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Courtesy of TCIMall
Clients often ask my advice on the topic of travel insurance, which provides reimbursement for canceled, interrupted or delayed trips, lost baggage, medical emergencies or evacuations, and 24/7 worldwide assistance.
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What’s the recipe for a great vacation? Combine amazing guests with the perfect villa! Thanks so much to the Hallberg family for their kind words. Come home soon..we’re waiting for you!
“Should have written to you earlier but things been pretty hectic back home since we came back. Anyway I want to thank you very much for the service during our stay at the Villa del Sol Dec 26 – Jan 9th, 2012. It was the most perfect vacation we’ve had and the house was just terrific….the bureau we rented it from (called today) and I told them that (Del Sol) was absolutely perfect and also told them about the great kindness you and your guys gave us during our stay…Once again thanks for the hospitality and service and the kids (keep) asking when we’re going back.
Kindest regards from the whole Hallberg family”
Want to know what the weather forecast is as you prepare for your Turks and Caicos vacation?
Click on the words ‘weather forecast’ above!
Weather forecast provided courtesy of AccuWeather.com
Just a short flight from Miami, the Turks and Caicos Islands are a tropical classic; a throwback in time where relaxation is inevitable and rejuvenation ensured.
For those of you who enjoy sunshine, pristine sugar-fine sandy beaches and shimmering crystal-clear azure-blue waters , the Turks and Caicos Islands are a spectacular getaway destination. And it’s no secret that TCI is one of the best places for diving our world-renowned reefs or for kiteboarding in the shallow waters of the Caicos Bank.
Providenciales is not only home to the famed and award-winning Grace Bay Beach, rated as one of the most beautiful and pristine white sandy beaches in the world, but it is also home to other equally spectacular beaches, such as Taylor Bay and Long Bay to name a few. As well, the Turks and Caicos Islands are home to numerous national parks, nature preserves and historical sites.
But whether on land or in the water, you’ll soon be relaxing in the unique serenity, beauty, and hospitality of this, our breath-taking island home.
While the Turks and Caicos Islands is an archipelago of 40 different islands and cays, only 8 are inhabited. From the main tourist center of Providenciales to the quiet and tranquil islands of North and Middle Caicos, the historic capital island and cruise port of Grand Turk or whale watching off Salt Cay, each island has its own unique character while offering diverse experiences. But you can be sure that all share a year round warm climate, magnificent beaches, as well as unforgettable underwater activities.
Courtesy of WhereWhenHow Magazine
Since the only way to truly experience the warm hospitality and stunning beauty of the Turks and Caicos is to visit each island in the chain, it’s no surprise that Tranquility clients have become our friends as they regularly return, honouring us with a rebooking rate of over 41%.
And so, to each of our amazing clients – such as the Mumford family who cannot resist the allure of the Turks and Caicos Islands – we thank you for your patronage.
And as for friends not yet made, we look forward to welcoming you ‘home’ while you create lasting memories of a lifetime.
The Mumford Clan at Windrose Estate, Christmas/New Year 2012.
Photos Courtesy of Provo Pictures, Owner, Steve Passmore
“Thanks for the wonderful service.
We were talking on the way to the airport about how nice it was to have someone greet you at the airport and take you to the place.
South Seas was wonderful.
Loved the design and decorated so very nicely.
At first I was concerned that we were so far away from the main area. At the end, we all agreed the area was the best and we felt very safe and secure and loved the privacy.”
Robinson party, January 9 -18, 2012
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Restaurants that must import most ingredients tend to be pricey places and “Provo” is no exception. Expect to pay about what you’d spend at an expensive restaurant in Ottawa (“E”: main dishes in the $25-$35 range) with the exception of the ones I’ve suggested are more “budget” (B) or more mid-range in price (M). Most of these restaurants post menus, and costs, online.
