Turks and Caicos Travel

I caught the Turks and Caicos travel bug so bad that I'm moving to the Islands!

TCI are a West Indies chain of islands extending off of the Bahamas and are a British overseas territory.

Although not as well known as their neighbouring isles, this destination comprises all the wonderful qualities of a Caribbean island: crystal clear, blue oceans, powdery sandy beaches, and a warm, welcoming population.

Seaside holiday

As a holiday destination, Turks and Caicos vacations are perfect for those seeking a tropical beach holiday in a far from crowded destination.

The total population of all the islands put together is about 36,000 people. All the elements for coastal recreation are available here: scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, bone fishing, snorkeling, golfing, kayaking, sailing and pretty much anything you can think of to do.

Even during high season you can still find a quiet, private spot to just relax on one of the many beautiful beaches. Pelican beach on Providenciales is my favorite getaway beach.

Turks and Caicos Travel Nature excursions

In addition to the water sports, Turks and Caicos have many land and marine national parks and nature sanctuaries open to visitors.

In Middle Caicos are found 24 kilometers of underground cave systems called the Conch Bar caves. Formed by natural erosion of the limestone rocks, they were once used as holy places of worship by the ancient Lucayan Indians.

Artifacts and petroglyphic wall paintings attest to these long gone people. All that remains now are empty lagoons, stalactites and stalagmites, colonized by island bats.

The plentiful rains and warm, tropical temperatures create lush, verdant environments in this islands’ interiors. For hiking enthusiasts, there are several trails through the islands and along the scenic coastlines.

Mudjin Harbor is a must see when you visit Middle Caicos!

Town Tours

Cockburn in Grand Turk is one of the largest towns and functions as the administrative, cultural and historical centre of the islands.

An excursion through its narrow streets, lined with Bermudian-style colonial homes and public offices, gives the visitor a glimpse into the sea trading history that was the life of the Islands from the 1600s to 1900s.

Historical attractions

As with many West Indies islands, the cotton plantation industry was well developed here several centuries ago. Indeed Caicos cotton was reputed to be of the highest quality in the world.

Today, travelers to Turks and Caicos can tour some of the original plantation homes, such as Wades Green – one of the grandest in its time and now an historic monument.

Here you can still see the great house with original artifacts and walk through the slave lodgings and overseers’ house.

At the National Museum in the Grand Turk, visitors can learn about, among other interesting facts, the oldest European shipwreck discovered in this part of the world.

Accommodations

Turks and Caicos travel offers one a range of hotel options from world-class, five star properties through to simple, serviceable budget inns.

Families, honeymooners, business travelers and back-packers will find a suitable hotel for their tastes and comfort levels. The islands also feature a number of family-style villas and small, eco-friendly lodgings.

Many of the hotels are equipped with extensive spas centers, fitness facilities, and a range of dining options.

Shopping and Entertainment

Providenciales in particular has a vibrant entertainment and night life. The numerous restaurants and bars along the marina feature a range of gastronomic fares and imported alcohol. Travelers can also browse through nearby shops for local handicrafts, curios and jewelry.

Once bitten by the Turks and Caicos travel bug like I was, it's hard to imagine wanting to go anywhere else.