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The Sands at Grace Bay Wins “Best Family Resort in the Caribbean” in the 2024 CJ Travelers’ Choice Awards!

It’s time to toast with some celebratory rum punch as we share some exciting news! The 2024 CJ Caribbean Travelers’ Choice Awards winners are in, and The Sands has been crowned the “Best Family Resort in the Caribbean!”

The Sands Wins Best Family Resort in 2024 CJ Travelers Choice Awards

This prestigious accolade comes straight from the hearts of Caribbean travelers themselves, with more than 35,798 votes cast by the largest community of Caribbean enthusiasts on the planet. Hosted annually by Caribbean Journal, these awards celebrate the best of the best, spanning 31 categories that highlight everything from top luxury hotels to foodie havens and beyond.

“Winning a Caribbean Journal Caribbean Travelers’ Choice Award is a powerful seal of approval for a destination or hotel,” said Alexander Britell, editor and publisher of Caribbean Journal. “It means you are preferred by the travelers who know the Caribbean better than anyone else. Congratulations to this year’s impressive slate of winners!”

At The Sands, we know that family vacations are all about making memories that last a lifetime. From our powder-soft sands and shimmering turquoise waters to our spacious suites and family-friendly amenities, we’ve always strived to create the perfect environment for guests of all ages. This award is a testament to the dedication of our incredible team and the loyalty of our amazing guests.

A Team Effort and a Big Thank You
“It’s always a team effort, and we’re thrilled to see such great results,” said Ovidio de Felipe, General Manager of The Sands at Grace Bay. “Congratulations to everyone involved — all of our amazing team members who welcome our guests every day with the best service. We extend our warmest appreciation and thanks to all of our guests, friends, and fans who voted for us to win this acclaim. Let’s keep this momentum going!”

Why Families Love The Sands
Located on the world-renowned Grace Bay Beach, The Sands is a family paradise like no other. Our resort features spacious accommodations, including multi-room suites with full kitchens, perfect for family comfort. Kids love splashing in our three free-form swimming pools, while parents can relax with a cocktail in hand at Hemingway’s Restaurant or enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment at Spa Tropique. And let’s not forget the miles of pristine beach and crystal-clear waters where everyone can play, soak up the sun together, and enjoy our complimentary water sporting activities like stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, and Hobie Cats.

Join the Celebration!
We couldn’t have achieved this incredible honor without you — our guests! Thank you for choosing The Sands at Grace Bay for your family adventures and for voting us into the top spot. Let’s keep making magical memories together!

Ready to plan your next family escape to the “Best Family Resort in the Caribbean?” Visit our homepage at www.thesandstc.com and click on the “Book Now” box to search and book…then start counting down the days to paradise.

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Announcements Awards Blog Contests Just For Fun Ocean View Standard Rooms Things To Do In The Caribbean Turks Caicos Information Uncategorized

The Sands Kicks-Off 25th Anniversary Year of Celebration with Resort-wide Renovations

The Sands at Grace Bay is announcing its 25th Anniversary Year of Celebration themed: Sparkling Sands, Shimmering Seas: 25 Years of The Sands, an Icon in Paradise – Now Better Than Ever! The celebration is being kicked-off with the unveiling of the resort’s extensive renovations that include a completely reimagined lobby and resort-wide refresh.

Dr. Stan Hartling, CEO of Hartling Group, expressed his enthusiasm stating, “We are delighted to inaugurate a year-long celebration marking the 25th Anniversary of The Sands at Grace Bay and extend our gratitude to our award-winning staff, as well as the champions and supporters who have been integral to our success over the past quarter-century. As we near completion of a major renovation to commemorate The Sands’ 25th Anniversary, this hidden gem and historical icon shines even brighter after 25 years of dedicated service to TCI.”

Preserving the inherent charm and elegance that defines the resort, The Sands’ renovation introduces enhancements across every facet of the guest experience, infusing modern amenities and stylish accents that captivate the senses. The newly reimagined open-air lobby welcomes guests into a contemporary ambiance, while meticulously refreshed guest suites boast updated furnishings and finishes, artfully adorned with decorative touches in cool blue tones and topped-off with crisp white linens. Beyond the chic room redesigns, the sleek new bathrooms feature oversized walk-in showers and frameless glass doors with rain-style shower heads, seamlessly blending coastal aesthetics with indoor luxury to provide an indulgent experience for guests.

