Checking In: Grand Cayman Marriott

I'd always wanted to visit the Cayman Islands, if only to open an offshore account. When I finally got the chance to visit Grand Cayman, I found a lot more then banks. I discovered the best restaurants I've enjoyed in all my visits to the Caribbean, one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches I've found, and even the chance to swim with stingrays and hold a sea turtle. On this beautiful small island with calm waves and friendly people, I may have found my new favorite vacation spot.

I checked into the Grand Cayman Marriott. This compact resort sits right on Seven Mile Beach, known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The swimming pool and the narrow beach are a short walk from the rooms, past a lovely courtyard retreat surrounding a turtle habitat. The resort's signature restaurant, Solana, is adjacent to the pool and the beach and serves al fresco with views in every direction. The resort and Seven Mile Beach face west, for sunset views every night.

My room was a Junior Suite on the third floor, an oversized room with a balcony overlooking the swimming pool and beach. The room had a very comfortable King-sized bed with a white duvet and plenty of pillows, a sitting area with a sofa and two chairs, a desk and desk chair, and a console with a flat-screen TV. I was a little disappointed not to see a second TV in the living area, but the TV by the bed did swivel, so it was workable. The bathroom was functional and large if not luxe with a single sink and shower/tub combo. I also had a separate closet with two robes, an iron and ironing board and space for a suitcase. The suite also had a coffee maker and mini-fridge. Amenities were by Bath & Body Works.

Just off the lobby, the tiny but full-service La Mer Spa offers massages, body treatments, and facials and has a nail and hair salon. This isn't the type of spa you'll want to arrive early for; there's no separate locker area, lounge, or sauna, and use of the whirlpool is an extra charge. Despite the size, the staff here is excellent, and I found myself returning more than once for an aromatherapy massage, a "Flash Soleil" body facial and tanning treatment, and a manicure and spa pedicure. I especially loved the "Beaute Des Peds," an hour-long pampering session for the feet. Ooh la la!

Later this week I'll take you on a tour of some of the unique things to do on Grand Cayman, and some of my favorite restaurants. In the meantime, take a look at pictures of the Grand Cayman Marriott.

^{Image copyright Charlyn Keating Chisholm}