#Take Out Restaurant In Cayman Islands

[wyndhamcayman]

Confused about Travel? Simplify with Grand Cayman's All-Inclusive Vacations!

Traveling should be about relaxation, adventure, and making memories. But, often, the planning process can be stressful and confusing. If you're looking for a hassle-free, idyllic getaway, look no further than Grand Cayman Vacations. The all-inclusive packages offered by Wyndham Cayman are the perfect solution to streamline your travel plans while ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Why Choose Grand Cayman for Your Next Vacation?

The Cayman Islands are renowned worldwide for their pristine, sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exceptional hospitality. The focal point of these beautiful islands is Grand Cayman, which offers an exciting array of activities, from diving and water sports to island excursions.

Magic of All-Inclusive Packages

The moment you step onto the sun-kissed sands of Grand Cayman, your primary goal should be to relax and enjoy your vacation. And the best way to ensure this is through an all-inclusive package. These bundles offer a plethora of benefits:

Ease of Planning: All-inclusive packages take the guesswork out of travel planning. With accommodation, meals, activities, and sometimes even airfare included in the deal, you won't have to sweat the small stuff.

Cost-Effective: On the surface, an all-inclusive package may seem pricier, but when you factor in all the costs associated with a vacation — meals, accommodation, activities — it can be a more budget-friendly option in the long run.

Stress-Free Experience: With everything prearranged and included, you won't have to worry about hidden costs, leaving more time to enjoy your vacation.

A Wealth of Inclusions: From delicious meals at top-tier restaurants to exciting water-based activities, the Grand Cayman all-inclusive packages ensure there's never a dull moment on your holiday.

Live the Grand Cayman Vacation Dream

Step outside your comfortable beachfront accommodations onto the beach and dip your toes into the clear Caribbean waters. Spoil yourself at the Wyndham Reef Spa, or wander down to the beach bar for fresh seafood and delicious cocktails. The expansive and meticulously designed suites & condos ensure maximum comfort and exceptional views of the ocean. The resort provides a range of activities, including diving, stingray city tours, land excursions, and special tours.

The Perfect Vacation — Simplified!

With Grand Cayman's all-inclusive vacations, you can experience the trip of a lifetime without the stress of planning and coordinating all the details. It’s simplicity, convenience, and fun rolled into one excellent package.

So why wait? Transport yourself to the pristine beaches of Grand Cayman with the click of a button. Visit Wyndham Cayman for more information and make your dream holiday a reality! You'll have unforgettable memories of turquoise waters, golden sands, stunning sunsets, and hours of relaxation. Come join us for the ultimate all-inclusive experience!

[caymanvisitor]

George Town Cayman Islands — So Much to See, Nowhere to Be

What comes to mind when you think ‘island vacation’? Tanned skin. Smiling locals. Fresh seafood. Vibrant bars. And most of all, beaches and beaches galore. Basically, we’re picturing George Town, Grand Cayman. Boasting the perfect combination of quaint but lively, George Town is the hub of it all. Home to the famous Seven Mile Beach and painted with bright colored bars and shops, island-goers from around the world make their way to George Town for that genuine getaway, ‘We’re not in Kansas, anymore’ feeling.

George Town, Cayman Islands on a Map

George Town is the capital and located on one of three islands, Grand Cayman (other islands include Cayman Brac and Little Cayman). This region is on the west side of the island (not to be confused with West End) and home to both the airport and the cruise port as the largest city on the island.

As a quick point of reference, here are a few travel times from various regions in Grand Cayman:

. Distance from East End: 33 min

. Distance from North Side: 25 min

. Distance from West Bay: 15 min

George Town, Grand Cayman Navigational Beacon

The spirit of the Cayman Islands comes to life in every activity, excursion, and sport. Nothing is man-made. Everything is nature-made. Whether you’re staying in George Town, Grand Cayman itself or the East End in Wyndham Reef Resort, there’s no going wrong on this side (or any side, really) of the island. But, while we know we’re on island time, we still want to make sure time is spent blissfully.

That starts with Cayman Visitor. As a company that prides itself on sprinkling local flavor onto your itinerary, we thought it’d be best to share a few George Town highlights as your personal traveler’s jumping off point:

Seven Mile Beach Getaway Tour

What drove this beach to be named one of the Ultimate Beaches in Caribbean Travel + Life? Let’s take a trip down Cayman lane. You step foot from sidewalk to sand, and enter powdery bliss. Views are nothing but blue. The shimmer of the ocean is unreplicable. And every inch, foot, and mile can be strolled, examined and breathed in at your pace. So when this tour is named a ‘Getaway Tour’, we mean it. Spend the day in the Beach Club enjoying both the beauty of the seaside and the amenities, from showers to bars and restaurants. You can even check out the Tortuga Rum Cake Factory for some added Caribbean experiences.

Distillery Tour & Rum Tasting

Speaking of added Caribbean vibes in George Town, Grand Cayman, tour the custom-built, 5k square-foot Cayman Spirits Company Distillery. Sample authentic, fresh batches of Seven Fathoms Rum, Grand Cayman Rum, and Governor’s Reserve Rum. Every drop is on a path to perfection and will *guaranteed* be a lifelong taste memory taking you right back to this moment. Navigate the depths of flavors through Seven Fathoms Rum. Savor the Cayman Islands’ only premium vodka made with great respect, Gun Bay Vodka. Authentic handcrafted spirits + a post-tour dip in the ocean? I think yes.

Kitesurf Cayman

Ok, now back to the water. We’ve just skimmed the surface of George Town, now let’s (literally) skim the surface of the sea. Choose from a private or semi-private lesson and go home with a new skill-set and a glowing tan. From suiting up into kite gear to becoming one with nature in these crystal clear waters, in George Town be that adventurer you’ve had dormant or the adventurer you’ve always been. Either way, with the wind blowing and saltwater splashing, you’ll be living your best life.

Regardless of which excursion you and the fam choose, there’s a reason (well, clearly multiple) why George Town, Grand Cayman is the destination vacation that it is. It’s time to see it for yourself. Reach out with booking inquiries or visit our Explore Cayman page to get hyped for your upcoming island getaway.

[seabreeze2022]

Bahama Cruise 2022, Part 18 April. 19. Georgetown Exuma.

We made it to the famous Chat N’ Chill Bar across from Georgetown Exuma. When you go in or out of a cut you are on high alert and not taking many photos. You are supposed to time it with the wind and current going in the same direction. When they are opposite and the wind is up, it is called “the rage”. Not uncommon to see standing 5 ft. waves, extending 1 mile offshore of the cut. If you are going opposite of the current, you might be only doing 2-3 kts.. Which means it is an eternity before you are clear. Hopefully, you prepared with life-vest and safety harnesses. Battened down all hatches and put in a companionway door hatch or two.

Nancy helmed us into the cut on the north side of Stocking Island about 30 miles south of Rudder Cut. What is interesting is the chart book talks about heading toward the Pink house on the hill, which they repainted a different color a year or two ago. You know repainting the house a different color, should be in the sales contract.

We trolled artificial lures most of the way. No bites.

We anchored right off of Chat N’ Chill beach. Which we checked out daily. Making friends with the rat catcher and petted the sting rays.

Nancy is petting a hungry Southern Stingray. One of these killed Steve Irwin in the Caymans. Is she scared, nope! She has her Kalik beer in hand. Note the school of Bonefish in the photos. People pay hundreds of dollars to fish for them in the Florida Keys. Yet here they swim by your feet. This is Renaldo’s Conch Shack. He will wade out in the water and pick up a string of conch he has waiting. Then open a conch and make you fresh conch salad or just let you feed the stingrays with the conch. There is plenty of conch entrails that do not go into the salad that the rays and Bonefish get plenty to eat.

Renaldo punches a hole in the shell lip. Then ties 5 conch in a bundle. They can not walk away.

This is where we anchor each night, off Stocking Island. Just about everyday, we pull anchor and head over to Georgetown for supplies. Just too rough to dinghy over the days we were there.

We anchor at Kidd’s Cove. Then dinghy into Lake Victoria via the canal and bridge. Inbound dinghy has the right of way. It does get a bit wet right there.

Once inside you either go to the dinghy dock for Exuma Market or the Shell station for fuel.

This is the Shell station, where you lug jerry jugs of diesel or gas back to your boat. Behind the green house on the left, you can get fresh bread in the morning.

