Turks and Caicos

 About Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, home to the best beach in the world. Breathtaking inviting waters, and fabulous diving, snorkeling and fishing. The Turks and 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 (Dominican Republic and Haiti.) Technically, the Turks and Caicos are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean Sea.

Providenciales, or more commonly known as “Provo”, covers an area of 38 miles and is the most developed island in Turks and Caicos. It is here where most international flights arrive. Surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches, Provo has been ranked “Best Beach” by Conde’ Nast magazine and by the World Travel Awards for several years running.

On Grace Bay, you will find the most beautiful beaches, as well as a long coral reef, which is rich in aquatic life. This main stretch is home to the majority of the island major resorts and tourism services.

Towards the south of the island you will find Chalk Sound, a large lake with striking turquoise water and an array of small cays. It is often as “Beneath the radar: Untouched and off the beaten path, the pristine islets in Provo’s Chalk Sound provide an ideal backdrop for expansive thoughts.” Along the south side of the island in areas such as Sapodilla Bay, Copper Jack, Discovery Bay, Turtle Tail and Long Bay you will find many private villas available for rent.

Language

English

Climate

The average temperature ranges between 85 and 90 degrees (29-32 degrees celsius) from June to October, sometimes reaching the mid 90’s (35 degrees celsius), especially in the late summer months. From November to May the average temperature is 80 to 84 degrees (27-29 degrees celsius). Water temperature in the summer is 82 to 84 degrees (28-29 degrees celsius) and in winter about 74 to 78 degrees (23-26 degrees celsius). A constant trade wind keeps the climate at a very comfortable level.

Crime

These Islands boast one of the lowest crime rates and highest crime-solved rates in the Caribbean. You cannot, however, let down the guard against opportunist-type theft. Do not leave valuables unattended. Lock doors and windows. Use the safe if provided for storage of valuables. These simple precautions should prevent the loss of cash, jewelry and identification.

Currency

The US dollar is the official currency of Turks and Caicos. Most credit cards are accepted and banks offer ATM’s as well as cash advances on credit cards.

Driving License Requirements

Visitors from the British Commonwealth Countries, The United States of America, Canada and holders of International drivers license are permitted to drive for 30 days on their respective license.

Clothing

Shorts are worn in town as well as the beach during the day it is advisable to also wear sunhats and sunscreen. In the evenings, light sweaters and jackets may be occasionally needed in the winter. Dinner is usually not formal. Most restaurants accept dress shorts while others required pants with a collared shirt for gentlemen and dress slacks or dresses for the ladies.

Public Nudity is illegal throughout the islands.

US Citizens traveling by air to the Turks & Caicos Islands will be required by the US Government to have a valid US passport. Visitors from other countries do require passports, but no visas are necessary except from countries of the former Eastern Bloc. They are advised to contact the nearest British Consulate Office.

  • All visitors must hold a round trip ticket.
  • Visitors are allowed to stay for 30 days; this is renewable one time only.