The Cayman Islands

The three small islands that make up the Cayman Islands lie quietly in the western Caribbean Sea. Ringed by white sand and turquoise sea, they offer everything you would expect from a Caribbean holiday destination in terms of balmy weather, friendly people, and tropical scenery. But the people of these islands are also devout in their faith, proud of their British ties, and embrace traditional holidays with great gusto.

Visit over a major holiday and you’ll be treated to much more than sunshine, cocktails and hammocks strung between palm trees. You’ll find a packed calendar of themed events with a special Caymanian twist.

At Easter, in addition to numerous church services, Grand Cayman in particular comes alive with all manner of events. Scavenger hunts, Easter eggs buried in the sand, Easter themed games and crafts and more, organised by various local enterprises, promise lots of seasonal family fun. This can be followed up with an indulgent afternoon tea: popular options include the Alice in Wonderland-inspired Mad Tea Party at the Marriott’s Anchor and Den restaurant and the oh-so-classic Afternoon Tea at the Ritz-Carlton, complete with loose leaf tea selections, refined finger sandwiches, delicate pastries and freshly baked scones.

Extravagant Sunday brunches have become a much-loved tradition in the islands. Mouth- watering buffets serving everything from freshly prepared eggs and breakfast items to sushi, carvery stations, local dishes and vegetarian options, plus a choice of cheeses or sweet treats, are offered at numerous venues, often with the option of adding on bottomless bubbles. At Christmas and Easter local restaurants pull out all the stops to create the ultimate brunch experience that carries on well into the afternoon.

On Easter Monday, families typically head over to the quiet district of Northside for the annual Kite Fest. Kite-making and flying is an age-old activity in the islands, and this is an opportunity to learn to fly colourful, home-made kites, as well as enjoying a day out at the beach with live music, games and water sports.

With lots to do, weather that is just about perfect, and direct flights from London and Miami, Easter is the ideal time for a family holiday in the Cayman Islands. While the island’s exclusive hotels make for a luxurious break for couples or groups of adults, a villa that offers privacy, independence and self-catering facilities is often the more convenient option for families.

Cayman Villas, a locally based villa rental company is uniquely qualified to find the ideal family villa. In business for 53 years and staffed entirely by locals, Cayman Villas have unparalleled knowledge of the islands. Their portfolio of over 70 properties includes both villas and condos, ranging from one to eight bedrooms, ensuring plenty of options for larger groups.

www.caymanvillas.com