Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, this West Indies archipelago comprises 40 low-lying coral islands. Just south of the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos is a British Overseas Territory. Not many people know about its white sand beaches or islands and cays set in beautiful turquoise waters. You can find a variety of hotels there, as well as spas, shopping, and eco-tourism adventures.
The island's history began before the arrival of Christopher Columbus. Columbus visited the island of Grand Turk on his voyage of discovery of the New World. In 1492, the islands were inhabited by Taino and Lucayan Indians. The Indians provided Turks and Caicos with a heritage that lives on today. Seafaring, salt raking, and farming are still part of the island's traditions and way of life.
The name of the islands is derived from their history. Turks refers to the indigenous Turk’s head cactus, while Caicos is from the Lucayan term “caya hico,” meaning "string of islands."
Caribbean music enlivens the air. With unique sounds as part of its tradition, “Ripsaw Music”, also known as "Rake 'n' Scrape," is a music of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Used as instruments are the saw, hand accordion, and goatskin drum. The hand accordion is also called the concertina. Acoustic guitar and hand-made maracas add to the exciting island sound.
Turks and Caicos, known for its history of shipwrecks, is the place to find adventure if you are a diver. Many of the artifacts that have been found are now in the Turks and Caicos Islands National Museum in Grand Turk. Over 1,000 ships have met their fate in the waters around the islands. The islands have the third-largest barrier reef in the world; it provides an up-close view of exotic marine life. Grand Turk is often referred to as the "Diving Capital" and is a haven for experienced divers. Snorkelers and beginning divers often explore Bright Reef Coral Gardens, Smith’s Marine Life, and Malcolm’s Road Beach.
Visitors to the islands enjoy a variety of water sports. The natural environment offers calm waters to explore with kayaks, paddleboards, and sailboats. There are programs offered at some resorts for a variety of ages and abilities.
The islands have a non-profit organization to reduce the number of homeless dogs, called "Potcakes." The dogs and puppies receive shelter with the hope of being adopted by a loving family. Tourists and visitors may take the dogs for a walk. The organization is located in Grace Bay.
Grace Bay has an assortment of restaurants, many of which are family-friendly. Pizza, burgers and more are choices on the menus, while ice cream and frozen yogurt delight the palates of many visitors, both old and young.
The islands boast an array of accommodations for visitors. There are all-inclusive resorts, hotels, and villas to choose from. Getting away from it all is often the choice when families and couples visit the beauty of Turks and Caicos, set in beckoning turquoise waters.