Exclusive Resorts: Discovering Paradise
A Lavish Escape to Exclusive Resorts in Grand Cayman.
Have you ever walked into a place so magical that it feels like stepping into a dream? That’s exactly how I felt when I arrived at Exclusive Resorts in Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands. Nestled on stunning Seven Mile Beach, this place is the true definition of ultra-luxury.
Exclusive Resorts was founded by Steve Case 21 years ago and has since become a top destination for those seeking one-of-a-kind vacations. Now a collection of over 400 luxury residences in 75 places, this members-only club offers bespoke vacation planning, crafting extraordinary stays in the world’s most coveted destinations. Exclusive Resort’s representatives say that getting to know their members is the key to creating dream vacations for them. This personalized approach extends beyond the pre-trip planning, and a dedicated on-site concierge is available to guests 24 hours a day.
Grand Cayman is one of Exclusive Resorts’ oldest and most prestigious locations, featuring four- bedroom luxury villas on Seven Mile Beach with stunning views of a golf course and a lagoon. I was honoured to experience this exclusive Caribbean destination by staying in one of these villas and am thrilled to share my fantastic experience with you here.
What comes to mind when you think of paradise? For me, it’s now the crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands and welcoming sun of Grand Cayman and the serene opulence of one of Exclusive Resorts’ private villas, which are absolute havens of tranquillity and luxury. My villa’s beautifully appointed interior made my stay exceptionally comfortable. Each of the bedrooms had its own bathroom, and I enjoyed the spa-like experience of taking in the fantastic view while soaking in my very own tub. Each villa, includes a spacious living area and fully equipped kitchen, and also has its own plunge pool and a private golf cart, to make it easy to access the nearby Ritz-Carlton’s five restaurants, grand pool, kids’ club, and spa. Staying in an Exclusive Resorts’ villa is like having a private oasis within the surrounding paradise of Grand Cayman.
If you’re looking for things to do in Grand Cayman, Stingray City will most likely be at the top of your list. If you have never heard of this unique attraction, it is one of very few places in the world where you can interact with gentle stingrays in their natural habitat — I couldn’t wait to go there, and part of my exclusively crafted itinerary was a private boat tour to Stingray City.
The crystal-clear water made it easy for me to observe how gracefully the stingrays glide beneath the surface, but then I was able to experience something even more incredible — I kissed a stingray! The local tradition, which is said to bring good luck, was as thrilling as it was magical, and the sensation of the creature’s smooth skin was absolutely unforgettable!
The private boat tour provided the freedom to stop at the most scenic spots and enjoy snorkelling without having to rush. Just about to leave the water after exploring a beautiful coral reef, I was lucky enough to spot a sea turtle, a revered symbol of the Cayman Islands. Swimming alongside this majestic creature was such an amazing experience, it touched my heart. And the adventure didn’t stop there. We headed to Starfish Point, where I got to hold delicate starfish right in the shallow waters. Their soft arms gently brushed against my skin, an uncannily strange yet wonderful sensation. Trust me, it was an adventure of a lifetime!
And what about culinary delights? The exceptional and diverse cuisine makes Grand Cayman an excellent destination for gourmets and gourmands alike, and its award-winning chefs excel at creating unforgettable experiences. Exclusive Resorts has curated a wonderful selection of places to dine, and I’m delighted to highlight those that impressed me the most.
My adventure began at Seven at the Ritz-Carlton, where the tomato tartare’s vibrant burst of flavour won me over. Seven also offers a great variety of meat and seafood, along with an expertly chosen wine list. Its serene atmosphere and exquisite cuisine made the evening truly exceptional.
Breakfast at Tillies on the spectacular Seven Mile Beach was nothing short of heavenly. Tillies also pays homage to classic seaside dining, offering fresh local produce, grills, salads and other delightful dishes. The salty sea air enhances every flavour, and the serenely surreal beauty of Seven Mile Beach with its endless horizon provides the stunning backdrop, which made my meal feel like part of a grander, more magical scene.
Agua Restaurant, my next dinner spot, is a seafood gem in Camana Bay that blends Italian tradition with a Peruvian twist. The real star of the night was the ceviche, incredibly fresh and bursting with flavours that made my taste buds dance with joy.
One of the most unforgettable dining experiences I had was on the evening that a private chef came to my villa to prepare a menu that was an absolute feast for the senses. From the classic combination of prosciutto and melon to the exquisite tuna sashimi and even the retro surf and turf, every single bite showcased culinary excellence and was a true delight. The tiramisu provided a sweet end to the lavish at-home meal.
No visit would be complete without an exploration of the islands’ local culture. Have you ever been captivated by history and creativity in one place? The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands and its vibrant artwork offers just that. Highly recommended for art-lovers, the gallery beautifully mirrors and transcends local history through artistic expression.
Cayman Spirits Co., right on the Georgetown waterfront, was another local gem I visited, to enjoy a Cayman spirits tasting tour. Since 2008, they’ve mastered the art of rum-making, using local ingredients and traditional Caribbean methods. While many on the tour enjoyed their naturally flavoured rums, such as Governor’s Reserve with its hints of spices and tropical fruits, I prefer more classic spirits, so my favourite was Seven Fathoms Premium Rum. This rum is uniquely aged under the ocean, where it is rocked by underwater currents, which adds an incredible depth to its flavour that truly captures the essence of the island’s spirited heritage.
Staying at Exclusive Resorts in Grand Cayman was like living a dream. From the moment I arrived I was captivated by the stunning natural beauty and the warm, welcoming hospitality that define this iconic Caribbean destination. It is the perfect place for anyone seeking both adventure and relaxation.
