What's New On Grand Turk

     My husband and I are planning our annual fall trip to Grand Turk.  I'm anxious to be back and I am looking to forward to seeing what is new.  We haven't been back to Grand Turk for a year and in that year I have found a few new items to put on my list of things to try:

     First - A new label of beer is being brewed right on Grand Turk.  Dennis and Peggy Maynes are now brewing hard ginger beer on island called the "Islander".   The beer is made from the following; dominican republic sugar, florida lemons and ginger from china.  From what I hear Dennis and Peggy have set up shop right in the middle of Cockburn Town.

     Ginger Beer has been a favorite non-alcoholic beverage in the islands but this new hard ginger beer adds a new twist.  Drink it in a chilled glass with a twist of lemon or try one of these mixed cocktails;  The Moscow Mule (Vodka and Islander Ginger Beer) or a Dark and Stormy (Gosling's Black Seal Rum and Islander Ginger Beer).  Be adventurous and try out a creation of your own.

     Second - I'm anxious to try my luck at the newly built, 5000 square foot casino, named the Santa Maria Gaming Saloon.  Built in the style of a ship and reminiscent of Christopher Columbus' landfall of the Americas, following a local belief that Grand Turk is the true place of landfall.  The casino is located at the White Sands Beach Resort and next to the cruise ship terminal. 

     With it's 100+ slot machines, as well as multiplayer state-of-the-art poker, roulette and black jack tables, there is certainly plenty to do to keep you occupied.   Entertainment with live bands is offered on the upper deck bars and lounges, where you can enjoy a drink along with the island sounds while you take in the the wonderful views and breezes.

     Finally I am hoping to discover new restaurants.  There seems to be a new restaurant that has popped up when ever I have return to the island, it's always fun to try the new fare.  In the past the Turks Head Mansion (formally the Turks Head Inn) was open for dinner and was always a quaint and favorite place to dine.  It has been several years since it has been open to the public.  I don't know if it has opened it's doors again but I am hoping it has.  I'm sure there will be some new restaurant to try.  I'll keep you posted.

Traveling with children

First I would like to say that my husband and I have traveled for many years with my 4 children from the time they were babies.  Now we travel with 4 grown children one son-in-law and 2 grandchildren.   I truly enjoy our family vacations as chaotic as they can be at times.  When I was a parent of young children I would opt for a vacation with children, as tough as it may be with schedules etc, to no vacation at all.  For me getting out and away from the cold weather and having a break from the same routine day after day, was important.  That said, there is a lot of work preparing for a vacation with children and being prepared is key to a pleasurable break.  You can actually enjoy your vacation with children, my best advice, expect the worst and you will probably be pleasantly surprised.  I found when I dreamed of a peaceful getaway, I was in trouble.  Let's face it, life with children is never peaceful at home or away.  That doesn't mean it won't be enjoyable, it simply means you won't be on your second honeymoon.

When my oldest child was 6 months old we decided to take our first vacation with child.  My husband and I didn't make this maiden voyage alone, thankfully our two friends Ron and Gail accompanied us.  Out of pure ignorance, not understanding how the long flights would effect us,  we decided on the lush Hawaiian archipelago.  It sounded wonderful to me 10 days away from the winter, in the tropics.  I was ready to get out of the house but not yet ready to leave my 6 month old baby behind.  So we mounted up our horses and headed for Logan Airport.    You would think we were going away for months when we were checking in, with the number of bags and paraphernalia we had.  Disposable diapers took up a hefty share of the luggage, in addition to  a fold up seat that hung on the table for our meals, a car seat, a stroller and several good sized bags for clothing, babies, you know, go through quantities of clothing.  Thank God we had our 2 friends to help us cart everything around.   Once everything was checked in we were unburdened, only the necessities remained,  a stroller and a well packed diaper bag, I hoped.

