Posted on February - 03 - 2012
Upcoming Events to Enjoy
What’s hot and happening in the TCI
February 3
Kidz Zumba
The Bowen Dance Academy is hosting a Zumba Fitness class for kids from grades 2 and up at the Graceway Sports Centre starting 4:30 – 6 p.m. The high energy fitness class will show kids that exercising can be fun! Bowen Dance Academy students pay $10 per class and $15 for non-students. Snacks and drinks provided. All participants are asked to bring a $3.00 donation for the OOH Uterine Cancer Alternative Therapy Fund.
February 4
Yoga with David Bowen
Start the year off right for your mind, body and soul. Join yoga guru David Bowen’s yoga classes every Saturday at the Graceway Sports Centre starting January from 9.00am to 10.00am. Fee: $10 per person per session. Location: large lounge (upstairs). Namaste!
Provo Primary Yard Sale
Stop by the Provo Primary Yard Sale from 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and find great deals on clothing, household items, nick nacks and so much more!
Held at Provo Primary School located behind behind the Graceway Sports Center. If you would like to rent a table call Karina 231-7187.
February 5
Superbowl XLVI at The Regent Palms
Attention all Football Fans! The only place to be for Super Bowl XLVI on Feb. 5th is The Regent Palms! Join us as we transfer our Courtyard into a Super Bowl extravaganza, complete with a BIG screen, Super Bowl jackpots, buckets of beer and a tasty tapas menu. Pregame starts at 5:20pm, kick off at 6:20pm. Patriots VS. Giants. See you at The Regent Palms!
Save the date!
February 11
TCFAF Hopelessly Romantic II
Another Culinary Competition with our local chefs, another fantastic evening of romantic songs from our local singers, great music, food and ambience.
Performers for this event include Wendy Hayward on piano, and such artists as Alan Lenathen and Herbie Swann, Janardo LaPorte and his saxophone, as well as the amazing voices of Cora Malcolm, Candy Barotti, Julian Garland, David Been, Addison Stoddard, Cristina Zaccheo, Josie Smith, David & Shara Bowen, Barbara Johnson, Brentford Handfield, Marvin Handfield, Brusnite Jean Louis & Brenice Brown, Shelby Burant, Patrick Riel, O’Brien Forbes, Ryesha Higgs & Phoebe Twigg. This is a TCFAF’s membership drive. For more information contact Barbara Pankhurst atbstrogatz@aol.com .
11th Annual Valentine’s Day Cup on Middle Caicos
Come and celebrate the day on Middle Caicos! Learn about this fantastic traditional sport, try out your skills, enjoy local cooking! For more information emailmiddlecaicos@tciway.tc and visit www.middlecaicos.biz.
February 4
Grace Bay Market
Stop by the Grace Bay Market next Saturday from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m., and every second Saturday of the month. There you will be tempted by an array of Turks and Caicos arts and crafts, healthy cuisine and local flora and you’ll be able to meet the artists and growers, discuss their work while purchasing unique handmade items, knowing that a portion of what you spend will go to a local charity.
February 18
Turks & Caicos Reef Fundraiser
Support the Turks & Caicos Reef Fund at their fundraiser held at The Veranda from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Light hors d’ouvres served, silent auction and a cash bar. Enter to win the Grand Raffle Prize, a 2 night stay at Parrot Cay. Call David Stone 346 3111 for tickets. Tickets are $30 per person.
March 11
Daylight savings time
Finally enjoy more of the sunshine when we spring our clocks forward an hour.
March 29 – April 1
2nd Annual Wine Cellar Annual Fishing & Golf Tournament
Have fun for a good cause, on the 29th March through 1st April 2012, the Wine Cellar will be hosting the second annual Wine Cellar Golf & Fishing Tournament. The fishing tournament will take place at the Turtle Cove Marina, where it’s a race for the biggest catch. Then its on to the Provo Golf Club where those who sink the most will come out ahead. For more information, visit www.wcgft.com.
