The Barefoot Man: 

 About George 

This is no fictitious tabloid headline: Michael Jackson (his real name) lives and lives well on the tranquil island of Little Cayman.

Michael, best known on Grand Cayman as the island’s top mechanic in specialised cars (Rolls Royce, Bentley, Ferrari) and recipient of the Queen’s Badge of Honour in 2012, nowadays spends most of his time at My Way Resort, his cottage retreat on Little Cayman.

On a recent trip to our sister Island I met up with Michael, who had worked on my own car many years ago. No, not a Bentley or a Ferrari, it was a simple old Chevy.

I was looking for a place to staycation for a long weekend and I lucked out running into my old friend. Next to his private villa, Michael has built a charming little cottage with all the necessities needed for a getaway from the big island. My Way cottage can comfortably accommodate four people.

It has one bedroom with a queen size bed and pull out sofa. A bathroom, kitchen, TV, A/C and my favorite precondition – a large porch with a hammock.

Though semi-retired from the auto business, Michael still gets his hands dirty working in his garden where he has managed to grow everything from callaloo to scallions. His yard, garlanded with flowers and other lush tropical plants, is a bird and small wildlife haven.

My Way cottage is tucked inland, away from the busy iguana traffic of Blossom Village yet just a short hike to the beach. Being an auto aficionado Michael also rents cars, every one of his vehicles is in top-notch running condition. Rather ride a scooter? Yes he’s got them too.

After a long day of sun, sand and fishing, Michael and I enjoyed some fine aged rum on his front porch. We are just a couple of old men reminiscing about days gone by, ex-wives and our grown children that make us proud.

“This is a dream,” says Michael, “my little cottages are a healing sanctuary for mind, body and soul, a refuge from the rat-race just 45 minutes west.”

I look out on Michael’s little paradise. Bananaquits are splashing around in a bird bath, pigeons peck in his garden as the fine rum is having its effect.

For more information call 916-0656 or visit myway.ky.