This summer, as a Harvard student hailing from New York, I embarked on an extraordinary adventure as an intern at The Ritz-Carlton. Over four immersive weeks, I experienced the inner workings of this world-class resort, from finance, marketing and sales to food, housekeeping and recreation.
I wanted to gain a comprehensive understanding of how to operate a hotel and interact directly with the business as an employee. Additionally, I hoped to learn more about the Cayman Islands as a financial centre and a British overseas territory.
I figured the island was bound to have plenty of interesting and accomplished people around, and I could learn simply by being in their presence. After spending four weeks in Cayman, I am more optimistic than ever about the Islands’ future as a destination for business and leisure.
The Cayman Islands are undeniably experiencing a significant real estate boom. In addition to exciting residential developments on Seven Mile Beach, offerings from Hyatt and Mandarin Oriental will elevate the island’s offerings even further. It is a promising sign that globally renowned hospitality brands have chosen to invest in the Cayman Islands and are participating in its growth. These brands will continue to attract high-net-worth individuals and investors to Cayman.
In my spare time, I met with lawyers, bankers, hedge fund managers, and business owners. I was deeply impressed by the robust financial and professional services industry that has developed in Cayman. Firms like Walkers and Maples draw in top professionals and clients from around the world, and they are building an ecosystem for international businesses to expand their operations on island.
The friendly and hospitable nature of the Caymanians marked my experience in Cayman. Although the island is home to over 100 nationalities, everyone I met seemed genuinely interested in getting to know me and sharing their stories.
I have been privileged to witness the boundless potential of the Cayman Islands, where a booming real estate market, thriving financial services sector, and welcoming community converge to create a destination that is poised to become a global hotspot for business and leisure.
Isaac Ohrenstein
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