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

The Sands at Grace Bay Wins 2019 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award – It’s The Eighth Year the Resort has Earned this Acclaimed Distinction!

The Sands at Grace Bay Receives 2019 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence AwardThe Sands at Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos is pleased to announce that it has once again been named a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award winner. Now in its ninth year, the achievement celebrates businesses that are consistently excellent, having earned great traveler reviews on TripAdvisor over the past year. TripAdvisor’s 2019 Certificate of Excellence recipients include accommodations, restaurants, and attractions located all over the world that have continually delivered a quality customer experience.

The Certificate of Excellence accounts for the quality, quantity and recency of reviews submitted by travelers on TripAdvisor over a 12-month period. To qualify, a business must maintain an overall TripAdvisor rating of at least four out of five, have a minimum number of reviews, and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months.

As a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award winner, we’re always looking for ways to give our guests the best possible experience at The Sands at Grace Bay. We are thrilled to share that we recently completed upgrades and renovations on the small and middle waterfall pools. Additionally, we are moving the retail shop from across the parking lot, to inside the lobby. The prior sales office, and property manager office are being transformed to the new retail shop. Further, The IT office adjacent to the lobby will become two unisex restrooms with one of them being handicap accessible.

Thanks to all of our guests, friends, and fans for you reviews and congratulations to our enthusiastic team whose hospitality and service create the opportunities for us receive these acclaimed awards on an ongoing basis.

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Announcements Just For Fun Things To Do In The Caribbean

Help Us Help Douglas ~ You Can By Bidding Now For Your Dream Vacation!

Douglas is an ALS sufferer, and needs our help to communicate with his loved ones again. You can change his family’s life by placing your bid on a fabulous dream vacation! Your bid gives Douglas the much needed computer equipment he needs to be able to speak to his family. As a father, it would mean the world to Douglas to be able to communicate with his children and family – your bid can help him do this.

Help Douglas, an ALS sufferer, communicate with his loved ones again…

  • Douglas is a 40-year-old father who has ALS
  • He has lost his ability to speak with his family and loved ones
  • Amazing computer technology exists by a retina driven software that allows communication
  • The computer costs approximately $7,500 USD / $10,000 CDN – Our goal is to get him one now while he has time
  • The computer will be later donated to the ALS foundation once Douglas ceases using it so it will help others for many years

If you are as passionate about good causes as you are about getting a great deal on your next tropical beach vacation here at The Sands…

Bid today and Help Change this Familly’s Life!

The SanThe Sands at Grace Bay Ocean Front Deluxe Master Bedroomds at Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos is hosting a charitable fundraising auction. You have the opportunity to bid on a One-week stay in a Three-bedroom Ocean Front Suite at our award-winning Grace Bay Beach resort valued at $10,000 USD ($13,000 CDN).

This luxury vacation will be offered for auction from now – September 7, 2019. Bids will be accepted from 9am to 5pm each day. Bidding rules are detailed below. The starting bid for the auction is $3,500 – a savings of more than 65 percent off the retail value of this resort stay.

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Bid on this Fundraising Auction Benefiting…

Less than two years ago, a man named Douglas was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Today, we are rallying together to help Douglas and his family in their battle. This fundraiser in his name will help the family with costs for medical equipment that can easily surpass 100K each year. For this particular effort we are seeking to raise funds for an “eyegaze computer,” a device that will enable Douglas to continue to communicate with his family even though his voice fails him.

Make a bid for a stay at The Sands at Grace Bay to enjoy time at our celebrated family-friendly resort and help support this family in their fight against ALS. All proceeds go directly to the family for purchase of the eyegaze computer and the special computer will subsequently be donated to the ALS Society of Nova Scotia for other patients.

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How to Bid:
There are three ways you can participate in the auction from August 24 – September 7, 2019 – bid will be accepted from 9am-5pm each day:

1. Bidders can call The Sands at Grace Bay reservations number at 1-877-777-2637 and complete their bid directly with a Reservations agent.
2. Bidders can direct message The Sands via the brand’s page on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/TheSandsTC/
3. Bidders can simply write the amount they are bidding in the comments section of our Fundraising Auction post on The Sands at Grace Bay’s page on Facebook or below this blog post
4. The first verified bid of $10,000 USD ($13,000 CDN) to reach the fundraising goal will automatically win the bid

NOTES:
• Bids must be increased by increments of $10 to qualify.

