Introduction

You will not be short of keepsake ideas once you get to the Cayman Islands. The Islands' history is rich in exotic detail, as our attractions clearly demonstrate.

What could be more exciting than shopping under a warm sun with a gentle breeze from the ocean? Whether you are looking for dazzling jewelry, beautiful local arts and crafts or designer clothes, you will be pleased with the selection these islands have to offer.

In Grand Cayman you never have to go far to shop. In addition to the shops in George Town, there are many local vendors and craftsmen throughout the districts who work from their homes. An amazing variety of local treasures await you, including shell jewelry, thatch work, wood carvings, crocheted items, pepper sauces, tropical fruit jams, honey and Caymanite figurines (Cayman's semi-precious stone).

Cayman's Silver Thatch Palm 

The Silver Thatch Palm (Coccothrinax proctorii) is unique to the Cayman Islands. The upper sides of the leaves are light green, but the underside is a silvery colour, hence its name.

Up until the early 1960s, the Silver Thatch Palm played a very important role in the lives of many Caymanians. Usually women and children would collect leaves early in the morning and hang them out to dry for a few days before they could be plaited, sold or traded.

Straw rope made from the leaves was especially prized by fishermen and neighbouring countries such as Jamaica because of its resistance to the effects of salt water.

The broad shaped leaves make them an effective covering and they were widely used for roofing. It is still seen around the islands mainly on beach cabanas, but also commonly weaved and made into hats, baskets, brooms and a host of other unique items.