Getting rid of trash on a sailboat is a problem. We work real hard at minimizing the amount of trash that collects. In Georgetown you take the bags of trash to the Exuma Market dinghy dock. Walk up the ally to the road, then turn right. An enterprising person parks his “garbage truck” there. You throw your bagged trash in the back. Then slip the proper amount of cash through the partially open window. Couple of dollars depending if it is a large or small bag. Well worth it!

Georgetown caters to the cruisers needs. Several liquor stores and restaurants. Well stocked market, laundry services, small hardware store, Customs etc. Plus if the women need their hair cut, they go to “Styles seafood” market. Nothing like sitting in a chair getting your hair coiffed, while people are buying fresh seafood next to you.

Each morning we listen up on the “Cruisers Net”. Most busy anchorages have a local vhf radio net in the morning. Very entertaining. Topics include: Any Emergency traffic, weather forecast, introduction by new arrivals, well wishes for those about to depart, planned group activities, items needed or to be given away, and last is the joke or thought of the day.

So above is the daily yoga class discussed on the net. The local Chat n’Chill rat catcher, checks everyone out (look behind the guy in the black shirt) then curls up by the instructor. Nancy did the clas several mornings.

We meet up with some friends, George and Lisa. After a short dinghy ride we find the trail to the “monument”. This was an early navigation aid during the times of salt production on the island. George is a retired contractor. He says, “look at the lines of this”. He is right they built it crooked. Which is pretty unusual. I am usually impressed with the early navigation aids that were built on very exposed rough terrain.

It almost looks like a sundial, but it is not.

Nancy and Lisa on a swing. This is in the middle of nowhere. Then we walk down to “Flip Flop beach”, a cruisers hangout.

The anchor dragged on the dinghy while we were exploring. It drifted off into the bay. Lucky for us a group we had waved to earlier found it and brought it back.

Another day, another trip to Georgetown with trash and water jug.

Hanging out later at the conch shack. See the pile of old conch shells on the beach.

While hanging out after the barbecue with George and Lisa at Chat “n” chill. We see his dinghy float away again. Nancy and I run for our dinghy and capture his dinghy towing it back. Something is always happening with dinghies. Without a dinghy you are really stuck on your boat. If you are lucky someone finds it and tracks you down on the morning net.

Here we hike over Stocking Island and explore the beach. The cruisers get bored and organize a beach clean up every couple of days.

Love looking in these small pockets in the rocks. Great place to find shells.

Running out of room for photos so will end this post.

S/V Sea Breeze, Stocking Island, Exuma, Bahamas.

[mortraveling]

Top 5 Caribbean Islands to Visit

Top 5 Caribbean Islands to Visit The Caribbean is a notoriously beautiful place to visit. Newlyweds frequently island hop in the Caribbean and movie stars have made some of the islands their second home. I have compiled a list of the top 5 Caribbean islands to visit in your lifetime. 1. The Cayman Islands The Caymans consist of three breathtaking islands that lay right at the beginning of the Caribbean islands. These islands are home to premium scuba diving coasts coupled with amazing beaches. In fact, the Cayman Islands are home to 7 continuous miles of white sandy beaches that are known all over the world for their beauty. The Islands have over 50,000 residents in just over 76 square miles.  The Grand Cayman island also has a unique sandbar where friendly stingrays frequent making it a hot spot for families to enjoy. If you want some time away from the sandy beaches you will be pleasantly surprised by the wonderful shops and vendors that line the city of George Town. The Cayman Islands epitomize the Caribbean making it my Best Caribbean number 1 destination. 2. U.S. Virgin Islands The Virgin Islands have beautiful scenery, just like the other islands on this list, but they are unique because of their connection to the United States. When you travel to the Virgin Isles you will not have to exchange currency or extend your cell phone service. Even though these aspects may seem trivial, they cut down on the amount of time you will spend dealing with stress on your vacation. Each Island has its own different beauty and culture and you must visit all three to take in the total Virgin Island experience. 3. St. Martin St. Martin is all of 37 square miles that is owned by both the French and Dutch governments. The island is well known for its insane party atmosphere on its French side, and its laid-back culture on the Dutch side. The island is freckled with major casinos and five-star restaurants throughout, and if you have a taste for the finer things in life then your vacation destination should be St. Martin. It is also pretty famous for having its airport so close to a beach that full-size aircraft regularly pass just 20ft overhead as they come into the land, so prepare for your towel to be blown into the sea. 4. Turks and Caicos These islands are not well known and are in fact the secret of the Caribbean. They have a relaxed chilled atmosphere and they are savored for their genuine feel and authentic culture that cannot be found anywhere. The beaches on Turks and Caicos are stunningly gorgeous and the history of the Grand Turk island is a must-see when you visit. If you want to relax and enjoy the beautiful coral reefs of the Caribbean then head out to the Turks and Caicos islands. 5. Bahamas What list of the top Caribbean islands would be complete without the Bahamas? Even though it has become a hotbed for tourists, the Bahamas has retained its charm and natural beauty. Those who love nature will find scuba diving here extraordinary, and families who love to shop will get their fix with the unique shops that litter the landscape. The Bahamas may not be as exotic as they once were, but they still are an amazing bunch of over 700 islands all clustered together in an amazing environment. via Blogger https://ift.tt/DVcj6LF January 14, 2023 at 09:25PM

[thejase]

My Thoughts on 2022

For a number of years now I’ve been writing an end of the year round up of events - mainly as a way to get some frustration with the human race out of my system. Looking back at them they always start by expressing disbelief that the year was actually crazier than the year before. 

2022 is no different.

The year kicked off with its very own ‘gate’ - Partygate! Press revelations shocked absolutely no one by reporting that the Hooray Henrys populating 10 Downing Street had been treating it like Anabel’s nightclub whilst everyone else had been stuck at home watching Netflix and clapping out of their windows. Suddenly a hitherto unknown civil servant was catapulted into the limelight - step forward Sue Gray. Apparently she was the sort of no nonsense lady who would get to the bottom of things. I was imagining her doggedly interrogating Boris Johnson at every opportunity, much to his chagrin, and just at the moment he thinks he’s got rid of her she turns with “just one more thing…” and delivers the killer question. Sadly my Columbo fantasy was not to be. Just as the conclusions were about to be revealed the report got kicked into the long grass by being referred to the police. And what was their devastating method of detection? Polygraphs? Fingerprints? DNA? CCTV? Nope. It was a chuffing multiple choice questionarre. Holmes would be spinning in his grave - if he wasn’t a fictional character. Soon everyone had gate fatigue and what did it matter if they broke the law anyway - there was a war on.

Yes, Vladimir Putin the man who for years had seemed like a murdering psychopath decided to fulfil his destiny by going down in history as one with his decision to invade Ukraine. Boris Johnson was quick to turn this into a PR opportunity. “You can’t get rid of me! Not while there’s a war on!” He kinda left out the fact that it was elsewhere, we weren’t fighting in it, and there’s always a war on somewhere, but faster than you can say “I’ve impregnated an intern” he was off to Ukraine to offer some much needed photo opportunities.  

Meanwhile all the Russian oligarchs that had been using London as a kind of upmarket Cash Converters were told no more tennis with Boris Johnson and their funds were going to be confiscated in, er, 30 days. Phew! “Sergei, load up the gold bars, we’re taking the yacht to the Cayman Islands.”

Video’s featuring performative meat artist Salt Bea began going viral this year. He owns a bizarre restaurant in Knightsbridge (where else?) that can set the hard working hedge fund manager back £1,450 for Golden Giant Tomahawk steak alone. The whole point of the restaurant seems to be not to enjoy the food but to demonstrate to the group of colossal wankers you’re dining with what a colossal wanker you you are. If you spend enough Salt Bea himself will come and serve your steak - looking like a hit man for Fray Bentos he’ll do a sexy little salt shaker dance before sensuously sliding a slice of dead cow down your throat. It’s the ultimate Instagram dining experience.

Autumn witnessed the Clownfall of roisterer in chief Boris Johnson. It was always going to end in ignominy for Johnson because he was only in it for the LOLZ. He might have gotten away with it if it wasn’t for that pesky pandemic. Prior to that his one job was to stick his thumbs up and bellow ‘Rule Britannia’ as the good ship Brexit steadfastly sunk into the English Channel. He was a sort of national ‘vibe man’ at a gig - a Brexit Bez. The moment he had to shoulder some responsibility it all became a bit too much for him and he swiftly retreated into his old habits of boozing and procreation.

There followed yet another Tory leadership election (I’ve lost count) featuring an assortment of the cabinet of grotesques that Johnson had assembled around him to make him look good, and a few backbenchers so unknown that even they weren’t sure who they were. Astonishingly the front runners soon became the meal deal of death guy and the Instagram hat model. During the campaign someone must have whispered in Truss’s ear “Liz, you only have to appeal to the Tory party members” because her tactic quickly became to turn up at debates and say things like “French people smell of cheese” then gawp in wide-eyed wonderment as the audience applauded and cheered. 

