It's the year of the Cayman Islands staycation.
And why not? Even if residents don't have much choice in the matter, every year tourists spend big money to vacation in the Cayman Islands.
Given what's happening in the rest of the world because of the COVID-19 pandemic, tourists would likely spend even more if they could come and have a healthy and safe vacation in our tropical paradise this summer. They can't, at least not until next month, but we can and there are some excellent staycation opportunities at Dart-owned properties across all three Cayman Islands in August and beyond.
With no tourists on island in August, Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa is catering to residents with a number of imaginative initiatives.
"We're trying to come up with as many different options as we can to entice residents to come to Seafire," says General Manager Steven Andre.
In addition to special room rates, there is also the ability to rent a luxury cabana, day bed or chaise lounge for Seafire's "Day Getaway." These rentals include daytime access to all of the amenities and facilities — including the three-tiered infinity pool — at Grand Cayman's only AAA Five Diamond Resort. On weekends, the Day Getaway includes live music and outdoor activities for kids.
Seafire is also offering a work-play getaway option. The "Office with a View" package offers an oceanfront room from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The package includes usage of all amenities, including the pool, gym and non-motorised watersports.
"What we're trying to do is give people an alternative to working from home," says Steven. "You come for the day, we give you an office with a great view, you come down for lunch or you can have room service delivered, you take a break and go for a swim or workout in the gym. You can even bring your pet."
Email reservations@seafireresortandspa.com or call (345) 746-0000. Book lounge chairs or cabanas online at seafire.idaypass.com.
For those looking to get off the island without leaving the Cayman Islands, both Sister Islands offer staycation options.
Those yearning for a getaway with personalised luxury need look no further than Le Soleil d'Or on the south coast of Cayman Brac.
"Let us take care of you," says General Manager Anoop Jayaprakash. "Our amazing team is always ready to go above and beyond to provide you with a memorable experience."
Le Soleil d'Or is an elegant farm inn that comprises the Manor House with four guest rooms and the Coast House that sleeps three adults or two adults and two children.
Included with each room is a complimentary daily breakfast that incorporates some of the fresh fruits and vegetables grown on the organic farm.
The inn's private Beach Club, which features a 50-metre pool and a beach with thatched sun shelters, is located less than a mile away.
"We are happy to provide our guests with snacks, water and towels to enjoy at the beach club," says Anoop.
Other activities offered by Le Soleil d'Or include a complimentary 40-minute tour of the property's 20-acre farm, as well as access to beach bicycles, non-motorised watersports equipment, the fitness centre and basketball and tennis courts.
"In addition, our guests may choose to purchase services such as massage treatments and dive excursions," says Anoop.
Buyouts of the four-room Manor House are available for groups. For more information, contact Anoop.Jayaprakash@lesoleildor.com or call (345) 926-1966.
Residents can leave all of their COVID-19 stresses at home, along with their shoes, socks and wristwatch, with a staycation at Paradise Villas on Little Cayman.
The laid-back inn features 12 beachfront cottages that offer peace, quiet, rest and relaxation. Catch up on some reading as you lounge by the pool or in a hammock and then head over to The Hungry Iguana restaurant when you're hungry. A small grocery store and liquor shop are just a mango-throw away, as is Little Cayman's quaint airport.
For reservations, email iggy@candw.ky or call (345) 948-0001.
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This article appears in print in the August 2020 edition of Camana Bay Times.
