Turks & Caicos: Indulge in Luxury & Laid-Back Elegance
Updated: 23 hours ago
When I think of Turks & Caicos, the first things that come to mind are the stunning turquoise waters and the warmth of the genuinely friendly locals. Why endure a long 30-hour journey to Bora Bora when paradise is just 1 hour and 45 minutes away from Miami? With its crystal-clear waters, this destination stands among the world’s top spots for a tropical getaway.
In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know—how to get there, the rich cultural heritage, insider tips, luxury accommodations, must-visit attractions, and the captivating history that has shaped these beautiful islands.
By Markin Abras, Senior Travel Writer
DISCOVERIES
For the best experience of Turks and Caicos, I recommend exploring different locales and accommodation styles across the island. During my 10-day trip, I started by exploring Providenciales, the main island, staying at the Wymara Resort & Villas, which offers stunning views of the renowned Grace Bay beach. I also spent time at the Rock House, a chic property with a Mediterranean flair. I then took a short flight to South Caicos, where I visited Sailrock Resort, a stylish nature-focused property, before heading further south to Ambergris Cay, a private island offering the perfect blend of luxury and total privacy.
GETTING THERE
Getting to Turks and Caicos from Miami is a breeze. With direct, non-stop flights from Miami International (MIA) to Providenciales International (PLS) in under two hours, it’s quick and easy. Once you’re at PLS, you can easily connect to smaller airports like JAGS McCartney (GDT) on Grand Turk or South Caicos Airport (XSC) if needed.
Turks & Caicos is easily accessible with direct flights from a wide range of major U.S. and Canadian airports, including Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Minneapolis, New York – JFK, Newark, Philadelphia, Toronto, and Washington Dulles.
JOURNEY ESSENTIALS
Traveling from Miami to Turks and Caicos is a smooth and straightforward journey, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a hassle-free trip.
First, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your trip. Upon arrival, you’ll need to fill out a declaration form, which you’ll likely receive on the plane. It’s a good idea to complete it early to avoid delays at immigration.
The airport can get crowded, especially when multiple flights arrive at the same time, so expect possible wait times of up to an hour. To skip the lines, I recommend purchasing a SkyPass Caribbean in advance for $150 per person. This VIP service provides a greeter, assistance with travel documents, and fast-track immigration. It also offers expedited security for your departure, though it doesn’t cover ground or hotel transportation. Be sure to double-check your airport and hotel transfer arrangements, as many hotels and resorts typically handle this for you.
As for currency, U.S. dollars are accepted, so there’s no need to exchange money. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s wise to have cash on hand for tips. A standard 15% tip is expected for most services, including taxi drivers and waitstaff. Some businesses may already include gratuity on the bill, so be sure to check first.
English is the primary language, so communication is easy, and there’s no need for a translator.
The best time to visit the Turks and Caicos Islands is between November and April, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). The weather can be unpredictable at times, with brief rain showers that typically pass quickly, often followed by sunshine.
Fashion tip! Opt for casual daywear, beach and swimwear, and smart casual attire for dinner outings.
BIODIVERSITY
Turks and Caicos is an archipelago of 40 islands and cays (small, low-lying islands formed from sand and coral), with only eight inhabited. Located southeast of the Bahamas and north of the island of Hispaniola, which is shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic, it sits at the crossroads of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea resulting in unique clear waters and vibrant marine life.
I was surprised to learn that the Turks and Caicos Islands are home to the third-largest coral reef system in the world, making it a top spot for snorkeling and diving. The reef is rich with coral species like brain, elkhorn, and staghorn coral, which are vital to the ecosystem. One side of the reef features a dramatic drop-off, where shallow waters give way to deep, darker depths, creating a unique environment for marine life. The area is also teeming with diverse species such as queen angelfish, parrotfish, and southern stingrays, making it a prime destination for underwater exploration.
RICH LEGACY
The Turks and Caicos Islands have a rich history, particularly tied to its salt industry. In the 17th century, the islands became a key exporter of salt, and during the U.S. Civil War, they supplied salt to the Confederacy, crucial for preserving food. The salt trade continued to drive the economy until the early 20th century, with remnants of the old salt ponds still visible today.
In the 1960s, the islands played a role in space exploration. Their isolated environment was used by NASA for astronaut training and recovery operations during the Mercury and Gemini missions, providing an ideal location for testing landing and recovery techniques.
Today, the islands remain a British Overseas Territory, offering self-governance while maintaining British sovereignty. This connection has shaped their development and international relations, preserving their unique identity under British rule.
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