One can surmise that Truss’s popularity with octogenarian members of the Tory party was that her density was equal to that of of black hole and thus time slowed down as they approached her event horizon. Unfortunately the combined denseness of Truss and Kwarteng sent them spiralling into a collision unleashing gravitational waves of destruction on the economy.  Their ‘Reverse Robin Hood’ plan was such a terrible idea even the markets baulked at the promise of being given even more money, lest the entire edifice collapsed, and went into meltdown. Liz & Kwasi performed a U turn so quick that I’m not even sure Vin Diesel could have pulled it off in a Fast & Furious movie, but it was too late - back to Instagramming hats for Liz.

It was all a bit much for The Queen who decided to shuffle off to the great palace in the sky. Who could blame her? And while it did feel like a genuinely historic event, every TV station went into Queenovision mode with weeks of 24/7 interviews and obituaries. If this had happened in the 70s I think the coverage would have been much more restrained - they might have pulled an episode of The Two Ronnies in order to run an extended episode of the news and that would be it. But now every station had to out-royal every other station. The problem was there weren’t enough people who genuinely knew The Queen to go around so you ended up with people like Christopher Biggins talking for two hours about how he once saw Her Majesty using a spoon at a garden party. 

In the end it was decided that there was only one right and proper way for the British to pay their respects and that was by queueing. Forget tea & biscuits, James Bond, the Proms, fish & chips, Morris Dancing, Chicken Tikka, losing at football, etc - queueing is the most British thing ever invented. And what a queue it was! There were even queues for the queue. Surely centuries from now the queue will be woven into the tapestry of British folklore along with King Arthur and that bloke who burnt some cakes.

Strikes came back into vogue in with a vengeance this year. It’s a bit like the 70s but they’ve clearly been influenced by Marvel superhero films and assembled a much greater cast of protagonists. Everyone’s at it - rail workers, bus drivers, nurses, ambulance staff, postal workers, civil servants, driving examiners, firefighters, teachers, lecturers, lawyers, even the factory that makes Twiglets is at it - it’s almost as if people have simply had enough! 

Elon Musk went from being Tony Stark to Tony Stark Raving Mad. Apparently reducing carbon emissions and space exploration weren't lofty enough goals and Musk decided that what the world really needs is a platform for douchebro memes. $44 billion is a lot of money to trash your own reputation, most of us can do this for free by getting drunk at a Christmas party. To try and recoup some of his cash he introduced a plan to make available for cold hard cash something which was previously earned by achievement and talent - thus providing a neat analogy of modern life. The plan soon backfired when people realised you could set up blue tick accounts like @el0nmusk and post ‘Free Teslas today for any Maga who brings a raccoon to our showrooms.’ 

Surely the cultural highlight of the year was Matt 'I fell in love' Hancock taking part in I'm A Celebrity. In a production choice akin to casting Harold Shipman in Casualty the former Health Secretary went into the jungle to "raise awareness of dyslexia". Poor Matt must suffer from it so badly that he was unable to read the note he'd written to himself saying "don't forget to mention dyslexia you stud". Hancock managed to perform the basic function of a politician - that is to convince people to vote for you based on the thin veneer of an affable personality - but still came third ensuring his book 'Everyone Else's Fault But Mine' instantly graced the 99p shelves of Bargain Books and he announced the end of his political career in order to find "new and exciting means of communication" (presumably he means Strictly).

So humanity dives headlong into 2023 just as bonkers as it started. I’ve stopped saying ‘next year has got to be more sane hasn’t it?’ and am simply preparing myself for whatever comes next... …please be aliens.

[hddnone]

Um so for the b'day prompt: Character A runs the busiest diner in a town where the scene is same, with same old customer's until character B comes ,who is new to the town, mysterious & not boring & kinda becomes a regular at the diner. Ship: Winteriron I imagine this after IM1 but it's up to you.

Opening a diner in Brooklyn of all places wasn’t what Tony had planned on after surviving through Afghanistan and building the Iron Man armor and stopping weapons manufacturing, but it was what he was doing. Mostly because he was bored.

He hadn’t been kicked out of his own company, exactly. They just wanted distance and the ability to restructure Stark Industries into something not a weapons company without him and his PTSD making public decisions during live conferences. It had been very much a ‘it’s you, not us’ type of send-off, but it had raised the stock prices and even Pepper thought it was the best that he took some time off. 

So Tony decided to put together a restaurant that served the best damn cheeseburgers on the planet. He even got to call it the Iron Chef because he hired an actual chef and everything, though Tony himself was better served out front than back in the kitchen. The people skills he had. The food skills, not so much. But he hired good people and served good burgers and whenever he felt like he wasn’t doing enough he put on the Iron Man armor and went hunting for a mission. 

Tony just never thought food service would get so boring. 

The regulars were kind. Tourists provided entertainment. The staff ran into crazy new problems every day. But after a few weeks, everything felt the same. The same orders, the same questions, the same smiles. 

Tony was getting bored, and his easy access to delicious cheeseburgers wasn’t cutting it for excitement anymore.

Until a man walked in and sat at the counter in the same spot, every week. 

He was always alone, Tony noticed, and he wasn’t nearly as grumpy as he looked.  He was quiet but polite, and always tipped well. He was also bordering on heartbreakingly gorgeous, with the scruffy beard and beautiful blue eyes when he managed to look up at anyone. But the main reason that Tony remembered him was that he would order burger after burger after burger and chow them down with militant efficiency. 

Always the classic burger too, which was Tony’s favorite. The diner was in Brooklyn, he’d hired a creative chef, and Tony had enough money that the burgers could get very creative with ingredients and mixes. Always good, always keeping things new, but the classic - Tony loved the classic cheeseburger, and so did this guy. 

He never came with anyone, and he never asked for a table. He had his spot at the counter, and Tony noticed the way he would keep his eyes on the exits. 

Tony made a few guesses. 

“You should join an eating contest,” Tony said one day as he refilled the man’s water glass. “I think you’d take the prize.” 

The man gave Tony a humored smile, and that was all. 

“I’m Tony. I own the place, though it’s really Michelle who runs it.” Tony winked and tipped his head to the side, towards Michelle. 

She was a college student working for the summer, bright and bubbly and the man’s actual waitress.

The man snorted at the joke. Tony thought that was all he was going to get, and that he should back off before he pushed a regular too far. Some people liked being known, and some liked their anonymity. 

“I’m James,” the man said, so soft Tony almost didn’t catch it as the bell rang for another order up. 

“Nice to meet you, James.” Tony smiled brightly, pleased with being able to know. “Can I get you another burger? On the house, since you’re such a stellar customer.”

The man didn’t reply, but Tony didn’t expect one. 

“I’ll get another one going for you. You can take it to go if you’re not hungry.” The man always seemed hungry, or at least could always eat. Somehow though he seemed too gaunt for as many burgers as he ate. “And I’ll let Michelle know, so there’s no issue.”

The man nodded and gave Tony a soft, thankful smile. 

Tony grinned back, hating how his heart seemed to beat double-time. 

He put the order in for the kitchen, made sure the extra charge wouldn’t end up on James’ bill, and tried to put his mind back to work. He couldn’t think about that damn smile all day. He wouldn’t. 

He tried not to, anyway. 

The next time James came in, Tony earned another smile. There was also another free burger involved, and a few times later there were two free burgers - one for James, and one for Tony who ate at the spot right next to him. 

It wasn’t quite a standing date. It wasn’t a date at all, of course not. That would be weird and not at all normal, or so Rhodey said. 

Rhodey also said it was something that Tony would do, accidentally start dating a regular. 

But James was just so interesting, with that quiet and polite smile slowly revealing a saucy bite of humor and a deep, warm laugh. They had cheeseburgers in common, but James was so easy to talk to that Tony found himself sharing more and more stories about anything and everything. James had seemed to have traveled the world himself, adding bits and pieces to Tony’s stories of traveling, but still was reluctant to share too much. 

Tony didn’t mind. He’d guessed a few things, right from the start, and James’ manner only solidified it. James never asked about Afghanistan, and so Tony didn’t push either. 

He liked that. They both knew, but didn’t have to talk about it. Not here, not at the diner. 

Besides, James had opened up in so many other ways. There were more smiles, more laughter, more stories. He’d grown up in Brooklyn, had a best friend named Steve, and was figuring out who he was and what he was doing now. Where he wanted to go next. 

