ana
We hadn’t planned on eating here, but the restaurant promoter nos metió muela, (he talked our ear off), and eventually, he had us sold. It’s a good thing we gave in, because it was an amazing meal! We sat on the balcony overlooking the street where we were treated to live music and a fresh, Cuban meal. The band even took requests and after finding out I was American, insisted on singing me songs in English. (Much to my chagrin).
Café Solás
Another restaurant that we stumbled on by accident. We were searching for a different restaurant, but heard the music from the rooftop of Café Solás and had to see what was happening. As it turns out, Tony Ávila was giving a concert (I had no idea who he was but now I do). He was well worth the entrance fee of USD $4, playing original songs against the backdrop of twinkling lights and a local clientele.
La Vitrola
A bustling café in Plaza Vieja with terrace seating and live music. We designated this spot as our coffee shop and came three separate times for americanos and cortados. The service was excellent and the location ideal for people-watching in one of the buzziest areas of La Habana Vieja.
El Café
This was our go-to breakfast spot where I indulged in fresh guava juice and the most delicious seasonal fruit pancakes. Here you will also meet “La Amarilla” (The Yellow One), a precious café cat with her very own Instagram page.
A second breakfast favorite was El Dandy, a corner café in Plaza del Cristo that grants a perfect vantage point of the street activity. The interior is old-school Havana featuring iconic Cuban photography, handwritten chalkboard menus, and a cool vintage refrigerator. In addition to desayunos, they also have a full menu and extensive cocktail list. Try their huevos rancheros — ¡delicioso!
Sia-kara
Tucked away behind El Capitolio is Sia-kara, a cozy cocktail bar and restaurant with a Havana hipster vibe. We loved it for its plush seating and spacious feel, ideal for recharging after walking the city streets.
Hotel Nacional de Cuba
Located on the seafront of the Vedado neighborhood, this hotel dates back to the 1930s and is famous for once hosting guests like Frank Sinatra, Fred Astaire, and of course, the American mafia. The place gave me instant American Horror Story vibes, but we enjoyed sitting outside on the sofas and taking in the peaceful nature of the palm-tree-lined grounds. Daiquiris are dirt cheap, but a request for Dos Gardenias is going to cost you.
Street Pizza (Various Locations)
This is a quintessential Cuban “culinary” experience that cannot be passed up. The Neapolitan pizzas are 80 pesos, less than 1 US dollar, and taste like a cross between grilled cheese and Domino’s breadsticks. They hand it over wrapped in scratch paper, you fold it in half, and away you walk down Calle Cuba with your greasy street pizza. Muy cubano.
A trendy nightclub (centro nocturno) in Miramar that attracts a mix of locals and international travelers. We arrived around 11:00 pm, but it didn’t get busy until midnight. The music was great, a mix of reggaeton and hip-hop, and the drinks were expensive but cargados. AKA strong 😉 It was, however, astonishingly cold inside, so plan ahead. We would definitely go back to party at Sangri-la. Another club we wanted to try, but ran out of time and energy, is called LM Bar. It stays open until 6:00 am and is apparently the place to be on Friday and Monday nights.
Everyone we spoke to pre-Cuba raved about La Fábrica. I’ve never been anywhere like it. It’s essentially a contemporary, urban art gallery with various rooms or salas featuring distinct music genres (DJs and live bands). If you want to hear or dance to authentic Cuban music, this is not the place to go. We figured that out pretty quickly. But it’s definitely worth checking out, and hopefully, you find a sala that has the music you like! You have to pay entry, and for the life of me I can’t remember the price, but it wasn’t anything crazy.
What to Pack
Clothes: The streets of Havana are well-weathered and riddled with mud puddles and potholes. For that reason, I’d say leave your heels at home. You should bring comfortable shoes that you’re okay with scuffing up. The more elegant you dress, the more attention you’re going to attract, so I think it’s best to play it casual.
Food: Cuba is not like other countries where you can go to a supermarket for snacks and groceries. The locals stand in line for hours at the bodegas to collect their monthly rations of beans, rice, and other Cuban staples. You can buy fresh fruit and some vegetables from street vendors around Havana Vieja. (The guava is amazing) However, it may be worth bringing some snacks from your home, like granola bars, nuts, and chips.
Tissues/TP: Toilet paper was widely available but rough and recycled. If you’re picky with your paper, you could bring a roll to use where you’re staying. I would also recommend bringing a small packet of kleenex to carry in your purse as many public restrooms do not have paper. Toilet seats are also not guaranteed, so ladies, you’re going to have to engage the quads and squat down low. You should also bring your own feminine products.
Medicine: You don’t need to go overboard, but you should bring all of your go-to over the counter meds.
Colorín, colorado… that’s a wrap! There is so much left to explore in Havana but I believe this blog is a good jumping-off point for first-time visitors. If you’re traveling to Cuba in the near future, I hope you have a wonderful trip! And if you’re reading just for fun, I hope you’ve learned a bit about this amazing country. There is truly no place like it.
Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, stunningly diverse in both its geography and lifestyles. To have a more complete picture of the country, you have to travel outside of Havana. One of the best places to go, because of its proximity and beauty, is Viñales. Less than a three-hour drive outside the city,…
There is nowhere quite like Cayman Brac. It has a beautiful kind of quirkiness that manifests itself in the radical kindness of the locals and the peculiarity of the island’s “attractions.” These traits are juxtaposed against a gorgeous Caribbean backdrop, leaving you wondering if Brac is even a real place. Maybe I dreamt it all?…
Visitors of Madrid are like kids in candy stores. The city is teeming with terraces and tapas bar, each one offering a unique kind of allure that only the madrileños can pull off. With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. Read on and narrow your search, discovering 5 amazing…
So you have an upcoming event…maybe it’s a brunch, a boat party, or even a long weekend getaway. You’re so excited until you remember…you have nothing to wear! We’ve all been there. In Cayman, this wardrobe crisis is multiplied by ten, given the shortage of cool and affordable clothing stores. We’re living in the land of endless summer–we need options! Find out where to shop in Cayman below.
