Grand Cayman has been heavily influenced by American mores, especially in George Town and the resorts along Seven Mile Beach. In the smaller villages and on Little Cayman and Cayman Brac, the culture is more traditionally West Indian, although the British influence is close to the surface. English is, after all, the only language spoken on the islands, and the Queen's birthday is celebrated every June with a parade and a 21-gun salute. West Indian traditions are noticeable in the soca, calypso and reggae you'll hear emanating from locals' jeeps, clubs and bars.

The Cayman's most prominent living artist is Gladwyne K Bush, an elderly painter known to most as Miss Lassie. Born in 1914, Miss Lassie didn't begin painting until encouraged by a spiritual experience in 1984. Her vibrant 'markings' (as she calls them) are mostly representations of biblical scenes as envisioned in her dreams. Miss Lassie's home on South Sound Road (ask a local for directions) is covered in paintings and is a bit of a landmark.

There are lots of churches in the Caymans and lots of Christians of every stripe frequenting them. Sunday is very much a day of churchgoing, and visitors are welcome to attend most services. Whether it's a part of the religious ethic or a throwback to straitlaced British behavior, politeness and modesty are much appreciated by Caymanians: a 'good morning' will go a long way, topless bathing is illegal and it's definitely not acceptable to wear bathing suits off the beach. Unlike some other well-touristed Caribbean destinations, there is no beach-hawking culture in the Caymans

The Cayman Islands' principal arts development organization, the Cultural Foundation exists to stimulate, facilitate and preserve cultural and artistic expression generally, particularly the preservation and exploration of Caymanian performing, visual and literary arts. To this end, the Foundation initiates and runs diverse programs aimed at encouraging and promoting the artistic talents of Cayman's most valuable resource, her people.

Besides producing a number of high quality theatrical events at the Harquail Theatre every year, the Cultural Foundation manages the US$4 million multipurpose venue which was donated to the people of Cayman by resident, Mrs. Helen Harquail. The theatre is regularly rented out to groups and individuals for variety events throughout the year.