Turks and Caicos Travel Tips
from La Vista Azul

Caribbean holidays don't get any better than this

Searchers for Caribbean holidays at Caribbean resorts eventually find Turks and Caicos. These amazing islands, nestled among the warm waters of the Atlantic, are the setting for some of the best Caribbean resorts. And none is more beautiful than La Vista Azul, perched high upon a hill, overlooking Grace Bay Beach and Turtle Cove Marina, and offering endless views in all directions. When people dream about Caribbean holidays at Caribbean resorts, this is what they imagine.

Here are a few practical travel tips that should be helpful.

Entry Requirements

Effective January 8, 2007 all US Citizens traveling by air to the Turks & Caicos Islands will be required by the US Government to have a valid US passport. Cruise ship passengers have until June 1, 2009 to meet the requirement. For more on US requirements click here.

TCI Immigration Announcement (June 18, 2007)
Visitors from Canada may enter without a passport, if they have an original birth certificate (or, a notarized copy) and a photo id (e.g.. Driver's License). Visitors from other countries do require passports, but no visas are necessary except from countries of the former Eastern Bloc. They are advised to contact the nearest British Consulate Office.

All visitors must hold a round trip ticket.
Visitors are allowed to stay for 30 days; this is renewable one time only.
For luggage restriction, individual airlines should be consulted.

Customs

Duty free goods that may be brought in to the Islands include: 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes, 1.136 liters of spirits or wine and perfume for personal use.

There are no restrictions for travelers on the import of cameras, film or sports equipment, except spear guns and Hawaiian slings.

To bring in firearms of any type (including spear guns and Hawaiian slings), you must have written approval from the Commissioner of Police. Controlled drugs and pornography are illegal.

Climate

Constant easterly breezes keep life comfortable, with the coolest months averaging in the 70s in the winter and the warmest months averaging in the low 90s in late summer. An average annual rainfall of 40 inches or less assures us plenty of sunny days. For additional information please go to our weather page.

Dress

Pack light! Cool, casual, comfortable resort and leisure wear is acceptable everywhere. Overexposure from the sun can happen quickly, sunscreen is strongly recommended. A hat and cover-up for extra protection is advisable. Swim wear worn other than poolside or at the beach is frowned upon. It is a rare occasion to need a light sweater at night. Just a few restaurants require "proper attire".

Pets

There is no quarantine for visiting pets. A veterinary certificate stating good health and a current rabies vaccination is required. The Public Health Inspector will examine the animal upon arrival. Be certain that your accommodation accepts pets before arriving.

Tipping

There are no rules about tipping but it is customary to add 15% for good service. Some restaurants will add a 10% service charge to your bill, please check before automatically adding your tip. Your taxi is independently owned and operated by the driver. There is no rule about tipping taxis but it is generally given for personable service. Your driver can direct you to all the places and restaurants you will want to visit and an informative tour around the Islands is often offered.

For More Information Visit:
Turks and Caicos Tourism Board | Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association