When you’re planning a short vacation and become discouraged by weather delays, COVID tests, pandemic protocols, and rising prices, you start to wonder whether or not it is worth it. We did … that is, until we got there and woke up the next morning to an amazing view from our balcony at The Somerset on Grace Bay on Turks and Caicos Islands. I don’t really have to sell you on the deluxe accommodations available there. The pictures speak for themselves!

The Somerset is an intimate resort that has everything from a one-bedroom Ocean View villa to a five-bedroom Ocean Front penthouse. We traveled with two other couples and chose a 3-bedroom Ocean View villa that was beautifully furnished. The huge balcony was a perfect place to gather both morning and evening.  The gourmet kitchen was well stocked and provided a perfect place for a light lunch or for preparing afternoon cocktails. Just a short walk from our villa led to the beautiful beach of white sand and clear turquoise water. It was truly amazing! The beach was perfect for jogging or walking for miles, superior to any of the other Caribbean destinations we’ve visited in the past. The resort staff provided excellent beach, poolside and restaurant service that was friendly and helpful. The Somerset includes daily housekeeping and evening turn down service which was especially appreciated since it is something that some other resorts suspended during the pandemic and have not revived.

It is a pleasant walk or bike ride to the quaint town for shops and eateries. We dined at everything from beachside restaurants to a local pub chosen specifically for watching a UK basketball game.

The extra preparation, delays and expense were totally forgotten once we arrived and it was certainly worth all of the hassle and inconvenience. The Covid-19 test provided by the resort before departure was quick and easy and allowed us to enjoy our vacation until the very end. Add Turks and Caicos to your list of very tourist friendly, easy to get there, Caribbean destinations. In fact, I’d recommend putting it at the top of your list of places to go!

Megan Creasey

Avant Travel