Turks and Caicos are a collection of several islands, not really in the Caribbean but usually included in a list of Caribbean destinations (they're technically in the Atlantic), a British Crown Colony whose official currency is the US Dollar. And Turks and Caicos is where you head when you want to experience unspoiled beaches and true Caribbean fantasy.
A Place Full of Natural Wonders
In the last decade on Turks and Caicos, divers have enjoyed some of the finest coral reefs and walls in the world. From the legendary walls of Grand Turk, West Caicos and Provo's Northwest Point to the historic wrecks south of Salt Cay, a dozen world-class walls have become Mecca for the serious diver.
From late December through April, the entire Atlantic herd of 2,500 Humpback Whales pass through the shores on their annual migration to the Mouchoir Bank, just 20 - 30 miles southeast. During this period divers can listen to an underwater concert of the whales' songs. During the summer, Manta Rays cruise the face of the walls, sharing the sea with dolphins.
The salt ponds and inland marshes serve as excellent feeding grounds for resident and migratory birds. Bird watchers can expect to find Great Blue Herons, Flamingos, Osprey and Pelicans alongside Egrets, Terns, Frigates, Boobies and other water birds among the marshlands. As part of the National Parks system more than twelve small cays have been set aside and protected for breeding grounds.
The Grand 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.
A Unique Destination for the Entire Family
Many Caribbean resorts, like Beaches Turks & Caicos, now cater to families and groups, with attractive rates and posh amenities for those looking for an all inclusive experience. Beaches features an entire host of facilities specifically for kids, including the popular XBOX Game Oasis, Pirate's Island and Bobby D's 50's style diner. Younger kids can interact with their favorite Sesame Street characters while the older kids run through the arcades. At this Ultra-inclusive resort, kids get a vacation of their own.
The parents are not without their special places though. Other resort features include 10 specialty restuarants for every taste, from classic French cuisine to Southwestern fajitas. You'll also find lots of pools and swim up bars, whirpools, volleyball courts, a full service European spa, a fitness center and water sports center, to ensure that you'll have plenty to do during your stay.
Travel Tips
All travelers except those from Canada need a passport, including US Citizens. Canadian travelers need only to provide a birth certificate (or notarized copy) and a valid drivers license. Visitors from former Eastern Bloc countries should contact the British Consulate, as a travel visa may be required. All visitors must hold a round-trip ticket. The maximum stay is 30 days and that's renewable once.
Constant easterly breezes keep life comfortable, with the coolest months averaging in the 70s in the winter and the warmest months averaging in the low 90s in late summer. An average annual rainfall of 40 inches or less assures plenty of sunny days. Remember, hurricane season runs from June to November - most Superclubs All Inclusive resorts like Beaches offer a form of "hurricane protection" which can prove to be a real vacation-saver should a storm pop up and head for your resort.
Pack light! Cool, casual, comfortable resort and leisure wear is acceptable everywhere. Overexposure from the sun can happen quickly, sunscreen is strongly recommended. A hat and cover-up for extra protection is advisable. Swim wear worn other than poolside or at the beach is frowned upon. It is a rare occasion to need a light sweater at night. Just a few restaurants require "proper attire".
If you're looking for some place off the beaten path, some place a little bit more exotic, but you aren't quite ready to leave all the conveniences of modern society behind, the pristine beaches and all inclusive resorts of the Turks and Caicos Islands are waiting for you...
Additional links
Hotels of Turks and Caicos
Department of Tourism
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