The Turks and Caicos Islands are often recognized as being one of the most romantic Caribbean destinations for honeymoons, but did you know that this exclusive destination is also one of the most convenient places in the Caribbean to get married?

If you are planning a Caribbean wedding, consider Providenciales for your ceremony.   Here are six great reasons why you should.

1.   Ease of access.  The Turks and Caicos are located just 575 miles southeast of Miami.  Direct flights less than four hours in length are available year round from New York City, Newark, Charlotte, Miami, Toronto and several other major cities.  Once on Providenciales most resorts, including our own Alexandra Resort, are no more than a 15 minute drive from the airport. 
2.  English is the official language. Have convenience and peace of mind by receiving wedding services from English speaking coordinators, enjoy your wedding ceremony in English and a marriage license written in English.
3.  Gorgeous weather.  Turks and Caicos has one of the best climates in the Caribbean.  Low precipitation and humidity levels compared to other island destinations reduce the risk of weather-related interruptions to your outdoor ceremony.
4.  Affordable and easy marriage license arrangements.  Unlike some other Caribbean islands, couples only need to be in Turks and Caicos for only 48 hours before applying for a marriage license.  The fee is just $250 U.S. Please note that the Registrar’s Office that grants marriage licenses is only open from Monday to Friday, and that any documents (i.e. passports, birth certificates, etc.) which are not in English must be translated and notarized before presenting to the Registrar’s Office.  Cruise ship passengers (arriving in Grand Turk) can also apply for a special license to get married on the day of arrival. 
5.  Bragging rights.  It’s hard to find a more exclusive location for a Caribbean wedding than Turks and Caicos.  You can join Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, Bruce Willis and Emma Heming, and other jetsetters who have chosen this special place to make their important vows.
6.Combine ceremony and honeymoon location. Turks and Caicos is such a beautiful destination, there is no need to go anywhere else on your honeymoon.

Aside from the conveniences of getting married here, it’s important to consider the sheer beauty of our beaches and the exceptional resorts, restaurants and spas that will help make your special day truly memorable.  The Alexandra Resort and Mango Reef Restaurant present the ideal venue for your Turks and Caicos wedding, and a dedicated team of resort professionals await to help turn your dreams into reality.

Watch for part two of this blog, where we’ll share advice on those important wedding suppliers, including photographers, stylists, florists and more.

Until then, please don’t hesitate to contact us with questions on how to start planning the perfect Turks and Caicos wedding.

Our previous blog on international dining options in Turks and Caicos Islands was a popular one and only scratched the surface of the many excellent restaurants we have here on Providenciales. The wide variety of international flavors available at our many fine island restaurants deserves another look.  Here is “part 2” of the story on what Turks and Caicos has to offer in terms of gastronomic delights.   From Asia to Italy, from France and Britain to Mexico and back home again to the Caribbean, there is a world of food flavors to discover and savor on your next vacation to one of the most exclusive islands in the Caribbean.

First we’ll start with a restaurant that stands out for its creativity as well as the quality of the food.  Stix is a new “pop-up” restaurant located on the sands of the award-winning Grace Bay Beach and is part of the luxurious Grace Bay Club resort.   This novel concept of a “pop-up” restaurant means that there is a limited six-month window to enjoy its pleasures.   Stix is open from December to July, from 11 am until 10 pm daily.  As its name suggests, Stix offers everything on a stick.  Menu highlights include grilled Lion Fish with pickled carrots and roasted coriander seeds; jerk roasted corn on the cob with Grace Bay coconut; and spicy Sambal beef skewer with scallions and rum-soaked pineapple.  For dessert you might be tempted by the pina colada popsicle, frozen banana rama with caramel and marshmallows, or a tropical fruit Stix dipped in Bailey’s chocolate!  Complementing its creative menu are a variety of internationally-acclaimed Rose wines all served on brightly-colored cushions on the sugar-fine beach of Grace Bay.                                    

After a luxurious afternoon of enjoying indulgences at Stix you may not want to prepare dinner so we suggest heading to Caicos Café,a Mediterranean bistro brimming with Caribbean charm.   The restaurant is within walking distance of most Grace Bay resorts and is located in a small shopping plaza framed with white gingerbread trim and a dark wooded deck.   The setting will make you feel like you’re dining at the home of a Caribbean aristocrat, with candle-lit tables on a moon-lit terrace.  The menu is equally enchanting, with an emphasis on fresh fish and pasta.  The owner/chef combines flavors and influences from his Italian heritage to create unforgettable dishes such as his orecchiette with Italian sweet and spicy pork sausage ragout; the lobster with linguine “fra’diavolo” (only in lobster season) and his famous Mediterranean style seafood casserole.   He also offers an extensive and versatile wine list and tempting dolci to seal the meal.   This restaurant is open from Monday through Saturday from 6:00 pm until 10:00 pm.

