Categories
Turks Caicos Information

How to Take Care of Your Skin at a Spa in Turks and Caicos

Why Relaxing is Important

It’s no secret that Providenciales enjoys summer-like weather year-round. Frolicking fun on our powdery white sand beaches and turquoise waters will no doubt be on the itinerary. But a bad sunburn is not the best way to remember your vacation in paradise! Besides spending all your time at a spa in Turks and Caicos, there are many ways to enjoy your time in the sun while keeping your skin healthy and happy.

Here are tips to avoid sunburn while actively enjoying your time in Turks and Caicos.

The Burning Truth About Sunburn

The Skin Cancer Foundation defines sunburn as skin reddened by prolonged exposure to the sun’s harsh ultraviolet rays. Symptoms of sunburn include irritation and skin peeling. Continuous  exposure to the sun is not advisable. It can lead to faster aging, wrinkles, lasting skin damage and even skin cancer.

Sunburn should be treated the moment you realize that you have one. Take cool baths to help alleviate pain. Leave a bit of water on the burn and seal with moisturizer in order to help with healing. Allow any blisters or peeling skin to heal. Finally, drink lots of water in order to prevent dehydration.

How to Stay Active and Avoid Sunburn

There are many ways to enjoy your time in the sun without worrying about sunburns. Use water-resistant sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher at least fifteen minutes before going outdoors. When applying it on the skin, be sure that it covers all parts of your body, including the ears, neck, and top of the feet. Take sunscreen with you wherever you go and do not use product that is expired.

Avoid any activities under the sun during the hours of 10am-2pm, when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Considering covering up with a shirt or cardigan while out in the sun. Finally, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat are stylish ways to protect yourself from the sun.

Rejuvenate the Skin with a Day in a Spa in Turks and Caicos

A spa day can help to refresh the skin as well as to help it heal from a sunburn. Spa Tropique has two treatment rooms conveniently located in Building 1, and is dedicated to pampering you a blissful, revitalizating experience. Treatments include body wraps, massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. There are also special treatment packages to suit all your needs.

Enjoy Sunshine Responsibly in Turks and Caicos

The Sands would love to help you enjoy the sunshine while taking good care of your skin. Buy yourself sunscreen and a pair of sunglasses, then contact Spa Tropique! They’ll be glad to help you plan the perfect Turks and Caicos vacation while taking care of your skin.

Categories
Turks Caicos Information

What’s New in Turks and Caicos | Summer 2019

With the Fourth of July, summer 2019 has officially arrived in Turks and Caicos. The island continues to be recognized as a top Caribbean travel destination, especially for families and for celebrities. Here is what’s currently trending in Turks and Caicos.

The Sands - Grace Bay Beach

Grace Bay Beach named the Caribbean’s Best Beach

The Caribbean Journal Traveller’s Choice awards has once again named Grace Bay the Caribbean’s Best Beach for 2019. Subscribers of the website, frequent travellers to the Caribbean, gave Grace Bay the best beach crown after months of online voting. The world famous beach faced stiff competition from other Caribbean beaches, including Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman and Eagle Beach in Aruba.

The Sands has also been been recognized by the Caribbean Journal as a top family vacation destination.  Specifically, the Sands was named “Best Family Resort” by the Caribbean Journal Traveller’s Choice awards.

Read the Full Article on the Turks and Caicos Weekly News Website

family vacation in turks and caicos

The Sands Resort Offers Best Value for Vacationing Families

In addition, Forbes senior contributor Laura Begly Bloom, with help from travel influencer Tiffany Dowd, named the Turks and Caicos as one of the best places to visit without breaking the bank.  Dowd, a luxury travel influencer and founder of Luxe Social Media, named the Sands Resort as a “good value for families”.

Read Both Articles on the Turks and Caicos Weekly News Website and the Forbes Website

Prince's Mansion, Turks Caicos
Prince’s Mansion, Turks Caicos. Image courtesy Christie’s International Real Estate

Vacation Home of Music Legend Prince Sells for $10.8 Million

The vacation home of late music Legend Prince has sold for $10.8 million, one million less than its initial asking price.  The 10,000 sq.ft estate was put on the market in 2016 after the singer’s sudden passing. The estate features purple-lined driveway, ocean views, tropical gardens, a tennis court and spacious master bedroom. Fans of the singer may get their chance to visit the singer’s vacation home as the buyer has future plans to rent out the property.

