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

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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.

Reef PeeperFor 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

Island MagicTheir 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.

 

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Posted on January - 31 - 2012

Authentic Flavors of the Turks and Caicos

If you’re looking for an authentic, unforgettable gift to take home to family and friends, or that perfect bottle of rum, wine or champagne while here, be sure to visit FOTTAC, aka Flavors of the Turks and Caicos.

Aside from a wonderful array of locally make products, their Bambarra Rum cakes are mouth-watering great!!

(located right on Grace Bay Road next to Caicos Adventures and across the street from Saltmills Plaza)

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Posted on January - 28 - 2012

Things to do in the Turks & Caicos Islands

Bird Watching
The salt ponds and inland marshes serve as excellent feeding grounds for resident and migratory birds. Search for Great Blue Herons, Flamingos, Osprey and Pelicans alongside Egrets, Terns, Frigates, Boobies and other water birds. As part of the National Parks system more than twelve small cays have been set aside and protected for breeding grounds. 170 species of bird can be found in the Turks and Caicos Islands from Pelicans and Flamingos to Osprey and Cuban Crows. The variety is staggering and the photographs that have been taken here have been published across the world. On North Caicos in particular the tidal flats on the South side of the island attract scores of birds including wild Pink Flamingos that regularly inhabit the aptly named Flamingo Pond.Turks and Caicos also is home to the West Indian Whistling-Duck, a rare bird that gets its name from a distinctive whistling call.
http://www.turksandcaicosbirdwatching.com/
Providenciales, North Caicos

Caicos Conch Farm
“The World’s Only Sea Farm that raises Caribbean Queens fit for a King”Explore the only conch farm in the world, yes where Caribbean Queen conchs are raised from veliger to adult. Here you can watch how the process is done, enjoy a show with the two trained and very friendly conchs, see conch pearls and even purchase fresh conch for a fabulous conch salad. Conch is quickly becoming a rising star food with top chefs from the USA and round the World choosing to use Turks and Caicos Conch Farmed products in their new dishes. The Conch Farm specialises in exporting the conch including Pacific Rim, Ocean Escargot and Island Princess Conch and claims to raise the only “Caribbean Queens fit for a King”.
http://www.caicosconchfarm.com/
Providenciales

Cheshire Hall
Cheshire Hall is one of the key historic attractions on Providenciales. The 200 year-old ruins of this former cotton plantation are striking against a backdrop of modern day Provo, as the island is known locally. The building ruins have been carefully preserved by the National Trust and offer spectacular views of the island. Thomas Stubbs left England and moved to Providenciales in the early 19th century, where he named his plantation Cheshire Hall after his home county. By 1810, Thomas had given up and sold the hall to his brother Wade. A cornerstone at the ruins is inscribed “W. Stubbs 1810″ to mark the transaction. The plantations survived for about 30 years before soil exhaustion, drought and the hurricane in 1812 destroyed them. Before he died in Grand Turk in 1822, Stubbs’ plantation included thousands of acres and 384 slaves. On the night of 9 September, 1800, 14 slaves escaped in a small boat. He offered a reward of US$500 for their return, but there is no record indicating if they were ever found.
http://
Providenciales

Clear Kayaking & Eco Safari
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.
http://www.oasisdivers.com
1 649-946-1298
Grand Turk

Conch World Deluxe Tour & Tasting
Explore the history, the life cycle and the importance of the Queen Conch. View live conch growing through its four-year life cycle, from babies to adults, and learn all about the Queen Conch through a guided series of interesting displays and a video presentation. Meet Sally and Jerry, Conch World’s live Queen Conch mascot couple, and after a guided tour of the facility, you will have the opportunity to sample the world’s best conch and the famous “Porcupine Spike” fruit/rum punch.
http://www.conchworld.com/
oswald@conchworld.com
            1 646 242 5797      
Providenciales, Grand Turk

Grand Turk Cruise Center
The Grand Turk Cruise Center, with direct beachfront access, is a first-class facility nestled among nearly 14 acres of landscaped grounds. With convenient changing rooms, showers and lockers for cruise line guests, cruise center visitors also can swim either in the ocean’s sparkling waters or in one of the largest pools in the Caribbean, stroll along the idyllic beach, relax in a chaise lounge or covered beach chair, and even rent a private cabana for the day and enjoy a massage. The cruise center is also home to a Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, a fun and exciting place the whole family can enjoy. In the coming year, visitors to the cruise center will have the opportunity to peruse through a 45,000 sq. ft. shopping center which includes a 10,000 sq. ft. Dufry duty-free shop, and 35,000 sq. ft. of high end jewelry stores, an array of unique and world-renowned apparel and t-shirt stores, locally crafted souvenirs and gifts, and food and beverage facilities.
http://www.grandturkcc.com/
Grand Turk