Expanding upon the Mediterranean influence, a new French sidewalk café just opened in the Regent Village.  Perfect for lunch or dinner, Le Bouchon du Village (phone 946-4234) serves a savory selection of salads, tapas, tartines and sandwiches with nightly dinner specials and a good selection of coffee, wines, beers and liquors.  Open six days a week from 7 am until 10 pm, Le Bouchon is the latest endeavor of long-time local restaurateur Pierrik Marziou and his son Julian.  Their excellent reputation for providing high-quality and consistently good restaurant experiences is further exemplified here.  If charcuterier and salad nicoise are your idea of a delightful lunch then a visit to Le Bouchon is a must - as you won’t find these dishes at any other restaurant in Turks and Caicos. 

One of the newest additions to the Turks and Caicos bar and restaurant scene is the new Salt Bar & Grill located in Leeward at the Blue Haven Resort and Marina. Serving delicious bar food and a wide range of drinks from 10 am until at least 10 pm is Salt’s claim to fame. What is special about this new locale? You have a stunning setting overlooking the boats in the newly opened marina as well as the untouched mangroves of Mangrove Cay. Salt is the perfect choice after you return from a diving excursion or boating trip exploring our beautiful by nature islands. (Tel: 649-946-9900)

Further down the road, between the Windsong Resort and the Coral Gardens resort there is a hidden treasure called Somewhere Café.   They say you haven’t been anywhere until you’ve been to Somewhere!   This is the place to enjoy Mexican food in a relaxed Caribbean beach setting.   The fun-filled atmosphere starts with the décor (a giant sized chess game is a feature), continues with the menu (who doesn’t smile when they think of tacos) and finishes with a line of t-shirts that contain the word “somewhere” (think “It’s 5 o’Clock Somewhere” etc.).    With both the beach and a topside deck reserved for people 18 and older, you’ll have a fabulous view of our turquoise ocean while feasting on fajitas, sipping Margaritas and enjoying the daily extended happy hour.  (Here happy hour starts exactly one hour before sunset and finishes two hours afterwards - they have a chalkboard to let you know when sunset is each day).  Open daily from 8:30 am until 11:30 pm, Somewhere is a great place to enjoy with family and friends, especially with live music every Friday evening and dancing on the beach. 

Another hidden secret - right on the beach - offering authentic Caribbean fare is Ricky’s Flamingo Café, but everyone here just calls it Ricky’s.   Ricky’s is located in a small corner of a beach deck between Ocean Club East and Club Med.   It’s actually in the Cultural Market Place, which also houses small souvenir shops.  Fresh, local seafood and native dishes such as conch and lobster, when in season, are the highlights of this tiny gem.   The beauty of Ricky’s is the flavors and the casual setting, right on the beach.   His whole restaurant consists of a grill, fryer, a refrigerator and a small counter.   Since it is usually just Ricky and one other person preparing the meals, service can be slow but it is always worth it.   Ricky is a Grand Turk native and his high cracked conch is one-of-a-kind.   

Of course, one of the favorite restaurants on the island is Mango Reef, located right here at The Alexandra Resort on Grace Bay Beach.

Bon Appetit!

Mango Reef, Oceanside Dining at The Alexandra Resort

Our previous blog on international dining options in Turks and Caicos Islands was a popular one and only scratched the surface of the many excellent restaurants we have here on Providenciales. The wide variety of international flavors available at our many fine island restaurants deserves another look.  Here is “part 2” of the story on what Turks and Caicos has to offer in terms of gastronomic delights.   From Asia to Italy, from France and Britain to Mexico and back home again to the Caribbean, there is a world of food flavors to discover and savor on your next vacation to one of the most exclusive islands in the Caribbean.