Now, imagine a 6 hour flight from Boston to San Francisco with a 6 month old baby.   Thankfully the reservation clerk at the airline suggest we book the bulkhead seats.  In those days they had small bassinets that hung on the wall in front of these seat,  making it possible to lay her down to nap for part of the trip, which was a real blessing.  We stayed over night in San Francisco and departed early the next morning on another 5 1/2 hour flight to Honolulu.    Everything went pretty seamless with the exception of carting around all the baby necessities.  We had a wonderful 10 day vacation, saw 2 islands and once again departed for our long and grueling plane rides home, less the bags of diapers.  I have to say we were really lucky, our daughter appeared to be a wonderful little traveler, but that is not always the case when you travel with children.  

The next time we decided to venture out on a vacation with child, however, it was going to be someplace closer with plane rides approximately 3 hours or less.  12 months later we were on a flight to Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, with our same 2 friends, our 18 month old and this time a babysitter, something I highly recommend if your budget allows. (More on this later.) With past experience at hand we had booked a 3 hour flight to Fort Lauderdale, FL with an over night and then a 1 1/2 hour flight to Grand Turk.  Much better.  We had a wonderful restful vacation.

VACATIONING TIPS

Vacation Rental vs. Hotel - Once we landed at our destination we would settled in.  If you are traveling with babies or toddlers, I would recommend a vacation rental over a hotel.  LIfe is so much easier when you have everything you need at your fingers, which most often revolves around food.   Having a vacation rental is great for the family, being in a fully furnished home or apartment, you can cook in at the time you need.  Evenings can be more enjoyable too depending on the vacation rental spot, you can sit on your patio or balcony with a glass of wine or a Margarita and watch the sunset or watch a movie on TV while your child/children sleep in a quiet separate room.

Dining Out - We would try to dine out as early as possible but, especially in the Caribbean, dinners start late, we found it difficult to eat earlier than 7:00 so we would feed the children about 5:00 and then take them out with us to dinner where they can still nibble from our plates or have some dessert.  The stroller comes in handy as they became tired.  We would plop them in and rock them to sleep and then finish our dinner in peace.  If you have more than one small child this may not work well for you and you may opt for cooking dinner at your rental.  At some destinations you can get take out dinners or arrange for a local person to come in and cook for you.

With babysitter - If you can afford the additional airfare traveling with a babysitter can be the perfect solution to making it a restful vacation too.  Often teenagers are happy to travel to wonderful destinations as a baby sitter simply for the airfare and lodging provided.  You just have to be clear in advance what your expectations are as well as hearing what theirs may be.  We would always make sure the babysitter had the opportunity to dine out with us a few times and do a little sight seeing with us too.  They would have time during the day to beach bathe and we would have a few minutes in the evening to dine.  I recommend tipping the sitter at the end of the vacation too.

Packing


I always pack more than less when going out of the country because you don't know if the items you need will be readily available.  I'm a firm believer in Murphy's Law  "Anything that can go wrong will go wrong".  If you plan for Murphy's Law when you pack you are always prepared, some items may never get used the, being prepared saves you from some very stressful situations.

It's worth it a check with your accommodations to see if they have a washing machine and dryer.  If they do, you can pack less, just don't forget the powdered detergent. When you begin packing be sure to mix everyones clothes up.  If any of the luggage gets lost - which has happened to us - Everyone still has something to wear.  I also recommend that each person bring an outfit in their carry-on (Underwear, a clean top, a T shirt to sleep in and a tooth brush, if you are heading to a warm climate you might add a pair of shorts and a swimsuit.)

Below is a list of necessities and helpful items to pack or bring on your trip:

• Stroller - For children under 4 especially if you plan to do a lot of walking.  Children tire easily and a stroller can make your life so much easier.  I purchased a simple umbrella stroller to travel with, being light weight and pretty compact I found it easier to deal with.  Be sure the one you choose can recline and has a netted compartment for items like diapers, bottles or sippy cups, sweathers and blankets.  Strollers come in handy as an extra seat if the restaurant does not have high chairs.  (We found when we would travel to small islands in the Caribbean the restaurants frequently did not have high chairs so we would feed them in the stroller)  When you are on vacation small children tire out early and often fall to sleep during dinner.  If you can rock them to sleep in a stroller, you can dine in peace.
• Car Seat - If you will be renting a car on the other end or have booked a seat for your child a car seat may be helpful but remember it is another item to cart around.  Car rentals often have car seats if you request it in advance.  
• Pack "N" Play - Check with your accommodations  to see if they have a crib available, if they do not a Pack "N" Plays work beautifully be sure to bring a pad and sheets for the bed, you can use the blanket you carry-on to cover them.
• Disposable Diapers - Figure on bringing enough diapers for the amount you use per day and then add a couple more diapers for each day to that figure.  Example:  If your child uses 6 diapers per day put in 8 per day.  If you are traveling to a destination where you know you can get disposable diapers easily you can do with a lot less diapers and plan to purchase as you need.  Be sure to put some in each of your bags (see note in packing).
• Clothing - always be prepared for at least 1 outfit of the opposite weather - you never know. For instance if you are heading to warm weather be sure to bring a jacket and long pants and a warm sleeper, just in case.  Or if you are heading where it is supposed to be cooler - bring a T-shirt and shorts, I have seen the weather not cooperate on several trips.   Sometimes in the warmer climates  the evenings can be cooler than expected and a light jacket comes in handy.
• Thermometer
• Children's Tylenol 
• Benadryl for stuffy noses - may be helpful for the plane ride and congestion.
• Any frequently used medications or salves
• Diaper bag - For children under 3 that are not toilet trained, or if your child is newly toilet trained.  Reverting back to diapers just for the airport and plane won't make them regress but it will take a lot of stress and worry off you.  Items for the diaper bag:

1. Disposable Diapers - Bring double what you think you may need.
2. Wipes - I would bring the whole big package of wipes.  Now they make plastic refills that have a self seal top so you don't have to pack the big plastic box.  You may want to bring 2 packages of wipes because you will use them for all sorts of clean-ups from quick wash-ups and sticky fingers to diaper changes.  Again this would depend on where you are going and access to the items.
3. Bottles - 1 to 2 - filled with water.  I would bring powdered milk or formula and mix up what I needed and you can also purchase little pouches of juice to mix in with the water as well.
4. Pacifier
5. Change of clothes
6. Earplanes (These help with the pressure in the ear at take off and landing).
7. Benadryl
8. Baby food, finger food and snacks - bring plenty and try to bring different things like, raisins, cherrios, goldfish, pretzels, graham crackers, sliced or pieces of fruit or veggies - Take a walk around the grocery store to find items that your child doesn't get often.
9. The child's cuttle toy
10. A baby blanket from their bed to make there sleeping time is less stressful.  Just the scent of home can help the child settle in better.
11. Plastic grocery bags -  I would bring 4-5 of these tightly rolled and tucked away for dirty diapers and soiled clothes.  They come in handy for a lot of things.
12. Toys and if traveling with toddlers - coloring items  - Aim for small items but a good variety to keep them occupied.

On The Plane

Kids never do as you wish them to do on planes.  They won't sleep if they need to, they seem to cry louder and longer than usual and they have short attention spans - so the endless walking up and down the isle.  We found as long as the plane ride was under or about 3 hours,  it was doable.  If  we were fortunate the child would sleep for most of the ride.  If they didn't sleep we knew we could keep them occupied for that amount of time with people, toys and most importantly FOOD.  People on planes seem to be amiable to children as long as they aren't constantly screaming or crying.  Often there would be a grandmother in a nearby seat that would play peek-a-boo or talk to the child, helping with the  entertainment.   These passengers should earn some kind of award, bringing a moments peace to weary parents.

