It’s so nice to meet other bloggers from other places and do some awesome collaborations. When I decided to start my Eat, Shop, Do series I thought what better way than to collaborate with some of my blogger friends and in the process learn more about them, where they live, and share with all of you their go-to’s in their city. For the next post in this series were headed to the tropical destination of Turks and Caicos!
Stephanie and I have been friends since college, thanks to the greek system, we met during pledge week! While we didn’t end up pledging the same sorority, we were able to stay friends 🙂 Over the years since college we lost touch but more recently reconnected, and I’m soooo happy we did! Meet Stephanie of SUIJURIIS: My name is Stephanie and I’m from Santa Monica, CA. My biggest passion is travel and I’m constantly planning a new adventure. Turks and Caicos is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been lucky to have traveled to, and I can’t wait to share my favorite things to Eat, Shop and Do while there. The island I visited is the most popular one tourists visit, Providenciales.
EAT
Dining abroad is serious task that one must carefully research while planning a trip! Restaurants, in my opinion, end up becoming a huge part of your memories and certain experiences are truly unforgettable.
1. Mango Reef at the Alexandra Resort: If you only do one nice dinner the entire time in Turks and Caicos, I highly recommend choosing this one. Ask for a table right on the sand, and request this at least 30-40 minutes before sunset to ensure you have enough time to be seated and settled as the sun starts to set! Having a conversation over dinner while your toes have a conversation with the silky sand in front of the clear blue ocean is so peaceful. Their cocktails, service and cuisine were perfection & I can’t wait to go back!
2. Las Brisas Restaurant (Chalk Sound): The surreal location of this restaurant is the major appeal here. It’s a beautiful setting overlooking clear blue water and since it’s a bit farther from the resort town, it feels exceptionally private. The food is delicious and there is also a lively pool area with a cocktail lounge!
3. Flamingo Cafe (Grace Bay Beach): This is place where you’ll find lots of traditional Caribbean “fresh catch” dishes, which is the whole point of travel, right? Be sure to try the local cuisine! The atmosphere is fun and lively, especially around sunset. It’s right on the beach and has a nice rustic-chic vibe to it.
SHOP
1. Saltmills Plaza: Where you’ll find some of the cute clothing boutiques, souvenir stores, places to have brunch, hair salons and almost anything you’d need if you’re in need of a little pampering.
2. Anna’s Art Gallery is located in the ‘Saltmills’ Center. I particular loved this gallery because of the gorgeous locally made jewelry.
3. 3. Ports of Call: This is a convenient and brightly decorated shopping center that has boutiques selling swimwear, surf gear, gelato and other odds and ends. It’s right near the beach, therefore many people come here for a quick drink, or some ice cream to cool down from the heat of the sand.
DO
1. Grace Bay Beach: This is the biggest, and most famous beach on Providenciales. The beach is the main reason most people should be coming to Turks and Caicos. It’s unbelievable clean, clear warm blue water felt like a dream. Spend at least one day walking along the shore from the Gansevoort Hotel to the Seven Stars Hotel and enjoy the people-watching and stop at a lounge or two for some refreshing drinks and soon enough you’ll find yourself a nice spot to watch the sunset!
2. Kayaking at Chalk Sound: Chalk Sound National Park is a very shallow lagoon with white sand at the bottom creating a glowing, illuminated effect that is just jaw-dropping. The water is SO turquoise it was unbelievable. Most people take a kayak for the day and bring items for a picnic and stop at one of the private islands to enjoy themselves. Walk-in reservations are hard to come by, so book in advance!
3. Sapodilla Bay Beach: This lovely small beach is endearingly nick-named “baby beach” due to its tiny, gentle waves which is ideal for small children. It is just as beautiful as Grace Bay Beach, but away from the large crowds and beach parties. It’s a wonderful excursion and right near Chalk Sound, so this is a perfect way to see both places in one day.
I hope you find these tips helpful while planning your magical trip to Turks & Caicos!
