Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos - The New Caribbean Hot Spot
by Heather Greene

With a recent increase in celebrity weddings and honeymoons to Turks and Caicos (TCI), these sunny islands are the new hot romantic vacation spot. Adding to its appeal is the fact that these islands accept the American dollar and are English speaking. Travelers looking to relax in a more subdued Caribbean environment will enjoy this destination.

WHAT TO DO:

Turks and Caicos is more split up and quieter than many of the other islands in the Caribbean but there's still plenty to do.

The main attraction is the beach, particularly in Providenciales or "Provo", which has been voted the "best beach" in the Caribbean by Conde Nast. The north shore of Provo, near Grace Bay, is a particularly lovely spot. Aside from the beach, TCI is also famous for its SCUBA diving. The islands are surrounded by a 1000 square mile coral reef system and visibility is excellent (up to 200 feet).

Shipwrecks are also a common site for divers. Although diving is excellent anywhere on these islands, experienced divers often prefer Grand Turk Island. Programs for divers and non-divers are offered by most properties on the island. Not a diver but still love marine life? TCI offers the world's only conch farm, humpback whale viewing in the late winter and early spring, and even dolphins that voluntarily swim with humans at the beach.

Eco-tourism is big on these islands which include 27 national parks.

WHERE TO STAY:

Accommodations are available throughout the islands but are concentrated in Providenciales. Prices range from moderately priced hotels including Comfort Suites to luxury resorts such as the Parrot Cay touted as the world's most exclusive resort.

There are two all-inclusive resorts on the island-- Club Med, which is adults only, and Beaches, a family-friendly member of the Sandals family. A number of villas are available for a more intimate experience.

Finally, a cruise center built in Grand Turk in 2006 has attracted an increasing number of cruise ships to TCI.

WEDDING INFORMATION:

Brides and grooms need to be on the island for 4 days before they get married (24 hour residency period with an additional 2-3 days of license processing). Couples need to be 21 or older to get married in Turks and Caicos unless they have a notarized statement by a parent or guardian. Religious based weddings require proof of membership in faith.

Visit the Turks and Caicos Islands soon.

[Heather Greene is a travel agent at
http://www.honeymoonandweddingtravel.com
She is a certified honeymoon and destination wedding specialist with additional destination specialties ranging from the Bahamas to Las Vegas. She is available for all your honeymoon, destination wedding, and other romantic travel needs.]

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