First we’ll start with a restaurant that stands out for its creativity as well as the quality of the food.  Stix is a new “pop-up” restaurant located on the sands of the award-winning Grace Bay Beach and is part of the luxurious Grace Bay Club resort.   This novel concept of a “pop-up” restaurant means that there is a limited six-month window to enjoy its pleasures.   Stix is open from December to July, from 11 am until 10 pm daily.  As its name suggests, Stix offers everything on a stick.  Menu highlights include grilled Lion Fish with pickled carrots and roasted coriander seeds; jerk roasted corn on the cob with Grace Bay coconut; and spicy Sambal beef skewer with scallions and rum-soaked pineapple.  For dessert you might be tempted by the pina colada popsicle, frozen banana rama with caramel and marshmallows, or a tropical fruit Stix dipped in Bailey’s chocolate!  Complementing its creative menu are a variety of internationally-acclaimed Rose wines all served on brightly-colored cushions on the sugar-fine beach of Grace Bay.                                    

After a luxurious afternoon of enjoying indulgences at Stix you may not want to prepare dinner so we suggest heading to Caicos Café,a Mediterranean bistro brimming with Caribbean charm.   The restaurant is within walking distance of most Grace Bay resorts and is located in a small shopping plaza framed with white gingerbread trim and a dark wooded deck.   The setting will make you feel like you’re dining at the home of a Caribbean aristocrat, with candle-lit tables on a moon-lit terrace.  The menu is equally enchanting, with an emphasis on fresh fish and pasta.  The owner/chef combines flavors and influences from his Italian heritage to create unforgettable dishes such as his orecchiette with Italian sweet and spicy pork sausage ragout; the lobster with linguine “fra’diavolo” (only in lobster season) and his famous Mediterranean style seafood casserole.   He also offers an extensive and versatile wine list and tempting dolci to seal the meal.   This restaurant is open from Monday through Saturday from 6:00 pm until 10:00 pm.

Expanding upon the Mediterranean influence, a new French sidewalk café just opened in the Regent Village.  Perfect for lunch or dinner, Le Bouchon du Village (phone 946-4234) serves a savory selection of salads, tapas, tartines and sandwiches with nightly dinner specials and a good selection of coffee, wines, beers and liquors.  Open six days a week from 7 am until 10 pm, Le Bouchon is the latest endeavor of long-time local restaurateur Pierrik Marziou and his son Julian.  Their excellent reputation for providing high-quality and consistently good restaurant experiences is further exemplified here.  If charcuterier and salad nicoise are your idea of a delightful lunch then a visit to Le Bouchon is a must - as you won’t find these dishes at any other restaurant in Turks and Caicos. 

One of the newest additions to the Turks and Caicos bar and restaurant scene is the new Salt Bar & Grill located in Leeward at the Blue Haven Resort and Marina. Serving delicious bar food and a wide range of drinks from 10 am until at least 10 pm is Salt’s claim to fame. What is special about this new locale? You have a stunning setting overlooking the boats in the newly opened marina as well as the untouched mangroves of Mangrove Cay. Salt is the perfect choice after you return from a diving excursion or boating trip exploring our beautiful by nature islands. (Tel: 649-946-9900)

Further down the road, between the Windsong Resort and the Coral Gardens resort there is a hidden treasure called Somewhere Café.   They say you haven’t been anywhere until you’ve been to Somewhere!   This is the place to enjoy Mexican food in a relaxed Caribbean beach setting.   The fun-filled atmosphere starts with the décor (a giant sized chess game is a feature), continues with the menu (who doesn’t smile when they think of tacos) and finishes with a line of t-shirts that contain the word “somewhere” (think “It’s 5 o’Clock Somewhere” etc.).    With both the beach and a topside deck reserved for people 18 and older, you’ll have a fabulous view of our turquoise ocean while feasting on fajitas, sipping Margaritas and enjoying the daily extended happy hour.  (Here happy hour starts exactly one hour before sunset and finishes two hours afterwards - they have a chalkboard to let you know when sunset is each day).  Open daily from 8:30 am until 11:30 pm, Somewhere is a great place to enjoy with family and friends, especially with live music every Friday evening and dancing on the beach. 

Another hidden secret - right on the beach - offering authentic Caribbean fare is Ricky’s Flamingo Café, but everyone here just calls it Ricky’s.   Ricky’s is located in a small corner of a beach deck between Ocean Club East and Club Med.   It’s actually in the Cultural Market Place, which also houses small souvenir shops.  Fresh, local seafood and native dishes such as conch and lobster, when in season, are the highlights of this tiny gem.   The beauty of Ricky’s is the flavors and the casual setting, right on the beach.   His whole restaurant consists of a grill, fryer, a refrigerator and a small counter.   Since it is usually just Ricky and one other person preparing the meals, service can be slow but it is always worth it.   Ricky is a Grand Turk native and his high cracked conch is one-of-a-kind.   