Read the Full Article on the Architectural Digest Website

https://www.instagram.com/p/By5i79UgZqK

Drake Hits the Links in Turks and Caicos

Finally, Toronto rapper and actor Drake has recently been spotted with friends in Turks and Caicos. In a series of photos posted on Instagram, the Hip-Hop sensation can be seen shooting the links, enjoying drinks on the tennis courts, and taking a dip in the pool. In every photo, the superstar looks to be relaxed and enjoying himself in paradise.

Read the Full Article on the Interview Website

Ready to Travel the Paradise in Summer 2019?

What do you think? Ready to enjoy summer on one of the best beaches in the world? Let the Sands help you plan your perfect summer vacation. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us!

Categories
Announcements

Pool Renovations – Aug-Sept 2019

Please note that starting Monday, August 19, 2019 until Sunday night, September 29, 2019the Small and Middle Waterfall Pools will be closed for upgrades and renovations.  The main pool will not be effected.

There will be black screening around these pool areas for privacy and protection while the renovations are taking place.  Work will commence at 10:00AM and may end at 7:00PM or at dark at the latest.  There will be jack hammering in these pools which is expected to last approximately a week and a half.  Work that involves noise will be from 10:00AM until 5:00PM.

Should you have any questions, please let us know.

 

Categories
Turks Caicos Information

Golfing in Turks and Caicos: Hit the Links at Provo Golf Club

Ready to go golfing in Turks and Caicos? Here are a few ideas to help you get the most out of hitting the links in Providenciales.

turks and caicos golf

A Unique and Challenging Course for Golfing

Provo Golf Club has offered a unique challenge to players of all handicaps since opening in 1992. The golf course, surrounded by the island’s legendary turquoise waters and lush vegetation, is recognized as one of the Caribbean’s top ten golf courses by USA Today and has received four star rating from Golf Digest.

Provo Golf Club’s course is rugged and well-manicured and fairways are lined with the island’s natural flora and fauna. The course is now turfed with Platinum Paspalum grass, the industry’s standard. The course’s seven lakes present as well as the island’s vibrant bird life presents a unique challenge to players.

Need a warm-up? Provo Golf Club offers a short-range warm up area, practice greens, and practice chipping areas. Because the Golf Club welcomes all golfers of all levels, there are four tee options available to accommodate all ranges of skill.

There are nine hole round options available all day long. Tee times can be booked up to 120 days in advance.

Provo Golf Club Amenities

There is so much to enjoy during your visit to Provo Golf Club. There is a full-service Pro-Shop, offering a wide selection of golf clothing and equipment from a variety of celebrated brands, including Bobby Jones, Nike, and Adidas.

Leave the clubs at home and golf like the pros! Provo Golf Club offers Titleist golf equipment rentals. With over 70 golf club sets, the club has something for everyone, regardless of skill and experience. New to golf? Provo Golf Club offers golf lessons to improve your game.

Celebrate Your Best Round at Fairways Bar and Grill

After your round of golf, enjoy food and drink at the Fairways Bar and Grill. A favorite with locals and visitors alike, Fairways offers traditional and island fare. Enjoy magnificent views of the golf course via the restaurants panoramic outdoor terrace.

Ready to Enjoy a Round of Golf in Paradise?

The Sands Resort is all-suite luxury resort located on Grace Bay beach, one of the most celebrated beaches in the world. We are also a short drive away from Provo Golf Club. If you have any questions or would like to start planning your golf holiday in paradise, please contact us!

Categories
Announcements Awards Comments From Our Guests Just For Fun Sands At Grace Bay Reviews Turks Caicos Information

The Sands at Grace Bay is Named Best Family Resort in The Caribbean Journal Travelers’ Choice Awards

The sands at Grace Bay Wins Caribbean Travel Award

We are thrilled to announce that in The Caribbean Journal Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2019, The Sands at Grace Bay named “Best Family Resort!”

There’s no more discerning audience of frequent travelers than subscribers to Caribbean Journal, the world’s largest website covering Caribbean travel.

The Caribbean Journal Travelers’ Choice Awards, celebrates the best in Caribbean travel as chosen by the media outlet’s readers.

Thousands of Caribbean Journal subscribers voted in this year’s Awards, selecting from a highly competitive field of nominees chosen by CJ’s editorial staff.

“The Caribbean travel industry has never been more competitive, from its luxury hotels to its airlines, and the bar continues to rise,” said Alexander Britell, editor and publisher of Caribbean Journal. “The world’s largest community of travelers to the Caribbean has spoken, and spoken passionately, and we are proud to announce this year’s winners — in other words, the best of the Caribbean.”

“This acclaim demonstrates the excellent hospitality and service that our staff provides guests.  Thanks to you all for all your hard work and to all of our wonderful past guests and fans for voting.  We look forward to seeing you again soon,” said Mona Beeson, General Manager of The sands at Grace Bay.

