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ISLANDS RICH IN HISTORY, CULTURE & HERITAGE T he Turks & Caicos Islands Turks and Caicos has also been consist of approximately administered by Bermuda, 40 islands and cays. The Bahamas and Jamaica. Their islands are located about main interest was producing salt, 575 miles to the South East of which became the mainstay of Miami and 100 miles to the North of the economy. In 1962, the islands the Dominican Republic and Haiti, separated from Jamaica, and and are believed to have been the in 19 73, the TCI and Bahamas landfall of Christopher Columbus shared the same Governor. in 149 2. Since then, the British, French and Spanish have occupied The mid-19 70’s saw the the islands. introduction of Ministerial 3
Government to the TCI allowing for the first democratically elected government in the islands’ history. Prior to this, a social movement took place which was deemed the “Black Power” movement. This change lead to J.A.G.S. McCartney becoming the first Chief Minister of the Turks and Caicos Islands. This system of government was interrupted in 19 85 by a Commission of Enquiry following the arrest of three top government officials in Miami on drug related charges. This resulted in the British Government suspending the constitution and introducing an Interim Government where the British Governor was in direct control of the affairs of the country. 4
ISLANDS RICH IN HISTORY, CULTURE & HERITAGE In 19 88, the country returned to Ministerial Government. Tourism is the mainstay of the local economy. Over 80% of the country’s GDP derives from Tourism. Several major projects are in the works which will further enhance the growth and development of the islands. by Dr Carlton Mills, Former Minister of Education 5
A s a nation of islands, the Turks and Caicos have a number of unique sub cultures through its dialect, cuisine and lifestyle that defines each of the islands. The music of the Turks and Caicos is called “Ripsaw” AKA ”Rake n’ Scrape.” The main instrument, a carpenter’s saw. The saw’s teeth are raked and scraped with a metal scraper such as a knife, producing a rhythmic percussive scraping sound. “Shay Shay” is a popular folk dance where the dancer improvises to the rhythm of the “Ripsaw” music. “Dry Conch and Grits” along with a type of lemonade called “Switcher” is the unofficial national dish and drink. F r o m t h e 19 9 0 s r a p i d development resulted in a large number of foreigners immigrating to the country. This resulted in a massive change in the cultural dynamics. Turks & Caicos is now a multicultural society embracing multinationals from such 6
ISLANDS RICH IN HISTORY, CULTURE & HERITAGE countries as the Bahamans, located in Kew, North Caicos, Haiti, Dominican Republic, was established in 1789 by Jamaica, the Philippines and British Loyalists fleeing the the Eastern Caribbean. Each American Revoutionary War. island in the chain celebrates The people of the Caicos islands a yearly festival showcasing are said to be the descendants the local culture and heritage of their slaves. In the Turks that all culminates during the chain, the population grew out Christmas and New Years of African slaves brought to the with the Carnival like parades islands from Bermuda to work of Maskanoo and Junkanoo in the “salt pans” harvesting salt Jump Up on Boxing Day and as “salt rakers”. The Turks & New Years Day respectively. Caicos was also home to some of the most notorious pirates The Turks & Caicos is home to such as Calico Jack, Mary Read one of the best preserved Cotton and Anne Bonny. Parrot Cay, Plantations in the Caribbean. the ultra five star resort of the Wades Green Plantation, rich and famous was originally 7
known as “Pirate Cay”. There are a number of historic sites worth seeing scattered among the islands such as the Cheshire Hall Plantation on Provo, the Lighthouse on Grand Turk, the Salt Shed on Salt Cay, the Caves of Middle Caicos and the Boiling Hole of South Caicos. Wherever you go in the Beautiful by Nature Turks & Caicos Islands the culture and heritage is bound to entice, titillate and enhance your vacation experience. by David Bowen, Director of Culture 8
Northwest Point Blue Hills 20 Thomps Cove Providenciales 30 International 13 Airport 28 Chalk Five Sound Cays Silly Creek Sapodilla 15 Bay 13. Chinson’s Grill Shack 23. Fresh Catch 34. Sandbar 14. Big Al’s Island Burgers 24. Sora Ltd 35. Danny Buoy’s 15. Bugaloo’s Conch Crawl 25. Baci Ristorante 36. The Vix 16. Blue Haven Resort 26. Le Bouchon du Village 37. Ocean 17. Yoshi’s Sushi 27. Mr Grouper’s 38. Jimmy’s Dive Bar 18. Somewhere Cafe & Lounge 28. Las Brisas 39. Dave’s Mini Putt 19. Coyaba 29. Crackpot Kitchen 40. Club Med 20. Da Conch Shack 30. Hole in the Wall 41. Casablanca Casino 21. Patty Place 31. Opus 43. Eden Yacht Charters 22. Parallel 23 33. Lemon 2 Go 44. Eden Yacht Charters 9