Dr. Stan Hartling remarked, “This milestone celebrates the visionary inception and the pivotal role that The Sands played in the success we now witness in the Turks and Caicos Islands tourism industry.” Today, The Sands, The Palms, and The Shore Club collectively stand as a testament to the group’s stellar commitment, and the development of The Sands acting as the driving force to nearly $500,000,000 in Hartling Groups’ current value investment on the island. These properties not only redefine luxury living but also serve as significant employers, providing jobs for over 800 people in TCI.

#SandsationalSands25 Contest Kick-off
As part of the kick-off celebration for The Sands at Grace Bay’s 25th Anniversary, everyone is invited to participate in the #SandsationalSands25 contest! Past and present guests are encouraged to share their fondest memories at this iconic resort in a creative short photo story or video with a 25th-anniversary twist for a chance to win a 3-night getaway package to experience the magic of The Sands once again. Contest details can be viewed online at: https://thesandstc.com/blog/the-sands-announces-25th-anniversary-social-media-contest-sandsationalsands25/.

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Announcements Awards Blog Uncategorized

The Sands at Grace Bay Voted #1 Caribbean Resort in 2024 USA TODAY 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards

The Sands at Grace Bay proudly announces that it has been voted the #1 Caribbean Resort in the esteemed 2024 USA TODAY 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards! This prestigious accolade underscores the unwavering commitment to excellence and unparalleled guest experiences that define The Sands at Grace Bay.

Expressing heartfelt gratitude to the cherished guests, loyal fans, and dedicated team members, Mona Beeson, General Manager of The Sands at Grace Bay, remarked, “Thank you to all of our beloved guests, fans, and friends for voting! We are thrilled to share this celebration with you all and with our team, who work diligently to welcome our guests with stellar service every day – this award is for all you do.”

The Sands at Grace Bay invites both returning and new guests to savor every moment at its award-winning resort, promising an unforgettable experience amid the breathtaking beauty of Turks & Caicos.

To view additional details about this award, please visit https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-caribbean-resort-2024.

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Announcements Awards Blog Uncategorized

The Sands at Grace Bay Voted #1 Caribbean Resort in USA TODAY 10Best Awards

The Sands at Grace Bay is thrilled to announce that it has been voted #1 Caribbean Resort in the USA TODAY 10Best Top Ten Caribbean Resorts Awards as chosen by a panel of Caribbean travel experts and voted by readers as the best in the region.

Commenting on this preeminent award, The Sands’ General Manager Mona Beeson said, “This outstanding accolade naming The Sands as the 2023 Best Caribbean Resort is the direct result of a comprehensive and collective team effort across all areas of our resort. When we heard that we had been nominated we felt honored and now that we have been voted #1 Caribbean resort we are simply overjoyed and enthusiastic to express our gratitude! To add to this fabulous news, Hemingway’s Restaurant situated oceanfront here at The Sands was named Best Restaurant in the Caribbean, garnering the #1 spot on the list of Top Caribbean Restaurants. We look forward to celebrating all the year through and will continue striving for excellence in every aspect of our guests experience. 

Thank you to each and everyone who voted. The overwhelming response from our valued past guests and Sands’ fans is ultra-heartwarming and profusely appreciated. We graciously thank you for your support. It’s the perfect time to come for a visit and be part of the celebration!”

Click to read the USA TODAY 10Best “Best of the Caribbean for 2023” that shares the top winners in all categories. The Sands at Grace Bay is honored to be in such distinguished company.



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Announcements Turks Caicos Information

The Sands at Grace Bay Announces Renovations and Upgrades Seasonal Closure

During what is normally a slow time in the Caribbean islands, Hartling Group announced Monday morning that it will close The Sands at Grace Bay resort on September 1 through October 14 and will utilize this time for some additional renovations and upgrades to theThe Sands at Grace Bay 2020 popular Grace Bay Beach resort.

“Our decision to close was not an easy one, said Karen Whitt, VP of Sales & Marketing for Hartling Group, however Hartling Group operates three resorts in the Turks and Caicos Islands, The Sands at Grace Bay, The Palms and The Shore Club, and this does provide some options. It is noted that The Shore Club will remain open for business as usual, and The Palms will offer an extended “long-term stay,” option for persons wishing to visit for 14 or 30 days with limited services. More details of that promotion will be shared in another release.”

The resort is currently contacting guests with existing reservations at The Sands with options for their stay. Clients can also contact our reservations department at [email protected] or call toll-free 877-777-2637.