Click Here to read the full article on Caribbean Journal.

Categories
Turks Caicos Information

Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos

Curious about this corner of the Caribbean? Wish to visit this island paradise? Here is an overview of the beautiful undercover paradise known as Turks and Caicos.

Providenciales

The Turks and Caicos Islands are located the Lucayan Archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Boasting a tropical climate year-round, Turks and Caicos consists of two groups of islands, the Caicos Islands and the smaller Turk islands. The islands are located northeast of Cuba and southeast of the Bahamas.

Providenciales, located in the northwest part of the islands, is where most residents reside. The island, called “Provo” by locals, is twenty miles long, east to west, and is easy to explore. The waters around Provo are shallow, making it an excellent place for water sports and other excursions.

Grace Bay Beach

Grace Bay beach, the crown jewel of Turks and Caicos, is celebrated as one of the best beaches of the world. The beach hosts beautiful turquoise waters and pristine white sands. The waters are shallow and unaffected by trade winds, making it perfect for playing or just relaxing on the beach. As a result, the beach is a very popular destination for tourists.

The Bight

To the east of Grace Bay beach is the Bight, a popular snorkeling spot. The Bight is very busy during the island’s high season due to its location near Provo’s city center. It is just west of the Coral Gardens, another popular snorkeling spot due to its shallow waters.

Leeward

Leeward is located in the easternmost part of Providenciales. It shares the same pristine beaches and white sands found in Grace Bay beach but is less crowded. The area features the mangrove ecosystem that protects the island’s vibrant marine life. This is the perfect area for those looking for peace and quiet for the duration of their vacation.

Long Bay

Looking to get a little wind in your sails? Look no further than Long Bay. Located to the south of Leeward, Long Bay has fewer resorts, making it ideal for individuals and families who wish to have the beach all to themselves. The area is affected by trade winds, making it perfect for kitesurfing.

Middle Caicos

Middle Caicos, to the east of Providenciales, has the fewest residents in Turks and Caicos. The area is desirable for adventurous types, hosting walking trails for the diligent explorer. The Conch Bar Caves are another highlight of the island. Finally, Middle Caicos has great spots for snorkeling and sailing.

South Caicos

South Caicos, east of Middle Caicos, is Turks and Caicos second smallest island. South Caicos is quiet and secluded, making it an ideal spot for visitors desiring privacy. With fewer resorts, it’ll feel like vacationing on your own private beach. A prime area for water sports and kitesurfing, adventurous types will love this laid-back island.

Grand Turk

Grand Turk, capital city of Turks and Caicos, is a popular cruise ship port. The star attraction is the Grand Turk Cruise Center. Highlights include one of the largest swimming pools in the Caribbean, a 45,000sq.ft shopping center, and the Caribbean’s largest Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville Restaurant.

Of course, there are idyllic beaches to stroll across and crystal clear waters to swim in. South Beach is perfect for those seeking quiet time while enjoying time on the beach.

Contact Us to Get Started Planning Your Trip to Turks and Caicos?

Has your curiosity turned into determination? Ready to start planning the trip of a lifetime? Contact us, and we will help you plan your dream vacation to Turks and Caicos. Sunshine and adventure awaits!

Categories
Turks Caicos Information

What’s New in Turks and Caicos for May 2019

turks and caicos
Photo by Flickr user Kenji Ross. License: Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0)

With summer nearly here, things are really heat up in Turks and Caicos. In addition to being recognized as a top international beach destination, there are more opportunities than ever before to fly into paradise uninterrupted. Here is what’s currently trending in Turks and Caicos.

New Nonstop Flights from Houston to Turks and Caicos

United Airlines has announced that they will now offer a nonstop flight between Houston, Texas and Providenciales beginning June 8th. The new flight is part of a massive expansion of nonstop service across the United States.

The flight is set depart from George Bush airport (IAH) at 9:35am Central Time and arrive at Providenciales International Airport at 2:25 local time.

Read the full article on Culture Map Houston Website.

Providenciales Named a Top Destination for Summer 2019

family vacation in turks and caicos

Travel news website Travel Pulse has named Providenciales as one of its international beach destinations for summer 2019. According to a recent survey by Allianz Global Assistance, more people are electing to travel closer to home. Futhermore, travelers are looking to get more bang for their buck through deals and discounts.

As a result, people are travelling to Mexico and the Caribbean instead of European destinations. Providenciales came in at number seven on the international destinations list.

Read the full article on the Travel Pulse website.

