Island Life Diaries: Cory Scruggs

HI CORY! TELL OUR READERS WHERE YOU ARE FROM!

I was born in Atlanta, Georgia & grew up in Cape Town, South Africa

ONE CONTINENT TO THE NEXT! WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO MOVE TO THIS ISLAND?

I was working a desk job in Fort Lauderdale and desperately looking for a change. I got a call from a friend of mine living in Grand Cayman and he pitched the idea of bartending on an island in the Caribbean. Within a month I was working behind a bar in the beautiful Cayman Islands.

THAT’S QUITE A CHANGE! CAN YOU TELL US WHAT ISLAND LIVING IS LIKE?

It’s summer all year long, but that doesn’t take much time to adjust to. The pace of life is a lot more relaxed here compared to big-city living. And let’s not forget, there’s no tax!

WHAT STRUGGLES, IF ANY, DID YOU COME ACROSS WHEN YOU MOVED HERE?

My struggles on island were minimal. It was a bit of a shock realising everything closes on Sundays. The people make it so easy to settle in… #CAYMANKIND

WHAT ABOUT YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO DO ON YOUR DAY OFF? DETAILS!

I love to go to the beach! Also, the service industry is a very tight-knit group so it’s always fun to visit friends where they work and catch up. Did I say BEACH?!

WHERE IS A GOOD PLACE TO GO FOR DINNER?

I work for an amazing fine-dining restaurant called Agua. Our menu is a combination of Italian and Peruvian-fusion, and of course the cocktail bar must be mentioned. Alternatively, I really enjoy Bacaro. It’s geared around Sicilian tapas-style dining and it’s right on the water. Kick back with a charcuterie board and a bottle of wine… or 2, and you’re laughing!

WHERE WOULD YOU TAKE YOUR FRIENDS FOR A NICE DRINK… OR 2 BY THE OCEAN? 

Our sister restaurant Catch! It’s right on the water with an incredible view and equally-matched beverage program. 

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT CAYMAN?

The island has an incredible sense of community. It’s a great place to make friends and meet people from all over the world. It’s such a melting pot of cultures, there’s something for everyone here. And don’t forget, we only have 2 seasons: hot summer and less-hot summer!

WHAT ABOUT THE WORST THING? WE GUESS EVERY PLACE MUST HAVE ITS UPS AND DOWNS?

Hurricane season is always an interesting period. Thankfully, I haven’t experienced anything worth noting in the 7 years I’ve lived here. 

BEST TOUR ON ISLAND? WHERE WOULD YOU SEND THE TOURISTS?

Stingray City and Snorkel Tour with Captain Marvin’s Tours

BIG ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WHO JUST MOVED HERE?

Give the island some time, it will grow on you. Appreciate it for what it is, and don’t get frustrated for what it’s not.  

Island Life Diaries: Angelo Giuzio

HI ANGELO! TELL US WHERE ARE YOU ORIGINALLY FROM?

I am from southern town of Potenza about an hour east of the beautiful Amalfi Coast.

WHAT BROUGHT YOU HERE TO THIS LOVELY ISLAND?

When the previous owner of Edoardo's took over in 2002, I was living in England. They called an co-worker of mine and asked him if he wanted to move here and he couldn't so he asked me if I was interested.

WOW, SO YOU'VE BEEN IN CAYMAN FOR A WHILE RIGHT?

I have not left! I have now been in Cayman for almost 17 years.

SO FOR AS LONG AS YOU'VE BEEN HERE, YOU'VE BEEN AT EDOARDO’S? YOU MUST TELL US WHAT YOU LOVE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR RESTAURANT!

Yes I have been here the whole time and, in fact, I ended up buying the business a few years ago with my Business partner Brian. Edoardo's has become my family over the years and couldn't imagine being anywhere else.

CONGRATS! SO WHAT'S THE BEST DISH ON THAT MENU, OR SOMETHING THAT IS YOUR ABSOLUTE FAVORITE?

The Filet Cambozola is my absolute favorite! This dish is a filet mignon wrapped in bacon with melted Cambozola cheese on top - it’s to die for!!!

OUR MOUTHS ARE WATERING! WHERE WOULD YOU GO OUTSIDE OF WORK, SAY, TO HAVE A NICE GLASS OF WINE?

A bottle of bubbles anywhere at the beach is my absolute favorite spot.

AND WHAT ABOUT FITNESS? WHERE ARE THE TOP 3 PLACES YOU WOULD GET YOUR WORKOUT AFTER ALL OF THIS INDULGING OF FOOD AND DRINK?

I love to be involved in Crossfit with my Crossfit 7Mile family as well as long walks on the beach. 

