{"id":59,"date":"2021-07-12T19:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-07-13T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/export.themeruby.com\/look\/2020\/02\/28\/travel-destinations-you-need-to-visit-in-this-summer-copy-4-copy-copy-copy-copy\/"},"modified":"2021-07-12T17:08:30","modified_gmt":"2021-07-12T22:08:30","slug":"how-to-spend-your-first-week-in-the-cayman-islands","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lifeandhomewithcharms.com\/?p=59","title":{"rendered":"How To Spend Your First Week in The Cayman Islands"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Welcome to the Cayman Islands, the tropical paradise I have called home for the past two years. If you are like me, you will be counting down the days in quarantine to hit these Cayman Streets! Fret not, I’ve put together my list of the seven things you must do in your first seven days on the island. Or post Quarantine! This is a great list to prepare for your arrival so you can hit the ground running. However if you are already here and in quarantine, don\u2019t let that quarantine time go to waste. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Cayman<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Planning is everything, and if you are reading this post, you are already off to a great start! Here is your pre-prep to fill up those quarantine days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

  1. Decide on the bank you want to do business with and what the requirements are to open a bank account and try to arrange to get these together ahead of time. <\/li>
  2. Decide how you will get around for the first few days \u2013 if you plan on renting a car, this can be arranged ahead of time with one of the local rental agencies, some will even pick you from your location to get to the agency.<\/li>
  3. Review bus routes, read the road code booklet.<\/li>
  4. Browse house listings and set up viewings \u2013 virtual viewings.  Housing will be your priority, so I would dedicate day 2 to view listings.<\/li>
  5. Get familiar with the places you want to visit post quarantine.<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Banking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Your first business day on the island should be a trip to the bank. You want to set up your new bank accounts as soon as possible. Depending on the bank you choose, it could take up to two weeks to get your new debit card. As a result, my advice would be to travel with some cash and a valid credit card.  This will keep you going until you are able to use your new local bank account. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Also, you will need your work permit and, in some instances, a reference letter or a job letter to open your new account. Lastly, verify with the bank ahead of time what is required. This way you are prepared to smash this chore on your first day. I found the folks at Butterfield Bank <\/a>were easy to talk to and very helpful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Transportation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Depending on your preference, you will have a few options when deciding on your mode of transportation. You can rent a car (highly recommended if you are comfortable getting behind the wheel on your first few days). The road system is straightforward, and there is Google maps for easy navigation to go on your apartment search. If you plan to purchase a car, please refer to my post of getting your local driver’s license.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Another option is to take a local private taxi, however, for frequent long term use the costs for this can add up quickly. Fortunately, the island has an exceptionally good public transportation system. And if you are living on the western side, you will have the option of a public bus at least every 15 minutes or less. One other good thing about the buses is that they will pick you up anyplace on the route if it is safe to do so. So don’t worry if you don’t see a bus stop close by.<\/p>\n\n\n\n