When I first heard about KAABOO Cayman, I was excited about the idea of a Caribbean festival with a touch of luxury. A festival in the Cayman Islands, marketed as an ‘adult escape,’ promised great music without sacrificing comfort. Unlike Glastonbury, which I avoided due to its crowds, rain, and mud, KAABOO Cayman offered sunshine, art, food, and music from bands like Duran Duran, Blondie, and Bryan Adams.

KAABOO Cayman is an extension of the successful KAABOO Del Mar festival in San Diego, which has been running for five years. The Cayman Islands, with its easy access via Miami and well-developed tourism infrastructure, was a perfect partner for this Caribbean festival.

I spent my first three days on Grand Cayman exploring its beautiful beaches, diving spots, and water sports. The festival began on Friday with local bands, and I enjoyed the mellow reggae sounds of MAGIC! As the day progressed, Flo Rida took the stage, and his energetic performance became one of my favorites. He engaged the audience by bringing fans on stage, taking selfies, and even inviting Richard Branson for a sing-along.

Bryan Adams followed with nostalgic rock ballads from the ’80s and ’90s, and The Chainsmokers closed the night. By then, I was ready to head back to my comfortable hotel bed at the Kimpton Seafire Resort.

One of my favorite parts of the festival was the murals created by local and international artists. These artworks, painted on shipping containers, added a cool urban feel to the festival site. Artists like Elle StreetArt, Lauren YS, Jason Botkin, and Paola Delfin created stunning pieces that were popular selfie spots.

In between music acts, I visited the popup art gallery curated by AmandaLynn and the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands. I met local artist Shane Aquart, known for his ‘stick figure’ pictures that capture the essence of Caribbean life. Other artists, like AmandaLynn and Tansy Maki, were busy creating larger artworks during the festival.

The festival also featured local artisans, like the 3 Girls and a Kiln stall, where I bought some pottery souvenirs. Even after the festival, you can see murals around Grand Cayman, like the painted office building by Ian Ross and the butterfly mural by AmandaLynn.

On Saturday, I was excited to see Blondie and Duran Duran, bands that defined my 20s. Debbie Harry of Blondie delivered an inspiring performance, while Duran Duran closed the show with their distinctive electronic sound and colorful light show.

I also enjoyed the Palate theatre, where local and US chefs showcased their culinary skills. I tasted delicious dishes like lobster rundown by Smokin Bros and chargrilled lobster in chorizo sauce by Chef Thomas Seifried. Chef Thomas Tennant’s session on sustainable food was particularly interesting, as he demonstrated how to cook invasive species like green iguana and lionfish.

Jewelry made from lionfish fins and green iguana skins by Kelly Reineking caught my eye. These unique pieces support conservation efforts and make for great souvenirs.

The Pangeaseed Foundation’s efforts to reduce the festival’s carbon footprint were commendable. They worked with vendors to minimize plastic use, and water fountains were available to refill bottles.

The first KAABOO Cayman was a huge success, offering a luxurious festival experience. Tickets for 2019 started at just over $200, with VIP passes available for $800 and more. With its high standards, the 2020 festival is expected to be even more popular.

If you love music, art, and comedy but prefer comfort over mud, KAABOO Cayman is the festival for you. With world-class bands, great food, and entertainment under the Caribbean sun, it’s a perfect addition to your next Caribbean holiday.

For accommodation, the Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa is the ideal choice, located right next to the festival site. This luxurious property features stunning interiors inspired by Caribbean sunsets and offers access to all the watersports and ocean activities you could wish for.

Another excellent option is the Westin Resort Grand Cayman, which has recently been refurbished. It offers a calm and relaxed atmosphere with modern decor inspired by nature.

British Airways offers direct flights from London Heathrow to Grand Cayman via Nassau, and there are many direct flights from US airports. While in the Cayman Islands, explore George Town, take a guided distillery tour, or enjoy a Stingray City tour with snorkeling.

Plan your next Caribbean holiday around KAABOO Cayman for an unforgettable experience of music, art, and luxury.