Bruce Willis Selling Parrot Cay Mansion for $33 Million

The Sands - Grace Bay Beach

International Movie Star Bruce Willis and his wife Emma Hemming have put their waterfront estate on the market for a record-breaking $33 million. The residence is located in Parrot Cay, a popular spot due to its seclusion as well as its proximity to other areas of Turks and Caicos. If sold for the asking price, it would be the top selling property on the island.

At 35,000 square feet the property is akin to a palace, with eleven bedrooms, and 13.5 bathrooms. Due to its western orientation, the estate is the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Other features include a massive playground, a 2,100 square foot master suite, and four swimming pools.  

Read the full article on the House Beautiful website.

Bonus Link Read more about Willis’s Parrot Cay estate on the Daily Mail website.

Caribbean Photo of the Week

Mom and Dad are taking a break, too.

With powdery white sands and crystal clear waters as far as the eye can see, there is no shortage of photo opportunities while vacation in Turks and Caicos. The Caribbean Journal, a website dedicated to reporting tourism news in the region, features the best and most beautiful photos on its “Photo of the Week” page.

Have a breathtaking photo of the Sands that you think is worthy enough to be featured? Consider submitting it to Caribbean Journal for publication. Email [email protected] with your name, your email, your location and “CPOTW” in the subject line.

For more information, please visit the Caribbean Journal Website here.

Ready to Spirit Away to Turks and Caicos?

What do you think? Are you ready to buy a nonstop ticket to Turks and Caicos? Curious as to why the Turks and Caicos is one of the world’s top island destinations? The Sands is here help you plan your photo-worthy getaway. Feel free to contact us!

Categories
Turks Caicos Information

Restaurants in Turks and Caicos: Where to Dine Out

Throughout the year, visitors flock to Turks and Caicos for its breathtaking turquoise waters and pristine white sands. But what you do when it’s time to eat?

Restaurants in Turks and Caicos offer a delightful array of dishes that feature locally-sourced ingredients, plus stunning views of the crown jewel of the island, Grace Bay beach.

Here is a sampling of the tastiest restaurants in Providenciales.

Da Conch Shack

“Da Conch Shack & Rum Bar” by Da Conch Shack via Facebook Page

Da Conch Shack is one of the most popular restaurants in Providenciales. Both BBC and CNN named it one of the world’s best beachfront restaurants and it was most recently named as “one of the island’s most enjoyable restaurants” by Maxim Magazine.

Enjoy beautiful beachside views while sampling delicious and locally-sourced seafood fare. Popular dishes include blackened grouper with peas and rice, fish tacos, and of course, conch.

Be sure to enjoy a pitcher of the restaurant’s “Infamous Rum Punch” with your meal!

Mr. Groupers Restaurant

Mr. Groupers is family-friendly casual restaurant located in Lower Bight. The restaurant features affordable local fare, including blackened grouper and cracked conch.

Your little ones will enjoy ordering from the kids menu, while the parents sway to the enjoyable mix of reggae, R&B, and everything else in between.

Thursday Fish Fry

The Thursday Fish Fry at the Kids’ Bight Park is a must-do during your stay in Providenciales.

Starting at 6pm local time, the event various food vendors offer local dishes, including conch fritters, jerk chicken and the eponymous fried fish.

Discover hand-crafted wares made by local artisans (think conch shell art) while enjoying live music by local musicians.

Parallel23 and 72°West at the Palms Resort

Two of the island’s most enjoyable restaurants are located in the nearby Palms Resort. 72°West offers family-friendly casual dining.

The restaurant features a Caribbean-inspired menu described as “grilled, chilled, and filled with flavor”.

Diners are treated to stunning views of the beach by dining alongside the resort’s serpentine infinity pool.

Parallel23 offers fine dining with island sensibility. Executive Chef Lauren Calligen masterfully fuses caribbean flavors with an ambience of elegance.

Full height French doors welcome you to the exquisite dining room where you can watch with culinary fascination as your meal is prepared within the hi-tech display kitchen.

If you prefer to enjoy your meal al fresco, you can choose to enjoy your meal on the patio in full view of the ocean. The choice is yours!

Hemingways on Grace Bay Beach

Hemingways offers casual, family-friendly dining just steps away from your resort suite.

This award-winning restaurant is located right next to the Sands Resort. It offers standard popular comfort food with a little something extra, and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Enjoy prime views of the beach while you enjoy your meal.

For breakfast, try the popular cinnamon raisin French toast or huevos rancheros.  Lunch offerings include island specialties such jerk chicken, soft fish tacos with mango chutney or a grilled fish sandwich.  