Grand Turk Experience
Discover the highlights of Grand Turk on this guided island drive and beach break. You’ll ride past the former United States Air Force Tracking base and see a replica of Astronaut John Glenn’s Friendship 7 space capsule. Throughout your journey, you will see several 18th century churches, beautiful Bermudian-style buildings and salt ponds. Don’t be surprised to see wild horses and donkeys freely roaming the streets. Enjoy a brief stop to see the 150+ year old working lighthouse and visit “The salt House”
http://
Grand Turk

Grand Turk Lighthouse
The lighthouse was brought in pieces from the UK where it had been constructed in 1852. It has been restored and still works guarding the northern tip of Grand Turk, the capital island of the Turks and Caicos. The lighthouse and lighthouse keeper’s house is a prized historic site and is protected by the National Trust. The Lighthouse provides some shade, a picnic area and an excellent viewing spot for the whales in February and March. The lighthouse hill overlooks North Creek, an inland body of water or lake that a growing number of historians argue is the closest fit to the description that Columbus gave for the island that he first encountered on his 1492 voyage to the New World.
http://www.tcmuseum.org/landmarks/grand_turk_lighthouse/
Grand Turk

Humpback Whales
North Atlantic Humpback Whales are seen around the islands of Grand Turk and Salt Cay during the months of late January through early April. These magestic creatures pass through our area as part or their annual migration for mating and birth. While on a whale watching trip you will not only have the opportunity to encounter these amazing creatures by sight, you will also learn many interesting and educational facts. You can combined a morning of great diving where you may be able to hear the songs of the whales while under water and an afternoon of whale watching from the boat. A must see and hear experience.
http://www.saltcay.org/saltcaytours/
www.turksandcaicoswhalewatching.com
649 946 6904/6909
Providenciales, Salt Cay

Island Adventure
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
http://
Grand Turk

John Glenn Exhibit
Splashdown Grand Turk” is a 3,500-square-foot attraction celebrating the unique relationship of the American human spaceflight mission and its importance to Grand Turk’s history. Located on the south side of the Grand Turk Cruise Center, the free exhibit features amazing replicas unique to the Mercury space program, including a scaled 20-foot-tall Atlas rocket and a full-size, three-dimensional replica of astronaut John Glenn in spacesuit, and, of course, a detailed replica of the Friendship 7 capsule, which splashed into the Atlantic in 1962, a few short miles from the island of Grand Turk. Storyboards at the exhibit depict the accomplishments of the NASA space program and detail the differences in space equipment of yesterday and today while offering an overview of the current space program and future plans.
http://
Grand Turk

JoJo the Dolphin
JoJo is a unique Atlantic Bottlenose dolphin that has been living and playing in the shallow waters of the Turks and Caicos Islands in the West Indies since 1980. He is one of the few dolphins around the world that voluntarily interacts with human beings in his own natural habitat. Much loved by the islanders, the government has proclaimed JoJo a National Treasure, with a specially appointed warden to protect him. The friendly dolphin has become a powerful symbol for nature conservation in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Sparsely populated and so far unspoiled, the islands and their turquoise waters are a unique haven for wildlife. Marine Turtles, migrating whales, schools of wild dolphins and a variety of rare birds are found in the area. Seeing so many tropical islands ruined by careless development, the government has recently committed itself to the path of ‘ eco – tourism’ in an effort to protect the Country’s fragile natural heritage. The small island nation has already established 27 national parks and protected areas, in an effort to safeguard its pristine shores and coral reefs.
http://www.jojodolphin.org
Providenciales

Middle Caicos Caves
Middle Caicos is home to an impressive chain of limestone caves (the largest in the Caribbean) and the steep, breathtaking limestone cliffside of Mudjidin Beach.  These natural wonders are subjects of many photos and must-see attractions when visiting Middle.  After exploring the caves you can have lunch on the beach and then end your day with snorkeling for sand dollars.
Excursions to Middle Caicos are available through Dolphin Tours and Silver Deep.
http://www.silverdeep.com
Middle Caicos

Power Snorkel
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.
http://www.oasisdivers.com
1 649-946-1298
Grand Turk

The Flow Rider
The Flow Rider® operates by creating an artificial wave utilizing a pair of high-pressure water jets that produce a thin, two- to three-inch layer of water moving over a pre-formed and cushioned surface at high speed.
http://
Grand Turk