A well packed diaper bag with lots of food, bottle, both water and milk, formula or juice, lots of snacks, a pacifier (if your child takes one), their special sleeping toy and blanket are essential for baby happiness.  I also recommend taking an excess of diapers on the plane, you don't want to be caught short handed.  I always packed several plastic grocery bags, these are easy to roll up into tiny balls that don't take up much room and they come in real handy for dirty diapers or soiled clothing even making noise to entertain the baby.

It was inevitable when we were ready to depart for our trip, someone would have a cold.  I found Benadryl to be helpful with the stuffy head at take off and landing.  I would give the child the appropriate dose about 1/2 hour before take off.  When the plane begins to taxi down the runway then it's time to put one of the bottles into use.  I recommend bottles over sippy cups because the sucking action actually helps alleviate the pressure at take off and landing.  Try to encourage your child to take the bottle and continue sucking.  If you are a nursing mother even better, this would be the time to begin nursing. But if the child is under 3, and not nursing, a bottle is great.  With older children chewing gum works really well to help with the pressure.   I discovered a neat little item called Earplanes.  These are small plastic plugs that regulate air pressure, you put them into your child's ear for takeoff and landing.  The package states they are only good for 1 time use on the box so be sure to bring 2 sets or more depending on the number of flights. I found them to be helpful with the pressure, not 100% but an improvement over none.

Just because you have small children, it does not mean you can not go on vacation.  You simply have to plan well, have a sense of humor and pack well.  If you can bring a sitter, you will have a wonderful break.   If a full time baby sitter isn't in your budget ask whom ever is your contact at your accommodation about hiring a baby sitter, they may be able to recommend someone responsible to you for a night out or even a lunch.  It's nice to to have a change of scenery even if it isn't a break from parenthood.  The days where you and your husband can get away alone will come.

Turks and Caicos Potcakes - Doggie Update

     For years we have traveled to Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands and every time a local dog would find us and follow us around.  We grew to adore the little darlings.  Over the last few years Crabtree Apartments was adopted by 3 little homeless dogs who found that the guests at Crabtree appreciated their company.

     These charming four legged creatures have come to be known as Potcakes throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands and Bahamas, a name given to the local dogs because the islanders would feed them the caked on remains of their pots.

     So many of our guests have commented on the 3 lovable companions that greet them upon arrival and have kept them company as they walk the beach or down town to dinner each night, I thought I would give you a quick update.  These 3 lovable dogs are strays that have been cared for and watched over by the island residents and many of our guests.  My favorite is a black lab mix pictured in my February 2011 post "Birds, Dogs and Relaxation".  She is a gentle thing, when I first met her my heart went out to her.  She had this huge tumor on her jowl that made it difficult to eat, her two enthusiastic mates would often gobble up the treats we offered, so we would feed her in a spot away from the others, often by hand.  Her 2 friends were also sweet animals that would happily trot along beside us as we walked the beach.  We became attached to the trio and gave them all names, Nigel - a springy short haired brown dog with huge ears that stuck up oddly, Marie a small to medium sized dog with perhaps a little shepherd in her bloodline, she loves to be scratched and Lumpy - named for the enormous lump on her jowl.   Every guest that has grown to love them have named them various names and we have discovered that they are known to the island residents with yet another set of names.

     I thought that some of our guest may like to have an update on our 3 friends.    Nigel a young male, pictured in the far right side of the 3 dogs pictured above, was adopted and now lives in Canada, I believe.

     Lumpy (her local name is Susie) the black dog still visits our guests at Crabtree, she sustained an injury to her tumor causing the tumor to drain, she was very sick and we thought we might lose her.  She was put on antibiotics and thankfully recovered however her tumor is cancerous and I don't know how long we will enjoy her company.   She is getting older but hopefully will be around for a little while longer.  Lumpy has been a sweet friend and companion.

