Is the world's 3rd most expensive place worth seeing?

 

Grand Cayman: Where Sustainable and Eco-Tourism meet

Before the 18th century, the Cayman Islands, with no source of fresh ground water, were little more than a sandbar and home to where sea turtles and various birds would nest.  Pirates would use these islands as place to rest, and sometimes exchange their loot.  With no natural resources on these islands there was little reason to stay.  In fact the first known permanent inhabitant of Grand Cayman was not recorded until the early 1700's and was a gentleman by the name of Isaac Bodden who was born around 1700.  

What should you know about Grand Cayman?

Today, the Cayman Islands are the 3rd most expensive place to live in the world.  The Caymans have been 'terraformed' from the simple nesting sandbars of turtles into  'Glampgrounds' of the ultra rich and super famous.  From these Islands, you can snorkel among environmentally sensitive coral reefs, swim with Sea Turtles and visit an incredibly unique geological formation in the town of Hell !

• Caymans consist of; Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman.  Most people will visit Grand Cayman, as the other two islands are sparsely populated and less for visitors to do

• The islands obtain 100% of all potable drinking water from simple rain catches and the desalination of water from the sea

• Grand Cayman is less than a 2hr direct flight from Orlando or about 630miles/ 1000 Km and U.S.  Citizens will require a valid Passport to enter this British Overseas Territory

• Cayman Islands are very expensive, at least 2-3 times more than the U.S.
• Petro/Gas - is sold by the liter.  A liter is 1/4 of a gallon, and will cost approximately $1.5 per liter or $6.00 per gallon !
• Grand Cayman is very flat- in fact one of the tallest mound formations that can be seen from several miles away was created from a landfill and is approximately 20 meters tall or around 60 feet
• Grand Cayman is too large to be walkable, but too small for the vehicles that do exist here.  While most road ways of the caymans are of the smaller European scale, there are large U.S. style vehicles crowding the streets and parking lots everywhere

• Chickens have a bounty on their heads in the Caymans-  This is not a joke.  Because chickens were left uncaged for many years on the islands, chickens have become pests and roam the streets everywhere.  Authorized persons are paid a bounty for each chicken they catch and take to the island animal control.  Because these wild chickens are often diseased, they cannot be eaten!   

What are the best things to do in Grand Cayman?

The Cayman Islands offer a little bit of something to everyone, but primarily these islands are about relaxing on the beach, strolling the streets of George Town and taking in a nice lunch and dinner on the  town.

• Cayman Turtle Center- for the eco-tourist, or children or adult kid at heart, the Cayman Turtle center is a must see and everyone can opt to swim or snorkel with the turtles.  This is an educational worthy excursion for your money

• Barrier Reef Snorkeling- Just off the famous Seven Mile Beach there is one of the largest barrier coral reefs of the Caribbean and with the ultra clear waters in this location it is also one of the very best places to view tropical sea life

• The town of Hell !   this one of a kind place was given it's name from a British ambassador visiting the island during the 19th century after seeing the unique geological formation was quoted to have said 'This looks just like Hell.'  and the name stuck!  You can send yourself a post card from the tiny Post Office and show your friends and family you've been to hell and back

                           

(above left: Welcome sign to Hell, Grand Cayman, Right: Rock Formations, Bottom: Post Office of Hell, Grand Cayman)

• Tortuga Rum Cake Factory- (Tortuga means 'Turtle') the most incredibly delicious and moist cake in the world is baked and shipped from here to all over the world.  This is an absolute must visit for the entire family

  

(above left: Outside the Tortuga Rum Cake Factory, Right and Bottom: inside the Rum Cake Factory)

• Seven Fathoms Rum Distillery- For those who do drink alcoholic beverages and like Rum, this is the very best rum I have ever tasted.  Free samples are offered every day of every kind.  Tours of this tiny distillery and how the rum is made are also offered.  My favorite was the Dark rum, it was incredibly sweet, but they also make Chocolate and many other flavors including cordials intended for pouring with ice cream!

  

(above left: Outside the Seven Fathoms Rum Distillery, Right: inside tour, Bottom: Rum Tasting !!)

• Conch Shell House-  see a small home resourcefully constructed in the early days of Grand Cayman from nothing more than Conch Shells !

(Home made entirely from Conch Shells during the early period of Grand Cayman)

What are the best beaches in Grand Cayman?

Because the Cayman beaches are a mixture of soft white sand and sharp rocks and coral it is smart to bring a pair of water shoes anywhere you will swim.

