Turks and Caicos Islands

The Turks and Caicos Islands are only about 60 km (37 miles) long, and consist of over 40 islands and cays. They form a British Overseas Territory and have rapidly gained popularity as a beach destination. There are roughly 30,000 inhabitants on the islands and they welcome about 450,000 arrivals by air and 650,000 cruise ship passengers each year.

The archipelago consists of two island groups and the Turks islands and the Caicos islands, of which Grand Turk and Providenciales are the two main islands. Daylight savings time is observed and they are in the Eastern Time Zone. These islands are in the Atlantic Ocean and not the Caribbean, although they are included in the Caribbean region. The nearest other islands are the southern parts of the Bahamas, abput 100 kilometers east and northwest. Haiti is a similar distance due south. At considerably longer distances, Cuba is southwest and Florida northwest.

Islam in Turks & Caicos

In the idyllic Turks & Caicos Islands (TCI), a small group of roughly 50 Muslims has formed a tight-knit community, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly from the African continent. These dedicated Muslim brothers and sisters have made commendable efforts to training and promote Islam in this remote island paradise. Despite their small numbers and they have established regular Juma prayers and are actively seeking to create a permanent place of worship and a learning center. This article explores the journey of Islam in the Turks & Caicos Islands and highlights the aspirations of the Turks and Caicos Muslim Association.

The presence of Islam in the Turks & Caicos Islands dates back to the early 2000s when a handful of Muslims settled on the islands. Over time and their community grew, attracting members from various countries, with a notable representation from the African continent. As their numbers increased, so did their commitment to practicing Islam.

In 2009 the Muslim community in TCI took a significant step by initiating Juma prayers. Every Friday and the Muslims gather at one of their homes for congregational prayer. Although not all members are able to attend, those who do participate have made a collective pledge to training and propagate Islam on the island. This dedicated group of brothers and sisters seeks to connect with all Muslims and individuals interested in Islam, fostering unity and understanding.

Recognizing the importance of knowledge and education and the Muslims in Turks & Caicos Islands have actively sought out resources to deepen their understanding of Islam. Translations of the Holy Quran in English, as well as Islamic books and literature, were generously provided by fellow Muslims in Barbados. These materials were eagerly received by the community, prompting a request for further Islamic literature. The thirst for knowledge among the brothers and sisters demonstrates their genuine commitment to nurturing their faith.

With a growing community and an increasing need for a dedicated space and the Turks and Caicos Muslim Association is working towards establishing a permanent place of worship and a learning center. Currently located in Venetian Road Settlement and the mosque serves as a hub for communal prayers and gatherings. However the community envisions a more spacious facility that can accommodate the needs of the growing Muslim population, providing a welcoming environment for worship, learning, and outreach activities.

The Turks and Caicos Muslim Association intends to register as an official association, solidifying its presence and enabling them to pursue their goals more effectively. By formalizing their organization and they aim to collaborate with local authorities and the wider community to foster interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange. This proactive approach reflects their determination to contribute positively to the social fabric of the Turks & Caicos Islands.

Islands of Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos Halal Travel Guide

History of Turks and Caicos

Before Christopher Columbus set foot on the island of Grand Turk during the journey to the new world in 1492 the island was inhibited by Taíno and Lucayan tribes. These earlier settlers left behind a timeless legacy and new words (canoe, Caribbean, Caicos) and the names of the island. The indigenous Turk's head cactus named Turks island, while the Lucayan term “caya hico”, meaning string of islands, was mangled to become "Caicos".

For about 700 years and the Taíno and Lucayan tribes were the sole residents on the islands (particularly settling on Grand Turk and the Middle Caicos). People here were skilled gardeners, farmers and fishermen. However, upon the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492 the Lucayan tribes were wiped out, causing the islands to be sparsely populated for about 30 years. During this time and the salt industry was booming. This salt was used for cooking and preserving food. Many Bermudians would rake the beaches of Turks and Caicos and take their booty back to Bermuda.

