The Turks and Caicos Islands are a group of around forty keys and islands found over five hundred miles off the coast of Florida, America. The islands get their name from the original inhabitants, the tribes of Lucayan and Taino. Turks is the name of an indigenous species of cactus and ‘Caicos’ was derived from a Lucayan phrase ‘caya hico’ meaning ‘group of islands. The islands are popular among adventurous tourists looking to try out different exciting water sports.
The list of water sports available here is long and the hardest part will be deciding where to start. One activity that can especially fun for families and groups of friends is taking a ride on a banana boat. A banana boat is a long tubular structure, shaped like the fruit that it is named after, and generally painted a bright yellow. It usually seats between four to eight people. The banana boat itself has no means of propulsion and is dragged around by a motor boat. The ride can be calm and restful or, if the ocean is a little rough, very exciting. One can also tell the operator how fast to go, thus controlling the excitement.
Snorkelling and scuba diving are other must do activities here. The waters are especially clear and are filled with all kinds of exotic and colourful marine life. Tourists can also try kayaking, kiteboarding, and paddleboarding.
Although it is an overseas territory of the UK, the currency used here is the American dollar. There are plenty of shops on the island where one can buy a variety of things, including souvenirs. Despite there being a limited number of restaurants, with most of them being located in Providenciales, one can always find a good place to grab a bite to eat. Accommodation is also quite easy to find and there are plenty of options.
Tourists who want to stay at luxury resorts in the Caribbean can try the Parrot Cay Turks & Caicos. Considered one of the finest Turks and Caicos luxury resorts around, the hotel is situated on a vast private beach and offers guests an atmosphere of peaceful tranquillity.