Lobster season officially opened yesterday (August 15, 2012), which makes this favorite treat a part of the Turks and Caicos Islands menu again.

Last year, acting on advice from fishermen and the Fisheries Advisory Committee, the governor’s Advisory Council decided to postpone the beginning of lobster season by two weeks past the usual opening date of Aug. 1 in order to allow lobster stocks time to reproduce.  The season will through March 31, 2013.

The first day of the new season in the country is known as “the lobster grab,” when hundreds of fishermen rush out in an attempt to catch the bounty lobster population.

Lobster is considered a must have for fine dining in the islands and is largely used by restaurants. Local chefs are famous for their spiny lobster dishes — cooked in nearly every style imaginable. Economically, the lobster fishery is the most important marine resource in the country and has played an integral part in the community for generations.

It is an extremely important industry, centered mainly in South Caicos, although also largely available on all the other islands. The Caribbean spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) grows to about 60 centimeters in length. Like the other 20 members of the genus Panulirus such as the Australian, California, and Chinese spiny lobsters, it lacks the large pinching claws of their Maine lobster relatives.

Its only defenses are the spines that cover its shell, which help protect the lobster from predators. The Caribbean spiny lobster uses a second pair of antennae in sensory perception, which are found folded along side the body when not in use.

The Caribbean Spiny lobster is also a healthy treat, with only 143 calories and 1.9 grams of fat per 3.5-ounce cooked serving. Enjoy it while it lasts.

Just last week, Forbes posted a story about the top hotels for getting away with a group.   While the idea of going on vacation used to be to get away from

crowds, there seems to be a growing trend towards bringing the crowds with you when you go. At least you know who you are dealing with!  At the Alexandra Resort, we’re well equipped to handle travelling groups - whether it’s a family reunion, a girl’s getaway or the newly emerging “mancation”. The Alexandra Resort provides an ideal setting for getting away together, which is why we designed the Group Getaway package deal:  When you reserve eight (8) rooms you get two (2) free.

But that is not the only reason: The Alexandra Resort is also perfect for group travel because of our size, location and amenities.  We boast one of the longest stretches of powder beach along Grace Bay, namely 600 feet of white sand beach just for our guests.   We’ve added more chaise lounges, sun beds and beach umbrellas, so our dedicated beach attendants will make sure you and your group have what you need on the beach.   Plus, our guests can take advantage of our complimentary paddle boards, kayaks and snorkeling equipment - so there is something for everyone in your party to enjoy. 

The location of the resort - in the heart of Grace Bay - allows guests to conveniently stroll to shops, restaurants and nightlife providing groups with added flexibility.

Also, perfect for groups are the many amenities located on-site at the resort.  Our tour desk offers water and land-based excursions, plus guests have easy access to a full-service spa, tennis courts, fitness center and a freeform pool with swim-up bar.  Even though our rooms are spacious and well-equipped, guests take advantage of the shared BBQ area and often gather pool-side or on the beach deck at our popular Mango Reef restaurant for sunsets.  Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Mango Reef, offers al fresco dining with a wide range of menu items making it ideal to accommodate parties of all sizes and budgets.

The Alexandra Resort offers groups, big and small, a perfect vacation.  Come see for yourself and take advantage of our Group Booking package. 

A $10m redevelopment of passenger facilities at Providenciales International Airport was announced by John Smith, CEO, Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority.

The planned expansion will nearly double the size of the terminal to better accommodate the 500,000 passengers who pass through the Airport each year. It will increase in size from 51,462 to 92,321 sq ft.

Work is scheduled to begin later this year and be completed in 2014 and will ensure that the TCI’s airport meets the International Association of Travel Agents criteria for Level C Class facilities.

Once completed passengers will be able to enjoy expanded check in counter areas and self check in facilities, additional bathroom facilities, larger retail space for shops and restaurants, and improved medical amenities.  

The first phase of works will include the construction of a new traffic circulation system, an extension to the existing west car park, and extension of the departure Lounge.

The second phase will continue with the extension on the international check in area, security check point as well as the arrivals hall.

The third and final phase will include the domestic departures and arrivals area, completion of car park and aesthetics, including water features.

“Providenciales International Airport is absolutely crucial to the Islander and visitor experience,” said Governor Ric Todd. “First impressions are vital, and I am certain that this work will provide the level of experience that our visitors demand.

“People who use the airport facilities know that it can become crowded at peak times – so does the Airport’s Management. That is why they have been planning these crucial works  as part of their overall master plan which also saw the runway expansion completed last year.”

“We are embarking on a journey of fundamental change in the way we conduct business and welcome tourists to the Turks and Caicos Islands,” said John Smith, CEO, Turks and Caicos Airports Authority. “Our terminal expansion project will not only offer better facilities for passengers, but provide us with the room to expand over the next 15 years.” 

An artist rendering of new airport: