The First 5 Things You Should Do When You Move to the Cayman Islands

So you're moving to the Cayman Islands, you've either been offered a job or your planning on getting yourself down here and looking for one. Living in the Cayman Islands is a wonderful experience, but when you first get here you'll need to set up a few things that may be a little stressful at first, so we've made it a little easier for you and listed (in no particular order) the first few things you should do before settling into a new life on this beautiful island.

1. Set up internet & phone

Assuming you've already found an apartment, one of the first things to do is set up your phone and internet. It's crazy how much we rely on technology these days, and on a tropical island, things aren't any different. Getting your internet set up can take anywhere from a week to a month, so it's a good idea to get it sorted as soon as you can to get the ball rolling. Getting hooked up with a phone contract is pretty easy and you can get something sorted in one day.

2. Get a bank account

Having access to money will be high on your priority list when you first get to the island. Come with enough $CI or $US to get you by for a month or so, choose a bank and submit your papers as soon as you can. Your company may suggest a bank they prefer you use and help you with gathering your papers. You'll need proof of ID as well as a letter to show you're employed and details of your salary - which your work will be able to provide. For more info on this, click here.

3. Get a driver's licence

You'll need a driver's licence to drive while you're in Cayman and it'll also come in handy for when you need proof of ID when you're first setting up. When you first arrive you're allowed to use your international licence for 6 months before taking a written and practical test and switching to a Cayman Islands Driver's Licence. For more information on this, click here.

 

4. Buy a car

It may be a small island but you will need some form of transport to get around. It's scorching hot outside and stores are scattered across the island sporadically. Walking isn't the best way to get from place to place. There's many places on island where you can buy a car, lease-to-own or buy second hand.

5. Get an account for your bills

You'll have two main utility bills to pay on island, CUC ( electricity) and water. You'll most likely have electricity and water in your apartment already when you move in, but you'll need to go down to the CUC office and the Water Authority or Cayman Water (depending on where you're located) and create a new account in your name.

6. Set up a P.O. Box

You can get mail sent to your work address or you can go into Mailboxes Etc. or one of the Post Offices on island and set up a personal P.O. Box in your name. You'll need to sure identification and proof that you live here and you'll be all set to go.

8. Get Skype

Living abroad and away from your family and friends can be really tough. Setting up a Skype account, if you don't already have one can help alleviate the inevitable home-sickness you'll feel either straight away or a few months down the line. Luckily, Cayman has speedy internet options so keeping in touch with loved ones can be easy.