Luckily for Cayman residents, the tides are changing with the opening of a new, trendy clothing store called Spacie. My first impression of their website was ‘chic essentials at a reasonable price.’ The kind of styles that make basic girls like me magically transform into Hailey Biebers without breaking the bank. Genius.
With a trip to Cuba on the horizon, and feeling bored with my wardrobe, I couldn’t waste any time taking Spacie for a spin. I describe my first-time shopping experience with them below! (Spoiler alert: it was an excellent one).
Spacie’s website is clean-cut and user-friendly, pointing you in the right direction with easy-to-find categories. Their main offering is women’s clothes but they also stock swimwear, shoes, and a bunch of super cute accessories like sunglasses. Additionally, there is a modest collection of men’s wear, but they just opened and the inventory is growing!
Once you’re on the website, create an account so you can save items and/or add them to your cart. When you’re happy with your order, the checkout process is quick and smooth, prompting you with options for pick-up or delivery, along with your payment details. You will receive a confirmation email once your order has gone through with a summary of your purchased items. It’s a professional system that allows you to feel safe and confident throughout each stage of the online shopping process.
Sizing
Spacie sizes include Small, Medium, and Large, with some XS and XL for certain items. Typically a size 4, I ordered everything in size S and found it to be a perfect fit! These are designs that compliment a wide range of body types; however, in the event that your items don’t work, Spacie allows hassle-free returns to their headquarters in George Town, crediting your Spacie store account within 48 hours. Additional sizing guidance is also available upon request via Spacie’s contact page.
Next-day pick-up is a saving grace in the ever-fluctuating social calendars of Cayman. Possibly the best part of this process is visiting the illustrious White House in Georgetown just behind the new Starbucks. It’s a striking building that emanates regal energy, subsequently infusing your retail therapy with the dose of confidence you deserve. Now this is where to shop in Cayman.
My service was excellent. Within ten seconds of entering the lobby, the receptionist greeted me and proffered up my bag of fabulous wardrobe additions. I didn’t really want to leave if I’m being honest. Afterward, you and your shopping bags can head to Starbucks to revel in your fresh ‘fit energy over an oat milk latte.
*Spacie customers also have the option of delivery for a fee of $10. Click here to read about the delivery hours and additional pick-up information.
Like any sensible person, I came home, turned on some music, poured myself a glass of wine, and tried on my clothes. So much better than a cramped dressing room, right? The results were so satisfying I had no choice but to strut myself up and down the Holiday Inn beachfront like a Spacie runway model. Kendall Jenner could never. I will let the photos speak for themselves!
The vibe: as the name suggests, this dress is perfect for a brunch…tropical glam meets beach casual. The dress works just as well with heels as it does with sandy bare feet.
The feel: fits like a glove, outrageously comfortable. As you can see, I situated the top straps slightly different than the model, but I’m super happy with both looks!
My favorite part: The colors, and the flattering silhouette it creates
The vibe: Free-spirited meets party elegance, this set can be worn in a variety of settings. I bought mine just in time to wear to the White Party at the Cayman Latin Dance Festival, and I can confirm it’s more than suitable for salsa dancing!
The feel: The top is adjustable, allowing you to tailor a perfect fit. After taking some time to get it just how I wanted, I felt super comfortable and well-covered at the front. The fabric is soft and the open back helps you stay cool in the Caribbean heat.
The vibe: chic wardrobe essential with a sexy twist
The feel: similar to the knit party set, this piece is adjustable and can be tailored for your exact size. The fabric is soft and cool on the skin, a godsend on a hot day in Cayman.
My favorite part: the wrap-around strings and zig-zag of the open back
The vibe: Santa Monica beach walk, but make it Caribbean. Ideal with an iced matcha latte in hand.
The feel: Simple white cotton ensemble with easy, breezy comfort. In regards to support, this is not an outfit I would run in; it’s better for gentle movements and/or lounging.
My favorite part: who doesn’t love a matching set? It’s classic, breathable, and oh-so-chic.
The feel: a stainless steel, waterproof necklace, the stone and sun pendant is high quality and light on the neck
My favorite part: it goes with everything, the perfect island accessory
My Overall Impression
Spacie, in my opinion, is the place to go when you want an outfit that’s chic and on-trend, without unloading all of your money on overseas shipping. I don’t know any other store on Island that has its finger on the pulse quite like Spacie. And the process for purchasing is so slick, how can you not? Anyway, you’ve heard enough from me. Now that you know where to shop in Cayman, try it out for yourself and prepare to be amazed by how good you look wearing Spacie!
So you’re really doing it. You’re really moving to Cayman. It may seem insane to you right now, or maybe you’re someone who does stuff like this all the time… Whatever the case, rest assured, many expats have come before you and many will follow in your steps. The question remains: how in God’s name…
Savannah, Georgia is the ultimate 2-for-1 when it comes to Girls Trip Get-Aways. The city center oozes southern charm with its iconic Spanish moss-adorned oak trees and historic high-stooped homes. But, who cares about that when what we really came for were the City Market bars and open container laws? Just kidding, we came for…
The land of eternal celebration, Grand Cayman has no shortage of drinking holes. The question remains, which of these are worth patronizing? It depends. Do you want to sip Negronis alongside artsy blue checks? *Attempt* to whine on a locally dominated dance floor? Or do you want to be shoulder to shoulder with a sea…
There is nowhere quite like Cayman Brac. It has a beautiful kind of quirkiness that manifests itself in the radical kindness of the locals and the peculiarity of the island’s “attractions.” These traits are juxtaposed against a gorgeous Caribbean backdrop, leaving you wondering if Brac is even a real place. Maybe I dreamt it all? Find out where to stay and what to see below in Discovering Cayman Brac.
Featherstone is located in the eastern part of the island off Tibbet’s Turn. Winding down Surfer’s Lane, you will happen on Beach Drive, a rustic gravel lane flanked by beach bungalows and sea grape trees. The property is tucked away at the end of the access, its own tropical oasis. Quiet calm, and zen energy permeate the space, leaving guests feeling ‘off-the-beaten-path.’ Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a delightful breeze and the everpresent lull of lapping ocean waves.