The Hole
Located in Long Bay in Providenciales this naturally formed massive limestone 40 foot Hole is on the list of things to see. People can be lowered down a rope where 80 feet down there is a swimming hole. For adventurous souls only!
http://
Providenciales

The Provo Golf & Country Club
Known as one of the best and most challenging tests of golf in the Caribbean, Provo Golf Club is a relaxing green oasis, set amongst the natural flora and fauna of the island. Fairways feature natural limestone outcroppings and are lined with native bush and inland lakes. The front nine features water on six holes, while the tight back nine has a further four ‘lake holes’, home to a colorful array of water birds including flamingos, pelicans and various types of heron. Great facilities, no restrictions on tee times, good tempo rounds, a cooling island breeze and a great round of golf – what more could you ask for!

Voted one of the Caribbean’s best golf courses and the Host of the 2009 Caribbean Amateur Golf Championship

TOLL FREE ENQUIRIES / BOOKINGS (US & CANADA)             +1(877) 218 9124
http://www.provogolfclub.com
649-946-5991
Providenciales

The Rock Iguana
The Rock Iguana (Cyclura carinata) is found nowhere else in the world. It is a shy and harmless reptile. These large lizards were once found on nearly all of the islands of the Turks & Caicos archipelago. Unfortunately, iguanas are no longer found on islands where livestock and domesticated animals (especially cats and dogs) have been introduced. These docile creatures have now taken refuge mainly on small-uninhabited cays away from human settlement. Little Water Cay is their most famous refuge, a small island totally inhabited by some 2000 Rock Iguanas which has a board walk that goes through the island for easy viewing of these amazing creatures. We have something that is the only one of its kind. We should be proud of it and continue to protect and preserve this unique animal as part of our national heritage.
http://

The Turks & Caicos National Museum
Explore the island’s Culture & History, roam through our exhibits on Nature & Environment, keep up with the latest museum events and follow our projects, both old and new. Plan your visit and discover for yourself how we came to be the “best little museum in the Caribbean” and called “a little gem” by travel blogs.
http://www.tcmuseum.org
(01 649) 946-2160 or             505-216-1795       (from the US this is a free call)
Grand Turk

Wades Green Plantation
Wades Green plantation has recently been opened on North Caicos and has links with Cheshire Hall which is a popular visitor attraction on Providenciales. Both sites are owned by the National Trust. The ruins are a must-see for visitors and excursionists. These former cotton plantations had a high reputation because Caicos cotton was believed to be the best in the world. The plantations have an interesting and tumultuous history which goes right back to England and America, slavery, escape, freedom and revolution.
http://www.tcmuseum.org/slavery/02d2_wades_green_plantation/
North Caicos

Walking & Riding Bird Trail Tour(By the Turks and Caicos National Museum)
Walking & Riding Bird Trail Tour(By the Turks and Caicos National Museum)Walking & Riding Bird Trail Tour(By the Turks and Caicos National Museum)Contact the Turks and Caicos National Museum for more information.
http://www.tcmuseum.org
(01 649) 946-2160 or             505-216-1795       (from the US this is a free call)
Grand Turk

Whale Watching
Salt Cay is considered “Whale Headquarters” as the magnificent Humpback whales pass right in front of Salt Cay through the 7,000 ft Columbus Passage. Captain Ollie, born and raised in salt Cay, has the eyes of a hawk and can spot humpbacks if they are anywhere in the area. Breath taking whale watching excursions to watch the breeching and playing with their newborns. Hydrophones  are provided so all participants can hear the beautiful songs of the Humpbacks while above and below the water. 
http://www.saltcaydivers.tc
649 241-1009
Salt Cay

 

Courtesy of TCIMall
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Posted on January - 25 - 2012

Travel insurance – should I or shouldn’t I purchase?

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.

Having now discovered an excellent resource, I encourage you to visit

 Travel Insurance Review,

the web’s best travel insurance resource to get answers to questions and comparative quotes.

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Posted on January - 22 - 2012

Blue Whale Tours and Excursions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For a ‘whale of a good time, contact Captain Dameko Dean at Blue Whale
Tours at info@bluewhaleexcursions.com or call 1-649-246-2583
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Posted on January - 22 - 2012

The allure of the Turks and Caicos Islands

grace beachScuba Diving Turks and CaicosDining in the Turks and Caicoshorseback riding

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

 

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Posted on January - 21 - 2012

Bird Watching in TCI

Bird Watching
The salt ponds and inland marshes serve as excellent feeding grounds for resident and migratory birds. Search for Great Blue Herons, Flamingos, Osprey and Pelicans alongside Egrets, Terns, Frigates, Boobies and other water birds.As part of the National Parks system more than twelve small cays have been set aside and protected for breeding grounds. 170 species of bird can be found in the Turks and Caicos Islands from Pelicans and Flamingos to Osprey and Cuban Crows. The variety is staggering and the photographs that have been taken here have been published across the world.