Of course, one of the favorite restaurants on the island is Mango Reef, located right here at The Alexandra Resort on Grace Bay Beach.

Bon Appetit!

Mango Reef, Oceanside Dining at The Alexandra Resort

The tantalizing, turquoise waters of the Turks and Caicos are teeming with marine life and have become a major attraction for professional and amateur anglers.   Even if you’re not into fishing, spending at least one day on the deep blue waters surrounding our famous Grace Bay Beach is a must do.   This is why we’re bringing you this quick guide to fishing in the Turks and Caicos Islands - just in time for Father’s Day too!

With one of the largest contiguous coral reefs in the world, the waters of the Turks and Caicos Islands offer spectacular snorkeling, diving and fishing experiences.   Whether it’s deep-sea fishing, sports fishing or the more exotic bone fishing that gets you baiting a hook - there is something here for everyone.

Deep-sea fishing is probably the first thing that comes to mind when “fishing” and “Caribbean” are used in the same sentence.  Sometimes called the “sport of kings,” deep-sea fishing takes place several miles offshore and the clear waters of the Turks and Caicos are considered to be one of the finest places for this in the Caribbean.  The premier trophy fish of the Atlantic is the blue marlin and it is plentiful all year round but caught in record numbers during the summer season.   Deep-sea fishing is typically an all-day event and is usually reserved for experienced anglers - however there is a wide range of options from excursion companies here.

If deep-sea fishing is too much, sports fishing may be for you.  Sports fishing excursions go to the edge of the reef where the deep water starts and you can troll the coral heads using live bait to lure your prey.  Unlike deep-sea fishing where there can be a lot of down time, sports fishing is full of action, which makes it a fun and exciting activity for the whole family - even those new to fishing.

Another great way to enjoy a day at sea for the whole family is reef fishing - also called bottom fishing.   Reef fishing happens on the inner reef where our coral heads teem with all types and sizes of stunning tropical fish.   A typical outing can net any where from 10 to 50 fish such as snapper and grouper. 

If eating your catch isn’t important to you, you may want to try bonefishing.  Bonefishing is the ultimate in sports fishing as it relies on the skill and competence of the person holding the reel, while the boat and captain have little to do with the outcome.  The elusive, silvery bonefish can be feisty and are said to put up a good fight for a fish its size.  They tend to like the flats and fortunately there are hundreds of miles of shallow feeding grounds for them on the south side of Providenciales.  Because of all their bones, this is a catch and release activity.  And, be careful - it is known to be addictive!

If you enjoy fishing and being on the sea, you should definitely consider a fishing excursion on your next visit.   Please note that fishing licenses are required and are usually included in your excursion fee, but be sure to check when you book.  If you want to go out on your own, fishing licenses are also available at the Department of Environment.  Their office is located in a round building with a turquoise roof, on the Lower Bight Road, just down the street from the Gansevoort Hotel and across from the Bight Park, where the fish fry is hosted every Thursday night.  However, even with a fishing license, fishing in National Parks is strictly forbidden, so make sure you are in an approved area before you make your first cast!

The best way to enjoy fishing the Turks and Caicos Islands is with an experienced crew. The concierge desk at The Alexandra can help arrange trips with any and all of them! Here are some of the operators offering fishing excursions and what they have to say about the experience:

Grand Slam Charters  http://www.gsfishing.com/

“We guarantee a memorable experience for the whole family. Deep sea fishing in Turks and Caicos is an experience not to be missed. The scream of the reel, the bend of the rod and the flash of silver deep below will be a lifetime memory!”

Catch the Wave  http://www.catchthewavecharter.com/

“Catch the Wave Charters has more than 40 miles of shallow flats and offers the ultimate bone fishing experience with guaranteed catches on your first day. We offer sports fishing with a fly rod or light tackle. All the necessary bait and equipment is provided.”

Silver Deep  http://www.silverdeep.com/fishing/fishing.htm

“Arthur Dean is internationally renowned as one of the best fly-fishing guides in the Caribbean and has been featured on International TV Channels: ESPN2 in the show "FISH- ON"

There are more than 90 miles of flats around Providenciales - plenty of opportunity to fish a new flat everyday.”

Panoply http://www.panoply.tc/#!/main

“Whether you are a seasoned angler or casting a line for the first time, our Captain and First Mate will be there to offer as much or as little help as you need. Our Captain’s skillful handling of Panoply and our Crew’s knowledge and expertise of the game will provide you with invaluable guidance for landing that big fish!”