Tony felt that too, even with all the differences between them. 

“You ever want to go anywhere else?” James asked one day after they’d both finished their burgers. 

Well, James had finished three in the time that it took Tony to finish his one, mostly because Tony kept talking instead of eating. 

“What, like, the Cayman Islands? Nah, they’re a bit overrated, aren’t they?” Tony answered as he popped a fry in his mouth. 

He was rewarded with one of James’ soft chuckles, and Tony was pleased. 

“No, I mean -” James bit his lip, and Tony found that so distracting he had to turn his focus into finding the next perfect french fry to toss into his mouth, “- like, the ice cream shop down the street?”

Tony opened his mouth. Closed it. Then opened it. 

“Yes,” he said, not quite as smooth as he would like. “Yes, the ice cream shop sounds better. I could - I could go for that.”

“My treat though,” James said quietly. “As a thank you for the burger, or -”

“Or?” Tony prompted, holding James’ gaze. 

He really did have the most beautiful blue eyes. 

“Or could be something else.” James’ lips quirked. “If you wanted.”

Tony smiled, and something soft and warm uncoiled in his chest. 

“Yeah, I’m good with that. A little something else sounds like just what I need.”

[turquoisevacationvillacompany]

Travel guide to Turks and Caicos

If you're looking for a unique Caribbean vacation experience, you need to read about the Travel Guide to Turks and Caicos Islands. This unique Caribbean island is located approximately 40 miles off the coast of Venezuela, and it is a must-see for travelers. 

It is a beautiful island chain that have four continents' worth of beaches, turquoise blue seas teeming with fish, and white sand beaches that invite sun worshipers.

The Travel Guide to Turks and Caicos Islands describes the location in detail. You can find out exactly where your trip will start from, and you can plan out your route for an ideal Caribbean vacation. In this article, we'll discuss the best times to visit, and the best types of accommodations available.

In terms of weather, the best time to visit Turks and Caicos to relax during the hurricane season is between June and November. But even then, summer offers excellent temperatures and waters to swim in. June, July, and October are considered milder months. 

In terms of hotels, the best time to stay is between December and May. If you want to enjoy the tropical weather without spending much money, you can choose to book a hotel in one of the many outlying areas.

Before you travel, you must decide what type of accommodation to use. There are three types of hotels: cabins, cottages, and condos. When booking your hotel, ask about these options so you'll know what types of amenities are included. 

Cabins have their own private bathrooms; cabins that include a kitchen are also known as "museums". Most cottages, condos, and apartments offer basic amenities and are located on the outskirts of Turks and Caicos islands.

When it comes to food and entertainment, the best time to go to the island is between Christmas and late June. The island gets pretty hot in the hurricane season and you'll find plenty to do on the water, including snorkeling and windsurfing. 

However, windsurfers and sailors aren't the only things to do on this famous island. During the summer, this is also a popular family-friendly vacation spot.

The best time to visit the turquoise waters of Turks and Caicos for scuba diving is between late May and mid-September. Resorts and hotels on the islands offer a guided scuba diving excursion during this time, so you won't have to worry about finding guides to take you into the water. 

However, diving in Turks and Caicos isn't the only thing you can do. You'll find a number of exciting activities to participate in, including boating, golfing, swimming, hiking, and kayaking.

If you're interested in more than just swimming and snorkeling, you'll find even more fun on these Turks and Caicos beaches. For example, aside from the beautiful beaches and turquoise waters, there are a number of restaurants, boutiques, and shops to explore. 

Paddle boarding is very popular, especially on the south and southwest coasts. If you love being on the water, then you'll love paddle boarding.

Because of its location on the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos have many islands nearby that are perfect for visiting. These islands, like Grand Cayman, have cays and reefs, as well as mangrove forests. The reefs off these islands are filled with rainbow-colored tropical fish that are indigenous to these parts of the Caribbean. 

In addition to having plenty of cays, the islands in this region also contain rainforest areas filled with rare and exotic plants. As you can see, there is no shortage of things to do on a vacation in Turks and Caicos!

You may be surprised that Turks and Caicos actually formed part of the British Empire in the past. On top of that, the island's proximity to the Bahamas and the West Indies makes it a hub for tropical travel. 

That said, the island's closer location to the United Kingdom means that English is the primary language spoken in the area. It is also the home of the world famous King Cake, who is the attraction of the island. On top of that, the cuisine on Turks and Caicos is renowned. In fact, most of the people in the area speak English.

When you head out for vacation in Turks and Caicos, be sure to take advantage of the many beaches. There are dozens of pristine beaches on the island, including four main ones: Lucaya Beach, Playa de Las Americas, Lucay Beach, and Pamana Beach. 

The beach on the south side of the island known as "granny beach" is an excellent place to swim, relax, and sun bathe with beautiful marine life. At Pamana Beach, you can enjoy the beauty of turquoise waters, as well as white sand.

If you stay in one of the many villas to rent now on the island, you can benefit from complimentary French cooking classes taught by the locals. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities. Be sure to check out the many boutiques and art galleries in Turks and providenciales, as well as authentic Caribbean foods. For an enjoyable stay in these welcoming communities, contact the Caribbean Travel Guide to Turks and Caicos today.

[wordywarriorwrites]

Chapter 12: Sabotage

Masterlist: The Boss of Brooklyn A03 Story Link Author: @wordywarriorwrites Summary: When it comes to being The Boss, James Buchanan “JB” Barnes rules with an iron fist. For him, there’s no room for sentiment, and certainly no time for distraction, even if it is in the form of an old flame. Steve Rogers had bowed out of the life a long time ago, but a twist of fate brings him right back into the fold, and face-to-face with a man he once loved. When a game of cat and mouse turns into a matter of life and death, both will be forced to decide whether they’ll be loyal to the business, or faithful to each other. A/N: Bucky Barnes Mob Boss AU. Stucky. For: @star-spangled-man-with-a-plan Star’s Multi-Fandom Follower Celebration & @sherrybaby14 Sherry’s Fall Into You Challenge. Warnings: Language, violence, drug use, alcohol, smoking, explicit sexual content, illegal activities. *Re-blogs are welcome. Plagiarism isn’t. *

Steve left before dawn with nothing but the clothes on his back and his dogeared passport.

When he hit the lobby, he expected to find it deserted, but instead, it was teeming with pissed-off guests. It was way too early for check-ins, which meant there was only a skeleton crew on hand to receive them, and the sole desk clerk was struggling to appease the mob and contain the situation.  

The weary travelers were ripe for the picking and Steve took advantage of the chaos. By the time he stepped out of the hotel, he’d pilfered a suitcase, a backpack, and a dozen wallets. Given the situation, the doorman was overly polite and very Johnny-on-the-spot, and within seconds, he was in a taxi and on his way to the airport.

While the driver was focused on the road, Steve sorted through what he’d lifted; anything useful was put into the backpack or pocketed, and whatever remained was discarded in the suitcase. When the cabbie pulled up to the curb, Steve paid the fare, and disembarked. The airport’s entrance was bustling, and the throng of early-morning travelers were laden down with luggage, which made it all too easy for him to leave the stolen suitcase behind in the crowd.

Steve checked the departure schedule and found the first available flight out was destined for Mexico City. When he got to the ticket counter, the agent told him he was just in time, and that there was still plenty of seating available. By the time he paid, got checked in, and made his way through security, they’d announced final boarding.

It had only taken forty-five minutes to escape, but this time, Steve didn’t feel relieved when the plane took off. Instead, he felt nauseated, and the sensation stayed with him long after the flight ended.

A pit-stop at a tourist trap for toiletries, over-priced snacks, and new clothes. Then, it was on to a cash-only, no-names, non-descript motel. Four walls, a bed, and heavy, garishly patterned curtains. A bedside lamp that flickered incessantly, a television that didn’t work, and an air conditioning unit that puttered out lukewarm air in unsteady intervals. It wasn’t fancy by any means, but the place was clean, which was more than he could say for himself.

He undressed in front of the full-length mirror that hung on the back of the bathroom door, and the fluorescent light revealed everything that had been kept under wraps. Friction-burned knees; thighs smattered with fingertip-shaped bruises; hickey-covered throat; a bite mark on the crook of his neck; scratches on his torso; tenderness in the softest, most intimate of places.

It looked bad, but it felt so God-damn good.  

