The capital since the early 1900s, and a busy port; George Town is the central business district of Cayman Islands, the home of Government and an international centre for finance comprising hundreds of banks and insurance companies. The offshore finance industry dates back to 1966 when the first banking and trust laws were passed, laying the foundation for modern day commerce and a most attractive taxation structure.

Tailored for the almost daily cruise ship visitors, the shopping area in George Town is full of duty free products such as jewellery, cameras, watches, perfumes, tobacco, alcohol, local crafts, the renowned Tortuga rum cake and clothes from designer labels to casual beach wear. There's Kirk Supermarket and Pharmacy, various home or hardware stores and a number of clothes and accessory shops. The same restaurants that buzz with the excitement of cruise shippers during the day provide a quiet solace for locals after five. There are exceptions of course, as things do get lively towards the weekend and there are bars such as Hammerheads and Senor Frogs, which retain their crowd all week long.

For those of you looking for some historical interest, visit the steam powered clock tower by the Court House and Miss Hilary Thompson's House on Lyndhurst Avenue. At Fort George on the waterfront, you may also find "Tradition", a bronze memorial paying tribute to the hundreds of Caymanians who have lost their lives at sea. In 1790 Fort George was built as a defence against Spanish invaders. The original cannons remain.

Underwater lie the remains of the Balboa, a lumber steamer wrecked off George Town during the 1932 hurricane. At a depth of only twenty-five to forty feet, with some of the ship still intact and overflowing with marine life, it is the best night dive in Cayman.

George Town is particularly convenient for families as schools are situated on Walkers Road, which has excellent residential properties with gardens. There are also basketball courts, football fields and baseball pitches. South Sound, complete with all of its beaches and its own sporting facilities is also nearby.

Accommodation pricing in George Town is mid-range, but bargains may be found here.