• Most Family Friendly: Seven Mile Beach- without any doubt, this is the biggest, the softest, the calmest, the most popular and most accessible beach on the island.  It's name comes from the beach being seven miles long, and you will find that resorts, hotels and private property owners will occupy most of the access to this popular beach, in some cases you may have to pay by the hour to access, however it is worth the visit and the entire family will be in bliss in it's crystal clear warm waters

  

(above left: north Seven Mile Beach, Right: Seven Mile Beach at the Cemetery, Bottom: Rocky Beaches near Georgetown)

• Best Snorkeling: Cemetery Beach- This beach is really just a part of Seven Mile beach, but because it happens to sit immediately in front of the Cemetery it has been dubbed the 'Cemetery Beach.'  If you do not have any personal issues with the proximity of the beach to a cemetery then this beach actually offers good snorkeling

• Nature Lovers: Star Fish Point-  This is another Eco-tourist favorite.  As the name implies, you will often find bounties of Star Fish along this beach, however Star Fish are protected, and it is against the law to pick up or touch living Star Fish

• Nature Lovers: Spotts Beach- further away from Seven Mile and the tourists area, this beach is yet another eco-tourists favorite because of it's vantage point to see and possibly snorkel with the sea turtles, but like many of the beaches along the Caymans, water shoes would be recommended to enjoy these waters

• Most Unique/Romantic: Smith Cove- This is a small rocky cove, but offers a very interesting experience for more romantic sunset pictures, however water shoes would be recommended to best enjoy this beach

Currency and Payment accepted in the Cayman Islands:

The Cayman Island dollar is the official currency of the British Cayman Island Territory.  As of this writing the 'CI' is about 21% stronger than the U.S. Dollar.  That means that U.S. citizens can expect their dollar to buy about 21% less than in the U.S.  The U.S. dollar and major credit cards are accepted everywhere, and ATM machines can be found everywhere, currency exchange is not necessary.

Should I rent a car in Grand Cayman?

No, Taxi, bus, shuttles and walking within downtown Georgetown and other tourist areas of the Island are very convenient.  

Language:

While the official language of the Cayman Islands is English, you may hear some accent from islanders connecting their heritage back to the early settlers of the Welsh, Scottish and Cayman Creole.

Final Thoughts:

Today the Cayman Islands are a popular destination of the super wealthy and distinguished political figures to take rest from the prying eyes of the public, and to preserve some of their wealth by making investments of vacation homes and the tax haven accounts of the Cayman Banking system.  

Without the environmental engineering on these islands, the Caymans would still be desolate sandbars.  This leaves the important question as to whether or not the Cayman Islands give hope as incredible examples of Sustainable and Eco-tourism or a window into how expensive our future could be if artificial life support techniques like used on Grand Cayman become the norm everywhere?  

What do you think?  I'd love to hear your opinion.  Please comment below!

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 'Sustainable Tourism is Everyone's Responsibility '

Pura Vida: Where to visit your first time in Costa Rica

 

Why See Manuel Antonio Costa Rica?

Because Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, nature lovers will have difficulty choosing what to see and where to stay first.  While Costa Rica has the incredible Arenal volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall, other destinations have formations like these too.  If it is your first visit to Costa Rica or your tropical vacation there will be limited in time, I strongly advise creating lifelong memories with an immersive eco-experience of Manuel Antonio.  

What should you know about Costa Rica?

Manuel Antonio is in the south west portion of Costa Rica where Howler and Spider Monkeys, Three Toed Sloths and Parrots are commonly seen from the many boutique hotel properties of this ocean front region.

• Costa Rica is a little less than 1,300 miles/2,100 km or 3.5hr direct flight from Orlando to the centrally located San Jose International Airport
• U.S. Citizens are required to present a valid passport for entry into Costa Rica
• Costa Rica is safe, and the U.S. has very strong relations, however like any vacation, you should always be mindful of your surroundings, personal belongings and respectful of the host country
• Because Costa Rica is close to the equator many people may incorrectly think it must be HOT!  Actually, it is warm, but the equator makes the weather more consistent year round with temperatures ranging between 75-85F or 24-29C degrees, and the dry season is between December-April, making these months the very best time to visit Costa Rica

Note:  Manuel Antonio is located on the Pacific Coast side of Costa Rica and is slightly warmer and drier with average annual temperates ranging between 70-95F or 21-35C degrees annually and the dry season lasting longer between November - March (best time to visit).

What are the best things to do in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica?