At dinnertime, enjoy sumptuous dishes including blackened salmon, lobster tail and filet mignon. Bon Appetit!

Enjoy Epicurean Delights in Turks and Caicos

The Sands Resort is ready to help you plan a vacation that indulges both your love of the beach and your love of delicious food.  If you were like to get started planning your trip, either leave a comment on this post or contact us directly.

Categories
Announcements Awards Sands At Grace Bay Reviews

The Sands Honored in 2018 Booking.com Guest Review Awards

The Sands at Grace Bay has just received the news that we have once again been honored in the acclaimed “Guest Review Awards” presented by Booking.com — and this year our score is even higher!

Every year, Booking.com celebrates properties with an average score of 8.0 and above for properties who have ten or more reviews online.

Booking.com says, “We know these properties have offered great guest experiences, and our Guest Review Awards are a great way to showcase this achievement.”

The score is based on all reviews that were published on the website during the 24 months preceding.

This is how Booking.com calculates average scores: Guests can evaluate six separate categories with four smiley or sad faces, each face counting for a score of 2.5. When calculating scores, Booking.com adds up the scores for Cleanliness, Comfort, Location, Facilities, Staff, and Value, and divides by 6 – the number of individual categories. Reviews automatically expire after 24 months.

Thank you to all our guests for the superb reviews and to our entire team here at The Sands for continuing to make guest stays into award-winning experiences!

 

 

Categories
Turks Caicos Information

Turks and Caicos News for April 2019

There is no shortage of excitement in Turks and Caicos. Whether its celebrity sightings, special events, or fun activities, something is always happening on the island. Here’s a look at what’s currently trending in Turks and Caicos.

The Sands at Grace Bay Anniversary Celebration

Read a Review of the Sands Resort

Bob Friel, an Orca Island, Washington-based travel writer, wrote a glowing review of the Sands Resort for the Caribbean Journal. Friel looked no further than the Sands, as it would appease his children’s need to fun, his parent’s accessibility needs, and his own desire for rest and relaxation.

Friel describes this parents’ suite to be “like a palace”, offering “forever views of the brilliant-blue sea,” with the Sands resort on Grace Bay becoming a sort of central hub for the entire family. Trip highlights include a private family snorkeling charter with Caicos Dream Tours , and celebrating his mother’s 80th birthday at Hemingways Restaurant .

Read the full article on the Caribbean Journal Website.

celebrity mansion turks caicos

Celebrity Sightings in Turks and Caicos

Imagine taking a walk across the powdery white sands of Grace Bay beach when a familiar face passes you by. You do a double take – is that who you think it is? It just might be!

Turks and Caicos is no stranger to the rich and famous. For example, Parrot Cay is a popular destination for celebrities due to its secluded location, allowing for much needed downtime with family. Furthermore, it’s a short boat ride away from the rest of Turks of Caicos.

Spotted celebs include action star Bruce Willis, Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones, political power couple Bill and Hillary Rodham Clinton, and billionaire Bill Gates.

Read more about celebrity sightings in Turks and Caicos.

bonefishing in the caribbean

How to Catch Bonefish with Peanut Butter, Jam, and a Single Fly

Country Life Magazine fishing correspondent David Profumo describes his latest fishing adventure during a recent trip with his wife to the Turks and Caicos.

Determined to catch bonefish, the author describes the rituals he undertook to catch the elusive “the little white fox fish” after an intense ten country chase.

After several failed attempts, Profumo and friend, Captain Arthur Deane, finally catch a break. After a few close calls Much to the writer’s delight, his luck turns, due to the captain admitting to adding peanut butter and jelly to the fishing fly.

You can read the entire account here on the Country Life website.

race for the conch

Race for the Conch

The island is gearing up for the Race for the Conch EcoSwim, set to be held on June 29th at the Royal West Indies Resort Beachfront. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Race for the Conch is an open-water swimming race. To the winner goes the spoils in the form of a unique conch trophy.

There are three distance races, including a 100 metre children’s race, a half-mile race, 1.5 mile race, and 2.4 mile Ironman race. Whether you are a world-class athlete or looking to improve your person best, the Race for the Conch has what you are looking for.

Bonus link: Read an introduction to open-water swimming.

Click here to check out a past . For more information or to register for the race, please visit the official website at https://www.ecoseaswim.com/ .

Contact Us and Start Planning Your Turks and Caicos Vacation

Now that you know what’s trending in Turks and Caicos, what do you think? If you’re ready to create your own perfect Turks and Caicos story, the Sands would love to be cast in a supporting role! If you have any questions or would like to start planning, please contact us