Fast Facts - Turks and Caicos Islands

Where are the Turks and Caicos Islands?
Turks and Caicos consists of about 40 islands of which eight are inhabited. They lie at the southeastern end of the Bahamas.

How do I get to Turks and Caicos?
It's about an 80-minute flight from Miami, although you can fly here from a variety of U.S. cities. Turks and Caicos is serviced by American Airlines, USAir, Delta, Air Jamaica, British Airways and Bahamas Air. Various charters also fly from many U.S. cities to Turks and Caicos.

What is the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands?
The islands were part of the United Kingdom's Jamaican colony until 1962, when they assumed the status of a separate crown colony upon Jamaica's independence. The governor of The Bahamas oversaw affairs from 1965 to 1973. With Bahamian independence, the islands received a separate governor in 1973. Although independence was agreed upon for 1982, the policy was reversed and the islands remain a British overseas territory.

What is the economy of Turks and Caicos?
The Turks and Caicos economy is based on tourism, fishing, and offshore financial services. Most capital goods and food for domestic consumption are imported. Major sources of government revenue include fees from offshore financial activities and customs receipts.

Where are most of the tourists to Turks and Caicos from?
The U.S. is the leading source of tourists, upwards of 80%. The balance comes from Canada and Europe.

What is the climate in the Turks and Caicos?
The temperature averages 82 degrees and is relatively dry. Average annual rainfall is 40 inches so you can count on bright sunshine and blue skies year round. In the coolest winter months, the temperatures are usually in the mid 70s. At the height of summer, you can expect the low 90's. Constant easterly breezes keep the air comfortable despite warm temperatures.

What language is spoken in the Turks and Caicos?
English is the national language.

What currency is used in the Turks and Caicos?
The U.S. dollar is the currency. Euros and Canadian dollars can be easily exchanged at local banks. Most stores also accept traveler's checks and major credit cards.

What time zone is followed in the Turks and Caicos?
The Eastern Standard Time and Daylight Savings Time are used, just like New York City.

Do I need a passport to go to Turks and Caicos?
U.S. visitors may enter with their original birth certificate and one photo I.D. such as a driver's license. All others require a valid passport. All visitors need an onward or return ticket in order to enter the country.

Will I need to bring an adapter for my electrical devices like a hair dryer?
No. The electricity is 11-volts/60 cycle which is suitable for North American appliances.

Is the water safe to drink?
Yes. The government water supply meets the standards of the World Health Organization.

Can I rent a car in Turks and Caicos?
Yes, there are car rental services at the airport and also many resorts. You can rent scooters, jeeps or cars. To avoid possible disappointment, you should reserve a vehicle in advance. Most visitors do rent a car for all our part of their stay in order to explore the island. Remember to drive on the left, like they do in Great Britain. Directions are easy with island maps. Air-conditioned taxis are also readily available if you prefer not to drive.

What are the most popular activities in the Turks and Caicos?
The Turks and Caicos Islands are a vacation paradise for golf, scuba diving, snorkeling, beach cruising, swimming, sailing, para-sailing, water-skiing and all sorts of water sports activities and excursions.

Here you can scuba dive spectacular walls and reefs and snorkel over coral heads teeming with tropical wonders. Or go fishing in the depths of the Atlantic Ocean for blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, grouper, snapper or experience some of the best bone fishing in the world.

What kind of shopping exists on the Turks and Caicos?
Thought not known as a shopping mecca, the Turks and Caicos Islands offers some excellent buys. Here you will find no sales tax and no luxury tax. Items such as jewelry, watches, cameras, perfumes, crystal, china, cigars and liquor are available to U.S. and Canadian residents duty-free at selected locations.

Are there any medical services in the Turks and Caicos?
Yes. You will be able to find all medical services ranging from general practitioners to dentists and optometrists. You'll also have no trouble locating pharmacies.

Are there any public safety issues in the Turks and Caicos that I should be aware of?
While the Turks and Caicos have a very low crime rate, you are encouraged to follow common sense rules such as: Do not leave valuables in plain sight, unattended. Lock your room doors when you leave.

Interested in learning more about real estate opportunities in the Turks and Caicos? Request data sheets on each of the resort properties we have for sale in the islands.