The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is making a strong and speedy recovery following the passage of Hurricane Irma earlier this month. With a more eastern track, Hurricane Maria did little to delay the rebuilding, and additional damage was minimal across most of the TCI’s eight inhabited islands.
Providenciales, which is the most developed of the islands and where 90% of the population lives, is leading the charge on a steady path to complete restoration in the coming days, with additional islands in the archipelago chain close behind. Currently, water and power have been restored in Providenciales, North & Middle Caicos and South Caicos and workers are tirelessly addressing those pending on other islands. All roads on these islands have been cleared and as of September 23rd, Providenciales International Airport and Grand Turk International airport were back to full operation and all flights in and out have resumed.
“Hoteliers are on schedule with their repairs and annual off-season maintenance schedules in preparation for re-opening, and have demonstrated their support for the welfare of their workers and the greater community as a whole,” stated Hon. Ralph L. Higgs, Turks and Caicos Islands Minister of Tourism.
Many hotels and resorts are already welcoming guests, including Seven Stars, The Atrium, Caribbean Paradise Inn, Grace Bay Suites, The Sands and Somerset. Additional hotels have set opening dates that run now through the end of the year as follows:
September 28: Windsong / September 30: The Shore Club, The Palms, Regent Grand, Grace Bay Club / October 1: West Bay Club, Villa Del Mar, The Venetian, The Tuscany, Reef Residences / October 5: Gansevoort / October 9: Blue Haven, Beach House, Alexandra / October 12: Ocean Club West / October 16: Coral Gardens / October 20: Amanyara / November 1: Royal West Indies, Meridian Club / November 20: Ocean Club / November 25: Ports of Call / November 30: Club Med / November TBD: Point Grace / December 14: Beaches / December TBD: Sail Rock
Shops and restaurants are also largely open and welcoming local guests and visitors through their doors. Some of the more popular among tourists that are already open include Coco Bistro, Fresh Catch, Mango Reef and Danny Buoys restaurants. IGA Gourmet supermarket, Royal Jewels and all shops at the Regent Village are open.
“Our tourism product will continue to evolve from the experiences we have undergone, affording us the opportunity to be more creative and innovative with the goods and services we offer,” Higgs commented.
Higgs also put out the following communication to past and future visitors, “We are open to serve you. The Turks & Caicos Islands that the world has grown to love is still here for you to come and enjoy–our casual, lux lifestyle, our friendly people, and our warm hospitality are all waiting for you!”