Island Life Diaries: Nadine Dumas

1. Where are you from? 

Red Deer, Alberta, Canada.

2. Why did you move from the comfort of your homeland?

Originally it was 11 years ago (2005) to come here and work as an accountant and escape the cold winters.

3. What made you choose Cayman? 

Surprisingly, I knew nothing about the island before I moved and really even when I moved.  It was through the firm I worked with back home and my boss at the time had a friend who worked down here.  I figured I would give it a go, 6 months later I landed on the island not knowing a soul and haven't made it home since (aside from the few years I left to switch careers).

 

4. What was the biggest challenge you faced when you arrived? 

Personally, it was just getting comfortable with my surroundings.  Finding the right place to live, buying a car etc.  and 'starting all over again'.

5. What surprised you the most about Cayman? 

How friendly everyone was.  All of us (expats) were in the same boat, we knew that none of us had family here so everyone was quick to make friends.  Also the local community and how inviting and friendly they are.

6. In your opinion, what is the most unique thing about the island? 

The diversity.  You can go walk in town and see people in business suits, tourists coming off the cruise ships in their swimsuits and 'tourist gear'.  Everyone is happy, the vibe and energy of the island is incredible.

7. What do you love most about living in Cayman? 

I've never liked the cold and to be able to walk out of your house without having to worry about bundling up is pretty awesome - the humidity on the hair is a completely other story though!