Thinking about making the move to Turks and Caicos? Here’s everything you need to know about the islands!
The Turks and Caicos Islands lie some 575 miles southeast of Miami – about 1 hours flying time – with the Bahamas about 80 miles to the northwest and the Dominican Republic some 100 miles to the southeast.
The country consists of two island groups separated by the 22-mile wide Columbus Passage. To the west is the Caicos group of islands: West Caicos, Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos, and South Caicos. To the east is the Turks island group: Grand Turk and Salt Cay.
The Turks and Caicos consists of 166 square miles of land area on eight islands and forty small cays. The Islands’ population is approximately 30,000.
Environment and Recreation
The ocean and seaside need no enhancement by man. The Turks and Caicos Islands boast the Caribbean’s most spectacular continuous coral reef and Providenciales has been blessed with over 20 miles of gold and white sand beaches.
The islands’ extensive system of national parks was designed to keep the country “beautiful by nature” and has preserved the world’s largest land area per capita. On Provo, there are eight protected-by-law areas covering approximately 30 square miles of land and sea, for the enjoyment of future generations and the preservation of nature.
Sporting activities are centered around the water. Visitors can choose from deep-sea, reef, or bonefishing, sailing excursions, windsurfing, water-skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, kiteboarding, paddle boarding, scuba diving and beach combing.
Pristine reefs, abundant marine life, and excellent visibility make Turks and Caicos a world-class diving destination.
Golfers will enjoy the beauty and challenge of the 18 Hole Carl Litten designed course (twice the host of the Caribbean Amateur Open). The islands are an ecotourist’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy unspoiled wilderness and native flora and fauna in 33 areas set aside as National Park Nature Reserves, sanctuaries, and areas of historical interest.
Climate
The average year-round temperature is 83F (28C). The hottest months are September and October, when temperatures can reach 90 to 95F (33 to 35C). The almost-constant easterly trade winds temper the heat and keep life comfortable. Casual resort and leisure wear is accepted attire for daytime. Light sweaters or jackets may be necessary on some breezy days.
Language
The principal language of the Turks and Caicos Islands is English.
Currency
The United States dollar is the primary currency of Turks and Caicos. Travelers’ checks in U.S. dollar amounts are widely accepted and other currency can be changed at local banks. American Express, VISA, and MasterCard are welcomed by many locations.
Taxes
There are no direct taxes on either income or capital gains for individuals or companies. Indirect taxation comprises customs duties, stamp duty on certain transactions, and departure tax.
Telecommunications
Telecommunications includes LIME, Digicel and Island Com. Worldwide direct calling, high speed internet, and facsimile services are available. Multi-channel satellite television is received from the U.S. and Canada to make better living in Turks and Caicos. The local media consists of two private television stations, local radio, newspapers, and magazines.
Medical Services
A good choice of health care services is available to make healthier living in Turks and Caicos. There are general family practitioners operating clinics as well as a new state of the art hospital.
Courier Service
Two way services are provided through FedEx, while incoming service is provided by DHL and UPS.