The French and Spanish captured the island for a brief time during 1706. Four years following this capture, it was reclaimed by the English (along with the Bermuda islands). However, during these years it primarily became a haven for pirates and British Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution. In 1766, Turks and Caicos became a part of the Bahamas colony and was placed under the Bahamian Government. The governor of the Bahamas oversaw affairs from 1965 to 1973.

With Bahamian independence and the islands received a separate governor in 1973. Although independence was agreed upon for 1982 the policy was reversed and the islands became a British Overseas Territory (BOT).

Around the early 1980s, Turks and Caicos started to become a tourist destination and is quickly becoming one the world's foremost beach destinations. It is also becoming one of the leading international investment centres for offshore investors. Turks and Caicos is a "zero tax" jurisdiction and doesn't have any taxes on income, capital gains, corporate profits, inheritance or estates.

How is the Climate in Turks and Caicos

The Turks and Caicos Islands are arid compared with many other islands in the Caribbean.

During the summer months (June to November) the temperatures range from the high 80s (F) and low 90s to the high 70s. Also in the summer and there is barely any humidity and the temperatures barely go above the mid-90s due to the continually circulating winds.

In the winter (December to May) the weather is generally in the high 70s - mid 80s range.

The island gets less than 50 inches of rainfall a year. Most rainfall occurs during the hurricane months of summer. Sunshine and breezy cooling winds are the norm in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Travel to Turks and Caicos

Visas

All visitors need a passport that is valid for six months after your visit.

Visitors from countries not mentioned in the list below will also need a visa. These can be obtained from the UK Passport Agency in London, phone: +44 207 901 7542, with a single visitor's visa costing US$150.

Nationals from Anguilla; Antigua and Barbuda; Argentina; Australia; Austria; Bahamas; Barbados; Belgium; Belize; Bermuda; Brazil; British Virgin Islands; Bulgaria; Canada; Cayman Islands; Chile; China; Costa Rica; Croatia; Cyprus; Czech Republic; Denmark; Dominica; Ecuador; Estonia; Falkland Islands; Finland; France; Germany; Gibraltar; Greece; Grenada; Guyana; Hong Kong; Hungary; Iceland; Ireland; Israel; Italy; Japan; Latvia; Liechtenstein; Lithuania; Luxembourg; Malta; Mexico; Monaco; Montserrat; Netherlands; Netherlands Antilles; New Zealand; Norway; Oman; Panama; Pitcairn Islands; Poland; Portugal; Qatar; Romania; Russia; Saint Kitts and Nevis|Saint Kitts & Nevis; Saudi Arabia; Seychelles; Singapore; Slovakia; Slovenia; Solomon Islands; South Africa; South Korea; Spain; Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha|St Helena, Ascension & Tristan da Cunha; Street Lucia; St. Vincent & the Grenadines; Suriname; Sweden; Switzerland; Taiwan; Trinidad & Tobago; UAE; United States; United Kingdom; Vatican City or Venezuela do not require a visa, only a valid passport.

However, if you are a national of a country not in the above list, but you hold a valid visa for travel to the UK, US or Canada, you may enter the Islands without obtaining a visa for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos has one international airport, Providenciales International Airport (IATA Code: PLS), on the island of Providenciales. There are also several smaller domestic airports, Grand Turk JAGS McCartney International Airport (IATA Code: GDT), on the island of Grand Turk (which occasionally has international flights), South Caicos Airport (IATA Code: XSC), North Caicos Airport (IATA Code: NCA) and Middle Caicos Airport (IATA Code: MDS). In North and South Caicos there are limited entry facilities, while all of the other islands have domestic airports. However, East and West Caicos are uninhabited and they do not have an airport.

