Summer Travel

Robb Report
May 2005

Turks & Caicos Islands

The seven islands of Turks and Caicos are esteemed for their incomparable pristine beaches, perfectly azure Caribbean waters, one of Earth's largest coral reefs, and a brimming tropical ecosystem. Each island is distinct in character, charm, and natural beauty, with their reefs protected as marine parks.

"The sand is unbelievable. It glides right on," says Ralph Higgs, deputy director of Tourism. "The underwater world is outstanding. Turks & Caicos is always mentioned in the same breath as worldclass diving."

Not only a haven for discerning travelers, Turks & Caicos is also a thriving destination for investors attracted to its tax shelters and high-end condominium developments that harmoniously blend into their unspoiled natural surroundings. Additional attractive incentives are the Islands' close proximity to U.S. shores, English as the official language, and U.S. dollar as the currency.

"Our laws don't permit the removal of assets off the Islands and we won't appropriate or nationalize an investor's projects," assures Conrad Higgs, chief executive officer of TCInvest, an independent agency that attracts new offshore investment to the islands and encourages entrepreneurship among the residents.

Providenciales Island's Grace Bay boasts a 12-mile stretch of white-powder sand that is home to first-class resorts and condominium properties. Among them is The Turks & Caicos Club, a five-star hotel offering 21 suites. Its intimacy, beauty, and prime location make it a magnet for honeymooners, professional photographers and diving enthusiasts. "eWe call our package Dive Into Luxury because it combines luxury accommodations and personalized worldclass diving." said a hotel spokesperson. A four-night stay in a one-bedroom oceanfront suite includes three days of two-tank diving, complimentary massages and dinner at Simba, the resort's Caribbean restaurant, for $3,720.

Further along, Coral Gardens also offers a new luxury package focused on unparalleled service. Guests enjoy a four-night escape to an oceanfront penthouse serviced by on call chauffeured cars, private butler, culinary expert, spa therapist, and personal trainer - plus a boat devoted to your private excursions-for $22,000. "People with resources want space, peace and quiet, but they also want to be given whatever they need." says Andre Niederhauser, managing director. ""We've created that genie in a bottle. Your wish is our command."e;

The Pavilions is the newest addition of 19 exquisitely crafted condominiums in the Alexandra Resort & Spa community - all with breathtaking views of the cerulean waters that pet Grace Bay beach. "A couple purchased a unit this morning after seeIng it once because they loved the Caribbean architectural style," said account executive John Anthony. The Pavilions' creme de la creme penthouse is a 4,OOO square-foot oasis of four bedrooms with teak wood accents and four-and-a-half bathrooms with marble vanities. Two bedroom units generously span 1,970 square feet with private verandas.

The friendly atmosphere of Sands at Grace Bay is suited for couples and families, with 114 studio, one, two-, and three bedroom suites up to 1,600 square feet. This four star resort boasts two swimming pools, cascading waterfalls, jacuzzi, fitness center, bicycles. tennis court, spa and restaurant and bar with nightly live music. A third pool is beachside, with nearby kayaks, windsurfing. snorkel gear, and Hobo Cats.

www.coralgardens.com
www.tcinvest.tc
www.thesandstc.com
www.turksandcaicostourism.com
www.alexandraresort.com
www.turksandcaicosclub.com