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Rich Auntie loves that new hotel smell! So when I received a VIP invitation to the grand opening of Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands—the favorite vacation spot of fellow real-life Rich Auntie, Saturday Night Live star Ego Nwodim—my Akila swimsuit practically jumped into the suitcase on its own.
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Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman—a flagship location for the brand and IHG Hotels & Resorts—is located just inland from the island’s sparkling Seven Mile Beach. There are 7,500 square feet of lush perfection just for the meeting and event spaces on the property alone!
Slap on your sunscreen (yes, even melanated skin needs that SPF 50) and trip with me to the islands to explore Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman’s 282 guestrooms and suites, its multicultural dining options and Pom Pom, home to one the island’s few rooftop lounges.
The Accommodations
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Upon arrival, Rich Auntie was greeted with a refreshing libation to sip while enjoying the hotel’s Bohemian-designed interior, bathed in cool tropical colors and crisp neutrals. My guestroom continued the vibe, offering a beachy feel comingled with luxe amenities: plush bedding, Zenology toiletries and a big balcony that overlooked the infinity swimming pools and waterfall feature, as well as a view of the ocean. After hitting the hotel’s large-sized gym and a quick dip in the ocean (the hotel hosts a special section for guests complete with loungers, beach towels, sunscreen and cool drinks), Rich Auntie got ready to take in all the flavors.
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Dining included a morning espresso at Café Alula, Hotel Indigo’s grab-and-go mart, followed by fresh fish tacos and Frosé at poolside Bata Bar for lunch.
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Dinner can be a triple treat, as the hotel’s three main restaurants are housed under the same roof. Enjoy coastal classic dining indoors or outside at Catalina.
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Taste inventive Japanese dishes at Milkberry or experience an intimate one-of-a-kind culinary journey at Rasa.
The Perks
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Ready for an ocean adventure? Captain Richard Markman of Miss Beautiful took us to Stingray City. And while Rich Auntie only dipped her toes in the water, tourists regularly descend on the spot to give a kiss to the cartilaginous fish (it’s said to bring good luck).
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There are also snorkeling and starfish gazing opportunities on the waves, and Captain Markman makes a mean ceviche and fresh fruit plate.
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Feeling ravenous after all that activity? Dinner at Avecita’s Chef Table inside the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa will satisfy your tastebuds. Chef Alberto R. guides you through a six-course meal paired with iconic gem wines, using fresh ingredients like halibut, mushrooms and chocolate, my personal favorite food group.
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“Rich Auntie” Delaina Dixon at Pom Pom. Image: EBONY.
I finished the night at Pom Pom, located on Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman’s rooftop. It’s one of the finest rooftop bars on the island, a perfect place to sip on its Latin-inspired cocktails and watch the incredible Seven Mile Beach sunset.
The Culture
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Inside The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands, Rich Auntie fed her soul with Thatched Roofs and Ironwood Posts, an exhibition celebrating the art and artistry of the Caymanian Home. On display until July 12, 2024, it features the works of creators Gordon Solomon, Wray Banker, Yonier Powery and more.
Whether you head out or stay in, make the Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman part of your island adventure.