How to Enjoy a Trip to Grand Turk Island

Grand Turk is the capital of Turks and Caicos Islands located 90 miles north of Hispanola (the island shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti). Contrary to what its name implies, the island only measures 7 miles long. If you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation but do not want to brave the crowded sand in the more popular spots, follow the directions below.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Passport, plane ticket to Grand Turk, a hotel room

1. Book a room with a view of the beach. The island has retained its British colonial flavor with wild donkeys and horses running in public fields and bright-colored antique buildings--some of which have been turned into hotels and are conveniently located steps away from the shore.
2. You can certainly dive and snorkel in the beautiful Caribbean sea. But while on terra firma, take a walk around town to meet the locals. An ethnically diverse group populates the island. Haitians, Grand Turk aborigines and some United Kingdom natives gives this island a worldly flavor.
3. Visit the architectural highlights. The Methodist Church boasts quaint architecture with exposed wooden beams running along the roof and white fans to keep the parishioners cool during prayer. The Simmons House is reminiscent of New Orleans French Quarter architecture. The Coverly Residence is a small, sinister yet intriguing residence on Front Street dating back to the 1830s that is reputed to be haunted.
4. Try the conch fritters. These spicy balls are made with fresh conch dusted with flour and deep-fried until golden. After your meal, find one of the local stores and get some quenepes (quenepa to Hispano-Caribbeans)--a native fruit of the land.
5. Collect jewelry. Electric blue and jade sun-kissed glass pieces make an excellent yet inexpensive souvenir. And, if you have any creative inclination, buy some wire from your local craft store and you can make some jewelry while watching the tides from your seaside hotel room.