WHAT ABOUT SOME GOOD ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WHO JUST MOVED HERE?

Make the most of the island’s beauty, enjoy the beach and some water sports as much as you can!

TOP 3 PLACES TO GO ON A TOUR ON THE ISLAND?

Kittiwake, the Sand Bar and any remote beaches on the East End/North Side of the island.

Island Life Diaries: Christina Ravdas

CHRISTINA, WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

Tampa, FL USA

HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN CAYMAN?

Nine years

WHAT DO YOU DO HERE?

Bartend

WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE DRINK TO MAKE?

Margarita (also my favorite to drink :)

BEST PLACE TO GO FOR A SUNSET DRINK?

Calico’s!

BEST THING TO DO ON ISLAND?

Boat day to Stingray City and Starfish Point

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING IN CAYMAN?

The people I’ve met and friendships I’ve made.

IF YOU COULD SEND SOMEONE VISITING TO ANY RESTAURANT FOR DINNER, WHICH ONE WOULD YOU CHOOSE?

Morgan’s.

ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE LOOKING TO MOVE HERE?

Keep an open mind and open heart, there’s a lot to learn on our little island.

Island Life Diaries: Agata Kalicki

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?

I was born in Poland, then lived in Germany for 18 months at 7, and finally moved to Canada at 9. You can decide which part of that was the growing up bit!

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO MOVE TO CAYMAN?

It was November in Canada, and my then boyfriend had got a job here. I shouldn’t have bothered with him so much, but Cayman sounded amazing in the face of a Canadian winter. I didn’t actually move here until July of the next year, but just knowing the move was coming made it bearable. 

WHAT DO YOU DO HERE?

I’m a co-owner at a Vegan restaurant called Bread and Chocolate in George Town, but have become pretty hands off as I’m in the second year of homeschooling my son, Xero. 

WHAT THE BEST THING TO ORDER ON YOUR MENU?

BBQ Jackfruit sliders. No, the Island Bowl. Or the beet burger. And now we have the Impossible Burger too. It’s like choosing a favourite child, except it’s food, so it’s even more difficult!

CAN YOU RECOMMEND ANY OTHER RESTAURANTS IN CAYMAN FOR VISITORS LOOKING FOR VEGAN MEALS?

Bandido’s, Yoshi’s, and Southern Spice should cover the basic food groups. For an occasion: Gilbert at Cracked Conch does absolutely amazing tasting menus with a bit of notice. Plus he’s vegan himself, so there’s some extra love involved. 

WHERE'S YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO GO FOR COFFEE?

Bay Market has nice coffee, and the offspring can run around while I actually get to enjoy it. There isn’t a whole lot of opportunity to meet friends in the daytime. 

BEST BEACH IN CAYMAN?

There’s really nothing that compares to Seven Mile Beach early in the morning, although now that I’m a West Bayer, I like the dock at sunset. Still not Seven Mile though.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS LOOKING TO MOVE TO THE ISLAND?

Go for it! I mean, worst case, you’ll end up back home after a short, unsuccessful vacation. More likely, you’ll come and find a new home, discover fun new ways to spend your weekends, teach your liver some serious endurance, and find awesome friends from all over the globe. And then you’ll turn around and it’ll be 15 years after you came for just 1. 

FAVOURITE PLACE TO SHOP FOR CLOTHES? WHAT ABOUT SOUVENIRS?

I like Carey’s Karma Closet because recycling!, and they have the kid’s closet too. To be honest, I don’t shop for clothes much on island.  My mom shops for the kids like it’s her full time job, and they have older cousins for hand-me-downs, so I’ve bought them nearly nothing clothes-wise. I’m not buying me anything until the fat goes away, and considering I’m a food hog, that’s not happening any time soon!

Insider Guides: Javiera Aguayo

Hi JAVIERA! TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF!

My name is Javiera Aguayo. Born in the beautiful city of Santiago, Chile but island girl at heart. Most of my days are spent with family and friends, working out or at the beach. I LOVE to eat, and by eat, I mean pretty much everything and anything (lol). My favorite types of foods would be seafood (crab and lobster are my favorite) and sushi. 

WHAT WAS CAYMAN LIKE, DID YOU GROW UP HERE? DETAILS!

I moved to Grand Cayman with my mother and two sisters when I was 6 years old. We were first introduced to the islands by our grandma (Tita) who had been living here for a few years.  We came for our first visit in 1995 and immediately fell in love with the relaxed island life. I just remember it being very hot and humid when we landed but the people were so friendly.

