THE TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS
The Turks and Caicos Islands are home to some of the Caribbean’s most spectacular beaches and crystal-clear waters. Less developed than many neighbouring destinations, the powder-white sands, world-class water sports, and luxurious accommodations that have made them a favourite among discerning travelers.
Location and Geography
The Turks and Caicos archipelago lies between the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic, approximately 575 miles southeast of Miami. This British Overseas Territory comprises over 40 low-lying islands and cays, only six of which are inhabited. The territory consists of two distinct island groups – the Turks Islands and the Caicos Islands - separated by the Turks Island Passage.
The Turks Islands The main Turks Islands are Grand Turk – the capital, administrative centre, and home to the cruise ship port – and diminutive Salt Cay, whose landscape is dominated by the remains of a once-thriving salt making industry. Both islands offer a laid-back atmosphere, historic charm and pristine shorelines. Domestic flights connect Provo with Grand Turk and South Caicos.
The Caicos Islands
The Caicos islands include North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, Providenciales, and the private islands of Pine Cay and Parrot Cay.
North and Middle Caicos, which are connected by road, are the largest, and North Caicos is the lushest. In addition to flourishing agriculture and varied birdlife, a number of resorts under development make this one of the archipelago’s up-and-coming tourist destinations.
Sleepy South Caicos, renowned for its exceptional fishing and diving is also gaining traction among those seeking to escape the crowds, particularly since the introduction of direct flights from Miami. Providenciales, however, home to world-famous Grace Bay, numerous resorts and luxury villas and the majority of the TCI’s population, is the most developed of the islands. Several ferries per day run between Providenciales and North and South Caicos, making island hopping day trips or two-island vacations an option.
Getting to the Turks and Caicos
Providenciales International Airport is the main gateway to the islands, with multiple direct flights from 16 North American cities including Miami, New York, Boston, Toronto and Montreal. It is just 90 minutes flying time from Miami and under four hours from New York and Toronto. British Airways operates twice weekly flights from London, UK.
Essential Information
As a British Overseas Territory, the official language is English and driving is on the left. The currency is the US dollar and most consumer goods are imported from the US.
Visitors from the US, Canada, UK and Europe do not need a visa to visit TCI.