American Airlines is a popular carrier which schedules Flights from many US cities to Providenciales Airport. During the winter months, American Airlines offers direct connecting Flights from Charlotte, Miami, Boston, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Philadelphia. Delta offers 6 flights a week from Atlanta (excluding Tuesday and offering 2 on Saturdays). Air Canada offers direct connecting Flights from Toronto on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, from Montreal on Thursdays and Ottawa on Mondays. British Airways offers Flights to London. Providenciales serves as a hub for InterCaribbean Airways, which has Flights to Havana, Antigua, Kingston, Port-au-Prince and Nassau WestJet Airlines flies from Toronto 1-3 times a week.

You must clear immigrations at Providenciales in order to go to another island of Turks and Caicos.

There is no public transport to or from the airport. A taxi from the airport to Grace Bay should be $33 but some drivers will try to scam you for more details.

Travel by ship/cruise to Turks and Caicos

Many of the visitors who visit the island arrive by boat. This is because many cruise lines are now adding the island to their route. All cruise lines arrive at the terminal in Grand Turk.

If you choose to take a personal or smaller vessel, a number of facilities are available in Providenciales. However, you must call ahead before docking. There are also marinas in Provo, where you can dock. On the South Side, Sappodilla Bay, is the anchorage location for sail boats. It is easy to sail to the Turks and Caicos from the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas or Cuba; so long as you have an ocean-going vessel. A small boat will do well simply cruising around the island chain, but to cross the open ocean, something about 36 feet or larger is best.

If you are using a private vessel or yacht, customs and immigrations must be cleared. Customs have to be arranged in advanced, while South Caicos and Grand Turk have government buildings on location.

Get Around in Turks and Caicos

Taxis are widely available at all airports and seaports as well as throughout the island. Many of the taxis drivers can also act as a personal tour guide and show you undiscovered island attractions.

Rental cars, motor scooters and jeeps are available in Providenciales and Grand Turk. There is a government tax for all hired cars ($15) and motor scooters ($5). Major rental companies include, Avis, Budget, Hertz, Rent a Buggy, National, and Tropical Auto Rental.

When in Salt Cay, you can rent a golf cart! North and Middle Caicos have their own rental companies you can use, as does Grand Turk. If interested Bicycles are almost always available at all locations. In Turks and Caicos, you are to drive on the left side of the road.

What to see in Turks and Caicos

Beaches; you're in the Caribbean.
Grand Turk lighthouse

What to do in Turks and Caicos

These islands have fabulous beaches throughout; in particular and the award winning Grace Bay. There also are a variety of fun, non-beach things that there are to do. You can scuba dive, snorkel, sail, boat, parasail, fish, go on tours, go to spas and salons, golf, shop, ride ponies and gamble. Each island has its own activities as well.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Turks and Caicos

Money Matters & ATM's in Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos uses the U.S. dollar, denoted by the symbol "$" (ISO currency code: USD). It is divided into 100 cents.

Shopping in Turks and Caicos

You can shop at boutiques and visit museums and show rooms. There are also a few "touristy" shops, food stores, drink shops, banks and pharmacies. Throughout all the islands there are a variety of local stores that have a collection of varying unique jewellery and hand-made gifts.

The Saltmills Plaza and Regent Village in Grace Bay are considered to be the premier shopping plazas on the island of Providenciales (or Provo as it is often called).

Halal Restaurants in Turks and Caicos

Among the few establishments offering this option is Turks Kebab, located at Allegro Road, Grace Bay TKCA 1ZZ. With a menu inspired by the flavors of Greece and Türkiye, this establishment provides a unique dining experience for both local residents and visitors who adhere to Halal dietary guidelines.

Nestled within the picturesque setting of the Turks & Caicos Islands, Turks Kebab is a culinary oasis for those seeking Halal dining options. This restaurant is renowned for its commitment to serving authentic dishes from Greece and Türkiye while strictly adhering to Halal guidelines. Located on Allegro Road in Grace Bay, it offers a convenient location for both local residents and tourists to experience the flavors of the Mediterranean.