Coming from a big city to such a small island you immediately are embraced by the quietness of the rock. We lived in a farm with a lot of land. I have fond memories of my sisters and I riding our bikes all over the place with our dogs chasing behind us. We were always outdoors. I always felt safe here!

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CAYMAN?

It would definitely have to be the food. Not saying this just because I live here but Cayman is top quality when it comes to cuisine. From their small local spots to their 5-Star restaurants, they truly cater to all taste buds.

WHAT ABOUT THE WORST THING? DO YOU HAVE A PET PEEVE?

How small the island is. Everyone knows everyone’s business.  There’s many times I would just love to go somewhere and not know anyone there. 

NAME 4 OF YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANTS AND WHY?

That’s such a tough one! Calypso Grill - I love this spot for lunch or dinner because it overlooks the water and their food never disappoints. They always have amazing dishes on special and you have to try their sticky toffee pudding! 

Casa 43 - My fiancé and I probably go here at least once a week (I am not kidding.) Their street corn is a must and all their tacos are unique and delicious. You also must try their churros. Ragazzi - Their pizzas are the best on island. They also have a great selection of pastas; try their mushroom ravioli. Copper Falls - Best steaks on island in my opinion. This place never disappoints and their staff is always so friendly. 

MOST ROMANTIC THING TO DO HERE?

Order take out, grab a bottle of wine and have a picnic out on the beach on full moon. 

WHAT ABOUT THOSE HIDDEN GEMS? TELL US ABOUT SOME COOL PLACES!

Spotts Beach is a nice quiet beach good for snorkeling and if you are lucky you may spot a turtle or two. 

This one is not much of a hidden gem but Starfish Point is always a nice weekend spot on the more quieter side of the island. A lot of the boat parties are held here. 

FAVOURITE LOCAL DISH AND WHERE CAN YOU FIND IT?

Fried snapper from the Grape Tree Cafe in Bodden Town. 

WHERE WOULD YOU CHOOSE TO GO FOR SUNSET DRINKS??

The Westin Hotel. Love to go to their pool bar for happy hour. The ambience of the place combined with their drinks and the views of the ocean will always guarantee a good time. 

An Insider's Guide to the Island's: Best Children Friendly Places with Keri Jansen

HI KERI! TELL US YOUR HISTORY! YOU LANDED IN PARADISE AND NEVER LEFT, RIGHT? GIVE US YOUR DEETS!

I landed in Paradise on a job offer to open a brand new Jewellery store called The Mansion, located in Camana Bay. Island Companies had attended my School’s Career Fair at The Gemological Institute of America, where they offered me a job to which I accepted. I do not work for the company anymore, but now have a Lemonade Stand in the Royal Watler Terminal, catering to the Cruise Ship industry. 

Over the past 11 years, I’ve acquired a condo, had an amazing baby boy, met great people, enjoyed countless beach walks, and have pretty much planted my feet in the sand to stay.

AMAZING! DREAMS REALLY DO COME TRUE AND CAYMAN IS THE BESt! WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN CAYMAN?

Obviously the beach! I’ve travelled far and to many places, Cayman has the best beach I’ve been on. But it's not just the pretty sand and turquoise sea. The lifestyle is amazing. You can get from point A to B in 15 minutes or less. Our small community living is close-knit and very family orientated. Locals are very open to expatriates living on the Island which makes it easy to say “Hey, I think I’m gonna call this place home from now on.”

WHAT WERE SOME CHALLENGES YOU FACED WHEN YOU FIRST GOT HERE?

Paperwork is always drag, but hey. If you want to live in Paradise it comes with the territory. Most times the company that hires completes most paperwork for you. Settling into a new Country has its ups and downs, but I believe that to give it a fair chance you must get to know the ropes, follow the flow of the Island, and to take it slow is best.

I think the "soon come” attitude was the most challenging idea to get used to. This phrase could mean an hour, a week, a month or even a year. Getting past the “I need it now” would be the most challenging thing to get used to. Island Time is real people!

Decide on your local Cayman Bank before you arrive. Contact them and find out what requirements are needed in order to open an account on the Island. You may need a reference from your home bank, so making this effort before you arrive makes it easy when you arrive. 

Island Fever. This exists. The need to get off the rock will arise and when it does be prepared for your weekend in Miami. Get your fill of shopping, Starbucks and driving on highways out of your system and ready for a reset. Only then will you appreciate why you actually live in Cayman!

GREAT ADVICE, KERI! WE LIVE HERE BECAUSE WE HAVE WATERSPORTS, FOOD & BEAUTIFUL BEACHES. WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR DAYS WHEN YOU'RE NOT WORKING? 