The Turks and Caicos Islands re-opened their borders on July 22, and visitors have been enjoying the usual low-density, high level service and amenities that the TCI has become famous for. The top priority of Hartling Group has been the health and well-being of our guests, employees, and the community. We look forward to resuming normal operations and welcoming visitors back to The Sands at Grace Bay on October 15th.

The sands at Grace Bay Hobie CatThe Sands at Grace Bay is situated on the world-renowned 12-mile crescent of powdery white sand known as Grace Bay Beach. The Sands at Grace Bay continue to gain acclaim showcased by the many awards and positive guest reviews that our resort and dedicated employees continue receiving, including “Best Family Resort” in The Caribbean Journal Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2019; Booking.com “Guest Review Award;” and Family Vacation Critic once again named The Sands as a “2019 Family Favorite Hotel.” The resort is proud to carry the acclaim as a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence property for the eighth year. Plus U.S. News & World Report has named The Sands as one of the 2019 “Best Hotels in the Turks and Caicos”– a commendation the resort has received since 2015.

This 114-room resort offers accommodations in junior suites and 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom suites ranging from 1,000 to 1,600 square feet, all of which combine comfort-focused amenities and spectacular natural surroundings. Suites also come with fully equipped kitchens appointed with stainless appliances, dining and living room areas, private balconies, washer/dryers and more. The Sands at Grace Bay is the home of Hemingway’s Restaurant and Bar – a legendary beach-side venue and local favorite. Spa treatments by Spa Tropique are also available by appointment.

For additional information or to book, visit www.thesandstc.flywheelstaging.com – or call toll-free from the U.S. (877) 777-2637 or from Canada (800) 567-5327. Travel agents receive ten percent commissions for bookings made at The Sands at Grace Bay.

 

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Announcements Turks Caicos Information

Sharing Hartling Heartfelt Hospitatlity

The Sands at Grace Bay - Hartling Heartfelt Hospitality

The Sands team members are committed to delivering a memorable welcome with their usual great smiles — but at least for a while, we will stop shaking hands, hugs, and kisses with this in mind the gesture of hands to our hearts is our way of welcoming you with Heartfelt Hartling Hospitality as we work together to keep Turks and Caicos Coronavirus free.

#HartlingHeartfeltHospitality

 

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Announcements Just For Fun

Exclusive Sneak Peak…Multi-Million Dollar Resort and Restaurant Upgrades!

sands-reno-1We are thrilled to share the exciting news that a $4.5 million upgrade and refresh is well underway at the award-winning The Sands at Grace Bay resort and Hemingway’s restaurant!

Guests are sure to enjoy the transformation that will take place throughout the resort’s 114 studio and suite guest rooms. Led by interior designer Rose Kelly of Inter Décor, updates will include new furnishings evoking a casual-modern style and inspired modern-abstract artwork showcasing coastal Caribbean colors, plus custom-made patio furniture by Asmayda Furniture Group of Miami and a new luxury bedding collection designed by Atlantic Hospitality.picture5

Enriching the resort at virtually every turn, the refresh will include new patio furniture, drapes and sheers, sofa sleepers and arm chairs, bar stools, and new lighting in living room, dining room and kitchen areas of all suites and studios. Plus, furniture hand-crafters have been commissioned to update the property’s desks, tables, and dining room furnishings to complete the overall new look of the resort’s accommodations. Once completed, the resort’s studios and suites, will offer an even more luxurious appeal with all the comforts of home.

Hemingway’s restaurant is also cooking-up some tantalizing new treats! Guests can look forward to enjoying their favorite dishes at Hemingway’s and to trying out some inspired new recipes from Chef Alix that will be offered seasonally. Vast enhancements to the restaurant’s facilities and a kitchen expansion to support the ever-increasing popularity of Hemingway’s will have guests enjoying an even greater dining experience at this award-winning culinary destination.

We invite you to be part of the excitement this fall at The Sands situated along the 2016 TripAdvisor Voted World’s Best Beach – Grace Bay Beach.

Book now for fall to stay 3 nights and get the 4th night FREE and get ready to have an even more outstanding vacation with us!

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Things To Do In The Caribbean Turks Caicos Information

Planning a fun day trip to North Caicos from Providenciales

For guests of The Sands at Grace Bay looking to explore the nearby Turks & Caicos Islands for a fun day trip, Caribbean Cruisin’ conveniently offers daily ferry service from Providenciales to North Caicos and South Caicos Islands. The 25-minute ferry ride from Providenciales to North Caicos is offered several times throughout the day, every Monday through Sunday.

