Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in the Turks and Caicos Islands due to crime. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport is valid at the date of their entering the country and during the length of their entire visit. No need for blank pages in their passport for any entry stamp. A visa is not required as long as you do not stay in the country more than 89 days.
US Embassy/Consulate
None (overseas territory of the UK); US citizens may call US Dept of State (202)-501-4444 for emergencies; alternate contact is the Embassy in The Bahamas [1] (242) 322-1181, 328-2206 (after hours); US Embassy Nassau, 42 Queen St., Nassau, The Bahamas; acsnassau@state.gov; https://bs.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
649
Local Emergency Phone
999, 911
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the Turks and Caicos Islands: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Tropical; marine; moderated by trade winds; sunny and relatively dry
Currency (Code)
Dollar (USD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
120 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): A, B
Major Languages
English
Major Religions
Protestant 72.8%, Roman Catholic 11.4%, Jehovah's Witness 1.8%
Time Difference
UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Yes
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Crossing Place trail hike; Mudjin Harbour; Pine Cay; Salt Cay; Conch Bar Caves National Park; Grand Turk Lighthouse; Turks & Caicos National Museum
Major Sports
Soccer, sailing
Cultural Practices
Turks and Caicos are home to friendly and welcoming locals, so it's important to show them respect and avoid any behavior that could be considered offensive.
Tipping Guidelines
Check your bill to see if a 10% service charge has been added. If so, you may supplement it by 5% or even more if service was outstanding. If no service charge has been added, then tip as you would in the US, about 15%. Be aware that when a large party dines together, a hefty service fee may be added at the end. Taxi drivers expect about a 10% tip.
Souvenirs
Handmade baskets and plaited straw hats, hand-screened cloth, ocean-themed wood carvings including wooden boats and models, conch shell items, sea glass and other beaded jewelry, wind chimes, rum, ceramics
Traditional Cuisine
Cracked Conch — conch meat pounded with a meat tenderizer, seasoned, coated in a flour batter, and then deep fried
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, October 03, 2023
