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/

Shimmering white sand and warm turquoise waters were cited as some of the aspects that make Grace Bay Beach one of the best in the world.   

Once again, the 12-mile stretch of sand was named the number one beach in the Caribbean and the second best beach in the world by the millions of travelers who participated in the TripAdvisor 2013 Travelers Choice Beach Awards, which were announced last week. 

This latest recognition should provide inspiration for those planning their summer vacations, spring break trips, or just looking for a weekend escape to the sun.    And if that doesn’t, the special offers at the Alexandra Resort should.    Our Hip Hop Easter special offers discounts and bonuses over the Easter holiday and we have a Super Summer Savings promotion where you can get two nights free on a seven night vacation, free access to the Pelican Kids’ Club and discounts on spa services and beach excursions.  

Our all-suite resort sits on 620 feet of Grace Bay Beach.  The Alexandra Resort is designed so that almost every room offers a direct or partial ocean view.   In addition, our guests can take advantage of a range of complimentary beach services including non-motorized water sports, comfortable chaise lounges and umbrellas, beach attendant service and cold drinking water. 

The Travelers' Choice Beaches Awards are based on the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and ratings for beaches on TripAdvisor gathered over a 12-month period. According to TripAdvisor, this year’s program represented its biggest-ever Travelers' Choice campaign. This year 276 winning beaches were named from around the world.

Come experience the Caribbean’s best beach. With endorsements from millions of travelers and fantastic deals from the Alexandra Resort, there have never been more reasons to come to Grace Bay Beach in Turks & Caicos Islands.

Everyone has a wish list - and for travelers seeking luxury, the Turks & Caicos Islands are top on their list.   The Turks & Caicos Islands have been identified as “the hottest new jewel to emerge from the turquoise sea,” according to a new survey by Resonance Consultancy, a leading global travel and tourism consulting firm that monitors travel and leisure trends.

The study, conducted in conjunction with the Luxury Institute in New York, surveyed more than 1,200 individuals from households with incomes of $150,000 and higher.  More than a quarter of American luxury travelers that were surveyed cited the Turks & Caicos Islands as the Caribbean destination they would most like to visit. 

At the Alexandra Resort we’re not surprised by any of this.  The fact that Grace Bay Beach is consistently recognized as one of the best in the world is reason enough to attract visitors. And, since 600 feet of this precious beach is dedicated to our guests, the Alexandra Resort is a logical choice for discerning travelers who want to experience the best of Turks & Caicos.  

Along with easy access to one of the world’s most amazing beaches, the Alexandra Resort provides a wide range of amenities including:  a full-service restaurant located on Grace Bay Beach; complimentary non-motorized water sports including paddle boats, kayaks and snorkeling equipment; a large free-form swimming pool with a swim-up bar; tennis courts illuminated for night play; a well-equipped fitness room; the Pelican Kids’ Club; an on-site excursion desk staffed by Caicos Dream Tours;  free WIFI access throughout the property; dedicated beach attendants;  spa services provide by Spa Sanay; a weekly manager’s cocktail party and concierge services such as arranging babysitting and grocery shopping. 

We basically have everything a “luxury traveler” or any traveler needs when it comes to seeking a Caribbean vacation.  And now with our Stay Longer Save More special there is an added incentive to visit.   Your stay in our one-bedroom ocean view suite will be discounted from 5% to 35% - depending on how you stay, and you’ll save 20% on Spa Sanay services and Caicos Dream Tour excursions.   This special offer must be booked by March 31 and has a travel window of March 1 to June 15, 2013 - so don’t hesitate.  

The Turks & Caicos Islands provide a wonderful playground for all types of travelers - not just those seeking luxury. From bone fishing to kite boarding to scuba diving and everything in between, our brilliant turquoise waters provides endless hours of entertainment, relaxation and rejuvenation. 

Where is Turks & Caicos on your wish list?  

Turquoise Waters of Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos

The sea and the sand are what people come to see when they vacation in the Turks and Caicos Islands and guests at the Alexandra Resort are in for a real treat as this resort boasts one of the best beach locations on Grace Bay.  Not only is the resort situated on one of the world’s best beaches, but it is also in close walking distance to shops and restaurants.

However, if you’re adventurous and curious to see more than just the ocean and beach on our doorstep, it would be worthwhile to rent a car for a few days.   Renting a car will give you the freedom to see more of Providenciales and really get a feel for the unique personality of the destination and the characters that make this place so special. 

Below you will find a list of companies that rent cars, buggies, pedal bikes and more. You’ll see that your options are abundant.   Renting a car is something that can be done easily either prior to arrival or once you are in Providenciales. Many rental companies offer special services such as a free cell phone and pick up at the airport.  Prices can range from $30 to $80 a day so it is worth doing some research for the best deals.   Also, there’s a wide range of vehicles available - from open-top jeeps painted with Zebra stripes to traditional SUVs and everything in between.

