Vacationing in The Cayman Islands: A Conversation with Lori Malett

This month, we’re interviewing women from all over the world and asking them about their travels to the Caribbean. We had the privilege of speaking with Lori Malett about her trip to The Cayman Islands. Here’s a glimpse into our conversation.

Tell us about yourself! What do you do when you’re not traveling the world? Where do you live? What made you decide to go to your most recent destination?

I live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and feel fortunate enough to live in an amazing city and state that is surrounded by our Great Lakes and offers a laid back lifestyle where all four seasons can be enjoyed. I have been in the staffing and recruiting industry for the past 20 years and when I am not traveling, I am meeting new people or embracing the great Outdoors with my four dogs. We chose the Cayman Islands as a destination due to the weather, snorkeling and close proximity to the US. It offered an opportunity to experience the amazing blue waters of the Caribbean and was only a short one hour flight from Miami.

How long did you go for? How did you spend your time?

We went for a week! We rented a house on the main Island. We spent our time at the beach, snorkeling, kayaking, visiting Sting Ray city, diving for Conch, visited seven mile beach, went to Cayman Brac to hike caves and snorkel and took a brief detour to the hospital after a run in with sea urchins.

What were your most memorable experiences? What were the biggest disappointments?

The beaches and snorkeling are amazing. You do not need to pay for snorkeling tours. Bring your gear, watch where people are flocking and swim out. You will see the most amazing fish! Second, Sting Ray city. This is a one of a kind experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Third, diving for conch and having our tour guide cook it up for lunch. It was a one of a kind experience. The waters in the Caymans are crystal clear and the weather was perfect. We had a chef cater in a meal while we were there. For the same cost as going to a fine dining restaurant, we had a one of a kind experience learning about the Cayman lifestyle, and enjoying an amazing meal with our own group. Lastly, the Blow holes. The water shoots out of the rocks like a canyon and makes for some spectacular photos. Biggest disappointment: it takes a while to get from one place on the island to the other.

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What do you wish you knew before you went?

I wouldn’t have spent a day at Cayman Brac or if I had, I would have been better researched and planned out. I felt like we drove around a lot, and it was my least favorite day of the trip. A visit to the hospital will do that though.

Any favorite restaurants/hotels/hostels/sites you’d like to recommend? Tell us what made them great!

Grand Cayman Villas and Condos! Seamless booking, outstanding service and amazing properties. They have an app you can download that keeps all your information, directions and maps in one place. They provided outstanding recommendations and truly created a relaxing trip for all. Also, the Lloyd Brown Catering Services – Phenomenal! The Lighthouse restaurant with seating on the pier is a great restaurant. The Blow Holes are a must do! Lastly, Tukka Restaurant – outstanding!

Is there anything that women specifically should know before they travel to your destination?

It is a very safe island, but like anywhere, just be aware of your surroundings. You don’t leave your doors unlocked or your purse in the car.