Sunset from Featherstone’s private beach
The Cottages
Featherstone features three seperate rental units: the Cottage, Owner’s Apartment, and Guest Apartment. These Caribbean-style cottages open up into a private beach spanning 1.5 acres, complete with a dock and several hammock-adorned beach cabanas. The beachfront building contains the Owner’s Apartment on top and the Guest Apartment on the bottom, both sea-facing. Behind the main building is the two-story Cottage. Though set back, you can still catch a glimpse of the sea from the balcony. It is possible to rent all three properties (The Estate) for a larger group or private event.
We stayed in the Owner’s Apartment which sleeps 7 and features a full kitchen, dining table, and master suite. The suite’s bathroom boasts a double vanity, stone walk-in shower, and corner bath. The bedroom is equally plush, starring a Japanese-style bed with bamboo sheets, offering tantalizing views of the Caribbean Sea. Japanese accents are visible throughout the whole of the unit, contributing to the unique feng shui of Featherstone.
Outside the master suite, sleeping arrangments include a pull-out couch in the living room as well as a a bunk-bed and a futon in the detached unit off the porch. This area also features a half bath, making the Owner’s Apartment a 2 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom unit. Cooking supplies, bedding, beach/bath towels, and wifi are all included.
The best part of this unit is the wrap-around porch, the perfect space for morning coffee, afternoon lunches, sunset bubbles, or even a dip in the private jacuzzi.
One of the many hammocks at Featherstone
The Amenities
The units are lovely, but the private beach and amenities are the bread and butter of Featherstone. The list of possible activities is long, ranging from lazy to active. Starting from the beach-bum end of things, guests can enjoy the hammocks, cabanas and lounge chairs spread throughout the sandy beachfront. Once the Caribbean heat kicks in, guests can put on their watershoes and head for the waves, enjoying a quick dip or a snorkel session. The owner has water accessories available upon request, as well as a game room full of books, board games, and sport gear.
For the more active islanders, there is a kayak ready to go on the beach, as well as a ping-pong table, and volleyball net upon request. With so many amenities, you may find it difficult to leave the property. But if you do, there are two bikes available for guests and a mini market just a few minutes down the road. And from there, the real adventure begins.
Private dock at Featherstone
What to See in Cayman Brac
What is there to see in Cayman Brac? Some would argue, “nothing” but I for one, say everything. Brac (population 1,800) is not hung up on island aesthetic, and it does not promote a Caribbean resort-style energy. What it deliberately lacks in tropical “glam,” it more than makes up for in ‘Cayman Kind’ and eccentric character. The best thing to do is rent a car and drive. Marvel at anything and everything. The island is known for its iconic bluff as well as its caves, which are obvious musts, but don’t stop there.
Cruising down the quiet roads of Brac, you will find conch-lined pathways, painted palm trees, and Caribbean houses in hues of paradisiacal pink and sea foam green. You’ll pass seaside churches, skull caves, stairs to nowhere, and mini Caymanian homes (think doll houses). Whilst out and about, you are guaranteed to encounter the notoriously friendly locals, always happy to chat and point you in the right direction. While exploring a roadside cave, a woman and her two children pulled over in their car just to say ‘Good Afternoon’ and ask how our trip was going. It’s a warmth that is felt from the moment you step foot on the island.
Keep reading to discover some must-see places on your aimless excursion through Brac:
The Bubble House (on the way to the Great Cave)
Star Island
Star Island is one of Brac’s most popular restaurants, serving fresh local fish and Caribbean sides like plantain and cassava. We went for dinner and found an empty restaurant, though locals stopped in periodically for pick-up orders. I ordered grilled snapper with rice and beans and fried plantain. The delicious, fresh flavors made up for the lack of ambience in the restaurant. Star Island was no exception to the quirky character of Brac. With fluorescent green and yellow curtains and a menu that includes dolphin, it’s sure to be a memorable visit.
If you’re looking for a “party,” this is inevitably where you will find it. At least, that is what the cashier at Blackbeard’s told us. La Esperanza is a seaside drinking hole where the waves can almost be heard over the blaring soca beats. There is also a small grocer and jerk stand open during the day. On Friday and Saturday nights it’s the liveliest bar on island–loud music, friendly locals, and domino games. The challenge is to keep up with the amount of drinks being bought for you.
La Esperanza
La Esperanza during the light of day
Brac Reef Resort
A very different vibe from La Esperanza, Brac Reef Resort is closer to what you may find on Seven Mile Beach–pricey drinks, pristine poolside views (only for hotel guests), and a menu that is far from local. I only recommend it for its delicious margaritas and gorgeous views. We went during the day for a quick pick-me-up and dip in the ocean.
Foot’s Museum (Casa del Diablo)
You read that right. On your way to the Great Cave, you will pass a driveway lined with statues, some demonic in nature, and one with flippered legs sticking out of a toilet. There’s no way you can see something like that and not stop. So we did. I have heard rumors about this house but do not know the full story. Basically, it’s an artist’s house, (Ron “Foots” Kynes) directly on the water, that serves as an art gallery for the odd Brac tourist. The kind of art you will find there ranges from a fishing boat full or Red Stripe bottles to fake missiles, all the way to Led Zeppelin tributes. We did not see the artist, but the property is open sans no-trespassing signs. Enter if you dare!
Foots Museum
Foots Museum
Foots Museum (exterior)
The Bluff
The bluff does not require a lot of explanation. It’s a stunning, dangerous view. Don’tget too close to the edge, obviously. You will also hear people talk about the lighthouse at the top of the bluff. There is indeed some kind of light structure, but if you’re picturing a picturesque, Cape Code kind of lighthouse, then prepare to be disappointed. The terrain is odd and apocolyptic, further contributing to Brac’s “am I dreaming” sensation.