Posted on February - 03 - 2012
February Turks & Caicos highlights
1. Valentine’s Day Cup
Islanders and tourists are invited to Middle Caicos on Feb. 11 to join the Middle Caicos Sailing Association in celebrating their annual Model Sailboat Race. The cultural event promises to entertain spectators with more music, more prizes and more fun than previous years.
The Valentines Day Cup originated 12 years ago with local residents to help promote and encourage the traditional Turks and Caicos Islands hand carved model sailboats.
In addition to the exciting boat races, this year the event will host a cookout, live music and loads of prizes and giveaways. So pack that cooler, sunscreen and hop on the ferry and join your community at Bambarra for a day of history, culture and fun!
For more information, to get involved as a volunteer or to sponsor a boat contact middlecaicos.tci@gmail.com , or call Daniel Forbes at 232-6132 or Sara Kaufman at 231-4884.
2. Super Bowl XLVI
One of the biggest sporting events in North America will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana but many local establishments will be holding Super Bowl Parties for Islanders to cheer on their favorite team!
The Regent Palms will be transforming their Courtyard into a Super Bowl extravaganza, complete with a BIG screen, Super Bowl jackpots, buckets of beer and a tasty tapas menu. Pregame starts at 5:20pm.
But if you prefer to stay at home to watch the game it will be broadcast on NBC and kick-off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Eastern.
3. Family Day
Everyone knows you don’t need a designated day to spend with your family but Feb. 20 is TCI’s designated Family Day across the islands.
Make an extra effort on this day to spend time with your loved ones and to show them how special and important they are.
Enjoy this family day with some of the following quality time activities and try to incorporate them into your life on a regular basis:
- Dining in – Get the entire family involved in cooking the family dinner together. Create the menu together and set aside a cooking task for each member of the family. Not only will everyone feel accomplished but the meal will taste even more delicious!
- Exercise Together – Take a walk on the beach when it’s warm, play indoor hopscotch when it’s not. One of the healthiest things to do as a family is to exercise every day, regardless of the weather. You don’t have to sign up for a family boot camp. Just find simple ways to keep your family active indoors or out. Everyone gets moving and the time together helps your family bond.
- Play together – This is a great way for families to unwind from their daily routines and stresses. Whether you gather the family together to play your favorite board game, make unique crafts or to shoot some hoops. Make time in your day to enjoy each others company.
- Laugh together – The dog just made himself a bed in the piles of baby laundry you need to fold. Dinner is supposed to be on the table in 10 minutes but the meat’s still frozen. Your youngest just reminded you the school needs 48 cupcakes first thing in the morning. The only thing separating your chaotic life from a sitcom is the laugh track. Bust that stress when you laugh with your family every day. Tell a knock-knock joke. Start a tickle fight. Laugh for no reason. Research shows laughter really is the best medicine. Besides, who doesn’t want to hear those tiny shrieks of laughter from their favorite people in the world?
4. Sunday Brunch at Fairways Bar & Grill
Head down to Fairways Bar & Grill for a delicious brunch prepared by Chef Lauren.
Try the scrumptious Eggs Benedict or maybe the Smoked Salmon Omelette and Bloody Mary’s are only $3 each before noon. So bring your family or meet your friends at Fairway Bar & Grill and start your Sunday off right.
Brunch served every weekend from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call 946-5833 for reservations.
5. Go Green
It’s a great time to become more eco-conscious and to apply green living strategies to your everyday life. Remember to turn off the water while you are brushing your teeth and turn off the lights when you leave the room. Not only will you get into an eco-friendly routine, those green habits will save you money on your water and electric bills.
Don’t forget to bring your reusable shopping bags when shopping for groceries and if see any discarded plastic or garbage at some of the islands “Beautiful by Nature’ spots make sure you take that extra effort to dispose of it properly.
