This week’s Wanderlust Wednesday feature is by Tiffany from My Happy Coincidence.  Tiffany is a Toronto based blogger, photographer, and writer who loves exploring new places both within her city and the across the globe. You can explore Tiffany’s work on her blog (My Happy Coincidence) and see her photos on Instagram.

_____________________

While the wintery winds were still blowing at home in Toronto, I escaped to Grand Cayman’s perfect paradise. A sense of joy bubbled up inside me as I dismounted my Air Canada flight, greeted by a warm April breeze; the day before I had slogged through three inches of fresh snow in Toronto.

Needless to say, I was ready for some fun in the sun and Cayman did not disappoint. In addition to Laura and her sister being fantastic hostesses (of course) everyone on the island was incredibly friendly! Whether I was enjoying fantastic food, shopping in George Town, or visiting an attraction, I felt welcomed by the local people’s genuine care for my wellbeing and experience as a guest. On the few occasions when I explored the island and enjoyed the beach on my own, I never once felt lonely. Caymanians are as warm and welcoming as their island’s tropical breeze.

I still find myself smiling whenever I look at pictures or remember by time in Grand Cayman. My seven-day stay flew by and I hope it is followed-up by a return in the very near future.

While it’s hard to narrow-down my favorite parts of the trip, here are a few experiences I would recommend for anyone who plans to visit Grand Cayman…

1. Snorkel! There are so many amazing things beneath the surface and while Cayman is often promoted as a fantastic scuba site, there is plenty for those of us who prefer to stay closer to the surface. Don’t forget the sunblock though; your back will thank you! 
   The Wreck of the Cali is fairly close to the surface and Eden Rock also lets you get close and personal with the fish. If you’d like to get out further, I highly recommend joining one of Grand Cayman Eco Divers’ outings; Brittany and Aaron were super fun and friendly.
2. Meet the Plants and Wildlife. The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is an amazing taste of Grand Cayman’s lush plantlife. If you are lucky you may also see one of Cayman’s native Blue Iguanas running around (like I did!).
   
   Stingray City is an experience you won’t forget and the Cayman Turtle Farm lets you hold the cutest sea creatures alive.
   
   Remember to be gentle and respectful when you interact with Cayman’s nature. I felt a bit bad for my little turtle friend (who didn’t look very happy with me) along with the other turtles in the petting-tank who were constantly grabbed and chased! Being careful and listening to staff about how best to handle animals (should you choose to) is always the best way forward!
3. Try some local food. I ate so many yummy things during my stay and I feel like I barely scratched the surface of the island’s culinary experiences. The Mahi-mahi at Seaharvest was fresh and light—a perfect lunch for the hot climate; the Coconut Shrimp at Rackam’s is a perfect post-swimming snack; Guy Harvey’s Blackened Snapper is super scrumptious; and while it may be a bit of a drive, The Lighthouse Restaurant’s over-ocean patio is refreshing and their pizza was super fresh tasting. Of course, you can’t forget to try Tortuga Rum Cake and probably grab a few to sneak into your suitcase as well!
4. 
   Relax in the Shade at Camana Bay. Sunburnt souls will find shade and a cool breeze at Camana Bay. Sit by The Crescent with an icy treat from Gelato & Co or, if you are feeling peckish, stop for a bite at LOLA. On Wednesdays, you will find a vibrant Farmer’s Market on The Paseo filled with local artist and food.

Remember save time to enjoy the perfection of Seven Mile Beach and sit under a palm tree also! I hope you enjoy your stay as much as I did!

More about Tiffany

Tiffany is a recent graduate from York University’s English M.A. program and also holds a B.A. in English from York. She is editor-in-chief of My Happy Coincidence: A Bog for Art, Literature, & Life where she also writes book and theatre reviews along with life and career advice articles. She loves photography and is rarely found without a camera in her hand.