See How Well You Actually Know Our ‘Beautiful by Nature’ Destination
By Simon Hénault
1. Turks and Caicos is located in the Caribbean □ True □ False
Most would say “Yes!” but the truth is, technically we’re not. The turquoise waters, white sand beaches and tropical climate could lead you to believe we’re totally caribeño, but we’re actually located in the Atlantic Ocean. That said, it doesn’t mean there’s no Caribbean in our culture. Quite the opposite. Food, traditions and our smooth, easy-breezy lifestyle all have a super tropical feel.
2. Turks and Caicos was once a sugar superpower □ True □ False
Well, we were a super power. And it was a white substance. But the correct answer is salt, not sugar. Funny story: the Turks and Caicos Islands flag once featured an igloo, because the designer confused piles of salt with ice and snow. The salt islands were Grand Turk, Salt Cay and South Caicos and salt played a major part in the economic development of the region and its legacy is still strong.
3. Abundant seasonal rain keeps the Turks and Caicos Islands lush □ True □ False
With all the greenery, you’d think that it rains often over here, but we’re happy to report that’s not the case. We register an average of 325 sunny days per year, which puts the Turks and Caicos Islands among the driest islands in the Caribbean / Atlantic oceans.
4. Turks and Caicos waters are beautiful, yet chilly □ True □ False
The only goosebumps you’ll experience will be caused by breathtaking beauty, not chills. Summer water temperatures range from 86 to 90 degrees, while the water temperature is a little cooler during the winter, averaging between 78 and 82 degrees.
5. Turks and Caicos is a tiny, low-density destination □ True □ False
The Turks and Caicos Islands is one of the smallest countries in the Caribbean, yet we have nearly 400 kilometers of coastline and 40 islands. With a local population of 42,953 and 350,000 staying-travelers visiting each year, we’re small… but popular.
6. Everyone stays on one island □ True □ False
Providenciales is home to the international airport and most visitors do stay put, however many visit our sister islands such as Pine Cay, North Caicos, South Caicos by ferry and even Grand Turk and Salt Cay, by plane.
7. Turks and Caicos is a fabulous scuba diving destination □ True □ False
That would be true! Grand Turk is world-renowned for its scuba diving. A healthy barrier reef surrounds the island and it’s the third largest of its kind in the world. Experienced divers know this means access to millions of corals, tropical fish and other underwater companions such dolphins, hawksbill turtles, manta rays, nurse sharks, and many more. Are you more of a beginner? Fret not. It’s just as accessible for you.
8. Kitesurfing is Turks and Caicos’ national sport □ True □ False
Not officially, but Turks and Caicos Islands is one of the best locations in the world to kiteboard. With consistent trade winds, warm climate, shallow and turquoise waters, along with some of the Caribbean’s top rated kite schools, Long Bay beach is unparalleled as a top kiting destination.
9. Turks and Caicos’ name comes from a stone □ True □ False
Our name is inspired by nature, but not from a stone. As is usually the case, the name of the country comes from its earliest inhabitants. Turks refers to the indigenous Turk’s head cactus and Caicos is derived from “caya hico”, a Lucayan term meaning “string of islands”.
10. Turks and Caicos is Canadian □ True □ False
Nope. But the Turks and Caicos Islands have considered joining Canada three times, in 1917, 1974, and 2004. It’s actually a British overseas territory and uses American currency.
11. Spectacular stargazing □ True □ False
Our cloudless days turn into star-filled nights, but that’s not what we’re talking about. Our destination is a favored hotspot for wealthy and famous travellers that have seen and done it all. There’s something magical about the Turks and Caicos Islands and those in the know come back over and over again.
12. All-inclusive resorts abound in Turks and Caicos □ True □ False
Contrary to many other holiday destinations, we’re not a mecca for all-inclusive resorts. Our islands are reputed for their luxury villa offerings, plenty of fine-dining restaurants, exceptional water sport options and a-la-carte activities that allow you to design your own unique holiday experience. Whatsmore, villa collections now offer a micro-resort feel with hotel-type services and amenities that rival any resort offering you could desire. The White Villas Collection is a great example.
How did you do? Surprised / Delighted?
Perhaps you know something about the Turks and Caicos Islands we haven’t already covered here. Whenever you’re ready to discover our islands or come back, know that we’ll always be waiting with warm smiles and helpful hands.For more information on the Turks and Caicos Islands and to begin planning a vacation please visit https://turksandcaicostourism.com/.
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, its 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.