     Marie the brown dog on the right of the above picture, still trots around town visiting all her friends.  She happily chases the waves and takes care of her friend Lumpy - ie Susie.  They now have a new friend and so once again we have a friendly trio to walk with us to dinner each night.  They are good company for those that are dog lovers and seem to know the dog loving guests and move on to visit others along the beach when we have no guests or the guests aren't the dog loving kind.

     There is now an ASPCA on Grand Turk island, in a little shop down on Duke St.  The woman who runs it, I'm sorry to say I have forgotten her name, is wonderful to all the dogs.  She has helped facilitate several adoptions and cares for so many of the stray dogs as well as having instituted a spay and neutering program.   If you are visiting the Turks and Caicos and willing to help one of the Potcakes make their way home to the USA, drop in as let them know.  The Turks and Caicos TCSPCA is always looking for volunteers to bring the adopted pets home to their new owners on their flights back to the States.  If you are interested in adopting a Potcake or are interested in the Grand Turk TCSPCA check out their Grand Turk TCSPCA Facebook Page   BEWARE - You may fall in love!

Dining Out Grand Turk Style

Dining on Grand Turk may not be an epicurean delight, but if you are looking for quaint Caribbean rustic atmosphere you will certainly find that here on Grand Turk, as well as some good locally caught fresh fish dishes.

First let me explain the difference between Providenciales (the most popular island in the Turks and Caicos Islands) and Grand Turk.  Providenciales has been recently developed witn in the last 15-20 years as a affluent playground.   5 star hotels line the famous Grace Bay beach and with each hotel comes an upscale restaurant.  The island is about 20 miles long and development has spread out across the island on it's pristine beaches with gorgeous hotels with spas and lovely villas with pools.  So if you are looking for a totally pampered vacation spot this is the place for you.

Grand Turk on the other hand couldn't be any further from that picture.   Grand Turk is the capital of the Turks and Caicos Islands, it still has several antique buildings that line the main street with charming lime washed walls that run along each side of the narrow historical street, Duke Street.  The island is small, only about 7 miles long and 2 miles wide, views of the sea can be seen from almost anywhere.  There are no hotel chains or 5 star hotels, in fact there are only a handful of 2 story hotels,  a few Bed and Breakfasts and a handful of self-catering vacation rentals.    Scuba diving is what Grand Turk is most noted for, however the beauty under the sea is not the only beauty Grand Turk has in store for it's visitors, the beaches are quite beautiful as well.  The restaurants here are mainly out of doors with several of them being decks on the beach or in a outdoor garden, simple, rustic but charming and the menu consists mainly of simple cuts of beef or chicken and freshly caught fish, but a fried grouper sandwich and a rum punch offered under a blanket of stars, in my book, can't be beat.

I will probably miss a dozen local restaurants in this listing but I'm hoping this gives you, the reader, an idea of what we have to offer here on Grand Turk.

On Duke Street, the main historial street in town you will find the following restaurants:

The Bird Cage - Restaurant and Bar - Located with-in the Osprey Beach Hotel compound with wrought iron tables nestled between a tranquil pool and the turquoise sea.  They have a bar situated within a wrought iron cage and so the name.    Their menu usually consists of some kind of steak, chicken dish, sometimes pork and fresh fish, all usually accompanied with a simple salad, rice and peas or potato.    Once a week they offer a cookout with entertainment.  Mitch Rollings and friend musicians play into the evening while guests dine and dance.  Last March my girlfriends and I  enjoyed the cookout while Mitch played guitar and sang while  his two friends accompanied him on a saw (cut the log type) and a white paint bucket with a broom handle and string - as a base.  Great music and a lot of fun.  Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.  They are one of the few restaurants that actually take credit cards which is always a plus for any traveler.

The Sand Bar - Bar with light menu - A tiny building with a large deck on the edge of the beach.  The bar is decorated with beach glass, tile and wood.  Their menu is more of a bar menu with grouper sandwiches, shrimp salad, quesadillas, hamburgers etc.  Their music is loud, playing often the likes of Jack Johnson.  Many of the transplanted locals gather here for drinks.