But, before you decide to book a car, there are a few things you should know about driving in Turks and Caicos.

Drive on the Left

The number one thing to remember is that we drive on the left side.   This is something that you may have to keep telling yourself under your breath or even out loud.   We find this is most often needed when turning into a parking lot or driveway or entering a roundabout - REMEMBER TO STAY ON THE LEFT!  

Buckle Up!

It’s not so much that there are seatbelt laws here - which there are - but the fact is that on any given day there are new drivers on the road (new to driving on the left that is), so it is especially important that you wear your seat belt and stay safe.    This also means refraining from using a cell phone and other distractions.  

Navigating the Roundabouts

There are no traffic lights on the island but there are many roundabouts, which essentially help manage the flow of traffic.  For those not very familiar with driving in roundabouts, it is worth pointing out that the cars in the roundabout have the right of way (not the cars entering it!).   This means if you are approaching a roundabout and a car is in it, you must slow down to allow it to pass.     

There’s No Hurry

The maximum speed allowed on any road is 40 mph, and on most of the smaller roads the speed li

mit drops to 20 mph.  This is also a very important rule to follow.  Many of the older roads are not in the best condition and may be bumpy or hard to drive on - so keeping it slow helps.  Also, schools and homes are located near the roads and it is common for people to walk along the highway, so following the speed limit is especially important for pedestrian safety.  The fact that there is so much foot traffic on the lower roads is one reason there are speed bumps.  However, the speed bumps aren’t always well marked so they can sneak up on you, especially at night in the Bight area. Please also check the speedometer on the rental car.  Some models feature speedometers in kilometers, and others in miles.  If you are driving a car with a speedometer in kilometers, multiply the kilometer by 0.6 to convert kilometers to miles.  For instance, if the speedometer says 60, that means you are driving at 36 miles per hour. 

Fueling Up

Another aspect to driving here is how you’ll fuel the vehicle.  First you’ll want to make sure to have cash with you.  Most stations don’t take credit cards or foreign checks. Some vehicles require diesel instead of gas so be careful what pump you use.   The price of gas is almost $6.00 USD per gallon - but the good news is you probably won’t need to fill up much since the island is small and accordingly you won’t be travelling long distances. Also, when you do you wont’ have pump your own gas as most of the service stations are full service!    One last thing to note is that service stations are not open all night so it’s best to plan on fueling up during regular working hours (and most are cash only).   

Car Seats

If you need car or booster seats for your children, reserve these prior to arrival with the car rental agency as these items are in limited supply with most rental agencies, particularly in peak season.

GPS

GPS systems will not cover most of the roads in Providenciales, so if it has been a while since you have used a map instead of a GPS system, be prepared!  Fortunately, it is easy to get around the island and local people will always be happy to provide directions.

Driver’s License Requirements

Unlike some other Caribbean destinations, international visitors staying less than 90 days do not need to purchase a local driver’s license, provided the driver’s license they are carrying is valid and has not expired.

Requirements to rent a car:

• A valid Driver’s License
• A major credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discovery, and/or American Express)

 Safety Tips

• Buckle up for safety and avoid a traffic ticket
• Drive on the left hand side of the road
• Observe the maximum speed limit of 40 mph on the highway and 20 mph on the smaller roads

Rental Car Providers

• Avis - Three pickup locations on Providenciales
• Website: http://www.avis.tc/home?menu
• Local Phone:  Airport location:  (649) 946-4705 
• Local Phone:  Grace Bay: (649) 941-7557
• Local Phone:  Leeward Highway: (649) 946-8570 

Bayside Car Rentals

• Website:  http://baysidecarrentals.com/
• Local Phone: (649) 941-9010

Budget - Two locations on Providenciales

• Website: http://www.provo.net/Budget/
• Local Phone:  (649) 946-4079
• Toll Free #:  800-527-0700

Caicos Wheels - One location on Providenciales

• Website:  http://www.caicoswheels.com/
• Local Phone: (649) 946-8302

Grace Bay Car Rentals - Two locations on Providenciales (Grace Bay and Leeward Highway)

• Website:  http://www.gracebaycarrentals.com/
• Local Phone:  (649) 941-8500

Hertz  - One location on Providenciales

• Website:  http://www.hertztci.com/
• Local Phone:   (649) 941-3910
• Toll Free #:   800-654-3131

KK and T’s Auto Rentals - One location on Providenciales

• Website: http://kkntsautorentals.com/
• Local Phone: (649) 941-8377

Scooter Bob’s Island Rentals - One location on Providenciales (Turtle Cove)

