Grand Cayman '07
 

Yes, I know it seems early to start planning a trip for June of '07, but I love the thrill of it. We plan to take our family of five (kids ages 18,15 & 10) to Grand Cayman next June to celebrate our oldest daughter's High School graduation. Originally, we planned to take the kids to Oahu and Kauai, but the cost is a consideration. I have been reading this board for about two weeks now and the info is priceless. I would like to stay at the Plantana Condos. Your descriptions sound so inviting, but more info is always appreciated. A condo is always the way for us to go since the kids eat like a swarm of locusts. I was wondering if there are roadside markets where we can buy fresh produced etc. similar to what we found on Kauai. I was also hoping those of you who have braved GC with teenagers might offer advice on excursions etc. Airfare from Amarillo to GC is running about $600.00. Is that about what we should expect to pay or is there a primo time of year to buy airfare to GC. Thanking you in advance for your comments.

ttt

Plantana is very nice. We just returned from two weeks in GC with kids of similar ages (10,18,21). We enjoyed stopping at "Willy's" fruit stand which is just past the Hurley's grocery store on the way to the East End. Great fresh fruit and smoothies made on the spot. His hours vary, depending on the fruit and how long it takes him to sell out. Our kids enjoy the snorkel trips to Stingray City (we've used Cap'n Dexter and Ecoventures - both great), and scuba diving with Ocean Frontiers. We went deep sea fishing for the first time on a private charter with Ecoventures - it was awesome! My son usually golfs at Safehaven Golf Course but it hasn't reopened yet. We also enjoyed horseback riding on the beach. There will be plenty of activities, it all depends on what you enjoy and want to spend!

Anonxx thanks for your reply. Since food will be a large part of our vacation expense...help me put a few things in perspective. For instance, what does a loaf of bread, gallon of milk etc cost in the grocery stores. Also, about what would it cost your family of five do eat out at a nice, not fancy, restaurant? Anyone with ifo feel free to jump in! Thanks Okie

Just for kicks, I plugged in your approximate time of travel at travelcheapabroad.com and am finding an air fare [for this year mind you] for $521.67 from Amarillo to GCM, taxes included.

I always check this site for airfare, as it has saved us a lot over the years.

I got good advice from CaymanSue to start looking at airfare at about the 90 day out mark when you generally see them at their lowest.

Captain Dexter is a character [meant in a great complimentary way], and I think your kids would enjoy a trip out with him. He has a catamaran, and engines out, and sails in...if possible.

We also really like Captain Marvin's all day trip. Very nice.

You may also want to take them by the new skate park if they are at all interested in that. Be sure to snorkel Queens' Monument weather permitting. They'll love that too. Eden Rock...don't miss that either.

Our family of 6 ate at the Hard Rock cafe for $75 one night. One night we got take out from Chicken Chicken for $20. We spent $200 at the grocery store for our 5 night stay. I did bring a few staples from home.

We also loved Captain Dexter.

Hope that helps.

Eating out in the Cayman's can be very expensive. Coconut Joe's (across from the Marriott) is a great place to have a good but inexpensive breakfast. We loved The Wharf if you want to splurge!
Seven Mile Beach has the prettiest water I have ever experienced. Be sure to rent a car and explore the entire island. Rum Point is lovely.