Three Mary's Cay, North Caicos
Three Mary’s Cay, North Caicos

Here are some fun things to do and attractions to see in North Caicos:

Things to do in North Caicos:

Snorkelers enjoy the shallow clear waters and various coral heads along the North shore. The beaches along the North shore are gently sloping and the waves are minimal as the shoreline is protected by the barrier reef, about 1 mile from the coast.

North Caicos is home to some of the following attractions:

  • Three Mary’s Cays Sanctuary – a breathtaking beach known for snorkeling and its serenity
  • Whitby Beach – a 7 mile stretch of white sand beach that is famous for its snorkeling
  • Protected nature reserves – home to West Indian Flamingos
  • Eco-Adventure tours – guided kayak, mountain bike and boat tours are a great way to explore this island

Click here for more information on North Caicos: http://tcimall.tc/north-caicos/

Click here for the North Caicos ferry schedule: http://www.tciferry.com/tciferry-turks-and-caicos-ferry-to-north-caicos

 

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Things To Do In The Caribbean Turks Caicos Information

Cool Caribbean Beach Gear For Your Next Turks & Caicos Trip

GoCaribbean.About.com recently featured a “Cool Caribbean Beach Gear For Your Spring Getaway” article highlighting some great beach gear product recommendations that we loved! Here are 3 products featured in the article that our guests may enjoy bringing to use during their stay at The Sands at Grace Bay in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos:

  1. Polk AudioSwimmer Duo – this Bluetooth speaker is perfect for hanging along one of our pool or beach chairs.  It has a dirt, shock and water proof case. You can also use it in your hotel room by attaching it to a mirror with the suction cup that comes included in your purchase. It charges quickly and the battery lasts up to 8 hours.

    Polk Audio
    Polk Audio
  2. Adidas Climacool Voyager  – These quick-drying, lightweight hiking shoes have a drainage system to help keep water out when you’re on wet trails. They would be great for strolls along our Grace Bay Beach as well as handy to take along on boat rides during your Turks & Caicos trip.

    Adidas
    Adidas
  3. Fivesse Beach Backpack – This beach bag is great for enjoying a day along our Grace Bay Beach, for biking around Providenciales or for bringing on a fun day excursion in the Turks & Caicos Islands. It has a water resistant interior, removable water-resistant bags for sunscreen or snacks, an outside towel holder, and plenty of pockets including one pocket for seashells!

    Finesse
    Fivesse

    For more cool Caribbean beach travel gear products and recommendations, visit our resort Pinterest page at:https://www.pinterest.com/thesandstc/caribbean-beach-travel-gear-style-guide/

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Announcements Things To Do In The Caribbean Turks Caicos Information

#SandsSelfie Turks & Caicos Photo Contest Winner Announced!

Thanks to all our guests who participated in our March #SandsSelfie photos – the photos you submitted on our Facebook & Instagram pages were simply outstanding and we loved seeing all your smiling faces! The results of our March #SandsSelfie Turks & Caicos photo contest are finally in –  and we’re excited to announce the winning photo submission that will be awarded a gift certificate for a 3-Night Stay in a luxurious one-bedroom oceanview suite at The Sands:

Here’s the Winning #SandsSelfie photo that was posted onto our Facebook wall by Erin Katsman-Lesynski:

Screen Shot 2016-04-05 at 4.30.52 PM

This photo captures one of the many reasons why families continue to come stay with us at our top-rated Providenciales resort and why we were named a “2015 Family Favorite Hotel” by Family Vacation Critic. Not only are we situated on Provo’s world-famous Grace Bay Beach (recently named #1 beach in the world by TripAdvisor), but we offer a plethora of family friendly free amenities for guests to have even more fun under the sun during their Turks & Caicos trip including watersports equipment, snorkeling gear, bicycles, 3 swimming pools and more – in addition to offering affordable rates for spacious studio and suite accommodations that are complete with all the comforts of home.

Congratulations and thank you for sharing this terrific family photo with us, Erin!

We encourage all our guests to continue to share their #SandsSelfie photos with us through our resort’s Facebook PageInstagram and Pinterest pages. We now have convenient Sands at Grace Bay “Selfie frames” that you can use for even more photo taking fun – and the frames are also a great way to capture your incredible memories during your stay with us.

Still haven’t planned your summer vacation? We’re offering a 4th Night Free special offer for spring and summer travel beginning this May and it’s valid on ALL room categories – so hurry to book your summer stay for LESS! Contact us today or make your reservations online.