IMAGE: Taneos Ramsay

While enjoying the beautiful beaches and sunny climes of Cayman, visitors are encouraged to observe the islands’ customs and etiquette.

Decorum and manners go a long way, ensuring you don’t unintentionally cause offence.

Observe the following tips to avoid making a faux pas:

  • Wear your swimwear only at beach, the pool and when participating in watersports. Put on a cover-up if you go into a restaurant, bar, a supermarket, or other public place.
  • Topless sunbathing is deemed indecent.
  • Address your hosts, servers and others with a pleasant “good morning”, “good afternoon” or “good evening” before engaging in conversation or making a request. “Good night” is often used as a greeting as well as a farewell.
  • Tipping is the norm, starting at 15%, with many establishments including the gratuity in the bill.
  • Smoking is prohibited in indoor locations and in restaurant outdoor eating areas. Please be considerate of others if you choose to smoke outside.
  • The legal age for consuming or buying alcohol is 18.
  • Drugs are illegal, including cannabis – known locally as ganja or weed.
  • If listening to music on the beach, ensure not to play it too loud.
  • Don’t lift starfish, stingrays, or – for that matter – any other marine life out of the sea. It is traumatising and could kill them.
  • Always take a taxi, bus, or travel with a designated driver if you are drinking alcoholic beverages and moving from one place to another.
  • It is customary to address people in a formal manner with the prefix of Mr. or Ms before their first name, especially if the person is your senior. For example, Mr. John or Ms Eve.