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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
When you think about that Caribbean vacation get-away on the horizon, your thoughts can quickly cloud with images of your own personal paradise. This is the exact euphoric feeling that’s seen mirrored on the faces of Turks and Caicos vacationers when we greet them at the Provo airport on arrival. The TCI really is that paradise destination, with inviting soft, warm sand and clear turquoise water that can never be properly described—it must be experienced. Above and beyond the enticements of the tropical sun and crystal sea, these islands offer so much variety for the curious traveler.
The Turks and Caicos offer activities for the ocean-loving guru, from privately chartered fishing trips to unforgettable scuba-diving excursions around the most beautiful reef systems in the world. Turks and Caicos bonefishing is famed throughout the Caribbean, as well as sport fishing for swords and marlin. Both private charters and group expeditions are available with experienced captains. Vacations almost always include trying new, local foods to experience the culture first hand, and with the many restaurants sprinkled throughout the TCI, especially on the island of Providenciales (“Provo” to natives), it’s easy to get lost in conversation over dinner and drinks with friends and family. Below we’ve put together a list of laid-back vacation ideas perfect for the open-minded vacationer:
A Jaw Dropping Adventure. A nighttime TCI shark fishing excursion – chartered by local skippers that know locations where these fish come out to feed at night!
Luxury at Your Fingertips. Have a personal chef grill up your catch (shark!) with a catered party set on the beach in your private villa’s outdoor living room!
Try a Grace Bay Turks and Caicos villa outfitted with a comfortable outdoor living room with a grill overlooking picturesque views of the sweeping landscape.
Enjoy a Margarita…Or Two. If the family has a love for water sports, have the kids try tubing, snorkeling, or waterskiing off Grace Bay Beach while you watch and enjoy drinks on the beach in the warm afternoon sun.
Tee Time. Pretend to be a professional by playing on the Karl Litten 18 hole, par 72 championshipTurks and Caicos golf course and try to get scores that compete with the best!
Window on the Undersea World. Go for a ride on the Undersea Explorer, a glass bottom, semi-submarine to see spectacular views of the coral reef without getting wet!
Kayaks and …Dinosaurs? Kayak over to Iguana Island with Big Blue Unlimited to visit the sanctuary that many lucky iguanas call ‘home,’ all while enjoying time on its intimate beaches.
Langostas y Música! Island guests can first attend “Mad About Lobsters” night (in seasonat The Somerset every Tuesday before treating their ears to traditional Caribbean music. Enjoymusical traditions by a local artist or band performed at a number of restaurants and clubs.
More Than Just An Aphrodisiac! Dine on Queen conch, a type of snail that can only be described as ‘Decadent!’ and offered at restaurants across the islands.
Sun Up, Sun Down. Wake up early at your private villa to hear and breathe nothing but the soothing sounds and salty scents of the ocean water and witness a breathtaking sunrise. Afterwards,take a Pilates class before the rest of the family wakes at Studio 90 Degrees. On a romantic note later in the day, visitors can take a sunset cruise with locally made rum punch in hand.
The Private Villa Experience. Instead of just having a ‘place to stay,’ Caribbean travelers can choose their own unique sanctuary, a private Turks and Caicos villa. Villa guests describe their experience as truly personal and pampering. Island visitors can even have all their holiday details handled by a professional guest concierge, including arranging for transportation, booking tours and diving charters; or arranging for a full body massage right at the villa.
Endless Possibilities. Rejuvenate yourself with a postcard perfect escape in the Turks and Caicos, and get lost in a journey of discovery where new adventures are right around the corner. The Turks and Caicos invite spirited travelers to come play and indulge themselves with these 10 unique tips or with ideas of their own. The possibilities are endless.
About the Author Basia Zaidan is the energetic owner of Tranquility Property Management and Vacation Rentals Ltd on the Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos. Basia and her team know the TCI like no one else. She has a lively Travel Blog, insider knowledge of the islands, and a reputation for giving exceptional attention to her clients. For more information visit www.turkscaicosluxuryvillas.com, call (649) 431-1474 or email the author at arrive@turkscaicosluxuryvillas.com.
We’ve been blessed, so early in the season, to have already welcomed some of the most amazing guests we’ve had the pleasure to meet these past several years. The Gray family was amongst one of them and we’re looking forward to their return to South Seas next Christmas season!