Get on the water or strut the beach! I always say that if you do anything while living here, make sure you incorporate the sea life into yours. It's part of the history on the Island. I’ve learned to conch dive & scuba dive, I enjoy Flowers Sea Swim, beach walk or just hang on a Sunday at Rum Point. 

YOU HAve A BEAUTIFUL BOY! WHERE ARE SOME GREAT SPOTS for CHILDREN?

I couldn't think of a better place to have a baby. Forget snowsuits, boots, jackets and layers of clothing. All you need is bare feet and some sunscreen. We hang out at Ms. Laura’s pool for swim lessons every Tuesday. Motions Gym has an open gym for little people throughout the week which we attend regularly. Camana Bay is always great, free roaming for little ones while you stroll with a glass of wine, who can complain about that?

NO ONE CAN! WHAT ABOUT CHILDREN FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS?

Cayman is so amazing for children. Everyone is so friendly and willing to accommodate no questions asked. 

The Kimpton Seafire - Breakfast is a great one! Family friendly and very affordable.

Morgan’s Harbour - Excellent food and great for kids. They have no problem accommodating menu requests or modifications. 

Peppers - Very affordable, great seatings and family friendly.

Casa 43 - Best Mexican outside of Mexico. Great for kids - go early though! They don’t take reservations.

WHAT ABOUT THE SEA? BEST BEACHES FOR KIDS?

Naps at Rum Point are essential

Rum Point - Wreck Bar - Im not sure if we love it or if Jax loves it more. This is the #1 on my list. You can get snacks, have a mudslide, pull a lounger in the water, nap in a hammock or wade in the shade. Need I say more?

Royal Palms - Excellent parking, service on the beach, white powder sand.

Public Beach - This is always a go to. They have a great park with slides and play structures and you can hit the beach for a swim right after. 

All of these places have bathroom facilities for changing and showering as well.

Spotts Beach would be on my list except the lack of bathroom facilities. Apparently they plan to install them this year, if so I will be there as it’s 5 minutes from our house. 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WITH A FAMILY LOOKING TO RELOCATE HERE?

Relocating your family isn’t easy, but it can be if you prepare as much as possible ahead of time.

Research schools and know your options. Remember: public schools are not accessible for expatriates, so ensure you know where your child is going to attend school. 

Health Insurance - this is a big one. Make sure you know what you're getting and from which insurance agency. You can then contact them before you arrive to give yourself peace of mind knowing you’ve made contact. 

Housing - obviously you need a place to live. There are several rental agencies here to help, make sure to utilize them. 

Overall the one piece of advice I would give would be to send one family member to check out the island before diving in. Small island living definitely has its perks and benefits, but make sure you know what you're signing up for. 

Insider Guides: Growing up in Cayman with Alyssa Gilbert

HI ALYSSA, WHY DON’T YOU TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF?

I’m Alyssa Gilbert. I’m 19, from West Bay and was raised as an only child with a half-sister. My family works in legal, government, and IT related fields. My hobbies include shopping, going to the beach, filming videos, reading, and my new favourite: going to afternoon tea.

WE LOVE TEA! SO WHAT DO YOU DO NOW?

Currently, I’m a fashion student at London College of Fashion studying fashion media (styling and creative direction), and creating fashion related content for my Youtube channel, xoallyy 

SO WHERE ARE YOUR TOP 3 PLACES TO GO SHOPPING FOR THE BEST FASHION?

My favorite places to shop in cayman are NKY in Camana Bay, Funky Monkey at Governors Square, and Kirk Freeport for my accessories.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CAYMAN?

My favourite thing about Cayman is by far the beach. It’s the only place that I feel at peace and could stay there for hours on end. Not to mention it’s the only place I can get my color back after living in London for a while!

WORST THING ABOUT THE ISLAND? PET PEEVE?

My least favorite things about Cayman at the moment are the lack of untouched land, the ridiculous amounts of litter everywhere, and the pesky mosquitoes in the afternoon.

CAN YOU NAME 4 OF YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANTS FOR US?

My four favourite restaurants on island are Ragazzi, Casanova, Papagallos and Copper Falls. I LOVE Italian food, and Copper Falls is on a whole other level of deliciousness!

WHAT ABOUT THOSE HIDDEN GEMS? TELL US ABOUT SOME COOL PLACES!

Some “hidden gems” that I enjoy going to for some peace and quiet are the side beaches in East End (through a path of trees on the side of the road) and Boggy Sands. For some good eats, I like Di Kit-Chin Jerk Stand and Grape Tree Cafe.

FAVOURITE LOCAL DISH AND WHERE CAN YOU FIND IT?

