WELCOME TO TURKS & CAICOS

Quick Facts

• Location: Caribbean, ~30 mi east of the Bahamas; home to 40 main islands/cays
• Population: Approx. 48,000 (2022)
• Language: English (official);     Haitian Creole & Spanish are also common
• Currency: US Dollar (USD); credit/debit cards and Apple/Google Pay widely accepted

Entry & Visa

• Visa: Not required for U.S., UK, Canada, EU citizens (up to 90 days). Others should check
• Requirements: Valid passport + onward/return ticket

Time & Connectivity

• Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time     (same as New York), observance of DST
• Electricity: 120 V, 60 Hz with U.S.-style plugs
• Mobile/Internet: Roaming works;     local SIMs/eSIMs available; most areas have reliable coverage

Getting Around

• Car Rental: Recommended—drive is on     the left, roundabouts instead of signals
• Taxis: Not metered; typically few on small islands; confirm rates in advance
• Public Transit: No buses or trains; inter-island transport via flights or ferries

Climate & Seasons

• Temperatures: Daily range ~75–95 °F (24–35 °C); average ~81 °F (27 °C)
• Rain/Hurricane Season: June–November; peak risk late Aug–Sept; showers brief
• Best Travel Period: Feb–Apr (ideal weather/availability); low season deals Aug–Nov

Health & Safety

• Tap Water: Safe to drink     (reverse-osmosis supply); taste varies
• Healthcare: General and emergency care available; major issues may require medevac
• Sun & Bugs: Use reef-safe sunscreen & insect repellent in rainy months

Tips & Taxes

• Hotel Tax: 12% tourism + 10%     service (13%-27% total on stays)
• Tipping:
  • ~15–18% at restaurants, taxis, housekeeping
  • 10–25% for boat charters (tip $10–20 pp for shared cruises)

Local Etiquette & Law

• Driving: Remain cautious—locals may     drive unpredictably; jaywalking not advised
• Public Nudity: Illegal—no nude beaches
• Wildlife Protection: Do not feed wildlife or stand on reefs; avoid treacherous plants like coral sumac

Key Essentials to Pack

• Beachwear, hats, reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof gear
• Power bank & USD cash—some small shops may not accept cards

PlanningTips

• Book ahead for water excursions     (snorkeling, charters, diving)
• Renting a car gives flexibility on Providenciales and secondary islands