Bonding Bliss
Sun, sand, and twins? Check. Travel to the Cayman Islands on a work trip turned family fun with Exclusive Resorts Members Holly Cao, Bob Hellman, and their 3-year-old boys, Carter and Tucker.
My husband Bob and I travel regularly for work. Over the last few years we've started to view select work trips as potential opportunity for family fun. One of our top work-family travel experiences was a recent visit to the Grand Cayman Islands.
Bob was scheduled for a three-day conference at the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, and the boys were excited to “go to work” on a plane with Daddy. Staying in an Exclusive Resorts residence versus the conference hotel allowed for dedicated family time. Our routine? We’d make breakfast at the residence with groceries stocked by our concierge prior to packing up pool gear and driving to the 7-Mile Beach in golf carts. We’d spend time with Bob before his conference. Ironically, with the hustle and bustle of two working and traveling parents, kids’ school, and activity schedules back home, our work getaway helped coordinate consistent quality time. We were able to slow down and cherish the simple joys of daily life at our home away from home.
Carter and Tucker experienced several “firsts,” including a dip in the Caribbean, golf-cart rides, a three-hour tasting menu at Blue by Eric Ripert, and a close encounter with 200-pound sea turtles. They also glimpsed stingrays and tasted conch fritters. Ultimately, our twins continue to be transformed by the unique power of travel.
EAT
BLUE BY ERIC RIPERT | Some of the best Seafood in the Caribbean. The boys sat through a three-hour meal.
SAINT JUNE | A perfect place to relax and watch the sunset and grab a bite while you enjoy the beautiful Seven Mile Beach.
CALYPSO GRILL | A short Taxi ride from the Villas. They are famous for Island casual dining with a mixture of seafood and Island fusion. (Don’t forget to order the famous Sticky Toffee Pudding).
SHOP
THE CAMANA BAY TOWN CENTRE | Ideal to walk around, shop, and eat. And the location of the aforementioned Michael's Genuine and Ortanique.
TURTLE FARM | The gift shop is a hidden gem. We found locally made handbags, island outfits and Woody cars for the boys, artisan soaps, and rum-infused coffee beans.
EXPLORE
THE RITZ-CARLTON, GRAND CAYMAN BEACH | Nothing compares to this ocean, where the water is pure aqua blue along the 7-Mile Beach.
GO BY GOLF CART | Keep your golf cart packed and ready to go! It's the only way.
TURTLE FARM | The boys got to pet a turtle. View 200- to 600-pound turtles in one place.