Turks and Caicos Islands: the new Caribbean hot spot
With a recent surge in celebrity weddings and honeymoons in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), these sunny islands are the new romantic vacation spot. Adding to their appeal is the fact that these islands accept the US dollar and speak English. Travelers looking to relax in a more subdued Caribbean setting will enjoy this destination.
WHAT TO DO: The Turks and Caicos Islands are more divided and quieter than many of the other Caribbean islands, but there is still much to do. The main draw is the beach, particularly at Providenciales or “Provo”, which has been voted the “best beach” in the Caribbean by Conde Nast. The north shore of Provo, near Grace Bay, is a particularly beautiful place. Aside from the beach, TCI is also famous for its SCUBA diving. The islands are surrounded by a 1,000 square mile coral reef system and visibility is excellent (up to 200 feet). Shipwrecks are also a common site for scuba divers. Although diving is excellent anywhere on these islands, Grand Turk Island is often preferred by experienced divers. Most of the properties on the island offer programs for divers and non-divers. Not a diver but still love marine life? TCI offers the world’s only conch farm, humpback whale watching in late winter and early spring, and even dolphins that willingly swim with humans on the beach. Ecotourism is big on these islands which include 27 national parks.
WHERE TO STAY: Accommodations are available on all the islands, but are concentrated in Providenciales. Prices range from moderately priced hotels including Comfort Suites to luxury resorts like Parrot Cay, touted as the world’s most exclusive resort. There are two all-inclusive resorts on the island: Club Med, which is adults-only, and Beaches, a family member of the Sandals family. Several villas are available for a more intimate experience. Finally, a cruise hub built on Grand Turk in 2006 has attracted an increasing number of cruise ships to TCI.
WEDDING INFORMATION: Brides and grooms must be on the island for 4 days before getting married (24-hour residency period with an additional 2-3 days of license processing). Couples must be 21 years of age or older to marry in the Turks and Caicos Islands, unless they have a notarized statement from a parent or guardian. Religious weddings require proof of membership in the faith.