Turks and Caicos travel tips: what to know before you go

Things to know

1. Greet people with 'good morning' or 'good afternoon' before asking a question.
2. Beachwear belongs on the beach; cover up in shops, restaurants and towns.
3. Do not touch, stand on or take coral, shells or live conch; protected areas cover much of the reef.
4. Sundays are quiet and many local businesses close; plan supermarket trips accordingly.
5. Drive on the left and give way at roundabouts, which are common on Provo.
6. Visit between April and June for lower rates than the winter peak, while avoiding the stormiest months.

Tipping

Many restaurants include a 10–15% service charge; add more only for excellent service. Tip boat crews, guides and taxi drivers around 10–20%.

Language

English is spoken.

What to wear

Light, casual clothing and reef-safe sun protection are all you need, plus a light layer for air-conditioned restaurants. Some fine-dining restaurants expect smart-casual evening dress.

Practical details

Plugs and voltage

Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz

Drinking water

Many visitors drink bottled or filtered water; check with your hotel about the tap water where you are staying.

Emergency number

911 or 999

Phone and internet

Wi-Fi is standard in hotels; local SIMs and eSIMs provide good coverage on Provo, with weaker signal on the outer islands.

Time zone

America/Grand Turk

Petty theft from rental cars, villas and unattended beach bags is the most common problem, so lock doors and keep valuables out of sight. Use reef-safe sunscreen and shade, watch for boat traffic when snorkelling and check currents before swimming at remote beaches.

Plan the trip

Turks and Caicos travel guide · When to go · Costs.

Questions travellers ask