The Secret Garden - Restaurant and Bar - Located inside the gardened courtyard of the Salt Raker Inn, a delightful historical inn.  Tables with white cloths are situated under a pergola in the shade of the trees.  Serves breakfast, Lunch and dinner.

Further from Town you will find the following restaurants:

Bohio - Restaurant and Bar - Located within the Bohio Resort compound north of town on the other side of the salina.  The restaurant has seating both inside and outside with views of the sea.  It is probably the most upscale of the restaurants on the island.  They have an extensive menu and probably one of the few places that can serve you specialty drinks like cosmos or pina coladas.  They also have a cookout one night each week with a local band to entertain you.

Doo Doo's Ribs  - Barbecued Ribs -  Located on the corner of Osborne Road and a side street opposite the old burial grounds.  They serve barbecued ribs on Friday and Saturdays only from about 11:00am to about 9:00pm.

Barbies - Located on Front Street across from the brightly painted gift shops.  She serves a variety of conch, conch fritters, chicken fingers, sandwiches etc.

Island Times - Located north of town in a green building by the water.  Serves Dinner. (I have not tried it yet)

Cool Beans - Located on Light House Road on the right hand side heading toward the lighthouse.  Serving homemade ice cream with sugar cones and sandwiches.

Mookies Pizza - Located on Hospital Road on the right hand side heading north.  Serving pizza as well as sandwiches and sometimes breakfast.

The following restaurants are open only when the ships are in:

Salt House -  Breakfast and Lunch - Located on Osborne Road on the left just past the Windmill Plaza.  They serve breakfast and lunch when the ships are in.  They do accept credit cards.

Local Village - Bar and light menu - Located on Airport Road on the right just before the cruise ship terminal.  The serve local foods and have a juice bar where they serve freshly squeezed juices, from fresh fruit delivered from the Dominican Republic, a nearby island.  They only serve lunch and dinner and only when the ships are in.

Jacks Shack - Bar with light menu - Located on Airport Road on the right just before the cruise ship terminal.  Watch for a small sign that directs you to Jacks.  They are located on the beach side of Oasis Diving.  It's a bit hard to find.  Jacks is a bar that serves, jerk chicken, burgers and hot dogs only when the ships are in.

Margaritaville - Restaurant and Bar - Located within the cruise ship terminal.  They offer a menu of burgers with fries, nachos, quesadillas etc.

There are many local restaurants I have not listed and do not know off but I am sure if you look around and are adventurous you can find a few "off the beaten path" bars and restaurants.

I hope this has been helpful.  There is more information about the island of Grand Turk on our website as well http://www.grandturkvacationrental.com

Crabtree Apartments, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands  "A better way to stay."

April in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos

My family and I have been traveling to Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands for 24 years.  This year was the first time I have been to the Turks and Caicos in April.  I think it may now be one of my favorite months there.  I am so happy to depart the New England weather in the winter months and truly enjoy the lovely tropical temperatures in February but I have to say I think the air and water temps in April are pretty much perfect.

This April, 14 of us traveled down to the Turks and Caicos from the Boston area, leaving behind 40º temperatures.  We arrived in Providenciales mid-afternoon to temperatures in the mid 80's, ready to peal off the layers of clothing and thankful for the ever present tropical breeze.  We herded our pack of travelers through the customs area,  and collected our bags.  A few of us changed into more weather appropriate attire.  Once we had checked in with Air Turks and Caicos for our flight to Grand Turk and deposited our bags we headed in to Guilly's Restaurant at the airport for a Rum Punch and a Grouper sandwich.  This is how we usually spend the layover between Provo and Grand Turk.  Soon we were in the air again on our way to Grand Turk, a short 25 minute flight.  The plane flew low enough to see the sister islands and water below - no clouds.  I am always amazed at the turquoise color.  Some of the water below looked so shallow that you could wade through.  I'm not sure if it really was as shallow as it looked but I'm sure the water is relatively shallow to account for the turquoise color of the water, the deeper water is more of a royal blue.  Finally with a perfect landing we disembarked and collected our bags.