Half a fucking decade had passed. He should’ve been well and truly over it, but old habits were the hardest to break, and like an idiot, he did the one thing he’d promised himself he would never do again. Steve should’ve said no. He should’ve said no because he knew better. Damn it, he knew better, but he’d always wanted Bucky. He’d wanted him from the moment he understood what wanting someone actually meant, and he’d never stopped fucking wanting him…

The ache in his gut was compounded, because every time Steve took a breath, he could fucking smell him. Many things had changed, but Bucky had worn the same cologne since high school, and the all-too-familiar scent still clung to his own skin. Steve could still feel the voraciousness of their shared pleasure in his calves, at the small of his back, and in his arms. His groin and mouth and heart and conscience were still laden with everything they’d done, and all that blistering, bittersweetness was just too fucking much to carry.

A tiny shower stall, with a sheer curtain that kept clinging to his ass; travel-sized, off-brand soap and shampoo; a methodical cleansing that he knew would leave his skin pruned and bright red afterward. After Steve got out, he wrapped a towel around his waist, and brushed his teeth at the sink until his gums bled in protest.

The clothes he’d traveled in went into the trash, and though he was exhausted down to his marrow, he could find no rest. Detoxing meant avoiding temptation, so, instead of obsessing over Bucky, he turned his mind toward Fury, and tried to mentally untangle the web.

What Steve couldn’t understand – what didn’t make any sense at all – was why Nick had even bothered coming to the table if his ultimate goal was to take Brooklyn for himself. Fury was a man who didn’t like to share or compromise, but he would do it if it served his bottom line. He was also a man of patience and strategy, and he rarely, if ever, missed a target. It just didn’t make sense…

Steve knew there had to be more going on, but he couldn’t see the bigger picture yet. He may have lost a battle in Jamaica, but that didn’t mean the war was over, and leaving had been much more than a tactical retreat. He knew what he needed to do – what it would take to get it done and make it right – and for the sake of what remained of his sanity, he had to go it alone.

The journey began two days later on the shores of Table Bay in Cape Town, South Africa. The economic hub lured in real estate moguls and sightseers, but Steve hadn’t been interested in Clifton Beach, African penguins, or the architectural heritage. What he’d needed was information and he knew a guy who owed him a favor.

From there, it was on to Tristan da Cunha; an island completely isolated from civilization that required a seven-day boat trip to reach. There were no restaurants or hotels, credit cards weren’t accepted, and while most of the inhabitants made their living through trade and farming, he knew of one resident who wasn’t who she appeared to be.

After that, it was on to the Caymans, followed by Cuba. Then, Steve headed back to the States, and hoped to find the final piece of the puzzle at a swanky beach house in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

“I heard you were dead,” Phil Coulson declared by way of greeting.

Steve smirked and stepped over the threshold, “Disappointed?”

“Impressed,” he countered. “And relieved.”

Steve knew there was no point in asking Phil to elaborate on his assertions. The man had been doing the whole espionage thing since before it became mainstream, and though he’d been in retirement for nearly a decade, he still had his finger on the pulse, and really enjoyed the build-up before the show-and-tell. Phil was also the last person left who owed Steve a debt, but it took a tour of the house, lunch on the patio overlooking the ocean, and a lot of small-talk before he was able to bring up the reason for his visit.

“What can you tell me about the players in New York and in the West Indies?” Steve prompted.    

“I don’t participate,” Phil said as he tapped at a wireless keyboard that fired up the flatscreen on the wall. “But I do like to watch.”

A map of Brooklyn appeared and it displayed the hierarchy and territories of the Families over time. After that, it was the West Indies, which showcased how Fury had slowly taken it piece by piece. Next came the reports of all the backroom talks, underhanded deals, blood, death, and destruction. It wasn’t anything Steve didn’t already know, but what Phil brought up next made his blood run cold.

Steve had lied to Fury – said he’d tied up all loose ends – but he hadn’t. Since he knew the woman’s death would bring nothing but trouble, he’d let the dead Senator’s wife go free, and his act of mercy had been both a mistake and the catalyst. Sam’s flunky at the shop came up and he recognized the trademark lollipop. Subsequent pictures showed the two women had met dozens of times. After that, there was a video of Sam doing what he did best, which was very illegal, and they’d used the tape to blackmail him and force him to play along.  

The series of clips that followed showed Fury locked in a cell by himself, but eventually, another person had been thrown in with him. The man Steve saw was supposed to be in a graveyard back home, but the date and time stamp revealed Sam Wilson was above ground, and very much alive.

Bucky’s private security – all taken out by a lone bodyguard who had been bought off and tasked to kill his own Boss. The men who had ambushed Steve on the street, in his house, and who had also raided the Families homes -- they, too, had received similar instruction and payment. All in all, they’d had enough combined insider-knowledge to get it done, but someone who had both clout and cash had helped them execute their plans.  

Steve ran a hand over his beard and started to pace. He hadn’t been able to see clearly or think straight, but now, all the madness made sense. Keeping the peace meant Steve continued breathing and someone clearly hadn’t wanted that. When he’d gotten captured by the Families, Fury should’ve issued a kill order; instead, he’d sent an unknown emissary to negotiate for peace, which meant the accord had actually been a contingency plan.

The agreement between the Bosses had been Fury’s way of trying to ensure Steve’s back was covered. The man had struck the bargain of a lifetime, but if half of what he’d learned was true, Nick’s hands hadn’t been on the steering wheel since the paperwork had been signed. Whoever had done this had managed to get him out of the way and that person now had full control over both the business and crew. What little protection Steve had been given had also been taken away, and somehow, they’d managed to convince the Families to cut him off completely.

Given everything Phil had shared, Steve knew someone had to have put things in motion before he ever stepped foot in Brooklyn. Whoever it was had maneuvered the Senator and his wife into Fury’s orbit; ensured they got caught double-dipping with the Families; planned for the job he’d been sent to do to go sideways. The torture, the ousting, the rumors, the staging of Sam’s death – they’d been responsible for all of it.

Whoever was behind it hadn’t been trying to prevent a war, they’d been planning one all along…

“When all else fails, follow the money,” Steve bit out. “Who bankrolled this?”

Phil had saved the best for last, and when the picture and wire transfers were revealed, Steve put his fist through the screen. Everything inside him was screaming in protest, and he didn’t even realize Phil was still present until he’d been given a towel for his bloodied knuckles.

“Why? Why would she do this?”

Phil shrugged slightly, “Fury’s getting up there in age and has been looking for a successor. I have a feeling Nick intended to hand the crown to you after the job in Brooklyn was done.”

He cursed and wrapped his hand, “I wouldn’t have accepted.”

“She couldn’t be sure you’d decline,” Phil asserted.

“Then, why even bother to play nice at all?” Steve snapped. “Why didn’t she just kill me when she had the chance?”

“Money, anger, fear, envy – they’re all powerful motivators. Sabotage takes time, but it’s less risky, and much cleaner. Killing you would’ve been easier, but you’ve got friends in high places, and it would’ve drawn too much attention.”

“Is anyone else involved?”  

“No. None of them had a hand in it or benefitted from it.”

Steve let out a ragged breath and stared at the destroyed television, “I don’t have it on me now, but I will send you money to replace it.”

Phil grinned and retrieved both a manila envelope and a tablet from the coffee table, “I thought you’d say that. I also figured you’d show up here eventually, so, let’s settle up, shall we?”

A thumbprint was all it took to bring the screen to life, and when Steve realized what Phil had done, the tightness in his chest spread right on up to his throat. He hadn’t just provided coordinates to Sam and Fury’s location -- he’d also somehow managed to unfreeze Steve’s money and assets, and had put safeguards in place to ensure they would never be taken from him again. The envelope contained two stacks of cash, a burner phone, a plane ticket, and a set of car keys.

Phil told him his chariot and the arsenal in the trunk awaited him, and since his flight departed in an hour, his driver was on standby to take him to the airport. The debt Phil owed had been paid in full, and though Steve was floored and overwhelmed, he still managed to thank him and shake his hand.  

“Give ‘em hell, Rogers,” Phil advised. “And when you’re done, get out, and don’t ever look back.”

