Off the beaten path in Grand Cayman | 7 top eco-traveller tips
The spectacular view from Northwest Point. Stop at Macabuca tiki bar for a swim and some food. There’s a swim ladder that makes getting in and out a breeze.
Eco-chic is on the rise. With travellers seeking more sustainable and environmentally friendly travel options, tourism companies, airlines and destinations are gearing up to meet this demand. Even royalty is having a say with HRH The Duke of Sussex announcing the launch of Travalyst, a global initiative designed to reduce the negative impact of travel. This couldn’t have come at a more critical time. According to the World Tourism Organization, 1.8 billion people will travel internationally by 2030. Although this means significantly greater pressure on the environment and local communities, it also provides opportunities to do good. If we want to preserve the world we know, then it’s time to make sustainable changes.
The Parrot Reserve on Cayman Brac is a haven for wildlife. Pack water and binoculars and enjoy the shady boardwalks.
Step off the beaten path and you’ll discover the Cayman Islands are going green in a big way. From marine parks and wildlife reserves to wind-powered tours, eco-fuels and farmers markets, there are so many ways you can join in the fun for a healthier, happier, better way to explore. Book a guided hike with the National Trust and spot parrots, anoles and medicinal plants found only in the Cayman Islands. Volunteer for a turtle patrol and scout virgin coastlines that you may not have otherwise discovered or rent a paddle-board for the ultimate clean energy safari.
When it comes to dining, opt for sustainably-sourced items. Whether it’s locally harvested sargassum (the Caribbean equivalent to Japanese nori), home-grown ackee or fresh coconut ceviche, food that comes from the island is packed full of flavour and a great way to support the community. You can even catch dinner yourself just make sure its open season (November 1 to April 30 for conch, whelk and lobster) and not in a protected area. If you’d rather leave it to the professionals, look for the Cayman Sea Sense symbol on your restaurant menu for help in choosing sustainable seafood options.
Owen Island, Little Cayman. Book a day trip here from Grand Cayman. Once you land in Little Cayman, find your way to the Southern Cross Club and borrow a kayak.
For more eco-inspo, check out these top traveller tips:
1 - Say no to single-use plastics. This includes plastic bags, straws, containers and water bottles.
2 - Hydrate using reusable flasks and refill around the island. These also make great souvenirs for loved ones back home.
3 - Bring your own shopping tote and do groceries in style. Didn’t pack one? No problem. You can purchase one at any of the supermarkets and many local cafés around the island.
4 - Visit the Cayman Farmers Market on a Saturday for a truly local experience. Seasonal fruit and vegetables, herbs, coconut vinegars, cane syrups, fresh callalloo, pickle peppers, sorrel, mangoes, smoothies, honeys, soaps, hot sauce, cakes, jams and artisanal crafts galore. Go early for the best produce.
5 - Recycle glass and plastic at one of the recycling depots. There’s one at Camana Bay and one at Kirk’s Supermarket.
6 - Please don’t touch coral or handle any sea life out of the water (that includes starfish and stingrays). They really don’t like it and in some cases it can be fatal.
7 - Wear reef-safe sun lotion. Look for sunscreens that are free from oxybenzone and octinoxate and contain non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
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