• Manuel Antonio National Park- take a safe guided tour thru one of the richest biodiverse rain forests in the world, see; Sloths, Monkeys, armies of Cutter Ants and much more while a tour guide educates you about the incredibly sensitive ecosystem 

(Above Right: Praying Mantis, picture taken from Manuel Antonio National Park)

• Rain Maker Conservation Park- take a small group or privately guided tour through one of the more secluded jungles of the region, walk thru the top of jungle canopy using rope suspension bridges and feel the temperature drop as you move deeper into the jungle, see waterfalls, streams, and take a swim in refreshing pools fed by some of freshest rain water in the world                          

 

(Rainmaker Conservation Park; Waterfalls, Hiking Trails and Jungle Suspension Bridge)

• Jaco- take a half day out of your eco-experience to shop and stroll the sidewalks of this small beach town.  Before you leave be sure to have lunch and try tasting Costa Rican coffee, known for it's delicious sweetness 

(Adriana Da Silva in Jaco, Costa Rica)

• Quepos- stroll thru the souvenir shops, smell the rich blend of foods being cooked from the many open air cafe and restaurants, have lunch or dinner, overlooking the jungle in this modest little town of boutique resorts located just north of the national park of Manuel Antonio

(Dinner in Quepos, Costa Rica overlooking the Jungle)

• Boutique Resorts- you cannot visit Costa Rica without immersing yourself within the heart and soul of this country's jungles.  For a truly unforgettable eco-tourism experience, stay at one of the boutique resorts that will provide you with ocean & jungle views, and safe onsite jungle walking

 

(Above left: Three Toed Sloth, picture taken on the property of a Boutique Hotel in Quepos Costa Rica)

What are the best beaches in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica?

Manuel Antoni is located in the Puntarenas Province along the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, and you simply cannot go wrong choosing a beach, however because of the sometimes rocky shorelines the Pacific Coast is known for, some beaches may be more 'picturesque' than 'swimmer friendly.'  

• Most Family Friendly Beach- Manuel Antonio Beach, located at the National Park of Manuel Antonio.  You can take a bus for the day, or just take along your swimming gear and enjoy the beach after visiting the park.  The shore is soft, and you wont need water shoes

(Above: Beach at Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica)

• Most Unique Beach- Biesanz Beach, (this happens to be my favorite) located in the small town of Quepos, this beach is secluded at the bottom of a steep but walkable hill, and then an additional 5min walk thru jungle where you most certainly will hear the sounds of small howler monkey's making their presence known with their big distinctive voices.  This beach is in a small cove, with lots of protective shade from the sun.  You'll find local vendors selling food and beverages including fresh ice cold coconut water straight from the coconuts.  So, while restaurants are nearby, it will not be necessary to leave this beach if you are hungry or forgot to bring some beverages to quench your thirst

(Above: Biensanz Beach, Quepos Costa Rica)

• Most Intimate/Romantic Beach-  As a romantic getaway for couples these are plentiful, but located on the private properties of the boutique jungle hotels throughout the charming town of Quepos.  Most of these will require a 10min walk through jungle and sometimes steep or rocky hills to access, and may not be appropriate for persons with disabilities.  Beachgoers exploring these private oasis should also be mindful of tidal changes.  While these private beaches can be incredibly romantic, you want to avoid becoming trapped

 

(Private Beach at Boutique Resort in Quepos Costa Rica)

Currency and payment accepted in Costa Rica:

The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rica Colo'n, named after Christopher Columbus.  The U.S. Dollar is widely accepted and currently is much stronger than the Colo'n, so visitors may find the price of many things in Costa Rica to be affordable, but the exchange rate difficult to follow.  While most major credit cards are accepted with major merchants in Costa Rica, you will commonly find the smaller merchants prefer cash, and sometimes only the Colo'n.  In addition, ATM machines are not widely found throughout Quepos and Manuel Antonio, so plan to exchange and carry a reasonable amount of  'Colo'n while visiting this smaller region of Costa Rica.

Should I rent a car in Costa Rica?

This is personal preference, depending upon your desire to explore independently and whether or not you are staying with one of the boutique hotels which offer airport transfer.  If you use Airport Transfer from a boutique hotel, do not worry about transportation throughout the area, as public transportation, tour buses, and taxis are plentiful, safe and easy.  In addition, most things to enjoy within each small town are very walkable.

Language:

Spanish is the primary spoken language of Costa Ricans, however, many people in the tourism industry do speak English, and most signage is in both English and Spanish.  Because English is not quite as common in Costa Rica as it is in Mexico and other common tourist destinations, unless you have someone in your travel party who speaks Spanish. you should anticipate running into at least a few language barriers.

Final Thoughts:

There are endless choices for romantic getaways for couples and eco-tourists to create lifelong memories in Costa Rica.  If you will have limited time or visit Costa Rica only once, then I strongly advise an immersive eco-holiday in 'Manuel Antonio.'  With three toed sloths, and monkeys being commonly seen on the boutique hotel properties, and Parrots flying by, almost on cue, during one of the breath taking sunsets as you take in dinner, you will have no choice but to  'get there fast and take it slow.'   

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St. Lucia is one of Oprah's Top Destinations!

 

St. Lucia Pitons

St. Lucia is on Oprah's Bucket List

If you need a wellness retreat to melt away stress or a romantic getaway for couples then St. Lucia is for you.  With endless beaches, sweet Mango and Spiced filled air, pristine rainforests, and relaxing mineral enriched mud baths, St. Lucia is where stress goes to die. Oprah Winfrey and other celebrities call St. Lucia their home away from home.  Oprah places St. Lucia in her top 5 bucket list destinations!