Chapter 13: Settled Scores

Everything: @jennmurawski13​ @nerdy-bookworm-1998​

Steve Rogers: @patzammit @hearttoearth​ The Boss of Brooklyn: @star-spangled-man-with-a-plan @jamesbarnesappreciationsociety @captain-rogers-beard

[thelastturd]

TOO DEPRESSED TO JACK OFF by The Last Turd --

I was reading the New York Post and drinking my second Mountain Dew of the morning when the world ended. Sheila called to say she wasn’t coming home. She’d met a man in Grand Cayman with a giant cock. She told me he was known across the island as The Flashlight. She said she was going to marry him. I felt hopeless, but I always felt hopeless. I thought Sheila would eventually cure me of my hopelessness, but now she was gone — she was off on a new adventure with The Flashlight — the Giant Cock of Grand Cayman, and I was alone again. Unemployed. Caffeinated. Overweight. Addicted to just about everything. Sheila hung up on me before I could say anything. I tried to call her back. The call went straight to voicemail, and her mailbox was full. I opened my dirty laptop, which looked like a remnant from a nuclear wasteland. The keyboard was smeared with syrupy stains. The crevices between the keys were clogged with small, unidentifiable chunks of hard food and dust and whatever else. I got on the internet and went to Pornhub, but I was too depressed to jack off. So I went to monster.com and looked for a job. No one has ever gotten hired from monster.com. I looked around anyway, but it was all minimum wage airport jobs. I had a degree in something I never understood. The degree granted me access to nothing, or at least to things that felt like nothing, temp job after temp job. All there was to do after work was go to happy hour, but my happy hours lasted from 6 pm till 4 am. I’d wake up with a vice grip on my brain, a stomach full of nausea, and vague regrets. I was hungover and craving alcohol and junk food constantly. Everything hurt. I showed up late to all the temp jobs. And even though they were temporary jobs I was always let go early. I would be called into an office. In those offices there were always flowers somewhere — either real flowers dying in a vase on a desk, or painted flowers collecting dust in a frame. In the office, in a polite tone, the HR person would tell me I was no longer needed. I was no longer needed. Lines like that echo. Then I met Sheila. We were both drunk at a nameless bar in a Chinatown basement, and we went home together. She told me, “I’ll regret this in the morning.” When we woke up the room smelled like sweat and rotten meat. I was holding in a huge fart. I let it go. It stunk up the whole room, and Sheila’s eyes started watering. She gagged. She went to the bathroom. I heard her vomiting, and I laughed. When she came out of the bathroom she didn’t say anything about regretting anything. So we went to get breakfast, but it was lunchtime. Sheila hated the word brunch too. After lunch, we just kept hanging out. Two bored people killing time together. After a couple of weeks, I decided to call what we had love, but love isn’t something you decide to call just anything. I was dying to know what it felt like. I was pathetic and desperate. I was a human. I was a pathetic human desperate for fake love, desperate to say “I’m in love,” or “I love you.” It felt wrong, like everything else. It felt terribly, terribly wrong… and sad. Sheila and I went to restaurants and grim bars. Sheila drank as much as I did, sometimes more. I never got to know the color of her eyes. Sheila had more money than me, so she bought us cocaine. She didn’t work. She had a trust fund. I’d heard jokes about New Yorkers with trust funds, but I’d never met one. I loved the cocaine more than Sheila. Like I said, love isn’t something you decide, something you can control. Love finds you. Coke found me. Cocaine is what I miss the most. We’d been together about two months when Sheila randomly booked a one-way ticket to Grand Cayman. Why? Because people with time and money book random tickets to islands. I didn’t hear from her until she called to tell me it was over. I was surprised she even bothered to tell me. That said something about her. I didn’t take her for someone who cared enough to even break-up with someone. She seemed more like a let-it-fade-out type. When she told me about the giant cock and the marriage it felt like the end of the world. What would I do without her and her money and her coke? Actually, it was a kind of beginning, or a beginning of another kind of end, a kind I wasn’t ready for. I closed the New York Post. I sunk into the poop colored couch. I opened my third Mountain Dew — a Code Red Dew that I’d been saving for an emergency. I turned on Bloomberg News. It was like watching static. I was late on rent, and I was deep in debt. Student debt is a small price to pay for those of us stupid enough to go to college. I decided to call Sheila. I called her on Facebook and Instagram and FaceTime. I messaged her in every way possible. No response. If was able to get an erection I probably would have sent her a picture of my dick. I kept sending her messages. I wasn’t saying anything, just sending letters into oblivion. I finished my Code Red Mountain Dew. It was delicious. I tossed the empty bottle on the floor. The bottle lied there on a dusty gray rug that was once sky blue. Then I realized there was no giant cock in Grand Cayman. I made that all up. Sheila had called from Grand Cayman to break up with me, but she never said anything about leaving me for a man with a giant cock nicknamed The Flashlight. That was all in my head. A total fabrication. I stared at the empty plastic Dew bottle. I felt my sadness turn to pain, and then my pain turned to anger. I don’t know what Sheila had found in Grand Cayman that had made her decide to leave me. Maybe she was bored, maybe she found someone who could afford cocaine. Whatever it was I knew that nothing, not even a giant Grand Cayman cock, could ever make her feel anything as deep as my hopelessness.

[caymanvisitor]

Seven Fun Things to Do in Grand Cayman

There are so many fun things to do in Grand Cayman. Guests of all ages and interests will find no shortage of exciting activities and sights to explore. Move beyond Cayman’s beautiful beaches to experience fascinating history, stunning nature, and exotic wildlife. Get inspired for your next Grand Cayman adventure with this list of seven top things to do in Grand Cayman.

1. Lantern Tour at Pedro St. James

History and culture buffs alike will love the Lantern Tour at Pedro St. James, an interesting 18th-century plantation home. The fun begins with a guided lantern tour of the Great House, also known as “Pedro Castle.” With the help of a talented guide, you’ll learn all about the history of this mysterious and tragic house, the oldest structure in the Cayman Islands. Next comes a 3D multisensory film followed by a complimentary sample of 1780 rum straight from Thatch and Barrel restaurant. The tour makes for a memorable evening spent getting up close to island history and is one of the most fascinating things to do in Grand Cayman. This tour can only be booked through Cayman Visitor. Book your tour with Cayman Visitor here.

2. Cayman Crystal Caves

Step out of the sunshine for a while to explore the Cayman Crystal Caves. As the newest natural thing to do in Grand Cayman, these Caves are set in a verdant tropical forest teeming with vibrant plants and intriguing wildlife. Full of striking mineral formations known as stalactites and stalagmites, these three spectacular caves present a perfect photo opportunity. Following the cave tour, visitors can take a half-hour nature walk to see parrots, bats, and large strangler balsam trees. Book your visit to the Cayman Crystal Caves here.

3. Rum and Beer Tour

Rum lovers will appreciate this Thing to do in Grand Cayman, as it involves sampling local rum and beer. First you’ll stop by Tortuga Rum Cake Factory to sample some delicious local rums followed by rum cake for dessert. At Cayman Spirits Co., stop number two, indulge in 180 proof rum (if you’re brave enough!). Both these stops are a great place to stock up on souvenirs to take home. To wrap up the tour, enjoy a traditional Caymanian lunch at a delicious local restaurant in George Town, the capital of the Cayman Islands. Click here to book your Rum and Beer Tour.

4. Seven Mile Beach Getaway Tour

This beach excursion is one of the most popular things to do in Grand Cayman. An air-conditioned motor coach will take you through George Town to reach the world-renowned Seven Mile Beach. Expect soft white sand, coconut palms, and azure water. Soak up the sun on a comfy lounge chair, sip a refreshing cocktail in the shade, or take part in various water sports like snorkeling and kayaking. Finish this 2.5-hour tour on a sweet and spicy note with a sample of rum and rum cake at the Tortuga Rum Cake Factory. Book your beach tour here.

5. Cayman Parrot Sanctuary

The Cayman Parrot Sanctuary is a family-friendly experience where you can interact with colorful parrots, adorable gerbils, and more! Kids will love the slides, zip line, and sand pit. Set in a beautiful natural setting, this tropical retreat is a fun-filled thing to do in Grand Cayman for visitors of all ages. The Sanctuary is open Wednesday to Sunday from 9am-4pm. Start booking your Sanctuary tour here.

6. Coral Reef Snorkel

This shallow coral lagoon located at the East End Grand Cayman is a protected natural beauty and a not-to-miss thing to do in Grand Cayman. Get up close to three vibrant coral reefs as part of this Coral Reef Snorkel tour. Follow the lead of your expert snorkeling guide to see coral and other wildlife while exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. Book this kid-friendly excursion here.

7. Dawn Stingrays Tour

Head to the island’s North Side for this exciting outdoor thing to do in Grand Cayman. The Dawn Stingrays Tour is a 90-minute activity where you’ll get the chance to interact with lots of stingrays on the sandbar — free from crowds and with the help of an expert snorkel guide. Don’t forget to bring your waterproof camera to capture the perfect photo of your stingray experience. Book your Dawn Stingrays Tour here.

