Up Front
Cayman Brac: Still an unspoiltgem
Tania K. Drebenstedt
Manager Better Properties, Cayman Brac
Cayman Brac, though 90 milesaway, is as much part of the Cayman Islands as is Grand Caymanand Little Cayman and, in recognition of this, we at Cayman NetNews have taken the initiative to focus on Brac through this specialsection.
One of the awesome wonders of the Cayman Islands is the sparsely-populatedisland of Cayman Brac, with its cave-like amphitheater carvedfrom raw limestone and a bluff which stretches towards a cobaltsky.
When viewed from the top of the bluff, one is presented with astriking view of rocky shoreline and turquoise ocean. All in all,Cayman Brac is a rare gem ...one which, if carefully appraised,may be considered worthwhile polishing.
For many years, concessions granted on the importation of allbuilding materials and the development of land within a specifictime-frame, have served to encourage both locals and foreignersalike to build their dream home; their place in the sun.
We have seen the emergence of beautiful homes on the ocean-frontand on the majestic bluff; we have also heard talk in the constructionindustry of a boom on the Brac.
But there is also a growing fear amongst Brac residents, particularlyof late, that outside influences - such as global changes in business,war and politics - are likely to adversely affect these Islandsas they no doubt will the rest of the world, and that this couldultimately lead to a slow-down in their economic growth.
But this need not be so since the time is ripe for the Brac. Withthe world as his market, the investor who is looking to developon a medium to large scale is in search of that unique destination;one that possesses a sense of well-being; somewhere like the Brac.
And with the advent of modern technology in both telecommunicationsand transportation, many are looking beyond region and optingto reside in more favourable climes.
As technology, demographics and globalisation merge, the investmentopportunities of the 21st Century will vary significantly.
Investors are looking to capitalise on these changes; unprecedentedadvantages in technology will allow the individual to interactquicker and effectively.
They will no longer be tied to traditional brokerage houses, butwill be seeking advisers who can provide value-added service.
After a stressful week of dealing in today's technological webof intrigue, how would such a person find "enough to do"on the Brac, I was asked.
Well, I replied, if one is not a diver or an avid sailor; doesnot go fishing, play tennis, soccer, or basketball; slam Dominoes,throw a dart, dine under the stars; hop a plane, or drive a boatover to Little Cayman, enjoy international food at the CaptainsTable, or enjoy never-to-be-forgotten local dishes at uniquelylocated restaurants, or a sumptuous buffet at Tiara Beach, planto attend a barbecue at the Brac Reef Resort, or a function atthe Governors Conference centre, visit the Museum, and savourall the nature walks marked in the Eco-Tour map, enjoy a concertlistening to the talented Local bands.
Including the beautiful choirs and Musical contributions at thelocal Churches. You shall not be bored or lonely no golf course(YET !!!! )
The cornerstone to the infrastructure is in place; the Brac isNOW in the unique position to be the 'sought-after' destination.Sought after by 'DESIGN'.
Not just in the world of tourism, but in a unique business sector,with possibly more of Government offices moved over to the Brac,there will be a community envied by many, designed with thought,planned to grow on a steady non-threatening level.
Future articles on Cayman Brac will walk you through many of thelocal old and newly established Brac businesses, we continue witharticles that shall touch every day life, the plans for the future.
Meetings with the Brac Economic Control Board, plans for tourismand business ventures, the Brac IS the GEM of the Caymans...weeklyupdates will let you know YOUR Sister Island, not an Island thatTime forgot but : A Gem in PROGRESS.