While the Sister Islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman have been welcoming tourists since mid-September, the Hon. McKeeva Bush, Leader of Government Business and Minister of Tourism, announced that travel restrictions to Grand Cayman will be lifted effective 20 November 2004.

Prior to making this decision, representatives of the Ministry of Tourism met with various public-sector agencies (e.g., the Immigration Department, the Civil Aviation Authority and Cayman Airways) as well a number of private-sector entities in Grand Cayman, including the Cayman Islands Tourism Association, the larger hotel properties, retailers, transportation providers and watersports operators. The Ministry of Tourism toured properties that have been inspected and have room stock available for guests; they also visited those restaurants and attractions that have advised the Ministry of Tourism that they are now open for business.

The Honourable Minister, Permanent Secretary Mr. Tim Hubbell and representatives from the Department of Tourism were among those who toured the properties that are ready to open. "It was important for us to visit the properties which are ready to receive guests," said the Hon. Minister, "so that we could see for ourselves what our guests will experience when they return. We look forward to welcoming our visitors back to Grand Cayman at a time of year that is particularly significant for so many of them – U.S. Thanksgiving -- and this year we will join them in giving thanks for a great many things."

The Department of Tourism confirmed that, as Grand Cayman prepares to welcome guests back, there are 529 rooms available in inventory for sale. All rooms made available to visitors have passed a rigorous inspection process, and additional rooms will be inspected prior to coming online. Our diving and snorkeling are world-renowned, and our white sand beaches are pristine. A number of major attractions, including the Turtle Farm, Stingray City, and George Town's historic and shopping district -- are waiting to welcome guests back. Long known for its culinary establishments, the Ministry confirmed that more than 75 restaurants are currently open for business.

Guests visiting the Cayman Islands are advised to travel with return tickets or with receipts for return e-tickets, plus confirmation of their accommodation arrangements. Those who are visiting friends and family should ensure they have the name and street address of their host. The possession of this information will allow Immigration and Tourism officials to assist guests, when necessary, with any communication or transportation issues that may arise at the airport.

In conclusion, Mr. Bush noted, "One thing is clear -- over the past two months the people of the Cayman Islands demonstrated remarkable resilience, community spirit and optimism. At the end of the day, these once-in-a-lifetime experiences remind us what is truly most important in life -- our family and our friends. The Cayman Islands have been blessed with strong families and loyal friends both at home and overseas. Their outpouring of assistance and support have helped to carry us through what was a particularly difficult time, and we now find ourselves renewed and inspired to showcase the best of Caymanian warmth and hospitality. To friends and family, we say 'Welcome Back.'"