• The highest bid within the time period will win the vacation package detailed in the Prize List section below.

• The Auction will close at the earlier of the following: 2 weeks from launch or with the first verified bid that reaches the fundraising goal of $10,000 USD ($13,000 CDN). The Sands will communicate that the vacation package has been sold with post on their page on Facebook.

• The vacation package prize offered is subject to availability in specific, contracted class of service. Once reservations are confirmed or certificates are provided they are NON-REFUNDABLE AND NON-CHANGEABLE. Reservations cannot be changed or endorsed in any way after issuance.

• The Sands at Grace Bay reserves the right to set minimum bid and to withdraw the item from auction at any time, for any reason. Bids must be raised by the posted bidding increment of at least $10. The Sands at Grace Bay reserves the right to postpone, delay, interrupt, or cancel any auction for any reason, at any time.

• Bidders must be of at least legal age of their state of residence. Persons who are “minors” must use an agent such as a parent or legal guardian who is of at least legal age for the purpose of bidding.

• The auction winner will be announced on September 15, 2019. All bids are final – the bidder will be held accountable if they win the auction. Winner should contact The Sands Reservations team toll-free at 1-877-777-2637 to remit payment for final bid. The auction bid must be paid in full by 5:00 pm EST on the day after the auction is won. Failure to do so results in loss of the auction and a new auction date will be announced.

• Upon receipt of payment, auction winner will receive an email with the vacation package travel voucher in Adobe PDF format worth the value of their bid, including any taxes.

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  Prize List:
The Sands at Grace Bay – Turks & Caicos, a resort of The Hartling Group
7-night stay for up to 8 guests in a 3-bedroom Ocean Front Suite
(no meals or transportation included)

Includes: complimentary use of watersports equipment (kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, snorkel gear and Hobie Cats); free bicycle use for nearby island exploration; a poolside Manager’s cocktail party every Tuesday; three free-form swimming pools; and tennis courts.

Additional Details:
Reservations based on space availability at time of booking blackout dates apply including major holidays.

Auction winner has twelve (12) months from end of auction to complete travel — October 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020.

Retail Value: $10,000.00 USD ($13,000 CDN)

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More on Douglas’ Story and ALS…
ALS is a fatal, motor neuron disease that causes progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain. It is a devastating disease that affects voluntary control of muscles, leads to trouble speaking and breathing, and eventually death. There is currently no cure for ALS and no effective treatment to halt or reverse the progression of the disease.

Just two years after being diagnosed, Douglas now uses a wheelchair full time, has lost his ability to speak and has little use remaining in his arms and hands. ALS does not affect your intelligence, thinking, hearing, or vision.

Douglas is a loving father of a daughter, Claudia, who faces her own challenges with her diagnoses of muscular dystrophy, she also uses a wheelchair full time. He is a devoted husband to his wife, Amberlie, who is the sole caregiver to both.

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Please consider making a bid for this stay to enjoy time at this award-winning family-friendly resort and help support this family in their fight against ALS.

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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.

 

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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.

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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!

 

 

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Announcements Turks Caicos Information

Turks and Caicos Islands Launches Go Green Initiative

TCI Goes Green CampaignThe Turks & Caicos Islands Tourist Board has officially launched its nationwide Go Green initiative with emphasis on the ban on single use plastic bags. By law, the import ban on single use plastic bags came into effect from January 1, 2019, and a ban on the use of single use plastic bags by retailers will come into effect on May 1, 2019.

Our destination has welcomed visitors from all over the world to experience its beauty, however, plastic pollution is a serious threat. Collectively and individually, we have a profound effect on our environment, thus, a profound responsibility.

Plastic pollution is a global crisis, however, here in Turks & Caicos, we must do our part to reduce our dependency on single use plastics. We invite everyone to become involved and support this initiative aimed at sustainable development goals and good environmental practices.