The Bluff
The Great Cave
There is nothing super “great” about this cave, but it’s fun to climb the makeshift ladders to the top, and explore the rocky shore at the bottom. From this coastal vantage point, you can see the bluff from the bottom and check out other small caves along the water.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day…even more important if your day involves beaching and drinking. Start your morning with a solid foundation that will fuel you through your sun-soaked afternoon. Many Cayman restaurants offer hearty breakfast menus at reasonable prices. From local diners to seaside hideaways, I’ve got you covered. The Diner…
Those who live in Cayman, or visit frequently, know the island has finite activity options. Everything seems to revolve around the ocean or alcohol. (Or both simultaneously). Which makes sense because I mean, duh, this is is the Caribbean. Cruising around the island in a Moke though, is an adventure that allows you to appreciate…
Planning an express trip to a city as big as New York can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Pick out a couple of must-see neighborhoods and pre-book one “main event” for each day you’re there… (I will help you with that!) Then, let the city guide you with its fast lane charm…
Visitors of Madrid are like kids in candy stores. The city is teeming with terraces and tapas bar, each one offering a unique kind of allure that only the madrileños can pull off. With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. Read on and narrow your search, discovering 5 amazing places to grab a drink in Madrid. Whether you’re after an elegant rooftop terrace or a buzzing local market vibe, this small but mighty list will get you off to a solid start.
The first azotea on our list, Ático 11 is perched atop the sprawling expanse of la Gran Vía, the most emblematic street in Madrid. It belongs to Iberostar Hotel Las Letras. Enter through the hotel lobby and take the elevator to the top floor, free of charge. Emerging onto to the rooftop is like stepping into an urban oasis. Flowers and greenery, sleek wood finishes and striped canopies, all give way to a cool, garden-like feel. Nestle into a cozy, verdant corner, or opt for a table with a view. of la Gran Vía The menu is unsurprisingly more expensive than your run of the mill tapas bar, but that comes with the elevated territory. Rest assured, you can still order a glass of wine for 4 euros, which, considering the stunning surroundings and free entry, is a hell of a deal.
Step out of the hustle and bustle of Gran Vía and into the narrow and winding streets of La Latina, one of Madrid’s most quintessential neighborhoods. There you will find El Viajero, a three-story corner building draped in cascading flora. The third floor hosts a small rooftop garden that will make you feel as though you’re a main character in a Spanish film. Many scenes for shows and movies have been filmed there, including the Netflix series Valeria.
If you’re looking to eat, El Viajero offers a simple, healthy menu with many delicious options. But, given the title of this post, you’re most likely in the market for liquid reinforcements. We settled for a simple tinto de verano, which was served alongside a complimentary side of potato chips for 4 euros each. The Spanish just do it better.
One last posh locale to explore before we head to some more simple, local favorites. Ginkgo Sky Bar is one of the most upscale, elegant terrazas of the city, offering 360 degree views of Plaza España and El Palacio Real. Unlike Ático 11, entry is unfortunately not complimentary. The fee to climb the elevator to the urban peak is 8 euros per person, but the vibe does not disappoint. The floor in the center of the terrace is glass, suspended above the swimming pool with transparent floor.
The menu at Ginkgo is, of course, on the pricey side. Specialty cocktails start at 14 euros a glass. To save a couple bucks and stay on the vino theme, we went for a white wine at 7 euros a glass. So in total, the entire rooftop experience costed us 15 euros a person. If you’re into amazing views and cool vibes, I would say it is worth the extra expense!
All those rooftops have had us in our chairs for too long. It’s time to get up and move with the rhythms of a madrileño market. Mercado San Miguel is a tapas spot, more than anything; however, it’s also a great spot for a glass of sangria or vermut. Plus, ya gotta eat to be able to keep drinking. Located in barrio La Latina, the covered market boasts its original iron framework with glass windows throughout. The stalls are always buzzing, attracting adventurous and hungry travelers from all around the world. Once you have a drink in hand, you can work your way through fresh marisco,jamón ibérico, croquetas, and allllll the queso. ¡Buen provecho!
#5 Calle Cava Baja
To round out the list of where to grab a drink in Madrid, we have another tapas destination that makes for an equally fun drinking route. Calle Cava Baja is one of the most lively streets in Madrid, boasting 50 bars in only 300 meters. That’s less than the length of a track, imagine. Here you can bounce around from bar to bar, enjoying complimentary tapas with your cañas or vino, and rubbing elbows with travelers and locals alike. Many of the bars can get loud and become standing room only, but that’s all part of the experience. I won’t prescribe one single bar in particular. I recommend you flit in and out of various spots, allowing the buzz of voices and smell of patatas bravas to guide you. Y ahora, ¡a gozar!
Here in Cayman, it’s all about balance. That means brunching on Sunday but still hitting the mat on Monday. Whether you’re a dedicated yogi or a downward dog dabbler, yoga is undoubtedly a great way to shake the manic Monday feeling and bring equilibrium into your week. While I myself fall into the latter category…
November 20th represents the light at the end of the tunnel for Cayman residents and visitors alike. A lot has happened during the nearly 2-year border-closure. While we feel for the struggles of existing businesses, we also celebrate the beginnings of some very promising new places. If you’re visiting the island for the first time…
We left our countries, we moved to the Cayman Islands, and now we think we are absolved of all ‘basic betch’ tendencies. Guess again. Mainstream culture will hunt us down and find us even on a tiny rock in the Caribbean Sea. It tempts us with surface level validation and keeps us coming back for…
So you’re really doing it. You’re really moving to Cayman. It may seem insane to you right now, or maybe you’re someone who does stuff like this all the time… Whatever the case, rest assured, many expats have come before you and many will follow in your steps. The question remains: how in God’s name are you going to pack your entire life into a couple of suitcases? Well, as someone who has been in your very shoes, I can deliver a few pointers. But inevitably, you’re going to pack incorrectly anyway. Let that be a relief. It’s just part of the experience.
When I moved to Cayman, I packed one large suitcase, a carry-on bag, and a backpack. I know other people who shipped boxes of stuff before or after moving, but don’t ask me how to do that. Honestly, I think it’s cheating. Moving to an island means adopting a bit of minimalism. Also, as much as people complain about Cayman stores and prices, there are still plenty of places to shop. However, it can take a bit of time to understand the lay of the land — where to buy what. That being said, I’ve crafted a list below of island essentials that will make your first few months more convenient and comfortable.