Here’s what we liked:
Caicos Café: (M/E)
An easy walk from our resort, located on an upper deck framed with fairy lights, its menu has a new Italian direction, and we had a memorable conch chowder splashed with island Bambarra rum, a lobster salad with mango and fennel, and a bowl of homemade pasta with a conch and lobster sauce. Admirable wine list. – www.caicoscafe.com
Coco Bistro: (E)
Growing up on skates in Canada (and now coaching and playing Monday night floor hockey in Provo), chef Stuart Gray began his culinary apprenticeship at The Windsor Arms Hotel in Toronto. Coco Bistro is a magical restaurant. The al fresco tables wrap around a harissa-coloured building, beneath a roof of towering coconut palms beautifully lit. Must try: herbed ravioli of conch and grilled peppers in a spicy rose sauce with arugula leaves and pesto, shavings of parmesan and crispy fried leeks. Save room for coconut cream pie. Delightful service. – www.cocobistro.tc
Coyaba Restaurant: (E)
When he’s not in Toronto competing in (and winning!) the Iron Chef, Hot and Spicy contest, Paul Newman is chef and owner of the gazebo-style restaurant Coyaba (Arawak word for “heavenly”). Our meal started off with a worryingly dreary amuse, but then astonished us with a series of brilliantly executed, conceptually exciting dishes. Particularly notable are the scallop ceviche with ginger, and the conch Bolognese on a creamy timbale of linguine. -www.coyabarestaurant.com
Da Conch Shack & RumBar: (B)
Thought this would be a tourist trap, but it was such fun, very pretty, and with great beach food and drink, featuring island beer and rum, and fresh-from-the-water-right-there conch, harvested, tenderized and served up as fritters, salads, ceviche, chowder, stew, jerked, stir fried . – www.conchshack.tc
Fairways Steakhouse, Provo Golf Club: (E)
Newfoundland-born Lauren Callighen is the new chef at Fairways, in the octagonal clubhouse of vaulted ceilings strung with hundreds of golf course flags from all parts of the world. Callighen’s in-house, 34-day dry-aged rib eye is spectacular meat. Good too the ahi tuna tartare with avocado chips. – www.provogolfclub.com
Hemingway’s on the Beach The Sands at Grace Bay: (M)
Home of the Conch Cup for 2011, Hemingway’s won the competition for the best conch dish with its empanadas. Oceanside deck a great spot for sunsets! – www.thesandstc.com
Middle Caicos Café, Lower Bight Road: (B)
Fresh, regional food is on the menu at this very simple, more affordable place located in the Cultural market.
Lemon Café, The Village at Grace Bay: (E)
A Montreal native with Greek roots, John Tsavalas is cooking Moroccan now in Provo at the exotic Lemon Café. Try the grouper fritters with sun-dried tomato harrissa, and the roasted Yellow Tail snapper with date and almond chutney. – www.lemon-café.com
Danny Buoy’s, Grace Bay Road: (B)
Only had beer here (the local Turks Head Amber) but wanted to mention the great band that plays on the patio every Friday Night. By day, Ontario boy Pat Riel is a Provo paramedic. At night, he’s the lead singer in the band Bowen Arrow, with T & C’s Minister of Culture, culinary activist and all-round fine fellow David Bowen on bass guitar. – www.dannybuoys.com
Opus, Ocean Club Plaza: (E)
Food is superb, atmosphere romantic, with candlelit tables spread beneath twinkling trees, at this high end, tropically lush restaurant. A judicious glug of sesame oil lifts the conch ceviche at Opus, as does its mixed citrus marinade. – www.oceanclubresorts.com
Seaside Café, Ocean Club West: (B/M)
Open-air restaurant at Ocean Club West. Loved the blackened grouper sandwiches, the fish tacos for lunch. There are five conch dishes at Seaside, and we tried them all, but kept returning to the ceviche. – www.oceanclubresorts.com
Big Blue has been exploring the Turks and Caicos Islands for over ten years, developing an array of educational and exciting adventures. Big Blue features small group scuba diving, award winning eco-adventures, and an innovative private charter program. Big Blue’s growing network of experienced staff and professional facilities will take you off the beaten path and into the amazing wilderness above and below the water.Join Big Blue’s pioneering eco-adventures and dive trips. Explore the different islands, coral reefs, and sandy cays. Learn about the wildlife, geography, and history of the Turks and Caicos. Spend time with the local people, support the outer-island economy and contribute to the various conservation initiatives.Kayak through tranquil mangrove channels, snorkel spectacular reefs, mountain bike along scenic coastal tracks, dive breath-taking walls, and above all, enjoy the natural beauty of the Turks and Caicos Islands.Keep it simple. Keep it eco.
Since 1983 
We specialize in diving south of Providenciales which is West Caicos & French Cay. These two destinations offer the most pristine diving, where you will find the BIG fish and dramatic walls. We have three custom dive catamarans for your comfort. Very fast, stable boats, full bathroom, two freshwater showers, music, shade and sun deck. All trips include lunch and drinks. We offer all PADI Courses and have NITROX as well.