Courtesy FP TCI
Posted on February - 01 - 2012
Reef Peeper: Snorkel, Swim, and Explore the Turks & Caicos
Searching for the true beauty of the Turks and Caicos? Reef Peepers has the local knowledge and the years of experience to take you on the trip of a lifetime aboard their 40-foot power catamaran, the glass-bottom Reef Peeper, or their 48-foot sailing catamaran, the elegant Island Magic.
Glass-Bottom Reef Peeper Tours
Climb aboard the Reef Peeper and prepare to be whisked away to sights unseen. Indulge yourself with a tour along the north coast of the island of Providenciales. You’ll discover beautiful uninhabited cays and visit pristine reefs far off the beaten path. Choose whatever adventure your heart desires, such as a half-day snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tour, or a romantic sunset cruises, to simply a private charter all your own.
The Reef Peeper is a 40-foot power catamaran, custom-built in 2003 and powered by twin 150 horsepower outboard engines. The dual hulls of our catamaran mean stability and smooth cruising in almost any seas. We’ve tailored our operation to put your mind at ease. Their boat is outfitted with state-of the-art navigation and safety equipment. They are fully licensed and insured, and staff their boat with a highly trained and certified crew.
With Captain Santo and First Mate Luke at the helm, you’ll appreciate the comfort and spaciousness of the boat as your worries slip away. To get you in the spirit of the Turks and Caicos, they’ll pump the beat of Caribbean rhythms through the sound system as you glide just a few feet above one of the world’s most spectacular coral reefs. Given the boat’s two see-through Plexiglass hulls, guests will have a front-row seat to view the magnificent coral reef and marine life beneath them.
For day tours, enjoy the opportunity to snorkel, swim, dive for conch, collect shells, and soak in the Caribbean sun. For evening tours, participants will see spectacular sunsets and breathtaking sightseeing along the north shore of Provo.
All tours include tasty snacks, refreshing beverages, and exceptional service. There’s no better way to experience the Turks and Caicos than aboard the Reef Peeper. Reserve online.
Island Magic Catamaran Tours
Their 48-foot, world-class catamaran, the Island Magic, is a world unto itself. With the sails billowing overhead and the tradewinds caressing your face, you’ll quickly understand why the Island Magic offers the perfect escape from the daily grind. The catamaran has both sun and shaded space, as well ample space to stretch out. It’s also fully equipped for your enjoyment and easy access to the water, regardless of age or agility.
To join Reef Peepers aboard Island Magic for a half-day snorkeling tour or to arrange a private charter of your own for a wedding, family reunion, business outing, or other special event. Reserve online.
Posted on January - 30 - 2012
Da Conch Shack wins accolades as 29th best beach bar in the world!
By Anthea Gerrie
Anyone can stick up a shack on the sand, stock it with beers and call it a beach bar.
But what makes a great beach bar?
It could be the sand-in-your-toes factor, or the washing and hissing of the waves nearby, or the sunsets or the people you meet.
But the truth is there’s no formula, no magic ingredients that will guarantee a place in a list of the world’s best beach bars.
We’ve included spots that range from the chic and the elite with smooth lines and mesmerizing cocktail waiters, to the haphazard, thrown-together shacks constructed from scavenged driftwood.
The only thing these places have in common is that once you’ve been, you inevitably start planning to get back there someday, somehow….
29. Da Conch Shack, Provo, Turks and Caicos, B.W.I.
With more seafood than you can stare at and more rum than you can throw up, Da Conch Shack in Provo, Turks and Caicos stakes a solid claim for the greatest beach bar in the British West Indies.
They’ll pull conch right out of the sea and slice it up for you there and then, they’ll keep pouring you rums till you beg them to stop and they’ll even serve a great grilled jerk chicken dish, if you overload on fresh seafood.
It’s unpretentious, fun, and casual, and for an island that’s not overrun with places to choose from, the prices aren’t too stepp either.
