10 brilliant beach breaks to try

The area: Since a landmark legislation was passed in 1966 to encourage the banking industry in Grand Cayman it has been known as the Switzerland of the Carribbean. Alpine ski lodges and mountainous ski resorts are replaced, however, with mile-after-mile of white sandy beaches and pretty bays. The huge significance of the banking industry on the islands – it is the fifth largest banking centre in the world with $1.5trillion in liabilities – has inevitably led to a surge in construction of high-end hotels and shopping facilities.

The sea: Activities in the Cayman Islands tend to revolve around the sea. Whether it is visiting a turtle farm, exploring Stingray City by boat, scuba-diving the Kittiwake artificial reef, glass bottom boat rides or simply taking a kayak tour along the Caribbean waters, hotel resorts that makes the very most of the environment.

The hotel: It is easier to find luxury accommodation than budget–level properties in the Cayman Isles. The famous Seven Mile Beach Resort attracts many of the world’s best renowned hotel chains. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is already established as a favourite among return visitors to the islands. Complete with a Greg Norman-designed golf course, Nic Bollettieri tennis coaching, Jean-Michel Cousteau nature centre, Eric Ripert restaurants and a La Prairie spa it brings together some of the biggest names in luxury lifestyle to one property.

Details: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman