Cayman Looking Good for 2012 Tourism

The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism is anticipating a strong 2012 following a good year in 2011. In addition to this, Caribbean Travel and Life magazine will run a significant spread on the Cayman Islands this March.

Cayman was voted best Caribbean destination by the nearly 150,000 voters and also picked up several honorable mentions in multiple categories, including Best Snorkeling, Friendliest Destination and Best Beach Bar. Grand Cayman also had an honorable mention for the Best Family Hotel with an award presented to the Westin Casuarina Resort and Spa.

At the recent Caribbean Travel Marketplace convention in Nassau, the Department of Tourism reported that its wholesalers and online travel agents reckoned 2011 was up by 10 to 30 per cent on a year-on-year basis. Room nights and average daily rate have also increased, and significantly the booking window shrink of the past three years seems to be easing.

MICE tourism has become important for the Cayman Islands, the director said, and during the times the destination may not benefit from high visitation, sporting events can assist.

“Something like Dive 365 entices divers to come back and dive the Cayman Islands again; Culinary Month highlights our 130 or more restaurants. Dining is a very important part of the target market and we are Culinary Capital of the Caribbean,” he said.