Blue Hills Road, Provo, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies; +649 946 8877 ; www.conchshack.tc
Posted on January - 29 - 2012
More flights to the Turks and Caicos this Winter Season
Tired of bulky coats, hats, scarves and winter boots?
For the winter season, American Airlines has 3 daily flights from Miami and one a day from New York’s JFK. Direct flights are also available from Boston on Saturdays.
Delta offers 6-times a week service from Atlanta (no Tuesday flight), plus a second flight on Saturdays.
US Airways offers daily flights from Charlotte, and will add a second daily flight from hat city in February. Direct flights are also available from Boston and Philadelephia on Saturdays and Sundays.
Air Canada has direct flights from Toronto on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, from Montreal on Thursdays and Ottawa on Mondays.
The Turks and Caicos Islands currently have 2 full service international airports, Providenciales and Grand Turk, and limited entry facilities in North and South Caicos. All other islands have domestic airports except for East and West Caicos, which are uninhabited.
Provo Airport:
Airport Code: PLS
Latitude: N 21°15′ .6
Longitude: W 72°46′.7
(17° MBPV PLS N21 46.4 WO72 16.0 F-4, Jet A-1. 1100 – 2300)
Most visitors fly into Providenciales upon entry to the islands and then can easily take a commuter flight to the other islands. It is a modern, full service facility that welcomes dozens of international flights every week from North America, Europe and other Caribbean Islands. It is also the gateway to the rest of the Turks & Caicos Islands. Check the airport web site for up to date flight schedules and route maps.
Vistors from the US are reminded that effective Janaury 8, 2007, all US citizens visiting the Caribbean must be in possession of a valid US passport.
All visitors arriving via international flights and connecting to any of our other islands through Providenciales must first clear immigration and customs and claim baggage at PLS before making the connection through the domestic departure area at the Provo Airport.
For a list of countries that does not require a visa to visit Turks & Caicos –click here
Flying times from major cities with direct flights serving Providenciales:
| Nassau | 45 minutes | Bahamas Air |
| Puerta Plata & Santiago, DR | 45 minutes | Air Turks and Caicos |
| Cap Haitian and Port au Prince, Haiti | 45 minutes | Air Turks and Caicos |
| Montego Bay/Kingston | 1 hour | Air Turks and Caicos |
| Atlanta | 2 hours | Delta Airlines |
| Charlotte, NC | 2:15 | US Airways |
| Philadelphia | 2:45 | US Airways |
| New York | 3 hours | American Airlines |
| Boston | 3:15 | American Airlines |
| Toronto | 3:30 | Air Canada |
| Montreal | 3:30 | West Jet |
| London | 8 hours | British Airways |
Private pilots can make use of full service FBO facilities in Provo through the Provo Air Center or SkyBase.
Grand Turk (GDT) ( 13° MBGT GDT N21 26.7 WO71 08.t Jet A-1 1100-0100 JASU) is our country’s capital and its international airport is served by scheduled daily flights from Providenciales/PLS on Air Turks & Caicosand by charter on Global Airways. Flying time is approximately 30 minutes. The airport offers full international entry and departures services, as well as a restaurant/bar, ground transportation, tourist information, and a full-service FBO for private planes.
Courtesy of TCIMall
Posted on January - 28 - 2012
Things to do in the Turks & Caicos Islands
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Courtesy of TCIMall |
Posted on January - 27 - 2012
Must have information for scuba and snorkeling adventures in TCI
Scuba Diving/Snorkeling
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Courtesy of TCIMall
Posted on January - 23 - 2012
Family reports their stay at Villa Del Sol on Grace Bay Beach as the ‘most perfect’ vacation they’ve had
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”

Posted on January - 22 - 2012
Blue Whale Tours and Excursions


Walking & Riding Bird Trail Tour(By the Turks and Caicos National Museum)Contact the Turks and Caicos National Museum for more information.

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.



