BASIC AND LOCAL CUSTOMS
Located in the Eastern Time Zone, the islands’ average temperature ranges around 29 to 32 degrees Celsius from June through to October. Temperatures are slightly cooler between November and May, ranging in at 27 to 29 degrees Celsius. Water temperatures in the summer average at 28 to 29 degrees Celsius and in the winter about 23 to 26 degrees Celsius. Turks and Caicos sees on average 350 days of sunshine with very little rain. When it does rain, it is usually for less than an hour with the rest of the day still ideal bathing and tanning weather. Hurricane season is from early June to the end of November; although there has only been 3 hurricanes that hit the island in the past twenty years.
The official language spoken on the islands is English and their currency is the American dollar. Tipping waiters, taxi drivers, maids and porters is common practice. Most restaurants will automatically add a 10-15% service charge . A 12% government tax will also be added.
Visitors from the British Commonwealth Countries, The United States of America, Canada and holders of International driver’s license are permitted to drive for 30 days on their respective license.
All travelers visiting Turks and Caicos (including cruise passengers) must have a valid passport. Canadians and Americans do not require a visa for entry to the islands. All visitors must hold a round trip ticket and can stay for a maximum of 90 days; this is extendable one time only.