Photo Courtesy of Grand Slam Charters

Most people would say that the mesmerizing marine blue waters and crystal-fine sand are what make Turks and Caicos special - and they are correct.  We are proud of our pristine landscape and know that this is an essential component to enjoying that perfect - yet often elusive - Caribbean vacation.   However, there’s more to Turks and Caicos than just a pretty beach. Fuzzy cacti, endangered reptiles, a friendly dolphin and slightly-spicy rum are just some of the one-of-a-kind treats that will make your visit to our islands unique. 

One of the stories behind how the Turks and Caicos Islands got its name involves a cactus that grows wild and in abundance here.   The distinctive Turks Head cactus has a spiny red cap that resembles a fez - the iconic hats that were worn by the Ottomans in Turkey.  Hence its name - Turks Head.   These hardy plants are found only in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Along with the cacti, rock iguanas used to be pervasive on all the islands in the Turks and Caicos.  These miniature dinosaur-like creatures were the first true islanders.  When livestock and domesticated animals arrived on the islands, these gentle creatures became prey and their population decreased dramatically.  Now, they are confined to small, uninhabited cays and the species found here is critically endangered.   

The Turks and Caicos Rock Iguana is one of nine species of lizard and can be found nowhere else in the world except for here. It’s estimated that between 2000 and 3000 of these animals live on Little Water Cay -just off the tip of Providenciales.   To help protect them, Little Water Cay has been designated as a nature preserve and is managed by the Turks and Caicos National Trust.  If you’d like to encounter these friendly, harmless creatures in their natural habitat and support preservation efforts it’s easy to book a trip to see them.   All the local diving companies offer excursions such as Big Blue Unlimited, which includes a visit to Little Water Cay in its Princess Alexandra Kayak Adventure and as part of its half or full day private boat charter.

Another potential nature encounter exists just off the shores of Grace Bay beach.  JoJo is a unique Atlantic Bottlenose dolphin who has been living and playing in the Turks and Caicos Islands since 1980.  He is one of the few dolphins around the world that voluntarily interacts with humans in his own natural habitat.  JoJo likes to swim in the shallow waters of Grace Bay beach.   So, if you stay at the Alexandra Resort you may be lucky to get a glimpse of him, as he is often spotted during dawn or dusk cruising along Grace Bay beach.   Look for a slightly-bent dorsal fin on your next beach walk, especially if there is a small watercraft nearby (JoJo has a special affinity for boat motors).   Or, if you really want to increase your chances of a siting, book a trip with Caicos Dream Tours and you may be able to post similar pictures of JoJo on TripAdvisor!   The full story on JoJo and his connection to the Turks and Caicos has been well-documented on various websites and in numerous articles.   But, the best way to learn about JoJo is by visiting him in his home here.   Many tourists have had the excitement of meeting him and they all say it’s an experience to savor. 

Speaking of savoring moments, what Caribbean vacation is complete without a sip of local rum to seal in the memories?   Bambarra Rum is as unique as the Turks and Caicos Islands.  Named after the picturesque beach in Middle Caicos, where an African slave ship (Trouvadore) made landfall accidentally in 1841, Bambarra Rum is blended and bottled by hand, here in Turks and Caicos. The Bambarra collection includes four varieties - from a sweet Coconut flavor to the well-balanced 15-year old reserve - all of which capture the quality and heritage of the Turks and Caicos Islands in a bottle.   

To bring home some of the flavors of the Turks and Caicos Islands be sure to visit FOTTAC in the Regent Plaza shopping center.  Along with Bambarra Rum, you will find a variety of related products like rum cakes, and condiments such as hot sauces, jerk rubs, jellies and jams, that can only be purchased in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Now you know that there are more just great beaches waiting for you in the Turks and Caicos Islands.   We hope our one-of-a-kind experiences will entice you to come for a visit.

May is a time for remembering.  Whether it is Memorial Day in the United States or National Heroes Day in Turks and Caicos Islands, both holidays celebrate heritage and heroes.

In the United States, this holiday memorializes all men and women who have died in military service for their country. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, and Memorial Day weekend is traditionally considered the start of the summer season.

In Turks and Caicos, National Heroes Day commemorates the life of James Alexander George Smith (JAGS) McCartney, who served as the first Chief Minister of the country.  The event celebrates the country’s heritage of heroism and triumph.