Exhilarating boat ride, world class snorkeling and exploring uninhabited out-islands makes this an action packed expedition. Board a 38 foot hard bottom inflatable boat that will take you on a fast-paced ride to your snorkeling and out-island adventure. Only accessible by boat, Hidden Bay is surrounded by untouched coral reefs. Snorkeling gear and instructions will be provided. Encounter an abundance of tropical fish and a wide variety of healthy corals. After snorkeling, enjoy a hike to explore the old ruins on the island and the natural pools carved into the rocks along the shore line. Next take off again for another thrill ride as you cruise past Penniston Cay to view the interesting rock formations and the elusive nesting birds before heading up the coast of Grand Turk. Refreshing beverages will be served during your tour.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Grand Turk as you kayak to Madison point and explore the coast on foot. Take in the beauty and tranquility of nature as you paddle your 2-person glass bottom kayak through gentle, shallow waters surrounded by mangroves, exploring small coves and learning about the importance of mangroves. See various plants, birds and an impressive Osprey nest. The clean bottom kayak will allow you to see the marine life that lives in the beautiful Caribbean Sea. Enjoy an eco-adventure walk along the coastline- great for bird watching.
Explore an uninhabited island and have a close encounter with stingrays on this fun and unique experience. Take a boat ride to the pristine uninhabited islands of Gibbs Cay where you can snorkel among a myriad of colourful reef fish, approx 50 yards from the beach. Enjoy a demonstration on the art of cleaning a conch, a local delicacy, and have the opportunity to explore the islands or go in search of the exclusive Osprey. Experience swimming with stingrays while the crew assists you in handling these beautiful sea creatures. Afterward, you can relax on the beach with a complimentary beverage.
Your knowledgeable driver/guide will provide you with cultural and historical information along the way. You will pass by the St Tomas Parish Church and the “salt pans”, evidence of Grand Turk’s salt-raking past. You will continue to famous Duke Street. As you drive along this quaint street lined with historical homes, your guide will provide fascinating information regarding the home’s history and colourful current and past residents. You will then arrive at Front Street located in Cockburn (pronounced co-burn), the heart of the Turks and Caicos capital. Here you will stroll along the street as your guide points out areas of interest including the Anglican Church, the Victoria Public Library and other historical buildings. You will then re-board your transport for the ride to Governor’s Beach, upon arrival you will be greeted by the friendly staff and you will be provided with complimentary snorkel gear and instruction on its proper use. Take a refreshing dip in the ocean or relax on your complimentary lounge chair. Snorkel gear is included. There are fresh-water showers and restroom facilities as well as a snack
On Grand Turk you will experience an island of unspoiled beauty, and withOasis Divers you will discover the diving professionals who know how to deliver the diving services for the vacation of your lifetime. From beginners to advanced, our friendly, experienced staff will cater to your adventure requests making your diving exciting, uncrowded, fun and safe.Whether diving on the breathtaking wall or exploring on a night dive, you will always be comfortable with the gear handling services and the short rides to the dive sites. Offering accommodations in a handful of charming hotels and inns, Oasis Divers provides the captivating hospitality you expect on a small island.
Ocean Vibes is a native owned and operated, full service tour operation. Dive with Wayne – Provo’s best kept secret.Discover the last true Paradise, the amazing walls around the Islands with Wayne, your Native guide, Small Groups, Fantastic Dive experience.By Private Charter or group trips, daily snorkel trips aboard our 40’ Power Catamaran, 48’ Sailing Catamaran or 35’ Power Catamaran (Ocean Vibes, Reef Peepers)
BBQ lunch, Snorkeling, Adventure cruise on a Glass bottom Catamaran includes pirate cave exploration trip, assorted beverages. Over 22 years exploring TCI.
Get ready for an exciting snorkel adventure whit a high tech spin and witness the amazing 7,000 foot drop off! Enjoy an Island tour through historic Grand Turk en route to one of the Islands beautiful white sand beaches. With the underwater propulsion unit in your hands, you can glide easily over the stunning coral reefs and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you. You will explore reefs further from shore by simply touching the special magnetic button on the unit to go and releasing it to stop. You’ll be amazed by the variety of sea life, corals and the world famous 7,000 foot drop off.
Come enjoy one of life’s greatest pleasures while sailing aboard a luxurious 78 foot catamaran and snorkeling the famous reefs of Grand Turk. As the sails go up so does the excitement- gliding on the tropical winds along the famous coral reef wall. After sailing for approximately 45 minutes, you will arrive the snorkeling site. Marvel at the beauty and tranquility of this coral reef system where you will snorkel in 15-20 feet of water.
Let us organize your daily adventures on Salt Cay from
Explore Grand Turk’s marine life with the ease of snorkeling and without its depth limitations. Snuba allows you to breathe underwater with a regulator and swim freely without a tank on your back (the source of air floats in a small inflatable vessel above you); it gives you the freedom that snorkeling cannot provide.
