I recently returned from a visit to the Turks and Caicos, which is located at the Southern tip of the Bahamas Archipelago.  I am happy to report that though the island endured hits from Hurricane’s Irma and Maria, it has rebounded nicely. Islanders are ready for the winter season and greeting visitors with welcome arms.

This was my first time to the Turks and Caicos and hopefully not my last.  It is beautiful!  The beach lives up to the numerous designations it receives as one of the top beaches in the world. The sand is sugary soft. The water is turquoise blue and crystal clear. It is a delight for snorkelers, scuba divers and beach lovers.

Dining options on the island are abundant and delicious. On Thursday nights, the tourist office sponsors a fish fry in Bight Park. It is very popular with both tourists and locals. Food vendors offer a variety of dishes to eat and refreshments to drink. There is live music and booths selling souvenirs and crafts.  It’s a fun and festive atmosphere.

Transportation on the island is by taxi, bikes or rental car. The latter gives you more freedom to explore the island, but you need to be comfortable driving on the opposite side of the road. If you prefer not to drive, taxis are plentiful but fares can add up.

I stayed at two properties, both in our Virtuoso network. My first hotel was the Grace Bay Club. It is located on 11 acres of oceanfront property in Grace Bay. All of the villas and hotel rooms have ocean views. The rates here include a wonderful buffet breakfast, complimentary WI-FI and calls to the US, a personal concierge, fitness center as well as bicycles, hobie cats, kayaks and paddle boards. Grace Bay Club’s Infiniti Restaurant and Bar has the distinction of having the longest bar in the Caribbean at 90 feet. We quite liked the “The Painkiller” they served.  The food was delicious as was the meal we had at The Grill.

The resort is walking distance to the IGA grocery store, Regent Village, and The Salt Mills Plaza shops and restaurants.  The Salt Mills Plaza is also where you can find Potcake Place K9 rescue. Tourists can take puppies for a beach walk, act as couriers for transport to the US or Canada, or even adopt a new furry family member.  It was definitely a popular destination and had a long line the morning we stopped by.

The second resort we stayed at is the Gansevoort. The hotel is also located on Grace Bay Beach but in a more secluded stretch of the beach.  The hotel has a chic and modern South Beach design. The infinity pool located just off the open air lobby is spectacular. The two restaurants Zest and Stelle were undergoing renovations during our visit.  Food was excellent and the staff very friendly. The beach area, with comfy chaise lounges and umbrellas, is beautiful.  Beach attendants meet your every need including a chilled bucket of water bottles to keep you hydrated. This hotel also offers complimentary non-motorized water sports, bicycles, and a fitness center. It also has an al fresco studio for yoga and exercise classes and of course a spa.

If the Turks and Caicos is not on your wish list now, I highly suggest you add it to your vacation dreams. You will not be disappointed!

Jane Hughes

Travel Advisor