We at The Sands at Grace Bay are very pleased to support this effort and encourage all to begin making lifestyle changes to protect our environment and preserve our Beautiful by Nature islands for future generations. Every day, we have the chance to make our planet a cleaner and greener place.

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Announcements Awards Comments From Our Guests Sands At Grace Bay Reviews Turks Caicos Information

The Sands is Honored in “Guest Review Awards” by Booking.com

The Sands at Grace Bay - Booking-dot-com awardWe are thrilled to share news of the most recent award The Sands at Grace Bay is proud to be honored in the acclaimed “Guest Review Awards” presented by Booking.com!

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

The Sands at Grace Bay receives Booking-dot-com Guest Review AwardsBooking.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!Celebrating The Sands at Grace Bay Booking-dot-com award #guestsloveus

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Announcements Awards

The Sands Earns 2018 “Recommended” Property Acclaim on HotelCheck

We are thrilled to share that The Sands is a 2018 “Recommended” property on HolidayCheck!  The Sands belongs to the very highly rated hotels on HolidayCheck this year– Europe’s biggest hotel review portal.

Garnering this new acclaim is a true source of pride for the entire team at The Sands at Grace Bay, we’d like to thank all of our past guests who recommended The Sands on the travel review site HolidayCheck.

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Announcements Just For Fun Turks Caicos Information

The Sands at Grace Bay Launches 100% Hurricane Refund Policy

— Guests can book with confidence thanks to No-Hassle, 100% Refund Policy offered at The Sands at Grace Bay —

The Sands at Grace Bay today announced the launch of its newly created No-Hassle, 100% Refund Policy, in the event of a Hurricane. Developed to offer guests the ultimate “peace of mind” guarantee, the new policy states that if the threat of a hurricane prevents travel to Providenciales, or otherwise interferes with the guest’s vacation, the luxury hospitality group will offer a 100% refund of any unused portion of the resort stay, no questions asked.

More specifically, the policy states that if the NOAA National Hurricane Center says that Turks and Caicos Islands are under a Hurricane Watch or Warning and inside the “3- Day (72-hour) Zone of uncertainty, inside the white cone” for a Hurricane (code “H”) or Major Hurricane (code “M”), guests may elect to cancel their stay and receive a full refund. The policy is in effect for Hurricane only, not for lesser impacting Tropical Storms.

Confirmed guests who wish to cancel their reservation under this Hurricane Guarantee must contact the resort or the travel professional who booked their vacation package directly and specifically reference the Harling Group/The Sands at Grace Bay Hurricane Guarantee policy.

Here are additional guidelines for every possible scenario:

Tropical Storm Warning: If the Turks and Caicos Islands are under a “Tropical Storm” warning and this impacts guest’s ability to travel to the island, they can elect to receive a credit for a return stay of the same value, valid for one year. There will be no refunds issued for Tropical Storms.

Pre-arrival Cancellations: Guests who choose to cancel the entire duration of the trip due to Hurricane conditions (based on terms and conditions outlined) will be fully refunded with no cancellation penalties.

In-House Guests Departing Early: Guests who choose to depart early from Turks and Caicos will be credited for the “unused nights” and fully refunded.

Missed Flights and/or Delayed Arrivals: If hurricane conditions cause guests to miss a flight, and/or otherwise arrive one or more days late to the resort, guests will receive a full refund for any such days, or you may have the option of extending your vacation to the original planned time, based on availability. Airline ticket holders are subject to the airlines’ policies and guidelines.

Evacuation Orders: In the event that the Turks and Caicos government issues a mandatory evacuation order, guests will receive a full refund of any days for which they are unable to use the resort resulting from the evacuation order. Guests who are unable to depart due to airport closures will be offered a distressed rate, IF the hurricane makes landfall resulting in a disruption of services at the resort.

Post-Hurricane Damage: If the resort is damaged by a hurricane and is temporarily uninhabitable while repairs are being performed, guests will receive a full refund of those days booked.

Confirmed guests who wish to cancel their reservation under this Hurricane Guarantee must contact the hotel or the travel professional who booked their vacation package directly and specifically reference the Hartling Group/The Sands at Grace Bay Hurricane Guarantee policy.

