Named a top retirement destination and having one of the world’s smallest airports, among other distinctions, Cayman has again ranked high in numerous publications’ end-of-year lists.
As well as the usual accolades, the territory was also recognised for having one of the best celebrity-arrest stories of 2023 and for featuring in the upcoming Golden Globes winners’ gift pack.
USA Today said Grand Cayman is one of its favourite warm-weather destinations of 2023.
“With a perfect tropical climate and laid-back vibe, the Cayman Islands have long been a popular vacation spot,” the US newspaper said on its website.
“The fact that it’s so easy to get there is part of the draw.
“But the sandy beaches, fantastic resorts, and places like Grand Cayman’s Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, home to the Blue Iguana Conservation Programme, are truly fantastic.”
The A-Z Animals website included Charles Kirkconnell International Airport in Cayman Brac in its list of ‘The 10 smallest airports in the world, ranked‘.
It came in at number two, just behind Juancho e Yrausquin Airport on Saba Island, a special municipality of the Netherlands, also in the Caribbean.
“Charles Kirkconnell International Airport in the Cayman Islands offers an incredible view and a quaint interior,” it read.
“Don’t worry about arriving two hours before your flight; there are only four flights per day on average, so there’s never a crowd.
“If you do arrive early, there’s WIFI and a restaurant to keep you entertained. CYB’s single runway is a little over 6,000 feet long.”
The Travel website included the Cayman Islands in its list of ‘10 beautiful Caribbean islands for retirement‘.
“The Cayman Islands… offers everything retirees would need to enjoy a perfect life, including a favourable financial environment, a robust healthcare system, and a booming economy.
“Retiring in the Cayman Islands will give seniors incredible social opportunities, including multiple clubs and organisations.
“Seniors aged 65+ form only 7.9% of the population, and the cost of living is $3,208 for one person, making it one of the most expensive countries in the world,” The Travel said.
The publication also mentioned Cayman in its ‘10 top countries for digital nomads as of 2023, based on their digital nomad visas‘.
It came in at number eight, due to its two-year visa with requirements of a $100,000 minimum salary, health insurance, proof of employment and a notarised bank letter.
“Known for its financial hub and picturesque scenery, the Cayman Islands appeal to nomads seeking a luxurious and tranquil setting,” the article read.
Influencer arrested
Gigi Hadid’s July visit to the Cayman Islands made Yahoo’s top five list of Hollywood arrests for 2023.
Customs and Border Control officers found 25.39 grams of marijuana when inspecting her and her friend’s luggage at Owen Roberts International Airport.
At the time, CBC said the women arrived on a private aircraft to the Cayman Islands from the United States.
Hadid pleaded guilty to the importation of a controlled drug and of a drug utensil and was ordered to pay more than $2,000 in fines and legal costs.
The social media celebrity and model received a ‘special result’ – no conviction recorded – for her guilty pleas.
Yahoo also mentioned Cayman in its ‘Most expensive gifts in the 2024 Golden Globes swag bag‘.
On 7 Jan. 2024, winners of a Golden Globe Award will go home with a goodie bag filled with hundreds of thousands of US dollars worth of gifts, Yahoo said.
The news website said that among the gifts is a five-day all-inclusive luxury experience at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman with a ‘yacht experience’, worth $20,000.
Travel and Leisure magazine was also among the publications to feature the Cayman Islands – but this time bringing attention to its high cost for holidaymakers.
It included the islands in its list of the most expensive holiday destinations in the world.
Author Priyaja Bakshi wrote: “The largest of the Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman, is a British overseas territory in the Caribbean.
“A cherished vacation spot for Hollywood stars, the island has some of the most luxurious resorts designed to provide the perfect escape for A-listers.”
She listed the average cost of a five-day trip as US$1,637 per person.
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