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TURKS AND CAICOS Turks & Caicos (pronounced KAY-cohs) consists of 40 islands/islets/cays (pronounced keys) that are located Southeast of the Bahamas, and roughly 75 minutes from Miami, FL by plane. Only ten of the islands are inhabited. The main dive destination islands are: Providenciales (also called Provo), Grand Turk, and Salt Cay. Provo is the most developed inhabited island in the chain; most of the rest have an outpost feel. Turks and Caicos Islands are located in the Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST), and observe Daylight Savings Time from April to October. The main language of Turks and Caicos Islands is English. Above the gorgeous blue water enjoy white sand beaches, and relax to the beat of a different drummer. Below the water, you will experience exceptional diving on one of the world's largest networks of coral reefs. Throughout the year, you will have chances to see: Pilot Whales (early Jan.- late Mar.), Humpback Whales (late Jan.- early Mar.), Spotted Eagle Rays, Dolphins and a variety of Sharks. Click here for a map of Turks and Caicos Click here to see descriptions of available accommodations/liveaboards in Turks and Caicos TRAVEL TIPS/INFORMATION
Seasons/ Weather/Climate/Water Conditions Turks and Caicos has an annual rainfall of approximately 28 inches, creating a tropical climate moderated by trade winds, with average air temperatures range from the 70s F in the Winter and 90s F in the Summer, with high humidity. Light and casual clothing is suggested, however since the evenings tend to cool down to 60s F in the winter months and 70s F in the summer months, you may want to bring a windbreaker or light sweater. Note that it is considered rude, or inappropriate to wear swimsuits in areas other than the beach or pool. Average water temperatures of the Atlantic Ocean range from 76F (Winter) to 83F (Summer), and water visibility ranging from 90 to 100 ft +.
Transportation Taxis are available at the airport, as well as rental cars. Several rental car agencies operate on Provo, including: Avis, and Budget. On Grand Turk, contact Tony's Car Rental at 649-231-1806. Gasoline is costly on Turks and Caicos, so you may find it more cost efficient to catch a cab or shuttle. For your convenience, foreign and international licenses are accepted. Mopeds and scooters can be rented on Provo; however drive with caution, as roads have steep shoulder drop-offs.
Entry and Exit Requirements Beginning December 31, 2005, the United States will require a valid passport or other secure/accepted documents (Border Crossing Card, SENTRI, NEXUS or FAST cards) for re-entry of either U.S. Citizens, or legitimate foreign visitors/nationals. For more information and any updates on these new regulations visit http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html. When departing Turks and Caicos, you will be required to pay a one-time departure tax of $23.00 US per person. Please note that credit cards are not accepted as payment for the departure tax. It is illegal to bring firearms of any type (including spear guns and Hawaiian slings), into Turks and Caicos, you must have written approval from the Commissioner of Police.
Currency/Banks/Taxes Turks and Caicos includes a 10% tax on almost all goods and services. If service is not included in your restaurant bill, then add 15% A room tax of 10-15% per day. Car rental tax is $10.00 per day. Scooter rental tax is $5.00 per day
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Medical Information In the event of a medical emergency, Providenciales has two clinics available: Myrtle Rigby Clinic (649) 941-3000, and Blue Hills Clinic (649) 946-4228, and a decompression chamber located within M.B.S. Group Medical Practice, (649) 946-4242.
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