Turks and Caicos Islands

The Turks and Caicos Islands are two groups of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of the Bahamas.

Even though you only boarded the plane in Miami, Florida a scant hour before, the moment you step off the plane, you know you are in a different world. The tropical breeze hits you as you step onto the tarmac, and you start looking forward to the incredible scuba diving that awaits. Although definitely not one of the prettiest (at least above water) of the islands, it has its own charms that come from being a mostly undiscovered tourist destination.

Caicos Islands

Providenciales

North Caicos

Middle Caicos

East Caicos

South Caicos

West Caicos

Grand Turk

Turks Islands

By plane

American Airlines is a popular carrier that schedules flights from many US cities to Providenciales International Airport. Other major carriers from the US include Spirit Airlines, US Air and Delta. British Airways also offers flights to London.

By boat

It is easy to sail to the Turks and Caicos from the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas or Cuba; so long as you have an ocean-going vessel. A small boat will do well simply cruising around the island chain, but to cross the open ocean, something about 36 feet or larger is best.

Taxis are widely available on Providenciales and Grand Turk. However, if you are able to drive, it is recommended that you rent a car. A number of car and motorcycle rental agencies are available on the island. Remember to drive on the LEFT side of the road and watch out for people who forget. Though the Turks and Caicos uses a righthand-drive road system, only about half the cars are equipped with righthand drive. The others use lefthand drive, the kind used in North America. It is certainly possible to use a bicycle to get around, but be careful as some drivers are not keen on following rules. Be careful driving at night.

The Turks and Caicos are extremely safe by Caribbean standards, but please exercise common sense. Don't leave valuables in plain view, and always lock your car when leaving it, and lock your dwelling when you are not in it. Mopeds and motorcycles are targeted by thieves, so be sure that you lock yours up properly. Also, be aware that Islanders can be very aggressive drivers, so it is best to use caution when crossing or driving on the roads.

The Turks and Caicos has few fresh water reserves at ground level. Therefore, most water comes from either wells or cisterns that have collected rainwater. Cistern water is almost always safe to drink, but unless well water is purified, it could be contaminated or have unpleasant taste. It is generally a good idea to use bottled water when possible, but tap water can be used if necessary.

The islands were part of the UK's Jamaica n colony until 1959, when they assumed the title of a separate crown colony. The governor of The Bahamas oversaw affairs from 1965 to 1973. With Bahamian independence, the islands received a separate governor in 1973. Although independence was agreed upon for 1982, the policy was reversed and the islands are presently a British overseas territory.