The Turks Islands include Grand Turk – home of the capital, Cockburn Town – and Salt Cay. The Caicos Islands are West Caicos, Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos, and South Caicos.
In Turks and Caicos, our food is a delectable fusion of flavors inspired by our island surroundings. Indulge in freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, and spices that tantalize the senses. From beachside shacks serving up mouthwatering conch fritters to fine dining restaurants crafting exquisite Caribbean delicacies, our cuisine reflects the essence of our paradise. Savor the tastes that define us and discover the joy of island dining.
Our culture is a rich tapestry woven from the threads of indigenous heritage, colonial influences, and the spirit of our people. Experience the rhythm of our music, the artistry of our crafts, and the warmth of our smiles. Join us in celebrating a heritage that is as diverse as our stunning islands themselves. Here, every day offers a new adventure, whether you’re exploring underwater wonders, basking in the sun, or connecting with locals whose warmth is as boundless as our horizons. Discover the laid-back charm that defines our way of life and let the serenity of Turks and Caicos capture your heart.
Embrace a lifestyle that cherishes the simple pleasures – breathtaking sunsets, leisurely strolls on powdery sands, and the soothing melody of waves. Here, every day offers a new adventure, whether you’re exploring underwater wonders, basking in the sun, or connecting with locals whose warmth is as boundless as our horizons. Discover the laid-back charm that defines our way of life and let the serenity of Turks and Caicos capture your heart.
The National Flag is blue with the Union Jack in the top right-hand corner and the Coat of Arms of the Turks and Caicos Islands centre, right. It has a shield of a Queen Conch shell,a Spiny Lobster and a Turks Head Cactus.
Passports are required, along with a valid return ticket for non-residents. Visitors can stay up to 90 days and passports must be valid for 6 months from the date of entry.
Visitors may bring in duty-free one carton of cigarettes or cigars, one bottle of liquor or wine and some perfume. Importing firearms, spear guns, Hawaiian slings, controlled drugs and pornography are illegal.
You can use a valid driver’s licence from home when renting vehicles. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. ‘Give way’ at roundabouts; give way to any vehicle approaching from your right. Seatbelt laws are strictly enforced. Taxis are abundant throughout the islands but are not metered. Community Cabs are available and are distinguishable by a white body and blue stripe.
FLOW and Digicel are telephone, internet and television service providers. Radio Turks and Caicos is the official Government-operated radio service.
120/240 volts, 60 Hz as in the U.S.
Local banks are open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday thru Thursday and from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays. ABMs are accessible 24 hours at most banking locations.
The Turks and Caicos Islands are 575 miles southeast of Miami, with The Bahamas 30 miles to the northwest and the Dominican Republic 100 miles to the southeast. These islands have a total land mass that measures 166 square miles of land area on eight islands and 40 small cays, and are encircled by one of the most impressive barrier reefs in the world.
Howard Hamilton International Airport is the main point of entry for air travelers. Direct flights are available via major carriers from Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas (seasonal), Fort Lauderdale, Miami, New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia in the U.S., and from Halifax (seasonal), Montreal, Ottawa (seasonal) and Toronto in Canada. There is a connection via Antigua to London/Gatwick, as well as direct flights to Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Nassau and Puerto Rico. There are regularly scheduled inter-island air and ferry services, as well as FBOs to cater to private planes.
English is the official language; however, a few other languages are spoken by a multi-cultural resident population.
Eastern Standard with Daylight Savings Time observed.
The average year-round temperature is 83°F (28°C). The hottest months are September and October, when the temperature can reach 90° to 95° F (33° - 35°C). Steady easterly trade winds temper the heat. The average annual rainfall is 40 inches.
The Turks and Caicos Islands is a British Overseas Territory, with a King-appointed Governor, Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selveratnam. The elected ministerial government is led by the Honourable Dr. Charles Washington Misick, the country’s Premier.