On North Caicos in particular, the tidal flats on the South side of the island attract scores of birds including wild Pink Flamingos that regularly inhabit the aptly named Flamingo Pond.

Turks and Caicos also is home to the West Indian Whistling-Duck, a rare bird that gets its name from a distinctive whistling call.

Courtesy of TCI Tourism
http://www.turksandcaicosbirdwatching.com/
Providenciales, North Caicos
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Posted on January - 21 - 2012

Renowned Canadian Restaurant critic; Anne Desbrisay’s Guide to the best of Turks and Caicos Dining

BY ANNE DESBRISAY, OTTAWA CITIZEN SPECIAL 
 
As a restaurant critic, I tend to travel with a Canadian passport and a destination dining guide. On this holiday to Turks and Caicos, other than an outing to Blue Hills, we wanted to dine within walking and biking distance of our resort at Grace Bay, Providenciales.

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

Reprint of the Ottawa Citizen online article
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Posted on January - 21 - 2012

Great Things to Do with Kids in Turks and Caicos

You may be planning on spending your vacation lying on the sultry beaches of Provo, but your kids have a different plan. They want to explore and take advantage of all the activities available on land and sea. We’ve got you covered with a list of fun Turks and Caicos activities that both you and your children will adore.

semi submarine Glass Bottom Semi Submarine:
Take an hour-long underwater tour around Provo in a semi-submarine. The glass bottom provides an insider’s view of brilliant tropical fish and the coral formations surrounding the island. Caicos Tours offers three tours a day in the air-conditioned semi-submarine.

The National Environment Centre is a fun and educational way to spend a couple of hours out of the sun. There are exhibits on the coral reefs and ecosystems of the islands, as well as information about the research projects being done around TCI. Located in Provo, the environmental center is an attraction for any kids who love science and nature.

horseback riding Horseback Riding: Live the island dream with a horseback ride along the beaches of Provo. Kids over six will love interacting with the more than 20 horses and ponies and learning how to ride. Riding a horse along the beach, into the water and through the trails is a great way to explore the exotic island.

SNUBA: Another great way to experience TCI marine life is to SNUBA, a cross between snorkeling and SCUBA diving that has the best of both worlds. It allows the diver to go a little deeper than snorkeling without deep sea diving. Older kids (over 8) can dive to about 20 feet while their breathing device is attached to a raft floating on the water’s surface. Swim alongside schools of tropical fish and explore the coral reefs of Provo. Take snorkeling to the next level with this family-friendly adventure.

water sports Water sports: Zip through the turquoise waters off Grace Bay Beach on a tube, wake board or skis. Nautique Sports allows you to rent a boat for specific time periods and try out a world of adventurous activities. Everyone in the family will love learning new water sports and spending the day racing across the top of the waves!

TCI National Museum: Travel to Grand Turk for a little bit of island history. The Turks and Caicos National Museum has got it all, from information about past shipwrecks and slavery to a botanical garden aimed at brightening the present. Peruse coin and stamp collections, and don’t forget to stop in the museum shop!

wild life Look for wildlife: TCI is notorious for exotic marine life and unique creatures that your kids can only see in the Caribbean. An island favorite is JoJo the Bottlenose Dolphin, who loves interacting with people. In the cooler months, Humpback whales can be spotted, especially from Salt Cay. And only in TCI can you see Rock Iguanas, which dwell on some of the uninhabited islands. Keep an eye out for these rarities among the tropical fish, turtles, sharks, and other TCI wildlife.

Fun World: The ultimate Turks and Caicos place for kids is Fun World in Provo. Race through the day on the park’s Go-Cart track or challenge your children in the video arcade. Get athletic on the 32-foot rock wall or play a couple of rounds of mini-golf. Unwind or sing karaoke at the bar and grill.

beaches Enjoy the beach and shopping! After all the excitement and fun activities, your kids may appreciate a day of playing in the white sand and swimming in the ocean. Make a family activity out of building a sandcastle or throwing around a Frisbee. The island is also home to numerous shopping centers and island craftspeople, so take a day to collect souvenirs.

Contact Tranquility for the Perfect Turks and Caicos Family Vacation!

Tranquility Vacations can help you plan these excursions for your family and we have the experience and resources to do it. Contact us at (649) 431-1474 about great things to do with kids in Turks and Caicos form and make your Turks and Caicos Villa Reservation today!

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