Expert: Robert Clark - 6/20/2008

Question
Hi from Canada,
Thanks in advance for taking the time to read and answer my question(s).
My fiance and I are in the process of securing employment and obtaining work visas for the Caymans.  We have done extensive research and have a few phone interviews set up.
Everything was going great until my fiance talked with her father who claims that the island is little and there is nothing to do??? Everything I have read from anyone says there is plenty to do.  He is also concerned about the potential for severe weather given what happened a few years back.  The way I look at it, is that this could happen anywhere in the Caribbean at anytime.  Also we have 2 dogs that we want to bring with us.  I have spent TONS of time looking into this and from what I have seen as long as the dogs have all the proper shots, blood work, good bill of health and are rabies free everything should be fine.  Her father said that the pets will be quarantined for up to 6 months upon arrival?
Any help, advice or reassurance would be appreciated.
Thanks again for your time.
Cheers
Joe M.

Answer
Joe
Yes, the island is little, but depending on your interests there is lots to do - check some of the links on my site (http://www.gotocayman.com) under Businesses/Clubs and Organisations.  On top of this there are a couple of cinemas, plenty of bars and restaurants, amateur dramatics, and then all of the watersports.

Cayman does get hit by hurricanes - it was devastated by Hurricane Ivan and this saw lots of properties destroyed and some businesses close permanently.  It wasn't a pleasant experience to live through and any time there is a chance of a hurricane approaching the islands there is a mass exodus to Miami.  I'd suggest that when you are looking at property you ask the neighbours how the property survived Ivan, with particular reference to storm surges.  See http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2008/20080522_hurricaneoutlook.html for the forecast for the current season.


You don't say where you are coming from, so the rules on importing pets will need to be carefully examines - see my FAQ and also http://www.newresident.ky/page_id_14.html  Remember that all of the fees are non-refundable, so make sure that you have all of the correct information so that your application isn't turned down on a technicality.

I know that lots of people like pets but are put off bringing them by all of the paperwork involved.  There is also the issue that most landlords say "No Pets", so it may limit the accommodation you can find.  If you do decide that you want a pet when in Cayman, then check out the Animal Rescue.

Hope this helps!


Robert