The prestigious Ritz-Carlton Resort spans the width of this part of Grand Cayman from Seven Mile Beach to North Sands, occupying 143 acres and one of the widest, sandiest stretches of the beach. Through deft architectural planning the sumptuous surroundings reveal nothing of the island's geography, or even that the property straddles West Bay Road, the main thoroughfare parallel to the beach.

Engineered and designed to evoke luxury as a state of mind, the first impression of grandeur is created as you drive up an incline to the entrance on what is otherwise a very flat island. Check in and step under high ceilings where dramatic wall-sized images of exotic flowers and huge vases filled with dozens of fresh flowers create a sense of opulence, and the hustle and bustle of George Town seems far away.   The atmosphere of indulgence carries into the large rooms that are filled with marble, stone, hardwood furniture, and incredible comfortable beds. All rooms have new modern overhead fans 

A climate-controlled walkway called The Gallery—with walls of tropical art and frosted window glass—carries you over the road and cars below, and deposits you by the oceanside pool, grounds, and beach cabanas.

The cozy, elegant, and truly distinctive restaurant Blue is helmed by Eric Ripert, the culinary king of seafood who brought his genius from Manhattan’s Le Bernardin to Grand Cayman. Such exquisite attention to presentation is rare, and Ripert takes advantages of the abundance of fresh fish available in the Caribbean. But don’t wear shorts or open-toed shoes and you will need a reservation. They serve daily from 6pm to 9pm and until 10pm on Friday and Saturday.

The food in all 5 restaurants is exceptional, and Taikun, just off the main lobby, will entice you with its distinctive green pottery, large communal table, and sleek interior. Nip in for a taste of sushi paired with a choice from their huge sake selection.

You might have guessed that prices here are breathtakingly expensive. There are many amenities, including personal service, even a phone call before you arrive to help plan your stay. If you want to experience such opulence without paying quite as much, wait until summer when garden room rates can fall as low as CI$344. Be careful, however, as there are still many hidden fees, and as with most properties on Seven Mile Beach, a resort fee, which is CI$60 at The Ritz-Carlton.