“We had a great time at South Seas Villa. Fabulous views and sunsets, beautiful tennis courts (played everyday), scenic bike rides to Chaulk Sound. The private cove is perfect for swimming.
We went on two fantastic boat tours, saw a dolphin family with a baby, great snorkeling, beautiful weather. We can’t wait to go back!”
K. Gray and family, South Seas, Dec 26th, 2011
Young Master Gray at Chalk Sound (photo by K. Gray)
There are excellent accommodation options in Providenciales and our villas are no exception.
While there are lots of top reasons to book with us for your dream vacation, let’s share the most important ones; recent testimonials from our guests!
“The house (Pelican Vista) was well represented and beautiful and Basia was “over the top good”. The beach, as you know, is the best in the Caribbean. The restaurants were plentiful and fairly priced with exceptional food.
Thanks again and Happy New Year. Steve Boyd, Christmas 2011″
Privacy - A private villa provides the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity that most families crave while on vacation. Escape the crowds that you would have encountered in the common areas of a resort. There is also the advantage of having your own private pool and, depending on your location, a small section of the beach. You’ll also never have to worry about availability of chairs and towels. Having this privacy will give you the freedom to feel like you’re at ‘home’.
Here’s what Corky and Jeff of New Jersey had to say this past high season, 2011:
“How do we begin to thank you for your hospitality! We have had an amazing time here [at Tyler House]…and totally enjoyed the privacy! ….We have made many new friends and hope to keep in touch with them.This island will become part of our lives in the future. It feels like home already. See you soon!”
Great for families – Whether it’s a family reunion or your yearly get away, villas are a great option for families, large or small. Cook your own meals and pay attention to special needs and preferences that may not be available at a resort, or have our in-home dining specialists do so for you. They will pre-stock the villa with all your favourite foods prior to your arrival and you won’t have to lift a finger to cook while you’re here unless you want to.
Here’s what Sasha at Spindrift in 2011 had to say:
“Just wanted to say ‘thank you’ for recommending Spindrift! The group and I had an amazing time. The place, location, privacy and service were great. Also, the red snapper was absolutely delicious and very nice of you to go out your way to…deliver it to us personally! From now on…. Providenciales will be a yearly trip for me and I’ll be sure to book with you!”
Great value – At some resorts, the rate includes features and services that you might not use. At a private villa, you are paying for accommodations with some extras included. And depending on the season, there may be greater savings in renting a villa.
Bill and Sean, who rented Seabreeze this Nov 2011, emailed to say:
“I can’t say enough wonderful things about this house (Seabreeze)! Sometimes when you see pictures of a vacation house on line they seem too good to be true and you’re slightly disappointed when you get there. But in this case, the real thing far exceeded my expectations! It was absolutely beautiful and elegant, yet completely comfortable, all for a price that could not be beat!! All four couples were amazed by the spaciousness and beauty of the house and we were all equally comfortable in our bedroom suites. The patio and the gorgeous view of the water was by far our favorite part…..As for Basia and her team at Tranquility? We’re going tell anyone who’ll listen to never book with anyone else for their TCI holiday!”
Spacious, Peaceful – Why not opt to have a full, spacious villa rather than a hotel suite? Most villas come equipped with a gourmet kitchens, patios or verandas, and over-sized bedrooms, living rooms and dining room.
Here’s what Tyler from New York had to say in fall 2011:
“The first thing I said to Basia when she was showing us around the Windrose Guest House was “did we die and go to heaven?”
“Windrose is found at the end of a short road off Stubbs Road, tucked away inside a midst of wild flowers with a lovely garden off of it’s balcony. The house itself was large and comfortable. A great place to unwind and let your hair down since it is very private and homey. There is an upstairs “study” area with rattan furniture and two small beds that I loved to sit in and read. A wonderful skylight is in the high ceilings where we could watch the clouds go by. In the morning the birds were abundant and mingled with the many kinds of butterflies. The balcony reminded me of the movie “Out of Africa” with it’s hammock swinging in the ever present breeze. Every morning I would grab my bathing suit and walk down to the crystal clear green ocean. I went kayaking all the way up to Turtle Cove one day and back and it was nice to have our own kayak that Basia supplied to us.There are miles of beach to walk along. I walked for miles and never got bored of the scenery and beauty there. There was also an alarm system and we felt safe and knew that our belongings were secure. There is an attentive staff around in case we needed anything; on call at a moment’s notice. This was the most incredible time I had in my life. Thank you, thank you, thank you to each and every one of you at Tranquility!”
