TURKS AND CAICOS

NAILS: VICKY, SUNSHINE NAILS, ALEXANDRIA, VA || HAIR: NIAH CARTER , ALEXANDRIA, VA

June is one of my favorite months because it is the month that summer begins. Historically creating a newsletter in June is a toss up. Last year I went to Turks and Caicos in June and not sharing the details of the experience is criminal. The beaches are the most beautiful I have seen to date. I based this on the color of the water and the smoothness of the sand. Despite the breathtaking views there are somethings you need to be aware of ahead of time that can make your stay better.

planning

As always, I start planning on my notepad in my phone and as I get more information, I update the notes in real time. This helps me remember what I want to do because in the mist of excitement it is possible to forget. Some of the best referrals come from locals. For example, I didn’t learn about Noah’s Ark until the hotel staff recommended it. I discovered some places like the smoothie shop by going on walks. I keep a flexible mind and leave room for discovery inevitably something on the itinerary will change.

Flight

We flew with United. On the flight there we were moved to the front row which was spacious and comfortable.

On the way back we were split up, I was in the LAST row and I felt every bump from the island to the US.

Airport

The Turks and Caicos Airport staff was sharp and cold. Most of the employees appeared to be women with stern faces and no smiles.

Hotel

Tides had minimal amenities with lots of space (2bed, 2bath, full kitchen), a great pool and was walking distance from the beach. We made a friend on the beach who was staying in the penthouse at Tides. She gave us a tour and the room or shall I say floor was unimaginably spacious.
The bikes provided had seats so hard that my private part was still sore when I returned to the US. I do not recommend anyone ride those bikes.

Local Transportation -Beware

My cab drivers’ car broke down and the person he called to help him out was an unlicensed gypsy cab. Gypsy cabs charge crazy rates for rides. I was charged $60 to go the atm, and the carry-out a few 2 miles away.
In the future I plan to rent a car so I can explore more. Gas was $7 a gallon. There wouldn’t be any savings just more flexibility.
If you visit Noah’s Ark don’t feel pressured to buy a round trip boat fare. There will be tons of boats to take you to the mainland and if you get a round trip fare you have to wait around for the same boat to take you back.

Biggest Adventure

My biggest adventure was parasailing. I never thought I would have the nerve to do it. I was excited until it sank in that I was floating on a string attached to a boat and my phone could fall in the sea never to be found again. Luckily, I took lots of selfies and the captain reeled me in before panic took over.

Get with the Culture

The fish fry is on Thursday if you fly in on Friday you will miss it.
No one is up early on Saturday morning.
Noah’s Ark club day party is on Saturday. Noah’s Ark is a club in the middle of the water and everyone on the island will be there.
Do not arrive Shisha early (before 11PM) unless you want to eat dinner or help set up tables.