Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! August is just a few days off bringing the end of summer and preparations for back to school and work. With time flying by, I encourage you to think about and book your 2023 winter vacation now for the best rates and availability. It seems so far off, but I have many clients who tell me that they wish they had booked sooner.
To inspire you, I’m taking you virtually to the magical Caribbean Islands of Turks & Caicos which have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Turks is just south of the Bahamas and north of the Dominican Republic – an easy flight from the east coast.
Ready to dive into a beach-nirvana destination? Read on for the scoop…
40 Islands
According to the tourism board, Turks and Caicos consist of 40 different islands and cays, only 8 of which are inhabited. The islands of the Turks and Caicos are almost as diverse as the people.
The main tourist center is Providenciales (known as Provo). Other islands include the quiet and tranquil islands of North and Middle Caicos and the historic capital Island of Grand Turk; each island offers a different experience and unique character. All enjoy a year-round great climate, stunning beaches, and underwater activities.
Most of the other islands are only about 10 to 25 minutes by air from Provo and most can be reached by boat, too. There are also regular ferries from North to Middle Caicos.
Picture-perfect Resorts & Villas
First, where to base your stay? There’s no lack of gorgeous accommodations. Whether you prefer a resort or villa, there are many options. Virtuoso network properties include:
Amanyara – for adventure, beach, wellness activities; one of the best dive reefs anywhere is just off Amanyara’s white-powder beach.
COMO Parrot Cay – private island for seclusion, beach, wellness.
Grace Bay Club – adventure, seclusion, beach; Dine toes in the sand at the resort’s unique pop-up restaurant, Just Tacos, serving a variety of tacos with a Caribbean twist.
The Palms – great for families, wellness, landmarks.
Ritz-Carlton – beach, ecotourism, golf.
Shore Club – voted the most Instagrammable resort!
Wymara Resort and Villas – ecotourism and wellness.
Hidden Gem Travel clients get some awesome perks at all of the properties listed above! Matching you to the right accommodation is my role in designing your vacation.
NEW luxury resort Rock House – the highlight is the 100 ft infinity pool perched upon an oceanfront cliff and adorned with sophisticated daybeds, built-in cabanas, poolside sanctuaries, and a signature stone lounge set on the water’s edge.
Note – availability goes quickly for the best places so the sooner you plan your trip, the more options you will have!
💎 Hidden Gem Tip: If you’re already intrigued, you can schedule a chat with me here: www.hiddengemtravelconsulting.com/contact.
Beaches & Island Hopping
Beach lovers – you will find award-winning, stunning beaches in Turks & Caicos! Grace Bay beach in Provo is ranked one of the best in the world. The barrier reef that guards the isle of Provo ensures that Grace Bay is peaceful and calm, making it perfect for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, or paddle boarding.
There’s so much else to explore in this country made up of many islands and cays. You can take a backcountry adventure by boat, kayak or foot through historically significant communities and ancient ruins. And you can choose from a variety of different adventures including:
– Exploring ancient limestone caves
– Hiking along the paths at Wades Green Plantation
– Visiting sleepy villages, abandoned cotton plantations, and some incredible beaches that are ideal for beach combing and swimming.
– Wading or swimming across channels to adjacent cays and beaches.
Looking for the beach bar of your dreams? Da Conch Shack is a true toes-in-the-sand experience, with live music, freshly caught seafood, and great service. There are 70+ restaurants in the Turks islands.
💎 Hidden Gem Tip: Wondering how to navigate travel? Schedule a chat and I’ll talk you through it.
Boating & Adventure
Jet skiing, boat charters, deep sea and reef fishing, sailing, powered catamarans, sunset and snorkeling trips – there are many ways to experience the crystal clear, turquoise waters.
Consider a sailing trip where the waters are calm enough for all ages. A family cruise often includes a snorkeling tour where your captain points out the remarkable coral and tropical fish. If snorkeling isn’t your cup of tea, how about a private beach stop where you can relax and perhaps find a sand dollar or a conch shell? Enjoy rum punch or a cold glass of wine and view the gorgeous coastlines amidst warm ocean breezes.
Adventurers can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling/diving, eco-tours, paddle boarding, kiteboarding, cavern exploration, and more. More sporty than adventurous? The golf club on Provo is worth a round or a bone/sport fishing trip.
Relaxation & Wellness
If you’re in need of some R&R, the calming spirit of Turks & Caicos awaits with curated wellness experiences.
How about holistic, Asian-inspired treatments including Ayurveda, aromatherapy, and other holistic approaches to mental quietude, physical well-being, and spiritual balance?
Picture sweeping yoga rooms aired by natural breezes, a tranquil pond, an outdoor Jacuzzi garden, or even a Japanese bath overlooking breathtaking tropical scenery.
Travel with less stress: Arrive and depart from Turks on off-peak days if possible. Like many Caribbean islands, the airport can get congested resulting in long lines.
Inspired? Reach out to me now for 2023! www.hiddengemtravelconsulting.com/contact
💎 Hidden Gem Tip: Follow my Facebook/Instagram pages this week for more travel inspiration: www.facebook.com/hiddengemtravelconsulting or Instagram: www.instagram.com/hidden.gem.travel
Wishing you and your family continued good health,
Susan