Customized vacation experience – Remember, with a villa, you can customize your vacation to satisfy your needs. If you’d like to have in home dining, catering, in home spa treatments, pre-stocking of groceries or grocery shopping during your stay, all can all be through our concierge service. You’ll experience a 5 star service standard that is personalized to your wants and needs, with complete attention to detail.
Here’s what Colin, Debbie, Abbie and Oliver had to say in 2011:
“Basia, I would also like to thank you for your recommendation to use Kalua - she was a great addition to our vacation, not only cooking terrific meals, but as a source of local knowledge and entertainment for the kids…our highest recommendation on her services which were always delivered to a very high quality, on time and with great cheer! Thank you once again and we will certainly use your company again the next time we are looking for a rental property in Turks & Caicos.”
And finally, from Paul Hatch and Laura Moore:
“Recently, we enjoyed our third trip to Turks and Caicos. This visit eclipsed the others for one reason – Tranquility Property Mangement! Basia and her staff took care of everything with great skill, professionalism, enthusiasm and boundless good cheer. And they did it on very short notice.
We were referred to another island concierge who totally disappointed us and left us in the lurch. We called Bash five days before we arrived and she arranged sailing, snorkeling, parasailing, restaurant reservations, tours, EVERYTHING.
We recommend Tranquility without reservation. (we didn’t have any and Tranquility delivered big time!)”
Tranquility looks forward to welcoming you “home” to play in our paradise at one of our fabulous Villas in Turks and Caicos!
Turks & Caicos is such a beautiful island. If you are a beach person there are spectacular white sand beaches plus amazing multi-hued turquoise waters. I am sure Turks will be at the top of your favorite beach destinations! Recently, Condé Nast Traveler voted Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales (Provo) as The World’s #1 Beach. And now with so many outstanding resorts to choose from, the appeal has grown significantly. Add to that the close proximity of the islands to the U.S. and the fact that English is the official language and the U.S. dollar the official currency and it becomes even more appealing for those looking for a comfortably familiar island escape. Always a favorite with honeymooners and couples planning their dream wedding, Turks & Caicos is now fast becoming a great family destination as well. If you love the beach and water activities – this is definitely a destination you should consider.
The Turks & Caicos Islands consist of 40 islands and cays, eight of which are inhabited. The islands are located 550 miles southeast of Miami, Florida, just below the Bahamas chain and just to the east of Cuba and the island of Hispaniola. (Technically, the Turks & Caicos are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean Sea.) The islands are home to roughly 30,000 full time residents, and welcome more than 200,000 tourists annually. Since the first resort opened in the ’80s, most of the island’s development has been in the last six or seven years; things are so new, it’s not just the turquoise water that sparkles or the white sand beaches that shine…it’s all the impressive enhanced and new resorts too!
ISLAND ACTIVITIES
The vast majority of people come to the Turks & Caicos to relax and enjoy the clear, turquoise water and its plethora of water activities. Provo has excellent beaches, particularly the long, soft beach along stunning Grace Bay, where most of the island’s hotel development has taken place. (Psst…It is said that some of the smaller, more-isolated islands in the chain have even better beaches – hard to believe! but seeing is believing so be sure to check them out.)
- Reefs are plentiful and are often close to shore, making snorkeling spots excellent. The reef and wall diving are among the best in the Caribbean. Surrounded by the third largest coral reef system in the world, the still pristine dive sites feature bountiful and diverse fish populations.
- The same reefs that draw colorful tropical fish draw big-game fish, so deep sea fishing is also quite good and very popular.
- If you are a golfer, Provo has one of the Caribbean’s finest courses.
- You can get a bird’s eye view of stunning beaches and cliffs with surprisingly affordable flightseeing options. Watch the aquamarine waters for sea life and you’re at a safe distance for shark-spotting.
- Day trips from Provo to the beautifully preserved Salt Cay are possible on Caicos Express flights for around $160 roundtrip.
- Rent a golf cart or bike to seek out great snorkeling spots and pirate graves.
- In February and March, you’ll be treated to daily whale sightings.
