Turks and Caicos (Somerset) Destination Guide

TURKS AND CAICOS, B.W.I
THINGS TO KNOW
CLIMATE
This destination is the closest it gets to year-round summer, with
temperatures ranging from 85 to 90 degrees from June to October,
and 73 to 84 degrees from November to May. Though tourists
vacation in Turks and Caicos throughout the year, winter is typically
the island's peak season, when visitors escape their hometown
chill to bask in the Caribbean sunshine. A constant trade wind
keeps the temperature pleasant year-round. There are 350 days of
sunshine on average, so go ahead and plan a trip here anytime
that fits your schedule.
WATER
Although the water on the island is safe, desalinized ocean water,
you may prefer the taste of bottled water.
GETTING THERE
You'll fly into Providenciales International Airport (PLS). Many
airlines offer service here, including Air Canada, American Airlines,
Delta, Jet Blue, United/Continental and US Airways. There are daily
direct flights from Miami, Atlanta, New York (JFK), Boston,
Philadelphia and Charlotte. The Somerset resort is about 15
minutes from the airport. There are usually many shared taxis
waiting at the airport to take you to your resort, but your
Destination Concierge can arrange private VIP transportation or
reserve a rental car for you, as well.
SPECIAL NOTE: Due to government regulations, resort
representatives cannot pick up guests from the airport and
transfer them to the resort, nor can they pre-order taxis.
Additionally, at the airport, you may be required show proof of
onward travel by presenting confirmation of your return ticket.
GETTING AROUND
Since you're oceanfront on Grace Bay, you won't need a car to
reach the best beach on the island. However, we recommend a
rental car for exploring further. Your Destination Concierge is happy
to discuss options with you.
QUICK FACTS
ADDRESS
The Somerset on Grace Bay
Princess Drive
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
Islands, BWI
CHECK IN
4 p.m.
CHECK OUT
11 a.m.
CURRENCY
USD
LANGUAGE
English
PASSPORT
Yes
CONVERTER
Outlets are 120V, with standard
U.S. two- and three-prong plugs.
AIRPORT
PLS
THINGS TO KNOW
PARKING
Complimentary parking is available at the resort.
CHECK IN/ARRIVAL PROCESS
You will check in at the Somerset’s front desk, where your Destination Concierge will greet you. From there,
you will be escorted to your residence for a quick tour and orientation. If you plan to arrive late or early,
please let your concierge know as soon as possible so alternative arrangements can be made.
GROCERIES
For just the cost of groceries, your Destination Concierge will be happy to fulfill your grocery order. Simply
complete the order form on your Inspirato.com account at least 72 hours prior to your arrival. Additional
shopping trips are $25 plus the cost of groceries.
IN-RESIDENCE DINING OPTIONS
Private chefs are available to come to your residence and cook a fantastic meal right in your kitchen. There
are a variety of chefs on the island, so your Destination Concierge is happy to discuss options and menus
with you.
STAY FIT
The Somerset resort’s on-site fitness center is stocked with Cybex cardio equipment, weights and a steam
room. For an additional charge, you can join an oceanfront yoga class. Your concierge can arrange private
classes or provide additional fitness options as well.
HOUSEKEEPING
Daily.
TIPPING GUIDELINES
While our Destination Concierge teams and housekeeping staff welcome and appreciate recognition for
exceptional service, tipping is entirely up to you based on your level of satisfaction. If you would like to leave
a gratuity, we suggest the following general guidelines:
+ Destination Concierge: $20-$50 per day depending on the level of service you experienced.
+ Housekeeping: $5-$7 per occupied room per evening is typical for luxury hospitality.
+ Restaurants: The customary 15-20% of your total bill is appropriate, though some restaurants may
automatically add a service charge.
+ Vendors: Gratuity is dependent on the complexity of the experience or service, so we suggest using
your discretion. In general, 5-10% is acceptable.
AMENITIES
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
Complimentary snorkeling gear and beach games
Two freshwater pools - one lap, one infinity-edge
Regulation-size croquet lawn
Bicycles, beach volleyball and other sports gear
Hobie Cat sailboats, kayaks and paddleboards for an additional charge
Fitness center with steam room
In-suite spa services available
On-site restaurant and poolside cafe
The Caicos Kids Club
THINGS TO DO
SPA
The Spa at the Somerset, located in the fitness center, offers a full range of treatments — including massages,
facials and body treatments — inspired by ancient European, Asian and African traditions. Enjoy a pampering
session in one of the spa’s treatment rooms or in the comfort of your own residence. For a more immersive
experience, head next door to the Regent Spa at the Regent Palms. The award-winning, 25,000-square-foot
sanctuary boasts an extensive menu of treatments, which you will enjoy inside a private cabana surrounded
by water and palm trees.
GOLF
The Provo Golf Club (located five minutes away) is a moderately challenging championship course with
pristine island scenery a front nine that includes six waterfront holes and a back nine that includes four holes
on lakes.
BEACHES
Just outside your resort is Grace Bay, the pride of Providenciales for its signature pale sands and aquamarine
seas. Sunbathe, build sandcastles or dive into the warm waters. Just off the 12-mile beach are coral reefs with
fabulous snorkeling and scuba diving. It’s not hard to see why Grace Bay is frequently rated one of the top 10
beaches in the world.
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHT
The vibrant blue waters of the Caribbean beckon to sailors of all levels to ride its gentle waves and trade
winds. The Somerset resort offers Hobie Cats (additional charges may apply), which are perfect for novice
sailors looking to get their feet wet and feel the thrill. For a more full-service experience, try chartering a boat
and captain to sail you around for a day. Your Destination Concierge can make all the arrangements for you.
