Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
where they feed, breed and scare swimmers. You can snorkel among the menagerie of sea
life on a day trip from Provo.
PARROT CAY
Look no further for true indulgence than
Parrot Cay
( 941-7544;
www.parrotcay.como.biz
;
r from $938; ) , which is definitely the
best hotel in the turks and caicos, and one of the very best in the caribbean. on
its own eponymous private island, parrot cay is part resort with its infinity pool,
water sports, diving school and superb restaurants, and part spa, with a firm em-
phasis on healthy treatments, yoga and 'wellness' provided by the international
spa brand como shambala. the rooms, which run from simple but sublime one-
room garden-view rooms to the incredible five-bedroom residence, are done in
beautifully understated teak furnishings and white timbered walls. the main res-
taurant,
Terrace
, is a sublime experience catering for all needs with cuisines
ranging from macrobiotic to gourmet. Of course, if you need to ask about the
price, you probably can't afford it, but if you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime
splurge or you happen to be a Wall Street banker, then this is the place for you.
North Caicos
POP 1500
There was a time a century ago when bountiful North Caicos, with its lush farmland and
bustling towns, was the center of action in the island chain. But those times have long since
passed. These days there are only stone ruins and a few small towns to show for these early
expansions. But don't despair; there remains a pristine tropical isle that is a joy to visit.
There are a few tiny settlements, more groups of dwellings than towns - but that is where
the charm lies. There is a distinctive lost-world feel to this island. As you wander along
the empty roads, shell-strewn beaches and green interior you can't help but feel glad that
Provo-style development doesn't yet threaten this beautiful spot.
SIGHTS & ACTIVITIES
The Kew area has several historic ruins, including the interesting
Wades Green Plantation
, granted to a British Loyalist by King George III. The owners struggled to grow sisal and
Sea Island cotton until drought, hurricanes and bugs drove them out. The plantation lasted
a mere 25 years; the owners abandoned their slaves and left. It's a sobering place to visit
and worth the effort.
Beaches along the north coast of North Caicos include
Pumpkin Bluff
,
Horsestable
and most importantly,
Whitby Beach
. On any one, yours will be the only Robinson Crusoe