Explore the Islands – From developed Provo to sleepy Grand Turk to sleepier South Caicos, the islands offer miles of undeveloped beaches, crystal-clear water and abundant sea life. For such a small archipelago, the Turks & Caicos offers much diversity; each island has a unique personality, so tempted as you will be to stick to Provo and all it has to offer – don’t miss an opportunity to venture out and explore at least a couple of the other islands. You’ll be rewarded with stunning beaches that are truly secluded. You’ll view landscapes that take your breath away. You’ll meet local people that may become your friends for life. You’ll learn how creative people can be when they live in an isolated place. And best of all, you’ll step back in time to a more laid back era with old Caribbean charm. Ferries and light aircraft make the island-hopping trips on a regular basis (or somewhat regular basis – it’s the islands after all!), and your concierge at your resort can assist with arrangements.
East Caicos: One of the many uninhabited islands of the Turks & Caicos known for its plantation ruins and cave artwork. There are miles of beaches perfect for the adventurous beachcomber as well as beautiful views from the highest point in the Turks & Caicos.
Grand Turk: Founded by Bermudan Salt Rakers centuries ago, Grand Turk is the administrative and political center with Cockburn Town as its capital. The island is reminiscent of Colonial Bermuda with many historical buildings and has a countryside warmth to it. Just 7 miles long and a little more than 1 mile wide, Grand Turk is widely known as one of the top ten scuba diving destinations in the world.
Little Water Cay: This small, uninhabited cay is a protected area under the Turks & Caicos National Trust. On these 150 acres are two trails, small lakes, red mangroves, and an abundance of native plants.
Middle Caicos: At 48 sq. miles and with fewer than 300 residents, this is the largest and least developed of the inhabited islands in the Turks & Caicos chain, with a fantastic network of caves to explore.
North Caicos: Thanks to abundant rainfall, this 41 sq. mile island is the lushest of the Turks and Caicos. Bird lovers will see the home of the pick flamingo reserve, anglers can find shallow creeks full of bonefish, and history buffs can visit the ruins of a Loyalist plantation.
Parrot Cay: Once said to be a hideout for pirate Calico Jack Rackham and his lady cohorts Mary Read and Anne Bonny and now the ultimate getaway for the rich and famous, the 1,000-acre cay, between Fort George Cay and North Caicos, is now the site of an ultra-exclusive hideaway resort, a holistic health spa, and upscale homesites.
Pine Cay: Pine Cay’s 2½ mile long beach is among the most beautiful in the archipelago. The 800-acre private island is home to a secluded resort and around 37 private residences. Visitors are welcome by prior arrangement.
Providenciales: Arriving tourists typically become awe-struck when their plane starts its descent, mesmerized by the shallow, crystal-clear turquoise waters of Chalk Sound National Park. This island, nicknamed “Provo”, is by far the most developed of all the islands and is home to Grace Bay Beach and its miles of world-class resorts.
Salt Cay: (pictured above) Fewer than 100 people live on this 2½ sq. mile dot of land, maintaining an unassuming lifestyle against a backdrop of stucco cottages, stone ruins, and weathered wooden windmills. Little has changed in Salt Cay since 1900, when the Salt Industry flourished.
South Caicos: This 8½ sq. mile island was once an important salt producer; today it’s the heart of the fishing industry. Nature prevails, with long, white beaches, jagged bluffs, quiet backwater bays and salt flats.
West Caicos: Currently uninhabited, with stunning views of a dramatic coastline, world class diving sites and an array of wildlife, divers often spot turtles, eagle rays and a plethora of marine life just off its famous cascading wall, dropping to an amazing 7,000 feet just off the shoreline.
TRANSPORTATION
Airports: The main gateway into the Turks & Caicos Islands is Providenciales International Airport (PLS). There are smaller airports on Grand Turk (GDT), North Caicos (NCS), Middle Caicos (MDS), South Caicos (XSC), and Salt Cay (SLX). All have paved runways in good condition. Even if you are going on to other islands in the chain, you will most likely stop in Provo first for customs, then take a domestic flight onward. It’s easier now than ever before to get to Turks & Caicos, with new direct air service from a wide range of U.S. gateways being added all the time.