There’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Grand Cayman. Cayman Visitor’s top-rated tours are carefully selected to ensure hours of fun for guests of all ages. For more on the variety of things to do in Grand Cayman, check out this easy-to-follow guide. From highly curated activities to more free-form experiences, the perfect activity for your group awaits. Contact Cayman Visitor for questions about booking your next exciting excursion in Grand Cayman.

[marcywoolls5]

Important Cruise Passport Suggestions For Your Cruise Vacation

Although the Caribbean Islands are produced up of many different countries, there are some Caribbean Islands that you do not need a passport to journey to. These islands are United State Territories and are considered to be part of the U.S. The most well recognized islands being the Bahamas. The Bahamas are made up of numerous small islands, the most well-liked becoming Grand Bahama, Nassau, Paradise and George City Islands. Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge, Kauai - 1 should-see attraction if you travel to Hawaii is the Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge. The great wildlife that Hawaii is well-known for can often be seen in this two hundred and three acre park, such as the state chicken nene, and it is located on the North shore of Kauai. I go up over the bridge on what is called Monkey Island and I have a perfect view. I can hear the radio. The captain of the sloop is freaked out. You can inform by his tone of voice he is fairly sure he will not live to see the dawn. Our captain directs him to motor along with and we will consider the hurt party onboard but as he attempts to method, the ocean swells improve and cause his boat to smash into the side of ours. As his 37 foot fiberglass sailboat slides along the aspect of our steel hull it makes a sickening sound and then the aft remain, which is the remaining wire keeping up his mast, will get caught on our forward higher cargo deck and begins to pull back like a bow becoming stretched to the breaking stage. The San Juan Islands, close to Seattle, Washington, is a lovely group of hundreds of little islands. Many of these are tiny, and only about 40 islands are inhabited by individuals. More than double that are set apart as the San Juan Islands Wildlife Refuge. The area is a character-lover's paradise, with bald eagles, orca whales, harbor seals, and much more. The British Virgin Islands, situated in the Caribbean Sea, are produced up of sixteen inhabited islands along with much more than 43 deserted islands. The islands are just eighteen levels north of the equator, allowing vacationers to enjoy the tropical climate that does not vary a lot throughout the year. The 80-diploma weather is particularly enjoyable since the mild easterly trade winds eliminate most of the humidity and provide awesome relief against the heat. Aruba is the A of the ABC Island. The B and C are Bonaire and Curacao. They are the western most of the leeward islands of the lesser antilles off the coast of Venezuela. All three are well-liked holiday destinations. But if you want t small glitz, glamor and luxurious with your enjoyable-in-the sunlight try Aruba. The United States Virgin Islands are a small team of islands that are located in the Caribbean. They are an American territory and are situated in the Leeward islands of the Lesser antilles. The islands are produced up of three small islands. These are St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas. They every have their personal unique names such as St. Thomas - Rock Metropolis, St. Croix - Twin City and St. John - Adore metropolis. The population of the island is about one hundred,000. It is easy to see why the Hawaiian Islands are so well-liked. They seize what is the very best of tropical scenery, they have fantastic actions and excursions you can take component in, and a cruise is a fantastic way to see them all. Just believe, you only have to unpack as soon as! Other Caribbean states consist of the Cayman Islands, Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica - alongside with Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago. The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is also part of this team. Therefore, if you are planning a vacation guadeloupe islands that you think your pet would not truly enjoy, why not do him and your self a favour and leave him powering? Leave him with a dog-loving family members member or buddy or board him in a kennels that you have checked out nicely your self. If you are looking to go to breathtaking reefs, think about a stop at the Netherlands antilles, produced up of Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, Sint Eustatius and Sint Maarten. You will experience Dutch tradition blended with the islands' history, meals and even language. If you're following the slightly much more all-natural miracles of the Caribbean islands then the island of Grand Turk may be what you're searching for. The island is one of the smaller sized islands in the chain known as the Turks and Caicos Islands. The quaint little island has some of the best views in the Caribbean and when mixed with its outstanding seashores and fantastic snorkeling possibilities it makes for a great cruise destination. If you do determine to visit, then a journey to the island's lighthouse is also a Lexlydia.Net great idea; simply because of the flatness of the island, the sights from the leading are magnificent. The restaurants and bars in St. Maarten are fantastic. Everybody is satisfied by pleasant staff, good food and excellent services. I went to the island in late 2007 and common costs for food and consume were extremely affordable, bearing in thoughts I experienced changed my sterling to US dollars. Nevertheless costs will, I imagine, seem a little greater now due to the alter in the trade price in between the GBP and USD.

[treadmilltreats]

Traveling the world on a budget 

So if you follow me you know I love to travel. I love when people say "It must be nice that your always traveling" (Not…that's the New York smartass in me)

But here's the thing, I don't buy expensive shoes, clothes or designer bags. I don't do six dollar Starbucks coffee everyday, I bring my lunch to work every day and cook dinner most nights at home. I eat out or order in only one day a week.

My one luxury is traveling, that is what I enjoy most. Clothes will go out of style, bags get old and you get bored of them. Starbucks and eating out every night is a waste of money to me but traveling is a lifetime of memories that you have forever.

I get to meet all kinds of people, taste different foods, live in different cultures and I get to live my life large. So many people say when I retire or when I have money but that's just excuses, you might not live to see retirement, or you'll never have enough money, so you need to do this now. 

There are tricks to being able to travel on a budget. I pay all my bills on my credit cards and pay them off every month so I get points for airlines and rent cars. I can find the best bargains on hotels and excursions, all you have to do is put some effort into what you deem important. It might take me weeks or months to book a trip because I am looking for the best deals.

I stay with friends, I don't buy junk on vacation, I want to do and see things there. I want to immerse myself in local life. I don't need to go to the five star restaurants but a little local dive with real local food is what I want. 

Find a local wherever you go, and they will help you find the local spots, not touristy spots which are way more expensive. I remember wanting to go to this tourist spot in Hawaii but hooking up with a local he told me that's where they kill their pigs and had no idea how it became a hot spot. He instead took me to a place only locals knew, complete with private waterfalls, it was spectacular, way better than the pig spot.

But if I didn't talk with the locals I would have never seen the island most tourists never see. In Grand Cayman I found a family that made the best Jerk chicken and homemade festive and yes, we were the only white people there but who cared, they welcomed us like family.

I have met lifetime friends on vacations, people I still keep in touch with. I get to travel ro see them and they come to see me. I have the most amazing memories of my vacations, and let me tell you, these memories are worth so much more than a designer bag sitting in my closet.

So today my friends, never say you can't afford to travel, we all make a way for what we really want. Somehow we find the money for these other things, so stop making excuses and go see the world! Life is too short, live your life large! Bon Voyage!

"Be the change you want to see"

@TreadmillTreats 

[caymanvisitor]

Seven Fun Things to Do in Grand Cayman

There are so many fun things to do in Grand Cayman. Guests of all ages and interests will find no shortage of exciting activities and sights to explore. Move beyond Cayman’s beautiful beaches to experience fascinating history, stunning nature, and exotic wildlife. Get inspired for your next Grand Cayman adventure with this list of seven top things to do in Grand Cayman.

1. Lantern Tour at Pedro St. James

History and culture buffs alike will love the Lantern Tour at Pedro St. James, an interesting 18th-century plantation home. The fun begins with a guided lantern tour of the Great House, also known as “Pedro Castle.” With the help of a talented guide, you’ll learn all about the history of this mysterious and tragic house, the oldest structure in the Cayman Islands. Next comes a 3D multisensory film followed by a complimentary sample of 1780 rum straight from Thatch and Barrel restaurant. The tour makes for a memorable evening spent getting up close to island history and is one of the most fascinating things to do in Grand Cayman. This tour can only be booked through Cayman Visitor. Book your tour with Cayman Visitor here.

2. Cayman Crystal Caves

Step out of the sunshine for a while to explore the Cayman Crystal Caves. As the newest natural thing to do in Grand Cayman, these Caves are set in a verdant tropical forest teeming with vibrant plants and intriguing wildlife. Full of striking mineral formations known as stalactites and stalagmites, these three spectacular caves present a perfect photo opportunity. Following the cave tour, visitors can take a half-hour nature walk to see parrots, bats, and large strangler balsam trees. Book your visit to the Cayman Crystal Caves here.

