Grand Cayman is one of the most breathtaking Caribbean islands I’ve ever explored with amazing beaches and culture BUT… here are some things to consider before traveling here: 1️⃣ Budget Wisely. Grand Cayman is beautiful but expensive. Brace yourself for the 18% gratuity added to every service. SERIOUSLY; factor this into your budget, the gratuity is not just for dining… it’s applied to any type of service received. They expect an additional tip on top of this gratuity as well. Lastly, the U.S. dollar won’t stretch as far as Caymanian currency. Our dollar is worth less, so keep this in mind when planning expenses. 2️⃣ If you love All-Inclusives, note there are none here, so plan to dine out and experience local cuisine. May I recommend a stay at Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman, an IHG Hotel. Our time here was so enjoyable and the service is amazing! 3️⃣ Renting a car is the best way to explore the island at your own pace. Taxis can be costly. Also, remember it is British territory, so you’ll be driving on the left side of the road. 4️⃣ Unpredictable Weather. Bring a mix of light clothing, rain gear, and sun protection. It gets hot!!! 5️⃣ Explore Beyond Seven Mile Beach. While Seven Mile Beach is popular, don’t miss out on the quieter side of the island. Hidden gems and serene spots await. 6️⃣ Make time for common marine activities like swimming with sea turtles at the Grand Cayman Turtle Center, kissing stingrays at Stingray City, Grand Cayman, and hunting for starfish at Starfish Point. These experiences are unique and unforgettable. 7️⃣ Dive into the dining scene! Enjoy local dishes. Caymanian cuisine is a blend of flavors worth exploring. We loved our incredible dining experiences on the beach at Bonny Moon Beach Club and Tillies Grand Cayman. 8️⃣ Be mindful of the natural beauty and marine life. Follow local guidelines to preserve the environment. 9️⃣ Indulge in cultural experiences, the island has a rich heritage. We witnessed CayMAS Carnival! 🔟 The mosquitos 🦟 are ruthless, but don’t let them deter you from a visit to this tropical paradise! Happy exploring!

Let me tell you about this secret little paradise we found a few years ago. Saona Island lies off the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic and is known for its beautiful mangroves, coral reefs and starfish. There’s truly something magical about the scenic beaches, shores lined by gigantic palm trees, and clear turquoise shallow waters of the island. What we found to be really cool is the fact that the whole island is a nature reserve, as it is a part of the East National Park. It’s a protected space and the absolute perfect place to spend a day. Fun Fact: Pirates of Caribbean and The Blue Lagoon both had scenes filmed on Saona Island. Saona was named one of eight "dream islands" by the Caribbean Travel & Life Magazine. It's definitely a sight to see and if you will be near the Punta Cana area, you should add this gem as a "must-do" excursion on the itinerary.

This picturesque quaint coastal town is simply beautiful. St Simons Island happens to be the largest of the Golden Isles in the State of Georgia. The islanders are friendly and welcoming and this island boasts miles of sunny beaches, endless activities, and a culture-rich history. My family and I found sanctuary here in the earlier pandemic days of 2020. It was an absolute joy to stroll through the island's beloved Pier Village while taking in sweeping views of the Sound, lighthouse, and the charm of all the locally owned restaurants and shops. Make sure if you plan to stop here for a quick visit that you make time to indulge in some yummy fresh seafood at one of the local eateries!