Taxis: You can find taxis at the airports, and some resorts provide pickup service as well. A trip between Provo’s airport and most major hotels runs about $15 per person. Transfers can cost more on the smaller islands, where gas is much more expensive.
Driving: Driving is on the left side of the road, British-style (T&C is a British Overseas Territory after all.) The maximum speed is 40 mph, 20 mph through settlements, and speed limits, as well as the use of seat belts, are strictly enforced.
Note: If you are staying on Provo, you may find it useful to have a car since the island is so large and the resorts are so far-flung, if only for a few days of exploring or to get away from your hotel for dinner. Car- and jeep-rental rates average $39 to $80 per day on Provo, plus a $15 surcharge per rental as a government tax. Reserve well ahead of time during the peak winter season. Most internationally known agencies offer free mileage and airport pickup service. Hertz, Avis and Budget have offices on the islands. There are also local agencies, such as Grace Bay Car Rentals and Tropical, if you prefer. Both offer excellent service.
NIGHTLIFE
You’ll find plenty of bars, music clubs and exciting casino action on Provo. A must-see, the Infiniti Bar at the Grace Bay Club is the longest (and arguably the coolest!) bar in the Caribbean at 90 feet, stretching its black marble from the restaurant at the Grace Bay Club all the way to (and, seemingly, into) the ocean. The bar is the most active in the evening though it is a great place to hang out during the day too. It is the first infinity-edge bar in the world and features full restaurant service allowing guests to dine under shaded umbrellas with waves lapping at their feet. Casino gambling is legal in the Turks & Caicos and Providenciales features two full casinos. Casablanca Casino in Provo offers blackjack, American roulette, poker, craps and baccarat as well as a wide array of video gaming terminal and slot machines and is open from 7pm until 5am. The Player’s Club is located near Turtle Cove Marina and offers similar gaming options as well as a full service restaurant and bar upstairs. Most bars and nightclubs on the island offer video gaming terminals to test your luck.
DINING
Venture out from your resort for modern takes on Turks & Caicos’ classic island flavors. You’ll be treated to local favorites as well as delightful imports from other island nations. Island delicacies such as conch, prepared in a multitude of mouth-watering ways, will vie for your attention with Jamaican specialities such as jerked chicken and curried goat. If you’re slightly less adventurous with your palate, never fear, there’s always a good old-fashioned cheeseburger or tasty pizza prepared just the way you like it. WhereWhenHow Magazine offers an excellent on line dining guide to prepare you prior to your arrival.
WHEN TO GO
High season in Turks & Caicos runs roughly from November through April, with the usual premium rates during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday period. May through October is an equally wonderful time to visit, when the rates are lower and the weather amazing.
There are two major festivals in the Turks & Caicos. At the end of November, the Turks & Caicos Conch Festival offers local boat races, live music, and conch recipe competitions at the island’s most famous culinary extravaganza. On Boxing Day, celebrate the Maskanoo Festival and join the parade highlighting the culture of TCI. There are also lots of vendors selling local food and wares. It’s a party that’s great for young and old alike.
Visitors to the Turks & Caicos islands will experience world class fishing and snorkeling, outstanding diving off one of the largest coral reef systems in the world and spectacular powder-soft beaches. With water so turquoise that it glows, you may find it difficult to stray far from the beach, and since the beaches are among the most incredible you will ever see, don’t be surprised if you wake up on your last morning and realize that you didn’t find a lot of time for anything else. Indulge your ideal vacation fantasy of the ultimate, relaxing island escape at one of the many award-winning resorts or one of our fabulous private villas.
Turks & Caicos – so easy to get to, so difficult to leave!
Courtesy of Colesville Travel, online article, amended.
Voted one of “The World’s Top Ten Beaches” by Conde Nast Traveler, Grace Bay Beach lines the north shore of Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The 12-mile long beach area is known for excellent restaurants, charming accommodations and one of the finest tropical beaches on the planet. Snorkel in the turquoise waters or head off the white sand beaches into one of Grace Bay’s two shopping areas for a day full of exciting activities.
Vacation is all about wasting your days in the Caribbean sun, and the lengthy beach at Grace Bay provides plenty of room to do just that. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, the island is bursting with water sports, site seeing cruises, and parasailing. Visit Princess Alexandra National Park to see marine life and explore Bight Reef, a great snorkeling location.
