The Turks and Caicos Islands is an upscale Caribbean destination, with miles of pristine beach, spectacular coral reefs, crystal clear seas and tropical wilderness. The TCI boasts a small but vibrant open economy that operates from a strategic position in the middle of the Caribbean. The Islands' economy depends largely on tourism and the offshore finance industry. As a British Crown Colony, TCI is politically and socially stable. The recent move by the UK government to impart direct rule is viewed as a positive step toward even more stability and opportunity for investment in the islands.

At the same time, TCI confidentiality legislation has established one of the world's best protective frameworks for lawful business to be transacted in privacy.

The country enjoys year-round sunshine with a prevailing easterly breeze from the Atlantic tradewinds. The temperature on the islands ranges between 65 F in December and 95 F in June.

The TCI is the fastest growing travel destination in the Caribbean with average annual growth of 11.3% per annum over the last decade. Arrivals from North America represent 80% of the total, with growth noticed in the European market.

Providenciales:
An unspoiled barrier reef, the third largest in the world, protects the islands and presents remarkable sailing and fishing opportunities. Divers and snorkelers alike exhilarate in its vibrant colors, tranquil beauty and abundant marine flora and fauna.

Located in the Turks & Caicos archipelago, Providenciales is the country's cosmopolitan centre. Known locally "Provo", the island offers all the modern conveniences of home while maintaining that casual laid-back island atmosphere that truly is the Caribbean.

Provo is (38) square miles in area and (25) miles long, and is located on the west side of the Caicos archipelago. The south part of the island faces the Caicos Bank, a great shallow, pale turquoise sea composed partly of salty salinas and tidal flats.

The island exemplifies the delicate balance between amenities and seclusion. You can take advantage of the island's daily international jet service from major carriers (American Airlines, Delta, US Airways, Air Canada, British Airways), gourmet restaurants, award-winning golf course, marinas and world-class diving, and yet you're never more than minutes from complete seclusion and privacy.

The north coast is home to the world-renowned Grace Bay Beach, heralded by prestigious Conde Nast Travelers Magazine as "perhaps the best beach in the world."

People
Turks & Caicos Islanders are mostly descendants of Africans who were brought in to work the salt pans or the cotton plantations. The expatriate population consists of people from The United States, Canada, UK, France, Italy, other European countries, as well as those from the Bahamas, Hispaniola and virtually everywhere in the world.

Economy
The economy of the TCI relies on the tourism industry, a growing offshore finance industry and the exportation of seafood. A wide variety of financial services and products are available, including company formation, offshore insurance, banking, trusts, limited partnerships and limited life companies. The Financial Services Commission regulates, develops and promotes the industry in major world.

Government
The Turks & Caicos Islands are a British Crown Colony or Overseas Territory. A Governor is appointed by the Queen and currently presides over the local government. Government offices are located in Grand Turk, with branches on other Islands as needed. The legal system is based on English Common Law.

Courier Service
Daily delivery service is provided by FedEx, with offices on Provo and Grand Turk. Service is also provided by DHL and UPS.

Cable Television
Cable television service with over 50 channels is provided on the islands.

Water
As on many islands, fresh water is precious and depends on rainfall or desalinated water produced by reverse osmosis. Please be conservative in using water.

Telephone Service
Local and international service is provided by Cable & Wireless and Digicel. Telex, facsimile, internet and cellular phone services are provided. You may use your credit card or a debit PhoneCard at public phone booths.

Postal Service
Post Offices are located on Providenciales and Grand Turk. All mail is transported by air. There are many different issues and denominations of stamps for enthusiasts to collect. Philatelic Bureaus are located on both Provo and Grand Turk.

Island Activities
The island is a delight for sports enthusiasts providing a multitude of water activities including snorkeling, SCUBA diving, deep-sea fishing, bone fishing, sailing, windsurfing, motor boating, parasailing and water skiing.

Provo also offers superb lighted tennis courts and a challenging 18-hole championship golf course with an attractive Clubhouse for members and non members alike. Other popular activities include sightseeing, shopping, dining out, and of course the sunbathing and beach walking is incomparable! And, if you don’t usually see the stars at home – you certainly will enjoy them, every night, on Provo.

Historical points of interest include the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill Plantation ruins as well as the stones engraved by shipwrecked sailors, found on a hill overlooking Sapodilla Bay.

Other recommended excursions include Princess Alexandra Land and Sea Park and Nature Reserve, Chalk Sound Park, Frenchman's Creek Sanctuary, Pigeon Pond Sanctuary, and Northwest Point Pond. Water Cay Nature Reserve, also an Iguana Sanctuary is well worth visiting.