Dennis of Grace Bay Car Rentals met us at the airport with our 2 cars.  With the crew we had, and all the bags, including the numerous baby items, it took us 2 trips to get us with all of our paraphernalia to Crabtree Apartments.  This was no big deal since the apartments are probably only a 5 minute drive at most.

Everyone shed their cool weather clothes, dawned their bathing suits and headed to the water for a swim. The water was delicious, warm and calm, once in, it was hard to get out even as the sun was going down.  We watched the horizon for the "Green Flash"  a cloud free horizon being the perfect conditions for spying it.  Some of us caught a glimpse, but not all, you have to pay close attention.

We all dried and changed for dinner, once again in a big herd we headed for the Sand Bar, about a 10 minute walk down Close Haul Road.  It was a lovely evening with a cloudless sky, you could see a blanket of stars above.  The warm breeze wrapped around us and the 3 friendly dogs tagged along by our sides.  I love the walk to the restaurants in the evening;  it's a charming stroll down Duke St. with the stone and white washed walls that run along the narrow street which is lined with antique buildings and quaint gateways.  It feels to me a bit like I have stepped into the past.  The music from the Sand Bar drawing us in, we stepped in from the street.  We were lucky enough to find a table by the sea that could accommodate us all.  One reason I love the Sand Bar is because you sit on an outside deck literally on the edge of the water, with the sounds of the sea and the brilliant views just a few feet away.

By the time we had finished our meal we were all pretty tuckered out and wearily headed back to our apartment.  We each entered our humble abode and climbed in to our comfortable beds.  We shut the light and let the gentle lapping of the waves outside our windows lull us to sleep.  This was the end to the first day of a perfect family vacation.  I think there may be many more Grand Turk April vacations in store for us.

What our guests are telling us.

      Running a vacation rental business can be rewarding, you meet a lot of really nice people and under wonderful circumstances;  excited people looking forward to a warm winter vacation by heading down to a tropical island oasis.  When our guests return from their vacation they are relaxed and happy, 99.9% of the time.  We feel it is very important for those inquiring about our vacation rental and booking, to understand that Grand Turk is a small, rustic, laid-back, quiet island.  For most people that is exactly what they are looking for.  There are no gourmet restaurants and not a lot of activities.  We strive to explain that basically being a beach bum; relaxing on the beach, walking the beach, exploring the sea and enjoying the views is the main attraction.  There is a bit of sight seeing, just enough shopping and a few outings to keep guest entertained without a grueling agenda.  We tell our guests that the island is an "Old World" island, there are no fast food restaurants or 5 star hotels and only a few small hotels at that.  The island is slow paced, kind of what you would have found 40 years ago in the Caribbean before the Caribbean  became "the winter vacation destination".   We want to be sure our guest know what Grand Turk and Crabtree Apartments are like, to be sure they are getting exactly what they were looking for and therefore we have happy guests and many return customers.

     My husband and I purchased Crabtree Apartments in 1987 but did not rent them as short term rentals until 2004. I ran the bookings from 2004 to 2009.  Since 2009 my daughter, Jessalyn, and I have been running this business together.    For the last 2 years, Jessalyn, for the most part, handles the bookings and e-mail correspondence.