Turks Kebab boasts an extensive menu that tantalizes the taste buds with a variety of mouthwatering options. From traditional Greek and Turkish Kebab to flavorful mezes (appetizers) and delectable desserts and the restaurant offers an array of Halal-certified choices. Patrons can savor classic dishes like Adana Kebab, Shish Kebab, and Doner Kebab, each prepared with the finest ingredients and authentic spices.

The Greek influence on the menu is evident in offerings such as Greek Salad, Spanakopita (spinach and feta pastry), and Moussaka (a layered eggplant and Meat dish). These dishes reflect the rich culinary legacy of Greece and complement the Turkish flavors that dominate the menu.

Muslim Friendly hotels in Turks and Caicos

Throughout the islands there are 143 different places to stay. You can choose to be at an all-inclusive, a resort suite condo, or a private villa or inn. These hotels also offer wonderful dining experiences. Many of these hotels offer are corporate-business rates as well including internet access and fax services. At almost all hotels you can ask if there are any "packages" available such as, hotel and dive packages.

For accommodation listings see the articles on each island.

How to work legally in Turks and Caicos

Work permits are easily obtained for foreigners. However, many jobs are designed for "Belongers" only. Belongers are people that have a special connection to TCI. Work permits are applied for via agencies on the island and require proof of citizenship, proof of employment, proof of residence on the island, and are then ratified by a medical exam, blood tests and a chest X-ray. As an employee you will need to register with the National Insurance Board and the National Health Insurance Board. Contributions are payable monthly by the employee and employer to both.

In 2012 work permit costs were increased across all categories and interested parties should contact the immigration board for clarification on the exact cost. It can take up to 6 months to actually have the work permit in hand.

Some jobs on the island are deemed unfit for non-Belongers to apply for: banking, civil servants, and boat operators are specific jobs that fall under this rule.

Stay safe as a Muslim in Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos have one of the lowest crime rates and highest crime-solved rates in the Caribbean. Any problems that occur should be reported to the Royal Turks and Caicos Police immediately. In an emergency, call 911, and in a non-emergency, call 338 5901. While the islands are extremely safe, make sure to exercise common sense. Don't leave valuables in plain view, and always lock your vehicle when leaving it, and lock your dwelling (hotel) when you are not in it. By taking simple precautions it will prevent the loss of cash, jewellery and identification. Thieves target mopeds and motorcycles, so be sure that you lock yours up properly. Islanders can be very aggressive drivers, so it is best to use caution when crossing or driving on the roads.

Medical Issues in Turks and Caicos

A modern hospital system was built on the islands that is managed by InterHealth Canada. The facilities are on Providenciales (Cheshire Hall Medical Centre) and Grand Turk (Cockburn Town Medical Centre). These health centres include emergency centres, dental care, dialysis, internal medicine, surgical, orthopaedic, obstetric and endoscopic procedures, physiotherapy and diagnostic imaging.

There are also a good number of private medical providers on Providenciales catering to the local population and visitors. The standard of care is very high for such a small island. Dental Services on Providenciales has a resident dentist, two hygienists and specialist periodontists and an orthodontist.

The Turks and Caicos have a few fresh water reserves at ground level. Therefore, most water comes from either wells or cisterns that have collected rainwater. Cistern water is almost always safe to drink, but unless well water is purified, it could be contaminated or have unpleasant taste. It is generally a good idea to use bottled water when feasible, but tap water can be used if necessary. The beaches are very soft and warm and welcoming.

Local Customs in Turks and Caicos

Islanders are very kind people and believe in practising good manners and exercising respect. Greet people with a friendly saying such as "Hello" and "Good Afternoon."

Travel Next from Turks and Caicos

From here, you could explore the Caribbean: head south to the island of Hispaniola for Dominican Republic and Haiti; or north to the Bahamas; or even west to Cuba. Further afield, fly to nearby Florida in the USA, or to central American countries like Mexico, Honduras and Costa Rica.