8 Things To Know Before Going To Turks and Caicos

Before you book your trip, here are 8 things to know before going to the Turks and Caicos. 

My husband and I recently took a trip to the beautiful islands of Turks and Caicos.

I’m ecstatic to say, it’s a great place to unwind, relax and escape from the everyday hustle and bustle in the United States. 

If you’re wondering, The Turks and Caicos are two groups of tropical islands located in The Atlantic Ocean near the West Indies.

They’re a British Territory that has a population of about 60,000-70,000. 

As of today, you don’t need a visa to visit but that might change in the future.

Here are 8 Things To Know Before Going To Turks and Caicos:

1. Preferred Language

Because it a British Territory, most of the population speaks English which made it easier to communicate with the locales.

However, I was surprised that the culture was pretty much blended.

We met people from the Philippines, India, Haiti, Jamaica and Indonesia just to name a few who called Turks and Caicos home.

As some of you may know, I speak fluent Haitian-Creole.

I was surprised to meet people who I can actually speak Creole with.

Made the vacation feel even more special to me and felt at home.

Overall, it’s a breeze to communicate and vibe with the locales. 

2. Currency 

Say goodbye to currency exchange headaches.

They use the U.S. Dollar in the Turks and Caicos.

We had no problems using our USD to make purchases.

Same thing for American credit cards. We had no issues using our American Express card.

Some venues preferred only credit or debit card payments and no cash payments.

However, I would recommend bringing a few small bills for tipping. 

3. Prepare To Spend More

Although they take the U.S. Dollar in Turks and Caicos, things are a little more expensive.  

Expect to spend a few more dollars if you’re interested in eating out, exploring the water and land or buying anything.

I spent half of one day just browsing and shopping; I must admit that prices are much higher than  in The Unites States.

For example, a Sun Bum Lip Balm cost between $1.00-$2.00. In contrast, the same product cost between $5.00-$8.00.

Because it’s an island, therefore it cost more to import goods.

So bring extra cash or prepare to charge it on your card. 

4. Stay on the Left Side of the Road

One of the first things you might notice when you’re in Turks and Caicos is they drive on the left side of the road.

Living in the United States for a great majority of my life, I found it a little uncomfortable only because I’m not used to it.

My suggestion is if you’re not used to driving on the left side of the road,  just take a taxi or have a chauffeur to drive you around.

After all, you came to relax and enjoy yourself.

5. Don’t Forget Sunscreen

 Turks and Caicos typically has excellent weather and vitamin D all year round.

We visited at the end of August through the beginning of September, so it was really hot.

Best months to visit Turks and Caicos are February through April as it’s not too hot and you reduce the chances of rebooking your trip due to hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean. 

6. Save The Twerking for Later

Very little partying and more relaxing.

From my observation and from a few locales, Turks and Caicos is not a big party island.

It’s more of a relaxing and laid back atmosphere for couples and families.

However, upon research many locales mentioned Noah Ark Beach Club which is a popular hot spot for tourists.

It has a tiki bar, restaurant and offers easy access by boat.

If you do decide to go, the hours are from 10 am – 6 pm.

 I’m not much of a partier or nightclub person, so that worked out perfectly.

7. Great Meals

Be ready to eat some great seafood.

I’m a bit of a foodie whenever we travel overseas.

Turks and Caicos didn’t disappoint one bit.

Their fruit tasted fresh and seafood was cooked with perfect seasonings.

Every meal was mouth watering.

They offer an abundant selection of different fish, conch and lobster dishes.

Plus, did I mention they also have a great selection of Italian and French wines at most of the restaurants.

Whether it’s conch or porridge, be ready to have the best seafood dishes and meals you’ve ever had in your life.

Bon appetit!

8. Lots of Water Adventures

There are many great and exclusive beaches.

With the beautiful turquoise blue waters and spectacular sand,

Turks and Caicos is rated one of the world’s best beaches and places to go for snorkeling.

If you’re into that then you’re in the right place.

Also, there are other water adventures that are great such as, kayaking, parasailing, kitesurfing, fishing and so much more. 

Turks and Caicos is home to the second biggest barrier reef in the Atlantic Ocean.

So prepare yourself for an extravagant under water world if you go diving or snorkeling.

If you’re looking to getaway for a few weeks or months, Turks and Caicos is the perfect destination to unwind and enjoy natural turquoise waters. 

On my next blog post, I’ll be sharing where we stayed during our trip. 

Stay tuned for more and stay FABULOUS 

Faby 💋