3. Rum and Beer Tour

Rum lovers will appreciate this thing to do in Grand Cayman, as it involves sampling local rum and beer. First you’ll stop by Tortuga Rum Cake Factory to sample some delicious local rums followed by rum cake for dessert. At Cayman Spirits Co., stop number two, indulge in 180 proof rum (if you’re brave enough!). Both these stops are a great place to stock up on souvenirs to take home. To wrap up the tour, enjoy a traditional Caymanian lunch at a delicious local restaurant in George Town, the capital of the Cayman Islands. Click here to book your Rum and Beer Tour.

4. Seven Mile Beach Getaway Tour

This beach excursion is one of the most popular things to do in Grand Cayman. An air-conditioned motor coach will take you through George Town to reach the world-renowned Seven Mile Beach. Expect soft white sand, coconut palms, and azure water. Soak up the sun on a comfy lounge chair, sip a refreshing cocktail in the shade, or take part in various water sports like snorkeling and kayaking. Finish this 2.5-hour tour on a sweet and spicy note with a sample of rum and rum cake at the Tortuga Rum Cake Factory. Book your beach tour here.

5. Cayman Parrot Sanctuary

The Cayman Parrot Sanctuary is a family-friendly experience where you can interact with colorful parrots, adorable gerbils, and more! Kids will love the slides, zip line, and sand pit. Set in a beautiful natural setting, this tropical retreat is a fun-filled thing to do in Grand Cayman for visitors of all ages. The Sanctuary is open Wednesday to Sunday from 9am-4pm. Start booking your Sanctuary tour here.

6. Coral Reef Snorkel

This shallow coral lagoon located at the East End Grand Cayman is a protected natural beauty and a not-to-miss thing to do in Grand Cayman. Get up close to three vibrant coral reefs as part of this Coral Reef Snorkel tour. Follow the lead of your expert snorkeling guide to see coral and other wildlife while exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. Book this kid-friendly excursion here.

7. Dawn Stingrays Tour

Head to the island’s North Side for this exciting outdoor thing to do in Grand Cayman. The Dawn Stingrays Tour is a 90-minute activity where you’ll get the chance to interact with lots of stingrays on the sandbar — free from crowds and with the help of an expert snorkel guide. Don’t forget to bring your waterproof camera to capture the perfect photo of your stingray experience. Book your Dawn Stingrays Tour here.

There’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Grand Cayman. Cayman Visitor’s top-rated tours are carefully selected to ensure hours of fun for guests of all ages. For more on the variety of things to do in Grand Cayman, check out this easy-to-follow guide. From highly curated activities to more free-form experiences, the perfect activity for your group awaits. Contact Cayman Visitor for questions about booking your next exciting excursion in Grand Cayman.

[turquoisevacationrentalservices]

How much does it cost to stay in a villa at Turks and Caicos Islands?

How much does it cost to stay in a villa in the Turks and Caicos Islands? The place that best sums up this question is definitely the private beach-set island of Grand Cayman. At this particular island, there are so many options for staying in a villa or even a home on the beach. 

In fact, there are so many things to do in Turks and Caicos that one may even forget about the cost of lodging. If you visit this place during the summer, you can experience sun, sand and surf all day long.

If you go to the private beach-sets like Papagayo and Tanna, you will see many beautiful and big hotels that offer luxurious amenities. But if you would like to have more private spaces, you can rent a villa. These villas are available at different rates. You have to check availability of the villa in the area to know the exact costs of renting a villa.

If you book a villa in Grand Cayman, you can expect to pay around $400 per week for a four-night stay. There are two to three bedrooms in the villa and basic amenities like swimming pool and a kitchen. In most cases, you can also expect that there are health services available and basic telephones as well.

When you want to find out how much it costs to stay in a villa in the Caribbean area, you should first determine the size of the villa you want. Then, check out the market to determine the average costs of renting a villa in the area. 

The internet is an excellent resource for determining the costs of renting a villa. Most of these websites provide information on average costs along with the amenities provided by each villa. Most websites also give you a list of the best deals available.

You can even check out an online forum on which the cost of staying in a villa in the Caribbean area would be. You can also check out the minimum requirements needed for entering into a contract with a particular villa. There are some villas that have age requirements for staying as well as a minimum age for renting a villa. However, you would need to check these requirements before finalizing your plans.

Another option that you can take if you are interested in staying in a villa in the Caribbean area is to go through a travel agent. There are several travel agencies that specialize in the service of booking vacation villas. They will usually be very knowledgeable about the availability of a particular villa and the surrounding area. 

The price that you pay for a villa in the area will depend on several factors such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms that you require, the location where you want your villa to be located, as well as the season of the year. You can often choose to rent a villa on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis.

If you are on a budget, you can decide to save money on your stay by looking at the costs of eating out. Eating out at an expensive restaurant in the area can be costly, so you can help to cut down on the cost of your vacation by simply making your meals at home. 

While you are in the area, you may also want to consider driving your car from the airport to your hotel. This way, you can help to save money on petrol, as well as getting some exercise. There are plenty of walking tours available, and you can find out what all is included in the price of a tour before you pay for it.

Before you answer the question "How much does it cost to stay in a villa in the islands?" you should have a basic idea of the cost of airfare, as well as hotel reservations and transportation costs. 

Calculate the cost of your meals at home, as well as any extras you may want to bring with you on vacation. Once you know how much your trip will cost, you can easily work out the amount of money you need to pay for a villa rental in Cancun.

[orbemnews]

The Week in Business: Amazon Defeats the Union Good morning. Here are the top stories in business and tech to know for the week ahead. — Charlotte Cowles What’s Up? (April 4-10) A Man With a (Tax) Plan Large companies are often good at dodging taxes to maximize profits for their shareholders. But President Biden wants to make that harder with a new tax code that would raise tax rates and close loopholes for American corporations with annual incomes exceeding $2 billion. The plan is intended to bring in enough tax revenue to fund Mr. Biden’s $2 trillion infrastructure proposal. If it gets through Congress (and that’s a big if), what’s to stop companies from moving profits overseas to tax shelters like the Cayman Islands? The Biden administration has a plan for that, too: a global minimum tax rate that would apply to multinational corporations regardless of where they’re located. Amazon: 1, Union: 0 Amazon won its fight against the biggest push for unionization in the company’s history. The tally of votes showed that workers at its giant warehouse in Alabama had decided against forming a union. The results will need to be certified by federal officials. But it’s a big blow to union organizers and Democrats who believed that the timing was right for organized labor to gain momentum around the country. It’s also a major victory for Amazon, which has been accused of union-busting in several states. Fits and Starts It’s two steps forward, one step back for the labor market. New jobless claims were up for the second consecutive week, a sign that employment gains, while still promising, will be uneven for a time. Even though employers added an impressive 916,000 jobs in March, the economy is still 8.4 million jobs short of where it was before the pandemic. And many sectors that were almost totally wiped out — like travel, restaurants and bars — are only now starting to come back. What’s Next? (April 11-17) Crypto Payday Coinbase will become the first publicly traded cryptocurrency exchange in the United States when it posts its shares to the Nasdaq this Wednesday. It has become the biggest American cryptocurrency company by making it easy for people to buy and sell Bitcoin and other digital tokens. (The firm charges a fee each time a customer places a trade order.) Last week, Coinbase said it expected a first-quarter revenue of about $1.8 billion. That’s a whopping increase of about 847 percent from the previous year, mostly thanks to Bitcoin’s recent rally. Cruising for a Fight Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida is suing the federal government to allow cruise ships to resume sailing from the state’s ports. The boats must meet requirements put in place last year by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before they can take passengers, but the industry says that the directions lack clarity. Separately, several cruise lines have announced plans to resume operations from other ports in the Caribbean and Bermuda, often with requirements that all passengers be vaccinated. But Mr. DeSantis has prohibited Florida businesses from asking patrons to show proof of vaccination. Aid for the Undocumented As the coronavirus pandemic caused shutdowns, undocumented immigrants were hit especially hard. Their communities suffered disproportionately from high death rates, and they were largely ineligible for unemployment insurance and other pandemic aid. Until now, that is. In New York, the government is offering one-time payments of up to $15,600 to undocumented immigrants who lost work during the pandemic and could not get access to other jobless benefits. The money will come out of a $2.1 billion fund in the state budget, which critics say should have gone to legal New Yorkers who are struggling. What Else? In another victory for Netflix, Sony Pictures Entertainment has struck a five-year deal to give the streaming giant exclusive rights to its films once they leave theaters. In France, Ikea is facing a new lawsuit over a decade-old case in which its executives spied on employees and customers. And more bad news for Boeing: The company has told airlines to ground some of its troubled 737 Max jets — the same model that was grounded for over a year after two deadly crashes — because of an electrical issue. Source link Orbem News #Amazon #Business #Defeats #union #Week