The history of the Turks and Caicos stretches back to 1841 when a ship, the Trouvadore, set sail from Africa bound for Cuba’s sugar plantations with 300 slaves on board.  When the ship crashed into the island of East Caicos, a tragedy turned into a blessing.  Fortunately, the ship landed in a British Colony that emancipated its slaves in 1834.  So, instead of a lifetime of bondage, the Bambarra people that survived the Trouvadore shipwreck settled here as free people and became pioneers.

To celebrate this history and the heroes that enabled it, the Alexandra Resort is offering a great May booking special.  Both holidays fall on the same day this year - May 27, 2013. Book your getaway and enjoy not only a fantastic beach vacation but also a destination rich in history. 

Memorial Day is the perfect time to get away with family.

For centuries, the orchid has been a symbol of love, luxury and beauty - some of the same characteristics often attributed to the Turks & Caicos Islands.  It’s only fitting that orchids grow wild here and complement the destination’s reputation for romance, luxury and beauty.

The Alexandra Resort pays homage to the symbolism of the orchid and its connection to the Turks & Caicos Islands as well.  Each accommodation building at the resort is named after an orchid that grows wild in Turks & Caicos; Marilyn, Chelsea, Lady Rose and Prima Donna.

Whether you are a devoted botanist or simply enjoy exploring the beauty of the islands, take time on your visit to discover these gorgeous blooms in their natural environment. Have fun determining if the ancient Greeks were right in their belief that the orchid represented virility, or if, as the Chinese suggested, orchids are, "the plant of the king's fragrance." Or perhaps orchid fans from the Middle Ages were right, and the local flowers are actually an aphrodisiac that can be used in love potions. Whatever you conclude, your research will help you see yet another beautiful part of the Turks & Caicos Islands.

For more information on orchids in the Turks & Caicos Islands, contact the Turks & Caicos Museum at www.tcmuseum.org.  The museum hosts an orchid “living collection” every December and January, and also offers additional information and resources to learn more about the flora on the islands.

Wild Orchids Found in Turks & Caicos

Once again Turks & Caicos is in the news.   And, once again the islands are being recognized for their natural beauty and unique environment.  TripAdvisor recently announced the winners of its inaugural Travelers' Choice Islands awards.  Based on millions of valuable traveler reviews and opinions, the awards recognize more than 100 islands across the globe, including dedicated lists for Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, South America, the South Pacific, and the United States.     

Providenciales has been voted the third best island in the Caribbean and received enthusiastic reviews and feedback from travelers’ postings on TripAdvisor.   Visitors pointed to the wide range of activities available here as well as our picture-perfect coastline.   Tranquility, diversity, beauty and charm - these are the reasons people come to Turks & Caicos, and the reasons they keep coming back.

This endorsement from the world’s largest travel web site reinforces what guests at the Alexandra Resort already know.  If this doesn’t tempt you to book your next vacation here maybe our Stay Longer, Save More promotion will.   Not only will you save up to 35% on your booking but you’ll get discounts on spa treatments and excursions with Caicos Dream Tours.   Please contact the resort for more details at 1-888-695-7591.

The Picture Perfect Coastline of Grace Bay Beach

For families, Turks & Caicos is a great vacation choice.   The destination is quick and easy to reach from major cities in North America, and it’s a safe place to visit.  Modern grocery stores, clean drinking water, state-of-the-art medical facilities and reliable communications services take some of the travel safety worries away for parents.

The Alexandra Resort is a great property for families. In addition to offering spacious and  comfortably appointed suites that include kitchen facilities, we have our Pelican Kids club, an awesome freeform swimming pool and the resort is situated in one of the best areas of Grace Bay - right on the beach and in close proximity to many restaurants and shops.

If your idea of a great family vacation includes escaping the routine and spending quality time together, you’ll be looking for family-friendly dining options.  Fortunately, you won’t have to look very hard here.  There are a number of great restaurants on Providenciales that are sure to make everyone in the family happy.  Here are some of our favorite places for value-oriented family dining experiences:

The Tiki Hut Island Eatery - Dockside at Turtle Cove Marina

This casual dining spot has a consistent track record for serving good quality food at reasonable  prices.  It offers a relaxed atmosphere that makes dining with families and/or larger groups a breeze - literally!  The Tiki Hut is located on the docks at Turtle Cove Marina. This open-air restaurant has been an island establishment since 1992.   They are famous for their Wednesday Chicken and Rib Night, which always delivers a lively atmosphere and delicious grilled specials in addition to their normal menu.   It’s open for lunch and dinner weekdays, and also for breakfast on the weekends.   Reservations are recommended for six or more.  Phone (649) 941-5341.