Airport Hospital/Clinic Port/Marina Golf Course Leeward 531569 26, 36, 47, 58 31 67,68 40 65 33, 34 24, 37, 61 14, 17, 23, 52, 62, 66 on Turtle Cove 50 1941 39 Grace 51, 56, 60 Bay22 35, 49 21 48 63, 64 25 18 27 29 38, 54 43, 44 Juba Long Bay Sound 45, 46, 55 Turtle Tail Cooper Jack 45. Caicos Adventures 52. Anna’s Art Gallery 61. Caicos Wheels Snorkeling 53. Big Blue Unlimited 62. Tri Island Yoga 46. Lady K Charters 54. Dive Provo 63. Kenard Cruises 47. Caicos Adventures Wear 55. Caicos Adventures Diving 64. Kenard Cruises & Gear 56. Island Vibes 65. Provo Golf Course 48. Provo Ponies 57. Kite Provo 66. Caicos Cyclery 49. Paradise Scooters 58. FOTTAC 67. Caribbean Cruisin Jet Skis 50. Island Tours & Excursions 59. Nautique Sports 68. TCI Ferry 51. Captain Marvin’s 60. Panoply Sport Fishing & Watersports Charters 10
ENVIRONMENTAL ETIQUETTE PLEASE CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING WHILE VISITING OUR BEAUTIFUL ISLANDS: 1 Do not stand on or touch the coral; it is a living animal and you will harm it. 2 Watch your fins when snorkeling or diving; try to keep your body flat and your fins up to prevent coral damage. Avoid kicking the sand so that the fine particles do not smother and choke the living coral. 3 Do not feed or harass the wildlife including fish, birds and reptiles. 4 It is illegal to remove corals, sand, shells and wildlife, whether dead or alive, from the beaches or ocean. 5 No fishing of any kind is permitted in protected areas such as National Parks and Nature Reserves. This includes ‘catch and release’ fishing or hunting for conch and lobsters. 6 Please use 100% biodegradable sunscreen whenever possible and always allow time for lotion to soak into your skin before going in the sea. 7 Do not litter: Please remove all your trash including cigarette butts, plastic cups and straws. Be mindful of the wind blowing trash into the sea from the beach. 8 Please take as much of your consumables back home with you including batteries, shampoo bottles and other non-biodegradables. 9 Please try to eat local seafood rather than imported seafood. BROUGHT TO YOU BY: 11
RESTAURANTS Your Guide to Dining Recognizing the best in casual eating, local fare and fine dining restaurants for you to enjoy during your stay. 12
CHINSON’S GRILL SHACK C hinson’s may have started out as an unassuming local secret but the jerked smoke on the night breeze, combined with word-of-mouth buzz, has turned it into an inviting spot where locals and tourists must visit! 13 [email protected] | chinsonsgrillshack.com | 649.941.3533
BIG AL’S ISLAND BURGER Big Al’s Island Burger is Provo’s first all burger concept restaurant. Serving all certified Angus Beef in all of the many burger options on the menu. For those after a non beef option, chicken and veggie burgers as well as salads are also on the menu. Choose your burger and then select from the many sides and cuts of fries available. Amazing burgers and salads in a traditional diner setting! [email protected] | bigalsislandburger.com | 649.941.FRYS (3797) 14
BUGALOO’S CONCH CRAWL Come on out to Bugaloo’s Conch Crawl and experience quintessential Caribbean island vibes! Nothing beats the fresh conch knocked to order and their signature Bugawooga rum punch. Dance to local rake ‘n scrape and reggae sounds as you overlook the beach sipping a seductive cocktail. Ideal for a night out or to enjoy during the day with the family, Bugaloo’s offers a truly unique island experience. Fresh conch knocked to order overlooking south- side vistas! 15 649.941.3863
BLUE HAVEN RESORT & MARINA Quietly tucked away in 16 the Leeward area of Providenciales, three dining venues with a distinctly different character make Blue Haven a veritable Dining Destination. SALT Bar & Grill offers bar food to be enjoyed overlooking yachts in the marina; enjoy freshly baked breakfast pastries, salads, pizzas and paninis at MARKET each day; or chill at one of the 3 bars and indulge in the deliciously fresh Caribbean FIRE & ICE menu for dinner with a daily signature pig roast and clam bake. [email protected] | www.bluehaventci.com | 649.946.9900
YOSHI’S SUSHI Y oshi’s Sushi is a taste of Japan with a Turks Island twist! A favourite with the locals, their handcrafted rolls and delectable hot dishes are some of the best you are likely to savour anywhere in the Caribbean. Gather the friends and family together and enjoy a hot sake followed by your choice of fresh rolls or fully cooked entrees. SUSHI & GRILL 17 [email protected] | yoshissushi.net | 649.941.3374