What should you know about St. Lucia?

• From Orlando and connecting in Miami, St. Lucia is between 4-5 hour flight and 1650 miles/2660 kilometers.  Most flights will depart very early in the morning and arrive in St. Lucia at approximately 2pm and leave from St. Lucia at approximately 3pm

• American Citizens are required to present passports to visit St. Lucia, and St. Lucia requires visitors to complete an Immigration Declaration upon arrival, however an online application is available ( see prior article and St. Lucia portal)

• St. Lucia is small, (only 160,000 residents, and 225 square miles), has only 1 international Airport (Hewanorra International) located in the town of Vieux Fort.  Hewanorra is very small but charming (the Aircraft are larger than the buildings), visitors may feel they have arrived on 'Fantasy Island.'

• Tip: If you plan to visit the iconic Pitons of St. Lucia (featured in photo above), then plan your stay near the town of Soufriere where your commute from Hewanorra will be approximately 45mins - 1hr.  Expect the mountainous roads of St. Lucia to extend driving time as much as 4x !

• Castries is the capital of St. Lucia and with 20,000 residents, it is also the most densely populated town of St. Lucia.  Most St. Lucians live in small fishing villages with no more than 6,000 residents

• St. Lucia is home to over 195 species of birds including Parrots and Flamingos.  120 of the world's rarest species of birds can be found on St. Lucia, making this eco-tourism paradise one of the best bird watching places in the world (see Avibase and Birdlife International).

What are the best beaches on St. Lucia?

St. Lucia Beaches are endless, but two very different experiences.  The Atlantic Ocean is on the East side of the island with larger waves for body surfing and boogie boarding while the calm relaxing Caribbean Sea is on the West.

• Best Romantic/Couples: Sugar Beach, with it's full view of the Pitons, is on the South end of the island and is one of the most idyllic beaches of St. Lucia.  Dinner boat tours frequent this location for picture perfect sunset views of the iconic Pitons.  As the name implies the beach sand is sugar soft to the feet.  Snorkeling is also very good here, and you are very likely to see a few anchored yachts

• Best for Snorkeling: Also located near the Pitons on the south side of the Island, Anse Chastanet Beach has very good reefs giving snorkelers a great view of Tropical fish

• Best Family-Friendly Beach: Malabar Beach, located in Castries, on the Caribbean side of St. Lucia and approximately 90mins North West of the International Airport.  The waters are tourquis blue, calm, and warm, making it perfect for little swimmers to enjoy the day

(Malabar Beach, Castries St. Lucia)

What are the best things to do in St. Lucia?

• Pitons
• Drive thru Volcano
• Mud Baths (super heated) located at Volcano
• Waterfalls (all 5), but Toraille is great after the Mud Bath!
• Piton Nature Trail (Stunning view of the Pitons from the top !)

(Above Left: Toraille Waterfall, Right: Piton Nature Trail)

 

(Above Left: Mud bath heated from Volcanic Vents, Right: Pitons, St. Lucia)

Currency and payment accepted on the island:

The official currency on St. Lucia is the East Caribbean Dollar, however major credit cards and the U.S. Dollar are widely accepted.  Due to the small size of St. Lucia, ATM machines are scarce,  and 'Souvenir Gift Shops' are generally road side vendors with crafts and home made rum, which unfortunately are rather expensive, and possibly may present problems with customs.  The gift shop at Hewanorra International is both reasonably priced as well as offers a wide selection of the most common souvenirs.

Should I rent a car on St. Lucia?

• No !  Not only because St. Lucia lodging is mainly comprised of 'All-Inclusive' resorts with airport transfer and organized island tours available, the Island is very mountainous, roads are very winding, and driving follows European left side traffic rules

• In addition, while GPS may work, cellular service may be spotty due to the mountainous terrain. Finally, road signs are nearly non-existent, which means unless you are very familiar with where you are going, you may easily miss a turn!

(St. Lucia Virgin Island)

Final Thoughts:

There is something on St. Lucia for every sensory experience; the food is amazing, especially the 'King Fish.' the people of St. Lucia are incredibly friendly and take the expression 'Island Time,' to a whole new level! The rainforest comes to life at night like an orchestra filling the air with it's song (below video).

With it's Mango and Spiced filled air, Rain Forests, never ending turquoise blue waters, majestic mountain vistas, botanical gardens, water falls and collection of rare birds, St. Lucia not only can be compared with Hawaii, it is an ultimate couples wellness retreat, and one of the best most accessible eco-tourism destinations in the world.  

(Above: Sunset from Rainforest Canopy, Below Video: The sound of the rainforest at Night)

 

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 'Sustainable Tourism is Everyone's Responsibility '