By Simon Hénault
If you like the nightlife and need to boogie, you’ll probably want to head elsewhere and that’s cool. If, however, you’re into lazy days, water play, breathing fresh and basking in some of the clearest ocean waters in the world, then « Hellooo. Is it me you’re looking for? »
Every destination caters to a certain kind of traveller, and that’s a good thing. Finding your perfect match can mean the difference between a holiday that’s delightful or an experience you’d rather forget. Let’s figure out if Providenciales, its sister islands and the whole Turks and Caicos vibe correspond to your personality.
How important is the beach?
Pool types that never sink their toes in the sand might think we have too much beach. But is that even possible? We have the world’s best beaches—Tripadvidor and CondeNast readers say so — and they’re definitely one of the top reasons people come here. Try Googling “Grace Bay beach”. And like that, we have several more! We’re practically surrounded by perfect white sands and water so blue; you’ll forget every one of those Instagram filters you normally apply to your holiday shots.
Elegant or exotic?
Why choose?! Our island manages to cater to a little bit of everything with just the right mix of Robin Crusoe, remote chic and Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. For the most part, we’ve perfected a balance between comforts, pampering and just enough island vibe to make it feel foreign and relaxing.
If you’re curious, several famous faces have walked our beaches—Bruce Willis, Keith Richards, Julia Roberts, Tom Cruise, Barbra Streisand, Paul McCartney, Britney Spears, Madonna, Bill Gates, Hugh Jackman, Gene Simmons, to name a few— but we’re much more than a celebrity hideaway.
Do you enjoy water sports?
If you’re the kind of person who loves playing in the water, whose kids spend the entire day splashing around, or who’s deeply interested in marine life, you’ll be well served! We have the Caribbean’s finest diving and snorkeling, with the 3rd largest barrier reef in the world and countless spectacular wall dive sites.
But there’s much more you can do to have fun in the ocean. Ever kitesurfed? Want to try? Providenciales’ Long Bay Beach is a world-renowned spot for this sport, whether you’re a pro or just starting out.
Want more? Well, there’s paddle boarding, parasailing, surfing, fishing, windsurfing, boating, jet skiing and more. Check with your accommodation rental and see what’s available. We know the White Villas collection keeps complimentary paddle boards and snorkeling gear on hand for their guests, while also organizing their own boat tours, jet ski outings and more.
Water sports abound in the Turks and Caicos! And if that’s not your thing, simply take it easy and watch from a cozy lounge chair on Grace Bay, Long Bay or any other beach on our sister islands.
Do you need a quick jaunt or hate flying for hours?
Don’t we all?! Keep it simple. Choose a destination that’s fast and easy. Let’s talk geography. Our international airport is in Providenciales. Direct flights arrive from New York, Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Philadelphia, Charlotte, Chicago, Toronto, London and a few more cities.
And just to give you an idea, we’re a little over an hour from Miami and 2.5 hours from NYC. Piece of cake!
Do you travel for the sun?
There’s nothing worse than packing light, dreaming of warmth and then having to deal with cool, grey, wet weather while you’re away. If sun and light are what you want and need, you’ll be thrilled to know that our weather varies between 75 and 90 Fahrenheit (24c to 32c) and this is all year round. With nearly a perfect record, we can confidently brag about being one of the driest beach destinations around. And for some mysterious force of fate, hurricanes tend to pass us north or south, hitting Hispaniola, the Bahamas or the eastern US seaboard.
Are you social, but dislike crowds?
It’s a curious contradiction: we’re popular, yet never overcrowded. Perhaps, because we’ve limited large resorts. Or maybe, it’s being a luxury destination or simply a well-kept secret. Regardless of why, you won’t experience Montego Bay or Nassau crowds, here. The Turks and Caicos is one of those places you’ve heard of but most people have never been and it is on their travel wish list.
Are you always dreaming of your next meal?
We get it! A large part of what makes travel exciting is experiencing the local cuisine, trying out new dishes and simply being served. Turks and Caicos restaurants are just like its clientele: from relaxed to refined, we’ve got options for every urge. Talented chefs, local cooks and well-stocked grocery stores cover everyone’s needs. And think about the seafood for a minute. When you’re this close to the ocean, everything is fresh, delicious and memorable.
Think Turks and Caicos is a good fit? We’d love to have you! For more information on the Turks and Caicos Islands and to begin planning a vacation please browse Turks and Caicos Islands Official Tourism website.
Simon Hénault resides in the Turks and Caicos Islands and is the developer of White Villas which features 8 private villas on Providenciales. Family-owned and managed, it’s unique offering represents a safe, affordable alternative to the all-inclusive circuit, with attentive, family-oriented service that won’t break the bank – A travel option appreciated by their guests as their +100 5-star reviews testify. Visit WhiteVillas.net for detailed information or contact Simon by emailing simon@whitevillas.net or calling 1 649 345-3179.