SOMEWHERE CAFE & LOUNGE Just steps away from Grace Bay Beach, at Coral Gardens Resort, Somewhere offers chef inspired tex-mex food, wines by the bottle, and artisan cocktails. With the only roof top deck on the island and great happy hours, there is no better place to watch the sunset. Serving breakfast, lunch & dinner. Carry-out also available. Let’s go! Somewhere... [email protected] | somewherecafeandlounge.com | 649.941.8260 18
C O YA B A A t Coyaba (an old Arawak Indian word meaning Heavenly), we are absolutely passionate about food. The Chefs enjoy preparing new Combining Caribbean and inventive dishes along ingredients with with old classics with a ‘twist’ for your dining pleasure in a international cooking styles. delightfully romantic ambiance. Coyaba is an elegantly appointed, gazebo style restaurant in a lush tropical garden offering fine, eclectic, contemporary Caribbean Cuisine. The signature Menu at Coyaba is updated frequently along with nightly Chef’s specials. 19 [email protected] | coyabarestaurant.com | 649.946.5186
DA CONCH SHACK D a Conch Shack & Rum 20 Bar is the Turks & Caicos’ world famous quintessential beach restaurant. A foodie’s favorite for its fresh seafood and winning Island cuisine (think jerk chicken and ribs) served in a friendly picture- perfect beach setting. Definitely the place to be Wednesday nights when the Island dances in the sand to live local music. Come with friends or make new ones but don’t miss da Conch Shack! Named one of world’s best beach bars! - CNN [email protected] | daconchshack.com | 649.946.8877
PATTY PLACE T he Patty Place is the perfect place to grab a quick savory inexpensive snack while on the strip. Our Jamaican patties are much like baked empanadas with a variety of fillings. We offer outdoor seating and an Irie vibe, and no Provo trip is complete without a taste of our delicious Devon House Ice Cream, featuring over 18 tropical flavours such as Rum & raisin, guava, mango and Devon Stout. Devon House voted Nat Geo’s #4 best ice cream in the world! 21 [email protected] | 649.339.9001
PARALLEL 23 T he Parallel 23 Restaurant at The Regent Palms combines the best of Caribbean fusion cuisine with today’s more casual restaurant ambiance. Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering stunning al fresco dining options on a wide terrace peppered with date palms. Beautiful food and impeccable service in a gorgeous setting! [email protected] | regenthotels.com/en/palms | 649.946.8666 22
FRESH CATCH F resh Catch is local eating at its finest, right in Grace Bay. Fresh fish and seafood are not to be overlooked at this new and hot dining destination. If you’re up to it, take the spicy conch fritter challenge, or take it easy with a nice seafood pasta. Either way, you won’t be disappointed! 23 [email protected] | 649.243.3167
SORA LTD A t Sora, unlike other Japanese styles of eating, food items are usually shared by everyone at the table similar to Spanish tapas. The kitchen will serve the food as soon as it’s ready, rather than all at once in formal courses like Western restaurants. After all, they say sharing is caring! sorabrasserie.com | 649.339.7672 24
BACI RISORANTE Baci Ristorante, an intimate Italian restaurant, is nestled along the quiet waters of Turtle Cove. For your fine dining pleasure, indoor and outdoor terrace seating is available. With a menu that features outstanding local fish and lobster, pasta, veal, chicken, brick oven pizza and nightly specials, Baci is sure to please. Lunch is served Monday through Friday and dinner is seven nights a week from Christmas through Easter. Reservations recommended for a spectacular evening of dining on the terrace! 25 www.baciristorante.com | 649.941.3044
LE BOUCHON DU VILLAGE L e Bouchon du Village is fine dining without breaking the bank. With one of the best wine menus on the island they can pair every meal perfectly. Boasting fine French Cuisine with all seating outdoors on the terrace, enjoy a casual dinner or have a romantic date with a chef inspired menu and fantastic drinks. Enjoy mouthwatering French Cusine on the terrace in Regent Village! facebook.com/lebouchonduvillage | 649.946.5234 26
