Holiday Planning Advice for the Turks & Caicos Islands

Helpful Travel and Packing Tips Make Your Caribbean Vacation Blissfully Uncomplicated

You’re thinking about booking a vacation to the Turks and Caicos Islands, but how do you make that vacation truly memorable?

A vacation is a lot like a do-it-yourself household project. It takes planning, preparation and the right tools to make it successful, stress-free and satisfying.

And luckily for you, we have assembled some handy holiday planning advice for the Turks & Caicos Islands. Welcome to the Turks and Caicos Islands Toolkit!

The Basics: Hammers and Screwdrivers

General Information

What is the Turks & Caicos time zone?

The Turks and Caicos Islands is situated southeast of the Bahamas and east of Cuba and so Eastern Standard Time applies. If you’re flying in from Toronto or New York, the time is the same. If you’re arriving from say, Vancouver, BC or Los Angeles California, you need to add 3 hours. If you’re coming in from London or Dublin, you need to subtract 5 hours.

What documents should I have to enter the Turks & Caicos Islands?

If you’re a U.S. citizen you need to have a valid U.S. passport. Canadian citizens and visitors from other countries also need to have a valid passport for entry into the Turks & Caicos Islands. All visitors should have either a return or onward ticket when entering. The maximum stay length in the islands is 30 days.

What kind of weather will I find on Providenciales?

This is a tropical savannah area. Average temperatures fluctuate between 85 and 90 degrees (29-32 Celsius) from June to October dipping to 80-84 degrees for the remainder of the year. There is a cool easterly trade wind which keeps the air very comfortable. The Turks and Caicos Islands are subject to hurricane season which usually falls between June and November, with a peak in the months of August and September. While a serious hurricane is not common, most resorts, including Villa del Mar, offer a generous hurricane policy which will allow you to make up any lost days at no additional charge.

What currency do the Turks & Caicos Islands use?

The official currency is the U.S. dollar (USD). If you live in a place where this isn’t the currency, you will need to exchange your currency before you arrive in the Turks and Caicos. You can bring traveller’s cheques as most hotels, restaurants, and taxi service companies will accept them. In addition, most credit cards are accepted.

Next Level: Power tools!

What kind of clothing should you pack for your trip to the Turks and Caicos?

Think casual. Easy care, relaxed clothing is best. As temperatures are definitely on the warm side, choose items that will keep you cool and comfortable. Fabrics that really breathe like cottons, cotton blends and linens are ideal. While most restaurants will accept visitors in casual wear, it’s always a good idea to pack something a little dressier: a collared shirt and dress pants for men and a sundress or a favourite party dress for women.

As you’ll probably be doing a lot of walking or hiking, be sure to bring along some comfortable shoes such as athletic shoes. Sandals and/or flip-flops are handy for the beach or poolside.

As you’ll undoubtedly be in the water, on a beach or near a pool, don’t forget to pack your swim gear. It’s ideal to have a couple of swimsuits so you have a back-up when one is wet. Goggles, sunglasses, hats, footwear and of course lots of sunscreen are all a “must bring”. Ladies, it’s a good idea to pack a cover-up or sarong to allow you a quick transition from beach to restaurant or shop.

Sometimes the evenings can be cool after a day in the hot sun. A light jacket or shawl can be handy. Once in awhile there might be a light rain. It’s helpful to pack a poncho or umbrella in your luggage.

What should you pack if you have children traveling with you?

Travelling can mean frequent periods of waiting, so bring items along to keep children entertained in the downtime. These can include toys, colouring books, reading books, games, puzzles and portable video game units. It’s a good idea to make sure you have extra batteries, chargers and adapters as well. There are numerous spots to picnic around the islands, so it’s handy to have a nylon blanket that can be easily rolled up and a cooler that can collapse and pack in a jiffy. A small sewing kit can prove worthwhile to mend any clothing that gets torn or to repair buttons that go astray. Water bottles and plastic carriers or bags that can be re-sealed are great for transporting all kinds of items.

Just in Case: Duct Tape

Sometimes situations come up in vacations where you need some special items to make everything go a little smoother or easier. A good first aid kit is invaluable to deal with any potential health incidents such as cuts, bruises, scrapes or allergic reactions. Don’t forget to include sunblock, after sun moisturizers, bug repellent and any special medications or supplements that are important.

Hopefully this guide has given you some practical tools to get ready for your trip to the spectacular Turks and Caicos Islands. You’ve planned, packed and prepared and now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Vacation Special on Beautiful Grace Bay Beach

Book your holiday before November 30, 2014 and receive your 3rd Night Free for stays started and completed from September 15, 2015 to December 15, 2014.
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