Where To Stay In Turks And Caicos

Turks and Caicos is one of the most beautiful places I have been to and a newer hot spot for tourism. As one of the most expensive islands in the Caribbean, it can be hard to think about planning for your budget. I have a few ways that you can plan to stay in this tropical paradise on a budget. Where to stay can be a huge aspect of traveling and one that I try to cut costs on the most. Check out the ultimate guide on where to stay in Turks and Caicos.

 

Resorts In Turks and Caicos

Resorts are a great way to have an all “inclusive” deal to stay in Turks and Caicos. It’s the easiest way to plan it all together. But, I put all “inclusive” in quotation. Most of the time if you stay at a resort you end up ONLY staying at the resort and not getting to see the rest of the island. The all inclusive part does come into play when you are talking about booking hotels, drink packages, and possibly your flight too.

Resorts are great if you don’t want to have any extra tasks involved in planning your trip just be prepared to pay the price tag. I will say that sometimes the amenities at a resort are worth the money to have everything in one place. Best Resorts To Check: Beaches (kids), Club Med (adults only), Seven Stars, Ocean Club.

Staying in a Resort:

1. Book MONTHS IN ADVANCE!!
2. Spots book up really fast on this island
3. Pick the resort that fits your destination (adults only, kid friendly, etc)
4. Not as accessible to explore the island
5. Amenities
6. Great Restaurants

Airbnb On A Budget

Airbnb is a great option to stay in Turks and Caicos! With an Airbnb you can split the cost of an entire house for half the price of a hotel room. I choose to stay in an Airbnb this trip which also had a pool so there was so missing out there, 5 minute(or less) walk to the beach, and chairs/umbrellas set out for us each day to enjoy the private beach!

We did have to pay for the electricity and water usage at the end of the stay which isn’t uncommon in staying in an Airbnb in the Caribbean. We loved our stay and I will link the house here if you want to check it out.

Staying in an Airbnb: 

 

1. Cost is cheaper
2. Split the payments between guests
3. Driving a Car is best
4. Might have to pay for water/electricity
5. Ask host their recommendations on the island
6. Rentals available (chairs, umbrellas, kayak, snorkel)

Driving In Turks And Caicos

If you choose to stay in an Airbnb I would recommend renting a car and driving instead of taxi’s. They do drive on the left side of the road so if you’re coming from the States just be aware. Taxi’s are extremely expensive! It costs around $16 PER PERSON to go one way in a taxi. This can triple your cost.

There are many rental car companies on the island. We chose Scooter Bob’s because they have amazing reviews, response time is great, and great customer service.

Download your Google Maps on your phone of Turks and Caicos Islands to be able to navigate offline while you are still on Airplane mode. It will allow you to navigate normally with directions telling you where to go the whole time.

Tips for Driving in Turks and Caicos:

1. Drive on the Left
2. Taxi’s are EXPENSIVE
3. Reserve your car ahead of time
4. Download Map of the Area

Island Fees and Taxes

When it comes to calculating your budget for Turks and Caicos make sure to include an extra column for taxes and fees. There is always a 12% tax and usually a 10% service charge at restaurants. This can add up fast! So make sure that you give yourself some extra padding when it comes to meals. Sometimes the tax and charge are already included in the meal price but other times it is at the bottom of a menu to add later.

Tips on Taxes and Fees:

1. 12% Government Tax
2. 10% Service Charge
3. Calculate the extra percentage into your budget

 

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