When you’ve had your fill of sun, take a break from the beach and explore Grace Bay shopping. Saltmills and the Regent Village, located right in the heart of Grace Bay, are home to all of your favorite souvenir shops, island décor items, artwork and a multitude of restaurants.
The warms waters of Turks and Caicos offer some of the best fishing in the Caribbean. There are numerous boat rental places across the island, whether you want to self-pilot or find a captain to explore with. Enjoy deep-sea fishing, the traditional bone fishing, or shark fishing.
After a day of sunbathing or fun-filled outdoor activities, spend your evening enjoying the best of Provo cuisine. Caicos Café is a tried and true favorite for everything seafood. If you’re looking for an upscale, spectacular dining experience, visit Coco Bistro. For something more relaxed atmosphere, try Hemingway’s On the Beach. Another great dining location is Lemon Café, which provides an exotic menu and chic seating area.
After an exhausting day, have your meal brought to you. Arrange for an expert chef to come to your Grace Bay villa and prepare a meal there. No need to get dressed up for dinner when your living space can be transformed into a 5 star restaurant.
After dinner, take a long walk down the beach or continue your evening with some of Grace Bay’s nightlife locations. Many resorts offer nightly entertainment and on site bars. There is also the opportunity to mingle with the locals at bars.
Grace Bay is also an ideal place to celebrate your special day. Destination weddings, anniversaries and birthdays can all be celebrated on the sandy beaches of Provo. Newlyweds can enjoy the gorgeous Villa De Sol, a three-bedroom paradise characterized by exclusivity. A private swimming pool and beachfront location are just some of the luxuries associated with Villa De Sol.
Staying in a villa is an ideal opportunity to experience everything that Grace Bay has to offer. The many private villas in the Turks and Caicos are undeniably beautiful and located within walking distance of the area’s major attractions.
1. Eat!
I know, you were expecting to see something about the world famous turquoise waters of Grace Bay Beach in the number one spot. But ya know when you live in Turks and Caicos your number 1 priority becomes searching out and finding great deals on meals!
Now you can try the usual suspects like Coco Bistro, Coyaba, and Magnolia’s for some pretty good fare but bring lots of cash for the privilege because you’ll pay a minimum of $100 per person.
My favorite place for dinner is Lemon Cafe! Great ambiance, great food and dinner usually runs at about $50 per person. Fine dining at its best. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the manager fire spin!
Since I ain’t rich by a long shot I’ve searched out local places for food that was decent and cheap. Chinson’s has the best jerk chicken and beef on the Island and Hole in the Wall has some of the best steamed fish you’ll ever taste.
Angela’s Top ‘O the Cove is great to get some junk food that you can eat there or take out for a picnic lunch on the beach. Hey Jose is pretty good as well as cheap, kids seem to love it.
The Flamingo Cafe (or Ricky’s cafe to the locals) is right on the beach and is fun for lunch or dinner. The grouper sandwich is great! You can walk right in off the beach in barefeet and bathing suit and enjoy the laid back atmosphere. There’s often music and dancing at night. A great local hangout.
Graceway Gourmet has lots of variety for lunch…create your own salad at the salad bar or try some of the hot stuff they cook everyday. It’s a great place to stop for a quicky lunch before heading out to the beach. Try the jerk chicken pasta salad. I take it home and heat it up in a pan…delicious!
Head on over to the world famous Conch Shack for the best rum punch on the Island! It’s right on the beach in beautiful Blue Hills and you can watch how they get the conch out of its shell.
Now these places are not high end but they will satisfy your hunger at a price that will leave you some extra coin to use for other activities.
2. Explore the Beaches!
Grace Bay Beach is of course the most well-known and renowned beach here in Provo and it deserves to be! The water is stupid clear and a vision to behold. Check out these pictures of Grace Bay Beach:
Grace Bay is where all the resorts are but even in high season it never feels crowded here.
If you’re looking for something a little more private though there are some superb out of the way beaches that you can explore. My favorite is Pelican Beach in Leeward: (put pictures here) The first time I sat down in the white sand and looked out to the horizon and saw the color of this beach, I felt like I’d come home! I really think that Pelican Beach was the deciding factor in me moving to Turks and Caicos. Keep an eye on this blog, I’ll be writing about the five best beaches in Turks and Caicos soon!
