Turks And Caicos Islands Hotels

he Turks and Caicos Islands are two groups of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of the Bahamas. Even though you only boarded the plane in Miami, Florida a scant hour before, the moment you step off the plane, you know you are in a different world. The tropical breeze hits you as you step onto the tarmac, and you start looking forward to the incredible scuba diving that awaits. Although definitely not one of the prettiest (at least above water) of the islands, it has its own charms that come from being a mostly undiscovered tourist destination. The islands were part of the UK's Jamaican colony until 1959, when they assumed the title of a separate crown colony. The governor of The Bahamas oversaw affairs from 1965 to 1973. With Bahamian independence, the islands received a separate governor in 1973. Although independence was agreed upon for 1982, the policy was reversed and the islands are presently a British overseas territory. Climate:The Turks and Caicos Islands are arid compared with many other islands in the Caribbean. In the winter the weather is generally in the 70 - 80°F range. The temperatures easily climb into the 90°F during the summer. The island gets less than 50 inches of rainfall a year. Most rainfall occurs during the hurricane months of summer. Sunshine and breezy cooling winds are the norm in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Turks and where? That's the reaction most people have when you mention these tropical isles. Like all great Shangri-Las, this one is hidden just under the radar. Be glad that it is, as this tropical dream is the deserted Caribbean destination you've been looking for. And the best part – it's only 90 minutes by plane from Miami; this slice of paradise is just around the corner.So why would you want to go there? How about white-sand beaches, clear blue water and a climate that defines divine. Secluded bays and islands where you'll see more wild donkeys than other travelers. Historic towns and villages that look like something out of a pirate movie, where life creeps along at a sedate pace. While development is on the rise, all one has to do is dig a bit deeper, catch a boat to the next island over and the solace of solitude returns: islands like Grand Turk (part of the Turks Islands) are set in a time long since past, with dilapidated buildings, salt ponds and narrow lanes, and contrast with the ever-expanding Providenciales, tourist gateway to the Caicos Islands. Divers and beach aficionados will rejoice at the quality of the sea here. Clear warm waters teem with sea life, yet are devoid of crashing waves. Even the most ardent land lubber can't help but be mesmerized by the azure water and golden sand. The Turks & Caicos Islands are a spectacular destination for those who wish to get away from it all. One of the most valuable possessions of the islands are their pristine white sandy beaches, which are complemented with crystal clear turquoise waters. In addition, there are numerous national parks, nature preserves, sanctuaries and historical sites.Despite an increase in tourist numbers (tourism is the islands' main source of revenue), the islands remain largely uncommercialised and unspoilt with small, personal places to stay and a heavy emphasis on ecotourism. In addition to tourism, the Turks and Caicos economy is based on fishing and offshore financial services.People on the islands known as 'Belongers' are known for their friendly spirit, which will ensure this is a destination that will help people de-stress, feel comfortable and truly relax.The name Turks is derived after the indigenous Turk's Head 'fez' cactus, and the name Caicos is a Lucayan term 'caya hico', meaning string of islands. Columbus was said to have discovered the islands in 1492, but some still argue that Ponce de Leon arrived first.Whoever first discovered the islands, in 1962, having been a Jamaican dependency for some 75 years, the Turks & Caicos Islands became a separate British Colony – a status that it retains to this day.