The name “Turks & Caicos” is derived from the scarlet dome of the barrel shaped native cactus, which reminded early European travelers of a Turkish Fez and the Spanish word “cayos” which translates as “small islands”. There are 49 small cays and islands, of which only nine are inhabited, with an estimated population of 20,000. The most popular cuisine is the conch (pronounced “conk”), which is a large shellfish commonly found in these waters.
The Turks & Caicos Islands are fortunate enough to be endowed with crystal clear turquoise waters and powder white sand beaches, making it a destination for beach and water sports enthusiasts. More than 2,590 square kilometers of coral reef encircle the islands as the pristine waters and prevailing warm climate combine to ensure a rich and diverse range of marine life. This untouched environmental setting has the islands, and their waters, lauded as one of the world’s finest locations for underwater adventures.