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Announcements Just For Fun Things To Do In The Caribbean Turks Caicos Information

Our North and Middle Caicos Adventure

‘– by Mona Beeson, General Manager of The Sands at Grace Bay
A continuation of the Adventures of “Hartling Girls Empowered” ~ the exploration and sights of the Turks and Caicos Islands with GM, Mona Beeson and my special young teen friend from last year.

This year as with previous years, I had the wonderful opportunity to join in mentoring girls from the island at the Edward C. Gartland Youth Centre Summer Camp Program that took place at The Palms Resort called “Hartling Girls Empowered” – and, as an extension, to share a trip to North and Middle Caicos with a couple of these amazing girls – sisters in fact – along with Karen Whitt, Vice President of Sales & Marketing for The Hartling Group.

As you may remember in my post about last year’s trip, we are so enthusiastic about being able to share this experience that teaches these young ladies about their country’s heritage, history, and destinations facts firsthand. So we set our plans to paper and plotted out our course to explore an ambitious 10 sites in North and Middle Caicos, rounding out our day at famous Bambarra Beach for a swim and picnic lunch.

Map

The car was packed with our cooler, picnic basket, beach bags (filled with towels, sun screens, and insect repellent – all a must) and, of course, a very necessary road trip snack bag! We were ready for our adventure with an early 7:30 AM pick-up for Karen and the two girls, soon we were on our way to Heavin’ Down Rock in Leeward and Walkin Marina’s Caribbean Cruisin fast ferry to North Caicos. Easy and convenient, all in one place we also arranged our North Caicos rental car there too with Caribbean Cruisin. Now, it was all about just sharing in a great experience!

On the fast ferry from Walkin Marina, we passed picturesque mangrove-clad inlets as our vessel splashed against the colorful turquoise waters, passing Little Water Cay, Half Moon Bay, Water Cay, Pine Cay, Fort George, Dellis Cay, and the famous private Island of Parrot Cay. All of these glorious islands and cays looked so inviting and beautiful from the water.

Once we arrived in North Caicos, we loaded-up the rental SUV and set out to the first stop on our map, Wade’s Green Plantation.

While that day it was closed, we set out on a 3-mile hike around it to explore the nature paths and took a rest on the area’s convenient benches. Quick tip for anyone looking to visit on a Sunday – you should call in advance to arrange a special tour. All-in-all the hike was delightful and insightful as we saw many indigenous plants and birds, and splendid scenery. Naturally we took photos of our adventure — a must for our memory books!

With our map out, we were on our way to Hollywood Beach via Pumpkin Bluff Pond. Having the SUV made for a fun off-the-road trek. Then we got back onto the main road to get to Hollywood Beach.

We met several potcakes once we arrived at Hollywood Beach, friendly dogs with wagging tails that headed right into the ocean for a dip. This beach and its four-legged visitors were fun to see. After a short walk, back on the road we went. We had to keep our schedule in order to end up at Bambarra Beach for lunch while also making it back in time for the last ferry to Provo…

The next stop on our adventure was Flamingo Pond. Up on a small hill, we proceeded to the lookout stage – any Flamingos out there?

This time we saw them only painted on the wall, but that didn’t stop us from taking some more selfies, and talking about the live pink flamingos we saw on the lookout stage during our last trip and in Grand Turk. Next it was time to hit the snack bag … and head on to the Causeway to Middle Caicos.

We passed through the little villages of Major Hill, and Bottle Creek on Kings Road enjoying the lush greenery and flowering trees. Once the Causeway came up, sparkling waters like glittering diamonds were all around. What a sight to behold, the colors of the water changed again. Simply amazing!

On Middle Caicos we turned left into the old Blue Horizon (now Dragon’s Cay Resort) to Mudjin Harbour. If you have never been here, this spot needs to be on your “life’s list” of places to see and experience. Imagine breathtaking bluffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean with some of the most stunning azure waters – it’s a definite must see!

Circle of Hope Prayer handsWe took in the views of not only the amazing bluffs, but also the two caves that are sure to stir the explorer in you at any age. The first pathway leads to a large cliff cave overlooking the Harbour. Another path leads to the sculpted bronze “Circle of Hope” prayer hands, dedicated to Dale Marie Witt. Picture time? Yes again! The higher level view – again amazing – will take your breath away (from both the hike up and the view).