FAMILY
Kids need a vacation too. The on-site Caicos Kids Club lets travelers ages 5-12 learn about the island and join
fun activities like beach games, craft-making, movies and more, all led by a certified teacher. Please note that
children under 5 may join but they must accompanied by a guardian, and additional charges may apply. It’s
best to check availability with your Destination Concierge ahead of time, as the club does not have a set
schedule. Reservations must be made through your Destination Concierge at least 24 hours in advance.
MUST-DO
One of Turks and Caicos’ most famous exports is the conch, an increasingly popular ingredient for the world’s
top chefs and an island icon. A tour with Concha Woncha teaches you about the ubiquitous shelled mollusk
with stops at one of the world’s only conch harvesting facilities, a cultural presentation and a stunning national
park before concluding at Da Conch Shack, a world-famous beach bar known for its numerous conch
preparations.
ROMANTIC
Even though you’re already in paradise, sometimes you need to get even further away from it all. A guided
kayaking trip lets you escape into beautiful mangroves in a nature reserve. Alternatively, let your concierge
set up a full- or half-day charter on the Beluga, a gorgeous 40-foot catamaran. Wherever you go, the
seclusion means you can focus on nothing but each other and the waves.
ADVENTURE
Turks and Caicos’ stunning blue waters are ideal for relaxing, but they might be even better for a thrill. A wide
range of exciting activities are available to you, including parasailing, water skiing, kiteboarding and more.
Whichever you choose, your concierge will take care all the details.
THINGS TO DO
NATURE
With the world's third-largest reef system and undersea visibility that extends impossibly far, it would be a
mistake not to explore the ocean by scuba tank or snorkel. Strap on your fins and discover amazing
snorkeling right from the beach. Our highlights:
+ Coral Gardens. A protected reef rests just beyond the shoreline where you'll see brightly colored reef
fish, turtle grass beds and sometimes small sharks and rays.
+ Smith's Reef. Look for eagle rays, parrot fish, striking hard and soft coral, trumpet fish, anemones, green
morays and the elusive Queen Angelfish.
LOCAL
Every Thursday evening at Bight Children’s Park, the Island Fish Fry unites a bevy of local restaurants and
bands for a lively beach party. Sample as much freshly cooked fish, lobster, crab and conch as you like,
then peruse the island chefs’ other, lesser-known cuisine to discover something different. Throughout the
night, live music and cultural performances keep visitors dancing as waves gently crash in the distance.
Local artisans sometimes sell their creations during the Fish Fry, as well.
OTHER THINGS TO DO
+
+
+
+
Fishing
Windsurfing
Water skiing
Pilates and yoga
+
+
+
+
Paddleboarding
Cave exploring
Iguana Island
Visit Grand Turk
+
+
+
+
History and culture tours
Shopping
Biking
Whale watching (Feb.-April)
+ Horseback riding
+ Casablanca Casino
+ Beach volleyball
RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS
FAMILY
Bay Bistro at Sibonné Beach Hotel (located next door) – Bay Bistro is a fantastic spot to kick off your vacation
because it gives you a great introduction to Caribbean cuisine and scenery. The casual beachfront eatery
serves classic Caribbean dishes (think jerk chicken, lobster and tons of conch) and boasts sweeping water
views.
ROMANTIC
Coco Bistro (located five minutes away) – This island favorite’s vibrant red-orange exterior stands in sharp
contrast to the beautiful swaying palm trees that surround it. That island vibe extends to the back patio, where
twinkling lights bolster the natural atmosphere. Once you’ve found your spot, dine on plates of elegant
Caribbean fare made all the better with organic herbs and ingredients from the restaurant’s own garden.
RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS
FINE DINING
Seven (located two minutes away) – Enjoy a classic fine-dining experience at this resort restaurant. The
menu commemorates Turks and Caicos’ history as an international trading hub, while also emphasizing
local ingredients and techniques. Translation: classic steakhouse cuisine and Caribbean favorites, such as
lobster with papaya and veal osso bucco with saffron risotto.
LOCAL
Kalooki's Beach Restaurant and Bar (located 15 minutes away) – If you want a quintessential beach bar
experience, this is the place to go. Located in the Blue Hills community (away from the biggest crowds), this
casual open-air eatery is encircled by trees and overlooks the ocean. Bites of classic Caribbean dishes,
many of which incorporate fresh tropical fruits, are perfectly suited to the vibe.
PVA’s TIP: Turks & Caicos caters to the palates of high-end travelers, offering many world cuisines. You can
enjoy traditional Moroccan pastille, Italian carpaccio di manzo, authentic Japanese sushi and more.
FESTIVALS AND ACTIVITIES
+
+
+
+
+
+
Kite Flying Competition – April
Sailing Regattas – May
Jadot Cup (golf tournament) – June
Turks and Caicos Music and Cultural Festival – July
Turks and Caicos Conch Festival – November
Maskanoo (cultural festival) – December
Information presented in this Inspirato destination guide is current as of January 26, 2015. While it is believed to
be accurate, Inspirato LLC (and its officers, employees and affiliated entities, collectively “Inspirato”) makes no
representations or warranties as to the accuracy or completeness of the content presented herein. The contents
of this destination guide may change at any time and without notice. This destination guide is presented for
informational purposes only for Inspirato members and guests. Inclusion in this destination guide is not to be
considered an endorsement or recommendation by Inspirato for any of the mentioned third-party products,
services, activities or vendors. Participation in any of the mentioned third-party products, services or activities
may require a separate agreement with a third party and members and guests are encouraged to review any
such agreements carefully. Inspirato assumes no liability or responsibility for any injury, damage or loss that
members and guests may incur with any third parties, and members and guests utilizing any information in this
destination guide waive any claims against Inspirato. Inspirato is a registered trademark of Inspirato LLC.