Grand Cayman came thru Gustav in good shape. A tropical storm watch for Ike just recently issued for Cayman Islands.

Any island or mainland as big as North America that takes a direct hit from any hurricane has direct damage. The biggest recent hurricane to hit Cayman badly was Ivan. Grand Cayman is better off that areas in Louisiana, Mississippi, etc. Everything is relevant. Hurricane hit equals damage, it is the recovery that needs to be looked at!

I just returned today - I arrived on Monday, right after Gustav passed through. You wouldn't even know there was a storm - only a little seaweed on the beach which was cleaned up quickly. They really know how to handle hurricanes there - I wouldn't hesitate to plan another trip during hurricane season. It actually made it more pleasant because we had the pool and beach almost all to ourselves (this was at the "crowded" Ritz)

lucky you! Both with storm stuff and no congestion at the Ritz, which generally is very congested and a place where their beachfront is a madhouse of crammed bodies:) Hope you were able to stroll along the beach and see other options for lodging if/when you return! So many lovely upscale condos in that area that will give you more than the Ritz as far as space, amenities, easy proximity to fabulous beach area, same access to shops & restaurants!

We spent our first visit to SMB area of GC at the former Hyatt (pre-Beachsuite era) and after just a couple of days knew we would return but also knew a beachfront condo was the way to go. Since then (1996) have most happily stayed at Lacovia, Colonial Club, Casa Caribe, and for the past few years Meridian. Otherexcellent, conveniently located options we seriously consider would be Coralstone Club, newer Caribbean Club, Avalon, and the soon to open new Beachcomber.