Swimsuits (more than one) – You will be spending a lot of time in a swimsuit. I would bring at least three different options to start because swimsuits are pretty expensive on island
Flip-flops / Sandals – Leave your heels at home. Okay, bring one pair. Cayman is a gloriously easy-going place where sandals are widely accepted pretty much anywhere you go
Running/walking shoes
Casual clothes in general – before moving, try to get a sense of your employer’s dress code. In my experience, workplace attire is much more lax in Cayman. There are certain occasions in which you could dress up. For example, brunch or work events. But, for the most part, dress is casual island-wide. Plan for comfort because it’s hot and you will sweat. Loose fitting, light clothing is key.
Sundresses for brunch!
T-shirts and tank tops
Lightweight long sleeves – come in handy while out in the sun and on the beach
Shorts and breathable pants – my denim came along for the ride! Because dress is casual, I often wear jeans to work
Light rain jacket – Cayman has unpredictable pockets of downpour and you will get wet!
Workout clothes – at most workout classes, girls are wearing sports bras and yoga pants/and or bike shorts
Underwear and socks
Hats – the wider the brim, the better!
Sunglasses
Spare glasses
Fanny pack 🙂 – arguably not an essential when moving to Cayman, however, it proves incredibly convenient on beach walks!
Favorite sunscreen (Cayman has the basics but not a ton of variety) The dermatologist-grade face sunscreen is available but can be expensive. I use Heliocore – a bottle that costed me $35 in Spain was $75 in Cayman.
Travel-size toiletries – so you won’t be forced to go to the supermarket straight away (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, floss)
Face wash / face creams – one or two of your go-to skincare products
Contacts and contact solution
Nail kit
Lip balm
Makeup – Cayman has some decent makeup options whether it be drugstore essentials at the pharmacy or CEL Beauty or higher end products at MAC and the perfume stores in Georgetown. The prices aren’t too different from what I buy in the US. It is still a good idea though, to stock up on your go-to makeup items before the trip in case you can’t find them right away
Menstrual cup
Electronics
Phone + Charger (if your phone is unlocked, you can get a Cayman SIM card from Digicel or Flow)
Extra charger if you have one! – just in case you — I don’t know — foster a dog and it chews through your charger…
Laptop + Charger
GoPro + Accessories – if you plan to do a lot of snorkeling / diving, you might like to record your adventures!
Headphones / Ear buds
Sport watch
Roku – small and can be plugged into your TV for easy access to streaming apps
Medicines
Once you arrive on island, you can make your rounds to the supermarket and pharmacy, but it’s not a bad idea to have a few essentials on hand for your travels
Prescriptions – at least 4 weeks worth until you can get set up with a doctor on island
Ibuprofen
Dramamine
Probiotics
Magnesium (to help with sleep)
Important Documents
When moving to Cayman, or anywhere abroad, it is important to have on hand the official copies of key documents either to prove your identity or recover lost forms of ID like a driver’s license or passport. Passports and birth certificates are the only true validity of your identity. Keep them safe overseas! Also, if you have already been sent your work permit, you should have it on your mobile device or print it out prior to traveling along with your COVID vaccine card
Birth Certificate
Passport
Work permit
COVID vaccine/booster card (physical copy and QR code if you have it)
Visa information (if applicable)
Doctor certified prescriptions
Marriage certificate
Driver’s license
Money
Once on island, your employer will issue you an employment letter so you can open a personal bank account. In the meantime, ensure you can use your credit and debit cards internationally. Contact your home bank ahead of time and let them know where you will be. US currency is also accepted everywhere if you happen to be bringing US dollars. ATMs are available at most bank branches and some supermarkets.
What NOT to Pack
Overly formal clothes – maybe just one or two outfits in case you attend a work event or gala
Warm clothes – one sweatshirt and one pair of sweatpants for home will be just fine! Only bring warm clothes if you plan to immediately travel to places like New York or Colorado while living in Cayman
Don’t take all of your clothes or shoes! – Key word: minimalism
Don’t pack a year supply of tampons and pads – you can find these at any pharmacy or supermarket, plus menstrual cups really are the way to go
Limit large-size toiletries – stick to travel size except for those items that may be hard to find/expensive like my Heliocare sunscreen, for example
Towels – wherever your employer is lodging you, towels will be available. In between your relocation digs and your permanent residence, you will be able to buy towels at Kirk Home, AL Thompson, or Cost U Less. Also, the expats are rather infamous for stealing the towels from Sunshine Suites so that’s always an option (lol)
Beach bag – this is another item that could take up a lot space…my entire first year on island I used a reusable grocery bag from Kirk as my beach bag and it served me well
Adult toys – I’m serious…The importation, possession and distribution of sex toys are considered offences under Cayman’s penal code. NOT a great way to start your new island life!!
Have more questions about moving to Cayman? Consult Cayman Resident for a detailed guide for living and working in the Cayman Islands. Best of luck on your new adventure!
Let’s call a spade a spade. We Cayman expats are a quirky, pretentious bunch. While most of us are generally kind, well-intentioned people, we are all guilty of falling into some slightly pompous (often predictable) behaviors…myself included. Plop someone in paradise, give them a nice salary, and BOOM, you’ve got a diminished grip on reality…
I remember watching the Suite Life of Zack and Cody on Disney Channel as a kid and dreaming about how cool it would be to live in a hotel… Fast forward 15 years and it appears I am some kind of manifestation guru because I’m literally living that childhood dream. And at a hotel in…
Nothing says welcome back to Cayman like back to back tropical storms! I wasn’t even out of quarantine when Tropical Storm Grace pummeled her way through the island and now, just 9 days later, it’s time for tropical storm Ida. All of this Mother Nature turmoil has me feeling like a seasoned islander, but let’s…
Savannah, Georgia is the ultimate 2-for-1 when it comes to Girls Trip Get-Aways. The city center oozes southern charm with its iconic Spanish moss-adorned oak trees and historic high-stooped homes. But, who cares about that when what we really came for were the City Market bars and open container laws? Just kidding, we came for both.
