Accommodations

Accommodations in the Turks and Caicos are not inexpensive, and though there's a wide range of price options, your accommodations will most likely be your greatest expense. If you've prepared for this, you’ll find this to be one of the most fabulous vacations you've ever taken. Most resort-style lodgings are made up of individually owned condos placed in the hotel's rental pool when the owners are not in residence. Alternatively, there are a few hotels without all the bells and whistles and no kitchens. There are also two all-inclusive resorts on Provo: the family-oriented Beaches and the adults-only Club Med. The outer islands have more basic accommodations, albeit with a lot more island flair. Providenciales also has an incredible array of private villas to choose from. This is an excellent option for a family, as they offer privacy, added room, and usually work out on the less expensive end. Take a look at VRBO and Home Away to see the selection .

If your accommodations don't include baby equipment or you need additional baby items, contact Happy Na and have it delivered.

Happy Na Baby Equipment Rentals. Little ones can be quite the needy little family members when it comes to travel, so it's always nice to know that some things can be left behind, as there's Happy Na on Provo. They can provide strollers, cribs, playpens, bedding, and more for the day or (at a discount) for longer. Their office is on Industrial Drive, but they deliver to any property where you might be staying. Ask your property manager for assistance; most are happy to make the arrangements for you, and it's nice to simply have what you need upon your arrival. Industrial Dr., Providenciales. 649/941–5326; 649/241–2760.

Apartment and House Rentals

Villa and condo rentals are quite common in the Turks and Caicos; in fact, they make up the majority of accommodations. On Provo, many of the villas are ultra-luxurious getaways and have prices to match. On the smaller islands, villas are basic and comfortable and tend to be more economical alternatives. Private apartment rentals can save you money but tend to be more residential, with fewer services. On any of the islands they are easy to book, and management companies will send a representative to meet you at the airport as well as assist you as a concierge might.

Contacts

Home Away. With more than 500 listings for the Turks and Caicos Islands, this is an excellent site to browse available properties, including independently rented villas. www.homeaway.com.

Turks and Caicos Reservations. Based on the island, they keep an inventory of villas and resorts, and are in constant contact with general managers and property managements. They go the extra mile, acting as your concierge, helping to find you a property if you're in a travel bind, and arranging package deals. 649/941–8988; 877/774–5486; www.turksandcaicosreservations.tc.

Vacation Rentals by Owner. More widely known as simply VRBO, this company has the largest array of properties published. You will find absolutely every independent property on this site, as well as listings for many hotels and resorts. It's extremely user friendly, but its huge selection can be a little overwhelming. www.VRBO.com.

Hotels

Hotels and resorts in Turks and Caicos run the gamut from small inns with basic accommodations to full-service, private-island resorts. There are a few classy boutique hotels on Provo, but no large chain hotels. Parrot Cay and the Meridian Club on Pine Cay are private-island resorts with all the pampering and privileges you'd expect with the high prices. Amanyara is in a category all its own, offering the greatest degree of seclusion and privacy, with a price tag at the top end of the scale.