Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

I was lucky enough to spend this Thanksgiving at The Regent Palms, a Regent hotel set along beautiful Grace Bay Beach in Turks and Caicos. This hotel is unique in that many of the units are privately owned. However, all guests (owners included) are able to experience the resort's numerous on-site amenities. The service was wonderful and I was pleasantly surprised that the resort was not overcrowded. This image depicts the view from our penthouse suite at the hotel. What a sight to greet every morning!

I must admit that of all the island destinations that I have visited over my lifetime, I have never seen water this brilliant a shade of turquoise. It is ideal for snorkeling, diving and fishing and serves as a picturesque setting for any island activity. It is hard to believe that this spot is reachable via a 3.5 hour flight from Newark, New Jersey. This direct flight was instigated recently in the hopes that it would increase tourism and improve the economy of this island paradise. 

The Palms is home to one of the world's best spas, according to luxury travel magazine Travel and Leisure. The facility is small but is very tranquil and beautiful. Behind the lounge chairs pictured above is a yoga studio that opens up to the shallow pool. Talk about an ideal location for deep breathing and relaxation! While visiting I treated myself to a deep tissue massage. Although the treatment was enjoyable, it was not the best that I have ever received. I was, however, impressed by the unique treatment rooms. Each opens up to the beautiful outdoors, conveying feelings of peace from the moment one enters.

Now to the best part of the trip: the food. I was shocked that an island covering a small area of 38 miles could house so many amazing restaurants. I had difficulty fitting in all of the places that I wanted to visit and I already have a restaurant list in place for my next trip to the island. Note: If visiting around November make an effort to order the lobster. It is in season during this time and is definitely some of the best that I have ever tasted. Here is a list of some spots that are worth visiting while on Providenciales...

1. Lunch at Somewhere, a casual restaurant with a mexican flare and great service. It is located along Grace Bay Beach and is about a 20 minute walk from The Regent Palms. 

2. Lunch at Da Conch Shack, voted one of the top caribbean beach bars by Travel and Leisure. It is a little bit of a hole in the wall but is a lot of fun and really sets the tone for a caribbean vacation.

3. Dinner at Mango Reef, a five minute walk from The Palms. The mango cheesecake is to die for.

4. Dinner at Coco Bistro, a short drive from the resort. This restaurant is regarded by locals as being the best on the island. The restaurant is set in an outdoor courtyard and is decorated by hanging lights. The seafood curry exceeded all expectations. 

5. Dinner at Anacaona is a must. This restaurant is located at the Grace Bay Club and would serve as the perfect location for a special occasion. From the food to the service, the entire night was perfection. Tip: Stop at the hotel's infinite bar before dining. It is truly one of a kind.

One of the most attractive features of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos is the wide variety of resorts on the island. Among the top hotels are The Regent Palms and the Grace Bay Club. The Somerset, located adjacent to The Palms, is another beautiful option. With the large number of resorts on the island there is sure to be lodging for individuals of any budget. Sunshine, warmth, delicious restaurants and luxury accommodation... What are you waiting for?