If these elements aren’t enough to entice you and your gals, Savannah also prides itself on their adorable neighboring beach community just 20 minutes down the road — Tybee Island. Tybee is where we stayed, just steps away from its quintessential wide sandy beach.
Although we weren’t able to check all our items from our Savannah travel list, we did have a pretty unbeatable trip. Read on to plan your Savannah girls trip with festivity and flair.
Where to Stay
As aforementioned, we stayed on Tybee Island, just steps away from the beach. Our island pad for the week was at South Beach Ocean Condos, hosted by Tybee Beach Vacation Rentals. We found this property through Airbnb at roughly $300/night for max 6 guests. (2 bedrooms and a pull out couch). The beach was a literal stone’s throw from our front door and we could see the ocean from our balcony. We were about that life.
What is the Tybee vibe?
Okay, so the Tybee vibe is golf carts, bicycles, flip-flops, beach umbrellas, sand dunes, ice cream shops, dolphins, and gollyyyyy, justa whole-lotta local charm. It’s crawling with families and ocean revelers just out for a low-key good time. This place is the opposite of pretentious and everyone is just doing their own thing which is great.
10/10! We saw many dolphins throughout the hour and a half tour, but if for some reason you don’t see dolphins when you go, the company will rebook you at no cost on another tour. Our group went at sunset which I highly recommend as it provides a gorgeous backdrop for the already stunning dolphins. Being out on the boat offers a unique vantage point of the island that you would miss out on from shore. You will also walk away with some random dolphin facts…you never know when those may come in handy…
**BONUS: While loading onto the boat, we saw a lemon shark up close from the floating dock!
We went to CoCo’s right before our dolphin tour and ordered some drinks to go. They have a rooftop patio which overlooks Lazaretto Creek. It was certainly an ambient and tranquil setting for our dolphin pre-game.
The Beach (obviously)
It goes without saying that the beach is Tybee’s main attraction. The sand is dotted with chairs and umbrellas up and down the shoreline. The water is teeming with ambitious boogie-boarders, happy families, and even the occasional kite-surfer. Overall, the beach is an impeccably wholesome vibe ideal for summer fun.
The Deck was the first place we went to after arriving on Tybee. We ordered a round (or two) of spicy margaritas to kick off our stay and set the tone for our trip. Set back behind the sand dunes, The Deck boasts an oceanview and eternal summer vibes that will certainly get your trip off on the right foot.
A bit random, we were simply walking by this bar en route to the ice cream shoppe when the bouncer stepped outside and informed us they’d have a DJ later that night. DJ Blue Ice. We thought the name was cool so we mentally committed to returning. Low and behold, the DJ lived up to his name and there was something of a joint birthday party being thrown for him and a very nice lady named Lizzy. We were just happy to be along for the ride. All in all, it was a cool little place with nice people and a nice atmosphere.
Even more random, was our discovery of Huc-A-Poos. Actually, Lizzy the birthday girl recommended it. The bouncer ordered us a Breezy Taxi and we cruised a few miles down the road, turned down a dirt road, and found ourselves at Poos, a bar and restaurant specializing in pizza.The bar itself is organized chaos. The walls are adorned with old license plates, dollar bills, bumper stickers, album covers, and everything in between. The bartenders were two sheets to the wind and there was someone who may or may not have worked there walking around with his gut on display. We wandered outside where some locals were playing bags and the night ended with my friend challenging one to a foot race. She fell, but she’s okay. All this to say, if you’re looking for a strange/authentic local experience, go to Huc-A-Poos at midnight on a Monday. Just don’t count on a ride home. (More on that below)
Savannah
Let’s not beat around the Spanish moss, basically all we did in Savannah was drink. But we’re 5 hometown best friends who only get together once a year so we had a lot to celebrate, okay? Check out our three favorite Savannah Bars below.
The Grove is a City Market bar and restaurant with 3 distinct levels. We started our night out in Savannah with drinks and live music on the rooftop terrace. The band was great and we enjoyed our vantage point from the roof which allowed us to scope out our second bar: Treehouse (cool, but not on the list because the promoter basically called us old). We later came back to the Grove to finish out the night on the second floor. Unlike the ground floor, which is bright and airy, the second floor has much more of a club vibe. We could have stayed there until bar-close but our friend basically fell asleep on the dance floor and we had to call it quits.
Another place on our Savannah/Tybee list that we would not have heard of if it weren’t for the locals. The bartender at the Warehouse recommended it to us for their karaoke on the second floor. It was a Monday night so the bar was on the quiet side, but the atmosphere still delivered. Especially noteworthy were the good-spirited bartenders who helped tick off some of our bachelorette scavenger hunt items, even the flaming Statue of Liberty shot. (You didn’t hear it from me).
While at Rogue Water, someone recommended to us ‘Totally Awesome Bar’ which happened to be hosting a Silent Disco that very night. None of us had ever been to a silent disco and we decided it would be essential to our girls’ trip to partake. We made our way downstairs to the underground bar, decked out in an 80s and 90s theme with old school video games and pool tables. We got our headphones, turned the dial up, and started the party. Do I think we would have liked this bar as much had they NOT been hosting a silent disco? Probably not. But we were in the right place at the right time and that’s called alignment!!
What to Pack
Do NOT and I repeat, do NOT wear heels in Savannah. Even if you are Bella Hadid, don’t do it. Because if the cobblestone doesn’t do you in, the vertigo-inducing historic steps will. And you may not live to tell the tale. Pack sneakers and leave anything even slightly destabilizing at home.
Err on the side of casual – Savannah and Tybee are not flashy places. Nobody will be impressed and it’s too hot for that shit anyway. You need a swimsuit, sandals, shorts, t-shirts, shorts, and if you’re feeling really glitzy, a sundress or skirt.
Hat, sunglasses, and a tried and tested sunscreen because she burns…we sported coastal grandmother-esque sun visors for the duration of our trip and our skin does thank us for it
I personally love to sport a bandana headband and I do think it fits the vibe in Savannah but you do you
Things to Keep in Mind:
Again, BEWARE the cobblestones and those damned historic steps
You can Uber/Lyft to and from Tybee but it was definitely easier to get a ride TO Savannah rather than back to Tybee. Drivers become more sparse and more expensive the later it gets (also weeknight drivers are fewer).