• Website:  http://www.scooterbobstci.com/
• Local Phone:  (649) 946-4684

Tony’s Rentals - One location on Grand Turk

• Website:  http://www.tonyscarrental.com/
• Local Phone:   (649) 231-1806

Tropical Auto Rentals - One location on Providenciales (Grace Bay)

• Website:  http://www.tropicalautorentaltci.com/
• Local Phone:  (649) 946- 5300

Rent-A-Buggy - One location on Providenciales

• Website:  http://www.rentabuggy.tc/
• Local Phone:  (649) 946-4158

Family Fun in the Sun in Turks and Caicos just in Time for Easter

The Turks and Caicos Islands was recently named one of the top ten family vacation destinations for 2013 by Family Vacation Critic, an online family travel planning guide.   According to the travel resource, January is the peak month for family vacation planning, with spring break and Easter just around the corner and summer following quickly. 

With families doing their research and planning now, we thought we’d highlight some of our favorite family things to do in Turks and Caicos.   (This is just a partial list - to see a more comprehensive overview of things to do with kids, check out our June 2012 blog.)

Chill out on the world-famous Grace Bay Beach - the beautiful soft sand and calm clear waters of Grace Bay Beach are the perfect setting for family fun in the sun.   The Alexandra Resort has a prime location in the heart of Grace Bay and the Princess Alexandra National Park.  In addition to these wonderful natural attractions, the Alexandra Resort offers its guests an expanded set of family services, including the new Pelican Kids’ Club, which offers supervised beach activities, pool time, crafts, games and lunch at Mango Reef.   If you want to really enjoy the surroundings consider our luxury, oceanfront four-bedroom penthouse suite.   With 3,840 square feet of living space and unobstructed beachfront views, this can be an ideal option for larger families that want to stay together without compromising on space or the views!  And just for Easter, the resort is offering their Hip Hop Special with savings up to 35% along with complimentary Easter Egg hunt and baskets plus kite making workshop.  Details on http://alexandraresort.com/rates_packages/specials.html.

Glow with the worms – this unique phenomenon happens every month approximately three to five nights after a full moon and is fun for all ages.  It’s a mating ritual of the marine worms - each worm glows near the surface of the water producing a light show that lasts about 15 minutes.  The best way to see the event is onboard a glow worm cruise, which generally start a half hour before the sunset.   Our favorite glow worm excursion is on the Atabeyra, a 77’, traditionally rigged trading schooner.  Visit www.suncharters.tc to learn more.

Scout for Iguanas - no visit to Turks and Caicos is complete without a trip to Iguana Island, otherwise known as Little Water Cay.   The Turks and Caicos rock iguana is a critically endangered species of lizard and Turks and Caicos is the only place in the world you can see one!  These funky animals resemble mini-dinosaurs and are the only inhabitants of the Little Water Cay.  You have to take a boat to go see them and there is a small entrance fee that is well worth it.  You can walk along the decked path and see the rock iguanas in their natural habitat.   They like to hang out in shallow burrows and blend in with their setting so spotting them is a kind of sport - you’ll enjoy seeing who can find the most. 

Giggle at Giggles - One of the islands’ most popular spots for a refreshing ice cream or sweet treat is Giggles, located in the Ports of Call shopping center.  With barrels full of loose candy that you can buy by the pound and various flavors of hard and soft ice cream as well as a range of topping options, Giggles is heaven for most kids and a fun and refreshing stop while searching for souvenirs or after lunch or dinner.

Scuba dive without getting wet - See the sea under the sea in a semi-submarine.  The Undersea Explorer from Caicos Tours allows you to get down below the waves and see stingrays, turtles, exotic tropical fish, sharks and spectacular coral formations while still being able to talk and stay dry.  If you get really lucky you might even spot JoJo - the local resident dolphin.

Beach bonfire - Eating on the beach can be a fun treat if it’s executed properly.  Every Friday night Pelican Bay Restaurant hosts a beach pig roast from 5pm until 10 pm so you can enjoy the fun setting, some good food and not have to worry about packing up at the end.   The night always includes a beach bonfire, which makes it even more exciting.  The kids will love toasting marshmallows over the open fire and parents will appreciate the $5 Bambarra rum drinks.

Go fly a kite - The wide flat beaches and gentle trade winds that are characteristic of our beaches make it a great place to fly a kite.  Every year in April there’s a kite flying competition put on by the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board.   Typically the event is held on Easter Monday - so if you are planning to come to Turks and Caicos around Easter, be sure to bring your kite.   Only hand-made kites can be entered in the competition. There’s a full day of family fun activities and prizes are awarded for the largest kite, smallest kite, most artistic kit and best overall.

We hope this short list entices you to come to our islands with your family.    Spring, summer, winter and fall are all good times to visit, so check your schedule and start planning.