Baci Ristorante

Also located in Turtle Cove, Baci is an Italian restaurant that has been feeding locals and visitors for the past decade.   The place has a beautiful yet relaxed ambiance with an indoor dining room that spills out to an open-air terrace directly on the water.   The menu features fresh pastas, seafood, veal and brick-oven pizzas that can be enjoyed at the table or to go.    The long bar at the entrance usually serves as a meeting spot for locals who gather after work.  It is open Monday through Saturday nights and weekdays for lunch.   Reservations are recommended:  (649) 941-3044. 

Mango Reef

Our own Mango Reef Restaurant located at the Alexandra Resort on Grace Bay is always a great choice for families. With a wide variety of menu options and an extensive kids’ menu, the food here is always good and the setting is fun.  Kids love the beach terrace, which is a great spot to dine while the sun sets.   Plenty of outdoor seating on the beach terrace means you’ll always get a great table. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, and live music is featured on Tuesday and Friday evenings.   Mango Reef also provides the lunch for children attending Pelican Kids’ Club at Mango Reef.  Guests staying at the Alexandra Resort can also enjoy the convenience of ordering room service from Mango Reef.  For reservations or carry-out service:  (649) 946-8200.

Hemingway’s

If you are looking for a bit more elegance but in a relaxed atmosphere with a menu that will please everyone in the family, you should go to Hemingway’s at The Sands Resort.   Some of the seating area is covered and the rest is on the beachside terrace.   It’s open from 8:00 am until 10:00 pm daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.    The terrace has a JoJo Bell that people can ring when they catch a glimpse of the famous dolphin swimming by.   The great thing about this place is the menu has gourmet choices such as its juicy filet mignon or fresh grouper, as well as kid-friendly options such as chicken fingers and the brownie sundae for dessert.   For more information or reservations: (649) 941-8408.

Giggles

When the formalities of dinner are done or if you are just looking for a fun outing for you and the kids, you can head to Giggles in the Ports of Call shopping complex.  This little shop is a sweet delight - with soft-serve ice cream and an abundance of loose candy and other treats.    It is basically an ice cream shop and candy store rolled into one!  The phone is (649) 941-7370.

Be sure to call The Alexandra Resort for your next family vacation 1-800-284-0699!

A lot of people come to Turks and Caicos seeking an authentic Caribbean experience.  Guests at the Alexandra Resort get to enjoy what’s been named one of the best beaches in the world, Grace Bay Beach, when they stay at the resort.   In addition, we provide easy access to a host of amenities and activities - everything you’d expect in a Caribbean vacation.   From water based activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling, to fun on the ground such as golf, tennis, spa indulgences and fine dining, there is plenty to do and see right here in Grace Bay.  However, if you choose to venture off the beaten path, you’ll be hugely rewarded. 

Turks and Caicos is made up of more than 40 islands and cays. Eight of them are inhabited and the rest left as nature intended.   Exploring some of the other islands can give you an exciting, memorable and unique vacation experience. 

Caicos Dream Tours, located at Alexandra Resort, offers excursions that take you away from Providenciales and enable you to enjoy the untouched sea and sand on some other magnificent islands and cays.  Every Thursday Caicos Dream Tours embark on a Dreamday Getaway - an all-day adventure with a beach BBQ lunch on Fort George Cay (see photo).  They also offer snorkeling, bottom fishing excursions, and private charters. 

Fort George Cay, Turks & Caicos

If you prefer to go further off the beaten path we highly recommend taking a day trip to North Caicos and Middle Caicos. 

Convenient and cost-effective ferry services, such as Caribbean Crusin, will take you from Providenciales to North Caicos.  Once you arrive on North Caicos it’s easy to rent a car from rental car agents at the ferry dock and explore both islands, since they are connected via a causeway. It’s easy to drive on North and Middle Caicos because the roads are wide, well-paved and less crowded.   There is also an abundance of things to do - something for everyone.

For Beach Bums

If you appreciate good beaches, you’ll be blown away by what awaits you on North and Middle.   

The beaches on North Caicos run for 8.5 miles along the north coast. The ferry from Providenciales arrives at Sandy Point.  From there, eastward, you’ll find the island’s most spectacular beaches:  Three Mary’s Cay, which has fantastic snorkeling spots; Pumpkin Bluff (see photo), a scenic, rocky beach with coves and remains of a freighter ship off-shore; Whitby Beach, a great spot for swimming and Horsestable Beach, which offers wide, expansive stretches of powder-fine sand and some nice snorkeling close to shore.   