The Breezy Taxi works for getting around Tybee but is not the most reliable. The guy who dropped us off at Huc-A-Poos told us he’d be back to get us later but we called infinite times and nobody picked up.
Lines – Savannah nightlife is its strongest Fridays and Saturdays which means there can be a wait to get into some of the bigger bars. We really wanted to go to Saddlebags, but the line seemed endless and we got impatient. We later regretted this but at the time we just couldn’t be bothered.
There you have it! Enjoy all that Savannah has to offer! Listen to the locals — they are kind and know their city best!
This summer was my first time ever visiting Los Angeles. I went with my three best girlfriends from high school. We hadn’t seen each other in over a year and we were ready to paint the town red. We wanted to leave it all on the dance floor. (But not all of our money). A…
Welcome to a very special edition of Island Diaries by Kate! While most of my writing thus far has revolved around island living, I am in fact, a lake girl at heart. Growing up I spent my summers in “Up North” Wisconsin at a cabin on the lake with my family. A few years ago…
If you’re an expat or visitor to Grand Cayman, it’s possible you have only seen the island through Seven-Mile-tinted glasses. This means living out 90% of your Cayman experience inside a 5 to 10 mile radius. What if I told you there was so much more to this island than its small parcel of Caribbean…
MEET KATE
Hi, I’m Kate! I’m a Wisconsin native who traded her snow boots for flip-flops in May of 2020 when I packed my whole life into two suitcases and moved to the Cayman Islands with my partner, Bryan. I created Island Diaries as a way to document my island adventures and share about the Cayman lifestyle. A Midwest girl at heart, I bring a fresh perspective to Caribbean life, serving as a guide for locals and tourists alike on all things Cayman Islands. Whether you are local to Cayman, planning to visit, or just curious about island life, I invite you to explore Island Diaries and let this site guide you on your next island adventure!
The land of eternal celebration, Grand Cayman has no shortage of drinking holes. The question remains, which of these are worth patronizing? It depends. Do you want to sip Negronis alongside artsy blue checks? *Attempt* to whine on a locally dominated dance floor? Or do you want to be shoulder to shoulder with a sea of expats belting out ‘Sweet Caroline’ into the wee hours of the morning?
You can have all of that, and more. All in the span of a few hours, really. For the most part, the nights to go out in Cayman are Friday and Saturday, with the exception of the Wharf on Tuesday nights. Keep reading to find out where to go out in Cayman!
***This is a working list that will be updated in accordance with my own experience.I will continue drinking and dancing my way through Cayman…purely for research purposes. Obviously. 😉 Have any recommendations? Send them my way!
Located in Georgetown, not far from the waterfront, Carib Café is a conundrum of a place. The music is deafening and prime for dancing; however, very few are actually dancing. We’ve never let that minor detail deter us, and you shouldn’t either. The bar is inside but the real vibe is on the outdoor patio, decorated with bright, painted murals and hanging shade sails. The best nights to go are Thursday for Latin music or Friday for their regular DJ who plays a rather sporadic mix of soca, reggae, Afro beats, and when we’re really lucky, reggaeton. Definitely one to work up to if you like to go out in Cayman.
Mango Tree is a bar and restaurant during the day, but on Fridays it transforms into a night life venue for locals and unhinged expats alike. Its location is somewhat unexpected — right next to the airport, but the atmosphere is great. Huge bar, many tables and TVs, and even a dancer’s pole. While you still will not find a sea of party-goers taking to the dance floor, there is at least more participation than in Carib Café. The times I have been the music has always been very danceable and the service super quick!
Located on the corner of North Sound and Shedden Road, Cotton Club is like the local version of the Bird in terms of Friday night congestion. But that’s about the only similarity it bears. Arriving around midnight, the parking lot was a madhouse and the crowd from inside spilled out onto the patio and sidewalk. We shouldered our way up to the bar where we were promptly served our gin and tonics along with the interim entertainment of Jamaican music videos on the surrounding TVs. The atmosphere at Cotton Club is one of bright neon lights, random billowy curtains, and loud hip-hop reggae. Should you find yourself needing a moment of respite, the patio is a “calm” place to take a breath and regroup.
We stumbled upon this second-floor nightspot by accident en route to Carib Café. Located on Shedden Road less than a mile from Cotton Club, Sol y Luna is a bar and restaurant whose nightlife vibe emulates a sky parlor club. Upon ascending the outdoor stairs, we were greeted by blasts of reggaeton, winding bodies, and Dominican flags. I recommend Sol y Luna as an end-of-night destination for those who like their music and dancing with a bit of flavor.
The vibe at Sand Bar is very event-driven. They are known to have DJs on Friday nights, though the music is overwhelmingly house and electronic. Even I (who would rather bang my head to total silence than listen to EDM) have had a great time at Sand Bar on Friday nights. The prime oceanfront location and young, chill atmosphere are its saving grace. The DJ and dance floor are set up on the lower level, directly on the water. Follow them on Instagram or Facebook to hear about their upcoming events.
On Saturday nights, Cuba Libre hosts a salsa party with free entry from 9-12 pm. Fuego Latino hosts the event and provides a short lesson at the beginning for anyone interested in learning the steps and even a few turns. Then, DJ Fuego begins and plays a wide variety of salsa, bachata, merengue, and, if we’re lucky, reguetón. The vibe on Saturdays is consistently good and is best enjoyed with a mojito in hand. Obviously. The dance floor showcases all levels of salseros, from beginners to advanced, to those who can only dance with alcohol in their systems. Then, of course, there are those lurking in the wings who don’t dance at all. Don’t be one of them.
We don’t have to wait for the weekend to go out in Cayman. Tuesday nights are where it’s at at the Wharf, an oceanside bar and restaurant where you can dance beneath the stars. Every Tuesday they host ‘Salsa at the Wharf,’ from 9:30 pm to 12:30 am. Similar to Cuba Libre, there is short lesson at the beginning where you can learn some basic steps and turns, then the dance floor starts to fill up as the night goes on. Additionally, on the last Friday of every month, The Wharf hosts ‘Boogie Nights,’ a disco-themed dance party from 9 pm to 1:30 am.