MR. GROUPER’S Mr. Grouper’s is quickly becoming a local favourite for good island eating. Lobster, grouper, conch and snapper are just some of the fresh local seafood their talented chef uses to seduce your senses. A great place to gather and a menu with a large selection of options at prices that are hard to beat, Mr Grouper’s is the perfect spot to sample the taste of the islands and beyond! Don’t miss the 2013 Conch Festival’s 1st Place Conch Chowder! 27 baciristorante.com | 649.941.3044
LAS BRISAS L as Brisas is not just a 28 dining destination but also a fabulous place to spend the day. With an incredible menu and stunning views overlooking Provo’s world famous Chalk Sound, you might not want to leave! Rent a kayak or canoe and take some time after lunch to paddle across the turquoise waters of Chalk Sound. Tapas and Mediterranean Cuisine with a Caribbean Splash! [email protected] | neptunevillas.com | 649.946.5306
CRACKPOT KITCHEN Crackpot Kitchen is the brain child of Provo’s very own celebrity Chef Nik. As the star of his own cooking show, he elevates the preparation and presentation of local cuisine to a whole new level. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the romantic garden setting. And while you’re there, be sure to ask to meet the chef! 29 baciristorante.com | 649.941.3044
HOLE IN THE WALL Hole in the Wall Restaurant, where you will fin authentic island cuisine! Your vacation would not be complete without a visit to one of Provo’s best kept secrets…loved by locals, talked about by visitors! Marinated in the finest and freshest island spices and herbs, and slow cooked on an outdoor grill, their jerk is, unquestionably, some of the best on island! It will have you craving for more! Want to take back a little piece of paradise? Not a problem, they’ll package it for you! The Jerk is so good it will have you dancing on your table! 649.941.4136 30
OPUS WINE, BAR & GRILL Opus brings you casual elegance in an island garden setting. Locally caught seafood is always available while enjoying a wine from their extensive cellar, or tr y Regional Rum from the largest selection on the island. Live music nightly. 31 opustci.com | 649.946.5885
SOM5 OEW’CLHOECRKE Your Guide to Nightlife We may always be on island time, but we know how to unwind at night! Be sure to stop by for a sundowner or an evening of dancing at one of Provo’s best spots. 32
LEMON 2 GO N estled inside a flower shop in the heart of Grace Bay, Lemon2Go is a blissful marriage of the senses. Locals rely on the island’s best coffee for their morning pick-me-up and the gourmet sandwiches for their afternoon repast. Enjoy a leisurely lunch here, revitalizing smoothies and free Wi-Fi or head back to the beach with a picnic. A daytime hangout at Lemon2Go... 33 lemon2gocoffee.com | 649.941.4487
SANDBAR Sandar is steadily becoming Grace Bay’s most notable evening hangout. A modern, beach- chic locale where sun-kissed visitors and island locals mingle and spill on to the patio lounge. Here you can enjoy a varied wine selection, always imaginative cocktails and delicious Mediterranean tapas. ...turns to night at Sandbar! [email protected] | facebook.com/sandbarprovo | 649.431.6395 34
DANNY BUOY’S Danny Buoy’s is a fun pub located in the heart of Grace Bay. Famous for their Karaoke, live bands and DJ’s, Danny Buoy’s is a favourite place for locals and visitors to hang out. Every night Danny Buoys offers up something unique and fun. Drop by any day of the week or any night for some lively entertainment! Great spot for dancing, karaoke and watching your favourite sports! 35 [email protected] | dannybuoys.com | 649.946.5921
THE VIX T he Vix Bar & Grill serves the freshest produce, certified dry aged Angus Prime steaks and local seafood. Visit The Vix for Pub Nights, Bistro Brunches, Friday Happy Hours and Sunday Lobster Dinners! Open from 7.30am to 10.30pm, the Vix offers great night life, and trendy mixed drinks! Come out tonight! [email protected] | thevix.com | 649.941.4144 36
OCEAN O cean is one of the newest bars/ lounges in Grace Bay. Though it’s a bit hidden away, its classic speakeasy atmosphere isn’t one you should miss. With a genius bartender and a list of champagne that would put a New York restaurant to shame, you’re in for a great night the moment you walk through the doors. 37 [email protected] | 649.441.1687
JIMMY’S DIVE BAR A s well as a great menu 38 featuring a mix of New York and Island fare available until midnight, Jimmy’s Dive Bar is more famous for its late night partying. With fun staff and great drinks, Jimmy’s is the quintessential island bar located conveniently within walking distance of the majority of Grace Bay’s resorts. Come in for breakfast, lunch or dinner or party until late, late, late! [email protected] | jimmysdivebar.com | 649.441.1687
