Turks and Caicos - The "Ugly Ducklings" of the Caribbean?


At the southern end of the Bahamas chain lies the "ugly duckling" of Caribbean island groupings - Turks and Caicos. This group of approximately 40 islands is distinctly different with everything from desert-like, cacti-covered salt pans to donkey and iguana infested isles. However, at a second glance, nestled within the unusual terrain and uninhabited isles are some of the world's best beaches and diving as well as some of the Caribbean's friendliest people and most unusual excursion possibilities. This "ugly duckling" is truly a Caribbean swan in disguise.

Located approximately 575 miles SE of Miami, Turks and Caicos provides a plethora of possibilities for today's traveler. Out of the 40 British islands, only 8 have human inhabitants. These 8 offer attractions such as coral reefs, colonial buildings, and quaint historic settlements. However, with attractions such as petroglyph-covered caves, splendid beaches, and abandoned plantations, even the uninhabited isles provide unique excursion possibilities.

Inhabited Isles and Activities

Provo

With a population of 6,000, this 38-square-mile island is the most developed of the Turks and Caicos grouping. Providenciales, Provo for short, is a business and financial center with modern conveniences and numerous hotels as well as rocky terrain and sparse vegetation. Its two business areas, Grace Bay and Turtle Cove, offer a mix of local and tourism-centered business. Along with banks and boutiques are several hotels and resorts as well as dive and fishing operators. To make things even more interesting, a conch farm, an 18-hole golf course, and a sleepy casino are thrown into the mix.

Despite its quiet business and tourism endeavors, Provo's largest attraction lies just off its shores. With visibility reaching 175 feet at times, Provo diving and snorkeling are some of the best in the world. In terms of shallow snorkeling, the best spot is just out from a rental property called The White House. In just waist-deep water you'll find everything from tropical fish to starfish, turtles, and barracuda. In terms of diving, numerous diver operators such as Caicos Adventures and Turtle Cove Diving are available for both Provo diving and short excursions to nearby islands.

Although Provo is the Turks and Caicos business hub, it's far from a hopping tourist mecca. This sleepy getaway is also the perfect place to relax and catch some sun. Numerous beaches such as Grace Bay, Jack Cooper, Long Bay, Taylor Bay, and Malcolm Road provide excellent sand, beautiful scenery, and quiet, relaxing solitude.

Restaurant Recommendations

Gecko Grille - Next to Ocean Club Hotel - great chicken

The copyright of the article Turks and Caicos - The "Ugly Ducklings" of the Caribbean? in Caribbean Travel is owned by Linda Armstrong. Permission to republish Turks and Caicos - The "Ugly Ducklings" of the Caribbean? in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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