Information on the Turks and Caicos (TCI)

Turks and Caicos are a low and flat group of islands with the highest elevation above sea level in Providenciales (Provo for insiders) of a bit over 50 meters.

Climate on the Turks and Caicos

TCI are a year-round destination with peaks from mid-December to mid-April. The average temperature ranges between 29-32 Celsius.  The water is warm between 23-26 Celsius. June to October are the hottest months with temperatures going up to 35 Celsius.

Best time to visit TCI

Official hurricane season is from June to November. No reason for panic as satellite forecasts give enough warning time that precautions can be taken. Off season is a very good time to visit as less expensive. However, some hotels do renovation work so before booking get some info on that.

Population

Over 90% of the local population are of black African descent.

Language

The primary spoken language is English although Haitian, Creole, and Spanish are very common.

Currency

The US Dollar is the official currency.

Electricity and outlets

You will find US outlets and electricity is 110V. Visitors from Europe will need an adapter.

Internet

International telecommunication service is available through Cable and Wireless Ltd. Most mobile phones will work.

Banks

There are a couple of banks for your money business. The Offshore Financial Center Unit was established in 1989 to promote the islands as a financial center.

Water

The islands have very limited natural fresh water resources and rain water is collected in cisterns. While I have not experienced any shortage, do take it easy on your water consumption.

Security on TCI

Security on the island is ok. However, like in so many places in the world, avoid walking in isolated areas at night. There have been a couple of incidences lately. This includes break-ins.

Supermarkets

There are a couple of great supermarkets and DIY shops and you will find all you need. However, everything from tomatoes to palm trees is imported mainly from Miami. Hence, expect prices to be higher than at home.

Transportation

While there are taxis, I found it more convenient to get to more isolated places such as Chalk Sound National Park or even Leeward Beach in a rental car.

Driving on the left side of the road

Driving is on the left and beware of the right of way at roundabouts.

More information on the Turks and Caicos

I am sure that there is so much more information that you might want to get before you travel. Hence, I suggest that you visit http://www.wherewhenhow.com which is an exhaustive locally produced website and magazine.

These are my top activities to undertake on the Turks and Caicos. Do check my other posts for some awesome information on TCI.

10 Facts on the Turks and Caicos Islands

Beaches of the Turks and Caicos Islands

What to pack for the Turks and Caicos

12 Restaurants in Providenciales

Kiteboarding in Long Bay Beach, Providenciales, TCI

16 Top things to do in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

9 Tips on shopping in the Turks and Caicos 

Enjoy the reading!