3. Party!
You read that right! I said party! The first time I visited Turks and Caicos I was like, “Sheesh, there’s nowhere to go if you want to party.” That isn’t true! Most of the restaurants and resorts have something going on each month.
Lemon Cafe has an Arabian Nights once a month and a dance party every second month…both are phenomenal!
Then you have Vino Tiempo (The Wine Bar) which is a pretty good place to go most nights to find a crowd. If you’re at The wine Bar check out The Vix next door. You just might find a group of expats from around the world guzzling drinks and singing.
Danny Buoy’s has live music, Karaoake night and various other things going on.
Jimmy’s Dive Bar is where you want to go for after parties.
Best thing to do is follow this blog to find out when special events and parties are taking place. You can also subscribe to individual newsletters to get the skinny on what’s happening around Provo or ask your concierge.
4. Snorkel! Snuba! Scuba Dive!
Before coming to Turks and Caicos I had never snorkeled in my life. First time I tried it I thought I was going to drown so I practiced snorkeling in a pool before heading into the open water again. Looked a little silly doing so but it worked and now I love to snorkel! You can choose to take a half-day or full-day snorkeling cruise where all the equipment is supplied or you can snorkel right off the beach at Coral Gardens.
If you have never been scuba diving you might want to try Snuba Diving. Snuba bridges the gap between snorkeling and diving. The diving tank stays on a raft and you get to breathe underwater without all the heavy equipment. Great for all family members!
Of course, scuba diving is huge in Turks and Caicos! These Islands have been consistenly mentioned as one of the top ten places to dive in the world. There are some great diving outfits that will cater to your diving wishes. You can dive at night, dive with the gloworms, dive all day…half a day…whatever floats your boat!
5. Explore North and Middle Caicos!
I love Provo, I really do but for true Caribbean flavor you need to get yourself on over to North and Middle Caicos!
Caribbean Cruisin’ started a new Discovery Tour and Treasure Hunt excursion this November! Take the ferry over to North Caicos with a local guide and explore all the incredible sites there are to see on these two Islands.
Not only will you get to see awesome, beautiful Mudjin Harbor but you’ll also get to go on a treasure hunt!
6. Walk a Potcake on the beach!
Head on over to Potcake Place and take a peek at some beautiful potcake puppies that you can take for a walk on the beach! Who knows, you just might end up adopting one of these incredible Island dogs to bring home with you! Even if you don’t, you will have everyone on the beach coming up and talking to you about the puppy…it’s a great way to meet people!
7. Take a ride on the good ship Atabeyra!
This schooner is my favorite boat in all of Turks and Caicos! You can go on a half day or full day trip, take a sunset cruise, a glow worm cruise or get married aboard this magnificent boat. Every couple of months the Atabeyra heads out to a deserted Island and has a huge party on the beach complete with a DJ and food. That is a party not to be missed.
8. Go Fishing!
Okay, so I’m not into fishing but a day out on a boat with rum punch and a great group of folks is my kinda day! I also love eating fish! And there ain’t nothing better than cooking up a fish that you just pulled up fresh from the water!
You can book all sorts of fishing trips here in Turks and Caicos. There’s deepsea fishing, bottom fishing, light tackle trolling, shark fishing, bonefishing, night fishing, etc. If fishing is your thing, you’ll definitely love doing it here.
9. Stay in a Private Villa!
Choose your own personal and private piece of paradise by renting a Turks and Caicos Villa.
Go all out and get all your needs attended to by your own personal concierge and your own personal chef! Talk about luxury.
Seabreeze Villa has got to be my favorite Turks and Caicos Villa of all time. It is stupid beautiful! The views are magnificent and are the stuff dreams are made of.
Imagine looking out at that view while receiving an incredibly relaxing massage after which you sit sipping a cocktail watching the sunset as your chef prepares a meal for you. Shut up! How cool would that be. Love, love, love it!
10. Do Nothing!
Oh yeah…sit on the beach, rum punch in hand gazing out into the incredible turquoise waters and daydream. This is one of my favorite activities. I often do this and will close my eyes for a moment and when I open them again I am still awed by the beauty before me.
It’s hard to believe that being in the Turks and Caicos Islands, surrounded by its warm, wonderful, turquoise water and its friendly folks is not just a dream that I might wake from one day soon. Fortunately, I haven’t woken up yet!
