Turks and Caicos - General Facts and Information

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OUR LOCATION

Situated in the Atlantic Ocean 880 km (550 miles) from Miami, Turks and Caicos Islands, known colloquially as TCI, has one of the longest stretches of white sandy beaches surrounded by beautiful turquoise waters. The name ‘Turks’, is derived from the indigenous Turks Head cactus, while, ‘Caicos’ is derived from the Lucayan term ‘caya hico’ meaning ‘string of islands’. Providenciales, commonly known as “Provo” and part of the Caicos chain, is the most populous of the islands with over 65 percent of the total population, while Grand Turk, of the Turks group, is the official capital and has the islands’ main cruise centre.

The fabulous beaches that are scattered on all sides of “Provo” have been named among the best in the tropics. The Turks and Caicos Islands are also home to the world’s third largest unspoiled coral reef system, making it a premier diving destination. In spite of these natural wonders, it is the warmth and friendliness of the people that continue to captivate the hearts of visitors to their shores.

With over 40 islands and cays overall, the Turks and Caicos are almost as diverse as its people. This Caribbean jewel comprises of eight major islands; Salt Cay, Grand Turk, South Caicos, East Caicos, Middle Caicos, North Caicos, Providenciales and West Caicos. The islands are relatively flat, but depending on the island, the terrain varies from sand dunes and lush green vegetation to limestone with extensive marshes and mangrove swamps.

The islands are only about 10 to 25 minutes by air from Provo and the majority can be reached by boat, too. Regular ferries are also available from North to Middle Caicos.

OUR GOVERNMENT

A British Overseas Territory, the islands are governed by a queen-appointed Governor with executive power who presides over an Executive Council. A Premier heads the local government consisting of several other ministers and a Legislative Council to enact statutes. The legal system is based on English Common Law and the Judicial Branch is headed by a Chief Justice, a Chief Magistrate, and three Deputy Magistrates.

OUR PEOPLE

The islands’ population is estimated at well over 35,000, comprising a diversity of people from different ethnicity. However, the majority of the population - original salt pans and cotton plantation workers - is of African descent. The expatriate community consists of British, Canadians, Americans, French, Bahamians as well as people from Hispaniola and other countries around the world.

LANGUAGE

English is the primary language of the Turks & Caicos Islands, but a local dialect is also spoken.

CLIMATE

The average temperature ranges from between 85 and 90 degrees (29-32 degrees Celsius) from June to October, which sometimes reach the mid 90s (35 degrees Celsius), especially in the late summer months. The average temperature from November to May is 80 to 84 degrees (27-29 degrees Celsius). A constant trade wind keeps the climate at a very comfortable level.

There is an annual rainfall of 21 inches on Grand Turk and South Caicos, but the average rainfall could increase to 40 inches toward the West. In an average year the Turks and Caicos Islands have 350 days of sunshine. The hurricane season can vary but usually runs from June to October.

CURRENCY

The US dollar is the official currency. Most hotels, restaurants and taxi services accept traveler’s cheques, which can be cashed at local banks. Most international credit cards are accepted and banks offer ATM’s as well as cash advances on credit cards.

Flora, Fauna & Sea Life

The residents of Turks and Caicos Islands have a great sense of pride about the richness found in their natural surroundings. Their flora consists of a selection of most varieties that are considered to be tropical. There are 33 areas designated as National Park Nature Reserves sanctuaries, and areas of ‘historical significance’. Visitors to the Turks and Caicos Islands will no doubt enjoy unspoiled natural flora and fauna that contribute to the islands unique appeal.

Scattered over the island one could find several species of passionflowers as well as wild Allamanda, butterfly pea, devils potato, and a variety of cacti, among other flowering plants.

As it relates to fauna, North Caicos boasts the largest flock of Pink Flamingo in the islands. There are flocks of Flamingos at Flamingo Pond and Mud Hole Pond. You will find ospreys and their nesting sites on the adjacent Three Mary Cays, and a wide variety of other birds, such as Pelicans, Egrets, Terns, Frigates and Boobies on the islands extensive nature reserves and sanctuaries. Iguanas on the nearby East Bays Cays are an outstanding example of the natural diversity of this green island.

Lobster and Conch can be found in the waters off the island and the passage between the two sets of islands is used by migratory humpback whales. Purple Tube Sponges and strands of antler sponges wrapped in cloaks of brilliant rope sponges, sharks, eagle Rays, the blue crab and Turtles can also be found.

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