My favorite local dish is Cayman Style Beef with rice and beans and you can find it in my grandmother’s kitchen, Island Taste restaurant, and anywhere else that sells local cooked food.

WHAT ABOUT A COCKTAIL, WHERE WOULD YOU CHOOSE TO GO FOR SUNSET DRINKS?

My favourite place for sunset drinks is Royal Palms because you have a perfect view of the sunset over the ocean from the bar, and there are 2 for 1 drink specials (which is always a win!)

Insider Guides: Brittany Kelly

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF, BRITTANY!

I’m a born and raised Caymanian. My Caymanian roots run deep. My father was born in Jamaica to a Caymanian mother and my mother was born in the US to Caymanian parents. They both moved to Cayman full time in their teens and met while working at Foster’s Food Fair and then got married and had me. 

WHAT DO YOU DO HERE IN CAYMAN?

I’m a film writer & producer. I work in Cayman and the US and I’m currently based in LA. I just wrapped on two feature films in South Florida. In Cayman I produced the Frank E Flower’s short film Tocsin. This short was made with an all Caymanian crew, which was a really exciting and proud moment for me. To have so many talented local individuals working and collaborating on one project was amazing. 

THAT IS AMAZING! SO WHERE WOULD YOU SEND PEOPLE HERE IF THEY ARE INTERESTED IN THE FILM INDUSTRY?

There are so many talented individuals working in the film industry in Cayman. The thing about Cayman is that it’s so small, so everyone knows or knows of everyone. If you’re looking to get involved in the film industry I recommend going to local film screenings, talking with the filmmakers, camera crew and actors (they don’t bite!) I would also recommend the newly found record label GoldFyr, where local Cinematographer Samuel Lancaster is holding film lessons and they also provide film equipment rentals.

TOP 3 PLACES FOR BREAKFAST?

Anchor & Den Brunch at The Marriott: I am obsessed with this brunch. Their food never disappoints, their atmosphere is so serene and the staff is so lovely. 

Over The Edge: For me, it is a bit of a haul to get there, but the view and their delicious Ackee & Codfish makes the drive worth it. 

Kirk’s Supermarket: They have a full spread and it’s so easy to grab and go. Their cornmeal porridge is pretty delicious as well. 

SO WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE FOR A TRUE CAYMANIAN DISH?

There’s a place in Savannah behind the Wendy’s and Rubis called Chill Spot. I love their oxtail and pepper steak. 

FAVOURITE PLACE TO BE IN CAYMAN AND WHY?

I love being at my grandma’s house. It’s right near the airport, so we can hear the planes landing. She has a lot of large mango and breadfruit trees. Just watching the sunset through those trees reminds me of how beautiful life is on this tiny island. 

WHERE WOULD SEND PEOPLE FOR DIVING? FISHING? SNORKELING?

For fishing and a good time out on the water I would send them to Get Bent Charters. For a simple snorkel I would recommend Smith’s Cove on a calm day or anywhere on the waterfront on a day with no cruise ships in. 

ANY ACTIVITIES PEOPLE SHOULD TRY WHEN THEY'RE HERE?

If you’re interested in local culture and history, check out The National Gallery, The Museum, Pedro Castle and The Botanical Gardens. I’m obsessed with the bioluminescence kayaking tour, it’s absolutely stunning to experience. And Brunch, always brunch.

Island Life Diaries: Javier Bustos

SO TELL US, WHERE ARE YOU FROM? 

I am originally from a small town in Spain called Salamanca.

AND WHAT MADE YOU MOVE TO CAYMAN?

My partner and his family moved here for business reasons, so I moved with them!

COOL! SO WHAT DO YOU THINK OF ISLAND LIFE COMPARED TO SPAIN AND THE CITY?

I love it! It is quiet and slow paced. I like that I know a lot of people that I interact with on a daily basis and then I bump into them socially. I feel secure and safe.

WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU FACED WHEN YOU ARRIVED?

Not being able to walk or drive from a long period of time and that I have to fly every time that I want to leave the country (Because it’s an island.)

WHAT SURPRISED YOU THE MOST ABOUT CAYMAN?

How quiet and nice it is. I was expecting something like the Bahamas or Monaco but it has such a personal and familiar touch.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES NOW THAT YOU LIVE HERE?

We go boating a lot! I love paddle boarding, yoga, spinning, and tennis. Exercising is big for me and being able to be outside and enjoy exercising in this nice weather is amazing.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT LIVING HERE IN YOUR OPINION?

The people and the weather!

WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU GIVE FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE MOVING HERE?

Do it and chill, things are happening very slow here but when you accept Cayman for what it is: a calm place, safe and friendly, you will love it!