Clear Waters in Turks & Caicos
The clear green water is exactly as you’d dream. You can see the barracuda checking you out, the water is so translucent! My sister and I spent five days on the sleepy island of Providenciales on Grace Bay, a 12 mile stretch of coast line. To my amazement, the beaches were uncrowded and incredibly clean.
While we spent most days along Grace Bay, we took a ($70RT) cab ride to Sapodillo bay for an afternoon. This shallow cove didn’t offer much snorkeling or much else to do in the area, but the water was equally beautiful. The water was quite warm because it was so shallow, but it was also clean and uncrowded with very little shade.
I preferred the Grace Bay area, which hosts easy snorkeling on Bight’s Reef and some restaurants. All of the beach front hotels have public restaurants and bars, except Beaches Resort, some even have daily specials. Do not miss Mr. Grouper’s though, which isn’t beach front but offers fish dinners for a great price. We walked about a mile to a popular sports bar to watch the NBA final game, and a USA Copa Americana game, along with all the other Americans on the island!
We rented a room in a condo from AirBNB for under $100 per night. We shared the condo with a couple (the girl was from New Braunfels – this happens often), but rarely saw them. The condo had a pool, washer/dryer, beach chairs, wine opener, everything we needed and even a local cell phone to call taxis. The beach was a 10 minute walk, and maybe 20 to the village. Each morning, we cooked our own breakfast tacos (we’re from Texas after all), and enjoyed amazing seafood dinners each night.
I read there are more churches than convenience stores on Provo, and considering we passed three to get to the beach each way, I’d agree. Everyone we met was incredibly kind, helpful and willing to offer their opinions on the best spots. Every time we walked anywhere we got honked at, but it didn’t feel unsafe, just annoying.
Some goats in front of a church.
I’m so glad my sis let me tag along on this trip. We had such an excellent time relaxing on the beaches that we made a pit stop on the way home. We booked our flights to allow us half a day layover in Miami. From the airport, we took the $2.35 (OW) airport flyer (#150) which has multiple stops in South Beach. After another beautifully hot day, we headed back to Texas for more of the same – weather that is, not beaches.
Tips:
- Although we planned to rent bikes, we were able to walk every where we wanted to go.
- Provo is a British territory so they drive on the left side, but some vehicles have an American driver side to make it extra tricky!
- US dollars are all you need, but take plenty because a 6 pack will run you $12-$18!
- Also, take your own snacks (see above). Grocery prices are about double.
- Cabs are expensive but they may stop to get other passengers. If they do, they should give you a discount.
- Don’t be afraid to travel to “exotic” locations – “all-inclusive” doesn’t have to be in the budget.
- Even if its unfamiliar, check out the public transportation options. Bus drivers are usually very helpful.