Useful Turks & Caicos Travel Facts to know when coming here on vacation

Important information on passport requirements, immigration, duty free shopping, travel with pets, news, cell phone service and much more. Insider information on the Turks & Caicos that's hard to find!

The Turks & Caicos are approximately 550 miles southeast of Miami, Florida. We are in the Eastern time zone, the same as New York, and practice the same daylight savings time changes.

A valid passport is required for entry into the Turks and Caicos. In addition, citizens of certain countries require a visa. Check www.immigration.tc for up to date information on visa requirements.

Visitors are allowed to stay 90 days and require valid proof of departure (e.g. departing airline ticket). Extensions are available through the Immigration Department. Visitors are not allowed to work while in the Turks and Caicos without a valid work permit.

Visitors may bring in duty-free for their own use one carton of cigarettes or cigars, one bottle of liquor or wine, and some perfume.

The importation of all firearms, including those charged with compressed air, without prior approval in writing from the Commissioner of Police, is strictly forbidden. Spear guns, Hawaiian slings, controlled drugs, and pornography are also illegal.

To bring your pet you require a veterinary certificate stating that the animal is in good health and has had a rabies vaccination. A public health inspector will examine the animal upon arrival.

English is the official language of Turks & Caicos. You'll hear Spanish and French/Creole spoken as well, owing to our proximity to countries where those languages are spoken, as well as strong European and Canadian influences here.

The US dollar is the official currency of the Turks & Caicos. Foreign currency can be exchanged at most major banks. Travelers' checks and major credit cards are accepted widely. There are several international banks in Turks & Caicos and most offer ATM machines that participate in global networks such as Cirrus, NYCE or Maestro. Western Union and other wire transfer services are also available. On the smaller islands, it is recommended to bring cash as credit card acceptance and banking facilities are not as prevalent as in Providenciales.

Most things in TCI are built to North American standards, including electricity (110 volts) and mobile phone services (GSM). In other words, your portable gadgets, hair dryers and mobile phone will work here (with appropriate adaptors for non-North American style devices.) Local mobile phone suppliers include LIME, Digicel, and IslandCom, each offering reliable mobile networks to roam on and also temporary phones and SIM cards for you to use locally if desired.

Most resorts and villas offer cable TV services, which include the major US networks and cable channels (CNN, ESPN, HBO, etc.) as well as BBC and selected Canadian channels. Some bars feature satellite services such as Direct TV and Sentanta for more comprehensive North American and European sports coverage.

Local news is available on Channels 4 and 7 on TV, and from 3 weekly newspapers. Popular local radio stations are Radio Turks & Caicos (88.7) and Power 92.5. If you're into Reggae, tune into 105.5 FM.

Internet service is widely available through the islands from two ISPs – LIME and Express Internet (WIV). Most resorts offer wireless access and internet stations/business centers for guests. Wireless hot spots are also available through the islands, including bars, cafes, marinas and other public locations.

There are well stocked grocery and convenience stores on Provo for stocking your temporary home. Visitors heading to the smaller islands (North Caicos, Middle Caicos, Salt Cay) may want to stock up on Provo before departing.

There are taxes on both hotels/accommodations and dining, each 10%. Most restaurants will add the 10% automatically to your bill. Airport departure taxes are included in the prices of your ticket if purchased through major airline or travel agent.

Tipping is generally accepted based on North American guidelines. Some restaurants add a gratuity automatically to their bill. Be sure to check before paying. Remember that chamber maids, bar tenders, taxi drivers and tour operators often derive much of their income through tips, so please be generous when afforded outstanding service!

Casual clothing is the norm in the Turks & Caicos. A few restaurants require slacks for men in the evenings.

Medical services in the Turks and Caicos Islands are available at several private clinics and the government hospitals on Providenciales and Grand Turk. Most routine medical issues and emergencies can be dealt with locally and in extreme crisis air ambulance services can be arranged. Full service clinics include Associated Medical Practices (649-946-4242); Grace Bay Medical Centre (649-941-5252); and Omnicare Medical Clinic (649-941-5050).

Other important numbers are:
Emergency 911
Directory Assistance 411
Police (Provo) 946-4259

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