The Grand Cayman Marriott — This is Cayman

The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort

www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/gcmgc-grand-cayman-marriott-beach-resort

““The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” Marcel Proust”

Words by Sophia Muller

Upon Arrival

Upon entering the Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort you’re greeted by an art piece depicting a fever of colossal, bronze-cast stingrays. Stingrays are an iconic Cayman feature and an essential part of the Caribbean experience, making these beautifully crafted alloy creatures a fitting and welcoming piece greeting guests and creating lasting impressions. The lobby branches out into the laidback interior of the hotel - the comfortable lounge, atmospheric and inviting communal spaces as well as the signature restaurant, Anchor and Den. Here, large light-features spill soft golden light over white-washed wooden floors, driftwood-inspired coffee tables and rattan chairs, where guests are invited to escape the sweltering heat. A welcoming committee of tiny sea turtles inhabits a rockpool as you exit the building, directing you to the oceanfront, open-air restaurant ‘Veranda’, where most evenings can be spent enjoying the exciting schedule of acoustic music, beach bonfires and film screenings under the starlit Caribbean sky.

For those seeking nirvana, a more enlightened experience by way of beachfront yoga or relaxing spa treatments are on offer. For the inquisitive, the hotel offers free bike rentals so you are able to explore the island at your leisure. Paddleboards, snorkels and GoPros are available on a first-come-first-serve basis for the more adventurous at heart, while pre-ordered picnic baskets can be arranged for those feeling romantic.

Amenities

· Bar

· Beach

· Fitness center

· Kids' club

· Laundry

· Parking

· Pool

· Restaurant

· Room service

· Spa

· Wi-Fi

Access for guests with disabilities

All five floors, the lobby, indoor bar area and three specially adapted rooms are wheelchair-friendly.

Family-friendly

The daily kids’ club offers entertainment to children between the ages of 5 and 12 years old and includes activities like stargazing, pool games and a pyjama party on Wednesday evenings – offering parents the opportunity to enjoy a carefree date night.

Rooms  

The Marriott offers over 290 elegantly furnished and spacious rooms. It is, however, well worth the extra splurge on an oceanfront suite with balcony to ensure you awaken daily to the sounds of the ocean lapping against the shore from the comfort of your extra-large hotel bed. All rooms include air-conditioning, iPad ports, coffee machines and satellite televisions, to make your stay more enjoyable.

Food & Drink

Indoor restaurant, Anchor & Den, is both buffet style or à la carte and offers inspired cuisine from across the globe. On the menu at Veranda , the open-air answer to hotel dining, is a variety of Caribbean-inspired fresh fish dishes: Cayman style bouillabaisse and Caribbean fish and chips. On Wednesdays, their popular Lobster fete manages to attracts locals as well as holiday goers. Aside from the everyday a la carte and buffet offerings, Anchor and Den hosts exciting weekly culinary events which include:

A Mad Hatter’s Tea Party: An Alice in Wonderland themed tea party showcasing magical treats, and inspired drinks, every Saturday between 2.30 – 5.30pm.

El Mercat – Nit De Tapes: Thursday evenings guests are treated to the exotic tastes and sounds of Spain as they’re transported by the Spanish tapas, live music and exotic flamenco dancing.

El Milagro – Mexican Street Food: Tuesday nights guests are invited to enjoy authentic food fare from the streets of Mexico.

The Anchor & Den Sunday brunch, a favourite amongst locals, expats and holiday visitors alike, those who join in the opportunity to wander through a gastronomical maize of food and drink stations that include a sushi and raw bar, a freshly made crepes station, a wine station, cheese and charcuterie station and an signature cocktail station.

Location

The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort is located a few miles out of George Town and along what can only be described as the Caribbean’s own golden mile (or 7). It’s a leisurely 5-minute stroll along the shore to the waterfront bars and restaurants, the vibrant shops of George Town and the harbour are a short bike or car ride away, while trips to explore the North or West side of the island can be arranged by your concierge.