Saturday night’s only, Paradise Pizza hosts a very niche event that has garnered a great deal of attention from locals and visitors alike. Rub elbows with the high falutin Palm Heights crowd and prepare for a possible celeb sighting. Dinner service starts at 7:00 pm and features a 4-course meal for 29 CI. Sounds like a great deal until you order a few Negronis and a round of shots and BOOM, $100 gone. But it IS outrageously fun. After most the food has been served they start karaoke which always kicks off with a Frank Sinatra solo by the larger-than-life head chef, Jake. The party goes until about 11 pm or until yours ears start to bleed.
**Definitely need to make a reservation — at least a week in advance
Dark and intimate, this cigar bar will leave you reeking of ash tray. But we wouldn’t have it any other way. If there’s no space at the bar, you can drift toward the namesake ‘Back Room,’ lined with plush couches ideal for chilling with a group of friends. It can draw a good crowd on Fridays and Saturdays. And although it’s typically a low key vibe, I seem to recall dancing there on one particularly wild night. Aside from the cigars, they are also known for making a mean espresso martini that will keep you going late, or at least late for Cayman standards.
This is where you will inevitably end your night, reluctantly singing along to some stupid party anthem while being steam-rolled by a sea of drunk bodies. The Bird is essentially for those not ready to go home yet, desperately clinging to the last hour before bar-close. If you go around 1 am, you will invariably find all the expat rugby and Gaelic players in wavering stages of inebriation, but what you won’t find is someone to take your drink order. The party overflows onto the sidewalk and parking lot, where you can enjoy a chorus of revving Honda Accord engines and other late night debauchery.
If you had told me a couple years ago I would be writing a blog post about expat island life, I’d think you were crazy. That maybe you’d been hit on the head with a coconut. “Me? Living in the Caribbean? Get out of here!” But then again…I do love the beach…. And year-round summer…
Nestled away in a peaceful and verdant corner of Georgetown is the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands. This inclusive gathering space is most commonly known for its Cayman-based art exhibitions, but their offerings do not stop there! I first visited NGCI for a free yoga class led by Janine Martins and was amazed to…
In preparation for moving to Grand Cayman, I gave much more thought to the Caribbean lifestyle than I did the island’s British influence. Of course, I fully anticipated the change to driving on the left side of the road. I even pondered for a moment if I would become an advocate for tea rather than…
Hi, I’m Kate! I’m a Wisconsin native who traded her snow boots for flip-flops in May of 2020 when I packed my whole life into two suitcases and moved to the Cayman Islands with my partner, Bryan. I created Island Diaries as a way to document my island adventures and share about the Cayman lifestyle. A Midwest girl at heart, I bring a fresh perspective to Caribbean life, serving as a guide for locals and tourists alike on all things Cayman Islands. Whether you are local to Cayman, planning to visit, or just curious about island life, I invite you to explore Island Diaries and let this site guide you on your next island adventure!
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day…even more important if your day involves beaching and drinking. Start your morning with a solid foundation that will fuel you through your sun-soaked afternoon. Many Cayman restaurants offer hearty breakfast menus at reasonable prices. From local diners to seaside hideaways, I’ve got you covered.
The Diner is a hidden gem tucked away in West Bay. (Between Heritage Kitchen and Alfresco). This cozy family restaurant showcases local ingredients with hearty comfort food plates; good for the soul and easy on the wallet. You’ll come for the menu options but stay for the warm hospitality and welcoming environment. I recommend: The omelette (personalized toppings…try it with local callaloo!)
Located on West Bay Road, opposite the Hampton Inn, Coconut’s Joe’s is known for their affordable, All-American breakfast. (Also their coconuts)! Though directly off the busy road, the restaurant feels tucked away, shaded by palm trees and umbrellas. It’s a rustic meets tropical breakfast oasis. One that is sure to satisfy your morning cravings. I recommend: Coconut French toast and coconut water (served out of the coconut) …what can I say, I like coconut!
The most scenic breakfast spot on island, Cayman Cabana offers authentic Caribbean dishes right on Georgetown’s waterfront. The restaurant proudly supports Cayman’s local farmers and fisherman and their menu reflects that collaboration. I recommend the saltfish & ackee for a true island breakfast!
Bluestone Lane boasts a beautifully designed café space a block away from Georgetown waterfront. Their Australian-inspired menu features healthy favorites such as a the Avocado Smash, Good Grains Granola, and Buddha Bowl. It has an attractive city vibe and arguably, some of the most expertly crafted coffee drinks on island. I recommend: Breakfast Bowl – Tossed baby kale, heirloom tomatoes, feta, avocado, farro & a poached egg paired with a Flat White Coffee
So you want to eat breakfast from the comfort of AC, but also enjoy an ocean view? Say no more. Located on the second floor of Harbour Place in GT waterfront, Southwest Collective overlooks the port, offering expansive views of the Caribbean Sea. Not only is the atmosphere great, but the matcha smoothies are even better.
Located in Georgetown center, Bread & Chocolate is a quirky little hole-in-the-wall bistro serving all day vegan breakfast as well as soups, salads, and sandwiches. Nestle into a cozy table or at the bistro bar and dig into a their namesake French toast stuffed with hazelnut butter and bananas. Portions are generous and the food is delicious! I recommend: Breakfast Plate – tofu scramble, hickory smoked tempeh, tomato, and house-made garlic aioli on a fresh baked sesame seed bun. Served with home fries and fresh fruit
Island Naturals makes a mean vegan chorizo. I would eat it every meal for the rest of my life. That being said, I highly recommend ordering the hearty breakfast wrap. It’s loaded with chorizo, potato, onion, tomato, jalapeño, spinach, and cashew cheese. Prepare for your mind to be blown. Additionally, they have great smoothies and açaí bowls, making them a well-rounded spot for a healthy morning meal.
