The Turks & Caicos Islands consist of 40 islands and cays and are located 575 miles southeast of Miami, just a short 90 minute flight away.
Weather
Average temperatures range from 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit from June until October, and between 80and 84 degrees between November and May. Turks & Caicos receives approximately 350 days of sunshine per year. Rainy season is from June until November, with heaviest rainfall normally occurring in September and October.
Driving
Driving is on the left hand side of the road. There are no traffic lights on the island – traffic is directed by roundabouts and stop signs. Traffic is very light and it is rare to experience traffic congestion. Most major roads are paved. International driving licences are accepted.
Currency
All prices are in U.S. dollars and the U.S. dollar is the only currency used for transactions. Major credit cards are widely accepted although some businesses only accept cash payment. Major banks include Scotiabank, Royal Bank of Canada and CIBC First Caribbean.
Shopping
Shopping facilities are not as extensive as normally found on other Caribbean islands, although there are nice jewellery stores, art galleries, resort apparel shops and souvenir markets available. Grocery stores, pharmacies and hardware stores are well stocked with modern conveniences and products. Most items are generally more expensive than in the USA or Canada.
Language
English is the official language spoken in Turks and Caicos. Some hotel service workers are from Haiti, Jamaica and Dominican Republic, so visitors can expect to hear Creole, Spanish and Patois spoken.
Crime
The Turks and Caicos has one of the lowest crime rates in the Caribbean. However, petty crime is the most common crime, especially during peak season.
Drinking water
The drinking water is potable. Many visitors purchase bottled water for flavour.
Electricity
110 volt/60 cycle
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time