Just across the causeway you’ll find the beach gems of Middle Caicos.  First is Mudjin Harbor, a three-mile-long section of coastline on the north side of Middle Caicos. 

This is a particularly picturesque beach set in a cove and framed by natural limestone caves.  The setting is strikingly impressive.  Next is Bambarra Beach, named for the slaves that arrived in Middle Caicos by accident en route from Africa to America.  Turks & Caicos’ Bambarra Rum shares the same name.  This beach has a shallow pitch and plenty of shade, which makes it great for swimming and families.    

For Nature Enthusiasts:

North and Middle Caicos are islands of abundant natural beauty.  One of the UK’s largest Ramsar sites fo

r protected wetlands runs through a good portion of North, Middle and East Caicos, resulting in approximately 210 square miles of uninhabited and unspoiled marine and terrestrial ecosystem. Protected under international treaty, these areas host a variety of native and migrant bird species such as the rare whistling duck to sandpipers, plovers, osprey and pink flamingos.  In fact, North Caicos boasts the largest flock of flamingos in the Turks and Caicos Islands at the aptly named "Flamingo Pond Nature Reserve" (see photo) where the pastel-colored birds frolic in their natural habitat.  

For Adventurists:

Big Blue Unlimited has an Eco-Adventure base at Major Hill on North Caicos, where they can take you on guided eco-tours via kayaks, mountain bikes and/or by boat.   

On Middle Caicos you won’t want to miss the largest network of above-ground caves in the Northern Caribbean.  Formed from the erosion of limestone, the caves feature stalactites, stalagmites, bats, owls and salt lakes that link to the sea.  Tours through the caves with local guides are arranged by contacting Middle Caicos Co-op (649-941-7639). If you do plan to visit the caves be sure to wear sturdy shoes, not just sandals, and bring flashlights. (see photo)

Of course all the water sports you’d expect from a Caribbean island are also available here, including kiteboarding, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling and whale watching, depending on the time of year you visit. 

For Historians:

A significant part of the history of North Caicos dates back to the late 1700’s when England offered the soil of the Turks and Caicos Islands to British Loyalists in the United States.   In 1789, Loyalist Wade Stubbs was granted more than 800 acres by King George III on the island of North Caicos as compensation for loss of his land in Florida after the U.S. won independence from the U.K.  Wade, and later his brother Thomas, developed plantations and grew “sea island cotton,” creating an industry for the island and surrounding area.  Today, this rich history is on display at Wade’s Green Plantation.  In addition to touring the site, you can climb the look-out tower for a 360 degree view that goes for miles.   

The recently excavated Middle Caicos Crossing Place Trail, which leads along the coastline to North Caicos, enables visitors to enjoy the natural and historic environment at the same time. This magnificent five mile coastal trail was the same place the early plantation pioneers of this land waited for the tides to subside so that they could cross-over the sandbars to the island of North Caicos for trade and education.  It’s believed that the Lucayans first utilized these coastal trails as early as the 1400’s.    

For Foodies:

While there are not many restaurants in North or Middle and many of them are closed on Sunday, if you do choose to dine at one you’ll have an authentic experience and get to taste the true flavors of the Turks & Caicos Islands.  Many of the restaurants offer fresh seafood and locally grown vegetables. 

On North Caicos, the Silver Palm restaurant is a good place to take a mid-day break.  Located on Whitby Beach, flocks of pink flamingos are often observed right in front of the restaurant. 

On Middle Caicos, Daniels Café is a well-known and beloved stop for a bite and refreshing drink.  Located in Conch Bar, the main village of Middle Caicos, this is also where you’ll find the Middle Caicos Co-op, a studio and outlet for traditional Turks & Caicos handcrafts, where over 40 local artisans crafts are on display and for sale.  The Blue Horizon Resort also recently added a restaurant to their portfolio that should not be missed. 

North and Middle Caicos will be sure to delight and surprise you.  With amazing beaches, historic ruins and pristine natural environments, these islands have something for everyone and give you a sense of what the Caribbean used to be like before development and the Internet. 

Helpful Links

Caicu Naniki LTD: http://caicunaniki.com/Island-Safari-Cave-Beach-Exploring

Caribbean Cruisin: http://www.tciferry.com/

Everything North Caicos: http://oceanbeach.tc/?page_id=189

Middle Caicos Coop: http://middlecaicos.biz/

Pelican Beach Hotel and Restaurant North Caicos: http://www.pelicanbeach.tc/

Amphibious Adventures: http://www.amphibious.tc/