Continuing on the pathway, we approached and saw mysterious stairs leading down to an underground cave.

It’s a place you are sure to think pirates must have hidden once upon a time. Maybe they did, maybe they didn’t, but the cave walls won’t tell…

 

This is a wondrous cave – though last year’s storm took out some of the honed stalactite tips, it is still magnificent to see.

With its mesmerizing nature and beauty, it is certainly well worth the drive for peace, serenity… and for some delicious conch fritters at Dragon Cay’s Bar & Grill. Oh, and they make a delicious frozen lemonade too…

A special request from Karen for the girls – definitely refreshing! The view from the top deck is spectacular. Friendly staff, good menu, and a killer view to boot.

Now that we had hour respite, we were on our way to the Indian Cave. It’s been a while since it’s been weeded, though we’ve seen the road workers making their way down.

As it turns out, we drove right past the Indian Cave, so we’ve decided to head on to Bambarra Beach – and catch it on our way back. On the way over we stopped by the airstrip to take pictures and then quickly got back on our way.

Signs pointed the way to Bambarra Beach. Were pleased to see the new leveled road and soon saw the brightly colored Tiki huts in bright lime green, yellow, and turquoise as well as gorgeous light green waters just beyond a small cay in our view.

You may be surprised to see some folks you know like we did in this lesser traversed area.

We saw our friends from Provo visiting not only at Mudjin Harbour, but also at Bambarra Beach as well. It’s always nice to see a friend you know with a welcome smile.

The long awaited time had come to get into the water! If you have not yet gotten to Bambarra Beach, it’s great to know that the water is not deep – you have to wade a long way out before it gets a just a little bit deeper which makes it perfect. Many times I wanted to go out all the way to the cay…This time, I was determined to make it happen so off we went! Mind you, it does take a little time to wade through the water and get to that point, but we made it! Adventuring all along the way, we found smooth sand dollars and picture-perfect little shells as mementos of our day trip. We made it to the beach of that little cay, left our mark by piling up some stones, and then headed back – our picnic was waiting to be savored.

With lunch bags set out and the cooler setup, we had a lovely picnic lunch of assorted sandwiches, Caesar chicken salad, fresh fruits, snacks, and dessert. Well worth the wait for a tasty lunch. After a bit of a rest, it was time to back into the SUV and head towards North Caicos and the ferry.

We had just enough time to circle back to Indian Cave.

Making our way through Middle Caicos, Karen and the girls spotted the little sign “Indian Cave,” of course we pulled over! Car parked, we put on plenty of insect repellent to ward off bugs ~ all the ready for cave exploring. With little rain these past few weeks, it made it comfortable inside this cave.

The pathway was a little overgrown but we know soon enough that will be cleared away.

We spotted some interesting sights on the pathway leading to the cave…

Rosary pea or crab’s eyes plant , cotton plants, banana spiders, interesting seed pods such as these called Nickernuts , and more.

 

 

 

Then, once we got inside the cave, all of the magnificent green colors and long hanging tree roots from the ceiling to the floor welcomed us.

You can feel the cooler temperatures and see the high vaulted ceilings, and understand why this was a safe refuge for the Taino Indians.

The girls of course we’re all taking pictures and selfies for our memory books. I got a picture of Karen peering through those awesome vines. Fun! But now it’s time to get back into the car and head to North Caicos so we can make the ferry on time!

Passing through the causeway at Middle Caicos we stopped again to take some more beautiful pictures of the shimmery green water, then quickly got back in the car as we waved hello to some more friends from Provo passing us. They were visiting family on the Island. A honk-honk, friendly wave and a hello and we were on our way!

We made it back to the North Caicos dock with 18 minutes to spare. It was just enough to load up onto the ferry. What an adventurous day we all had! We boarded the ferry and within minutes we were well on our way to Provo. On the ferry ride back to Provo we shared more time talking with friends, listening to upbeat TI music, while our minds were saving memories and reminiscing about our day – already we were starting to dream about what our next trip should be. Hmmm, we think it’s going to be Salt Cay.

Until then…see you next time!