THE CAYMAN ISLANDS -- From Little-Known Islands to Hot Vacation Spot

THE CAYMAN ISLANDS -- From Little-Known Islands to Hot Vacation Spot
The Cayman Islands, like many other Caribbean islands, have a history filled with intrigue, ownership issues, slavery and privateering. But the Cayman Islands escaped some islands' fate by remaining relatively unknown, partially because it had few natural resources to exploit, with the exception of sea turtles, which were virtually wiped out by the crews of passing ships and local fisherman.

Said to be discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1503, the Caymans were first named Las Tortugas, after the plentiful sea turtle population. Undisturbed until Sir Francis Drake visited in 1586, they were re-named Cayman Islands after the local crocodile -- referred to by native inhabitants as the "caiman."

In 1655 the islands, along with Jamaica, were captured by the British. Governed as a colony until Jamaica became an independent Commonwealth Realm in 1962, the Cayman Islands remain as a British Overseas Territory. Today, the Cayman Islands rely on tourism and the banking industry to fuel the economy.

The Cayman Islands are a fantasy come true for many vacationers: Azure waters, little rainfall, tropical temperatures with a constant breeze, amazing beaches, world-class diving and adventures for every age and fitness level. Accommodations for every budget and friendly, outgoing islanders who make a special effort to help everyone have an experience of a lifetime. Find out more about the Cayman Islands by visiting caymanislands.ky.

CLIMATE
Due to the relatively flat landscape and low elevations, the climate is pretty much the same throughout the islands. There is a mild rainy season, but since there are no natural rivers or mountains, the run-off is minimal and the rains sporadic.

• Rainy season is from mid-May through October
• Dry season is between November and April, with March and April being the driest
• Hurricane season is from June through November
• Temperatures range from 75-85 degrees according to season, with constant trade winds