DAVE’S MINI GOLF Dave’s Miniture Golf or Mini Putt is island music and dancing at its best. Grab some drinks from the bar and dance the night away. Oh, and don’t worry if the dancing has you feeling hungry, the kitchen has some of the best local food around! The place to be for island music, karaoke and dancing into the night! 39 funworldtci.com | 649.941.4653
CLUB MED TURKOISE Club Med is a whole day or night within itself. Buy a day pass and spend the day eating and drinking while participating in the many different activities they offer from trapeze to yoga. Not into sunlight? Buy a night pass and dance the night away at the free bar listening to the music of their private DJ. clubmed.com | 649.946.5500 40
CASABLANCA CASINO Casablanca Casino has 12 gaming tables including Roulette, Blackjack, Craps, Mini Punto Banco, 3 Card Poker, Caicos Hold’em Poker and Texas Hold’em Poker. They also offer 85 gaming machines, classic reel games, video reels and video poker. Open Monday to Saturday from 4pm to 4am and Sundays from 7pm to 4 am, offering a free shuttle service from all resorts on the Island. Select drinks are complimentary while you are playing. 41 [email protected] | thecasablancacasino.com | 649.941.3737
THINGS DTOO Your Guide to Activities T here’s lots to do during your stay with us. Check out recommended tours and activities you don’t want to miss! 42
EDEN YACHT CHARTERS Eden Yachts is fully laden with up to date modern equipment. Offering scuba diving for all levels, snorkeling, and deep sea fishing. You could simply take a cruise and enjoy a selection of fine foods and beverages served on board. Eden Yachts customizes tailor made private charters to suit your exact requirements. 43
[email protected] | edenyachtcharters.com | 649.432.4331/2 44
CAICOS ADVENTURES DIVING Caicos Adventures is a well established organization with 25+ years of diving experience in Turks and Caicos. Since the early days in Provo, they have explored and discovered many dive sites. Owner/Founder/Operator Philippe “Fifi” Kunz came from a true diving background, growing up in Cannes in the French Riviera. Go with them and enjoy some of the best diving in the Caribbean, dive trips, instruction, night dives, and private charters. 45 [email protected] | caicosadventures.com | 649.941.3346
LADY K CHARTERS L ooking for something truly 46 special? Explore Turks & Caicos aboard the “Lady K”, their 38 ft Fountain Luxury Cruiser where speed meets comfort, luxury, and style! Amenities include comfortable seating areas, cash bar, air- conditioned cabin, hot water shower, Sirius radio, DVD TV, microwave, grill, & towels! Activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, beach BBQ, & island exploration! [email protected] | caicosadventures.com | 649.941.3346
CAICOS WEAR & GEAR T he Caicos Adventures Wear & Gear main store is located at The Regent Village on Grace Bay Road in close proximity to all of the popular hotels. You can stop in and browse through the shop filled with island merchandise and souvenirs to take home for your friends back in the cold. 47 [email protected] | caicosadventures.com | 649.941.3346
PROVO PONIES E xplore Provo’s back roads, 48 bush trails and Long Bay Beach on horseback, and even take your horse for a dip in the ocean. Come meet Provo Ponies’ beautiful, healthy, happy horses! All experience levels from ages 7 and up catered to. Two rides a day, reservations required. See Provo on horseback with Provo Ponies! [email protected] | provoponies.com | 649.241.6350
PARADISE SCOOTERS L ooking for a unique way to explore the beautiful Turks and Caicos Islands? How about a Vespa, Scooter tour, or Power Bicycle? Paradise scooters offers guided or unguided tours with lunch included to all the best sites in Providenciales. Lessons are available for beginners. Talk about a fun way to get around the island! 49 [email protected] | paradisescooters.com | 649.333.3333
ISLAND TOURS & EXCURSIONS I nterested in visiting another island? Turks & Caicos has more to offer than just Providenciales! Join Island Excursions to get a feel for North and Middle Caicos on a lunch included day tour and fall in love with the rest of Turks & Caicos. [email protected] | islandtoursandexcursions.com | 649.941.8457 | 831.824.8687 50
CAPTAIN MARVIN’S WATERSPORTS A flight with us is an experience not to be missed! A bird’s eye view of Grace Bay beach is the perfect adventure that the whole family can enjoy. No prior experience is required– our qualified crew will show you the way. 51 captainmarvinswatersports.com | 649.231.0643
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