     It has been fun getting to know our guests and we love hearing the comments upon their return.  Many guests have found us by the raving reviews on TripAdvisor.com.  One of the most rewarding aspects of running a vacation rental is getting to know our guests.  Though we rarely meet them face to face, believe it or not we do get to know many of them through the phone and e-mail conversations.  I have been invited to visit, if I ever find myself in England or to a Italian dinner if ever in Italy.  I have been asked where I shop to decorate because they love the bed, quilts or patio furniture.  We have had honeymooners who have returned every year since they got married, and have shared with us the fact that they are now expecting an addition to their family.  Recently a friendly German guest wrote us telling us he loved his stay so much and he thought it would be a place many Germans would like to stay but that translations were difficult therefore he wrote a review for us in German.  Jessalyn and I have received many wonderful pictures from guest while on vacation and have heard many stories about the wonderful trips guests have had.  Last year a guest who revisited us brought along a gift of a lovely glass starfish to hang in the apartment to add to our decor.  We enjoy getting to know our guests and love to hear the news and events of our guests lives and enjoy staying in contact.

Here are a couple quotes from our guest:

Hidden away in the Caribbean is a cluster of islands called Turks & Caicos, Grand Turk is where the capital is, but this laid back island does not feel like a capital. The Crabtree apartments that we stayed at were situated on an amazing beach, with a nice patio you could step off of into soft white sand. Snorkel from your beach, or walk into town for lunch or dinner. The place was clean, came with everything you needed, including 2 bicycles to explore the island. The owners provided a great summary of things to do, see, amenities, and recommendations, and even made sure we had basic groceries in the fridge when we arrived. They were very prompt in responses to questions or needs we had both before we arrived and during our stay. Highly recommend Crabtree apartments, although I am not sure I want everyone to know about our new secret paradise.

If you are looking for a peaceful, relaxing holiday on an idyllic island with lovely uncrowded beaches, clear turquoise water, great snorkelling (and diving) and friendly people than head for Grand Turk. If you are debating where to stay, put the Crabtree apartments at the top of your list. My husband and I just returned from our 3rd visit to Grand Turk and our first stay at the Crabtree and couldn't have been more pleased. Our unit was very clean, well equipped, private and steps from a lovely little beach. We have no doubt we will return for a 4th visit and another relaxing stay at the Crabtree. Highly recommended!

Val & Doug, Ottawa, Canada

     You can find reviews and read for yourself what our guests have to say about Crabtree Apartments, Grand Turk all over the web but here are links to a few of them:   Crabtree Apartments own website guestbook page , HomeAway.com , VRBO.com , TripAdvisor.com , FlipKey.com



     A great way for our guest to stay in contact is by friending us on Facebook and Twitter, and as you have now discovered by following us on our Blog.

Grand Turk - Birds, Dogs and Relaxation

     My husband and I returned to our vacation rental Crabtree Apartments on Grand Turk last November, 2010.  We didn't have time to enjoy the beauty of the island when we arrived but we were able to enjoy the golden sunset over the water.  It felt good to be back.  Exhausted we went to the Sandbar for a margarita and grilled grouper plate.  Yum to both.  One thing I truly enjoy here is the fresh fish, fried grouper  sandwiches, grilled grouper, cracked conch, conch fritters as well as the other fresh catch of the day.

     I was exhausted after a long day of travel and couldn't wait to climb into bed.  As alway Ilsa, our maid, had the apartment clean and ready.  After a good night's sleep we woke early the next morning, opened the doors to the beach and the front door to let the wonderful breeze flow through the apartment.  I looked out the front door across the street to the salinas, I enjoy watching the birds picking around in the water.  There were 3 huge herons roosting on the little island in the middle, I didn't get a look up close but my guess is they were Great Blue Herons,  as well as a number of other herons, egrets and tiny pipers picking around in the waters.

     Later in the afternoon we took a stroll down the beach, being the winter months the rain clouds rolled in and soon we were drenched, but who cares the air was warm.  We turned around to head back to our apartment and discovered the sun shining through the clouds producing a beautiful arcing double rainbow reaching from over the salinas right into the sea, absolutely beautiful.  I have seen so many rainbows on Grand Turk.   I'm sure it's because the rain never lasts long before the sun is back out.

     The next morning we saw several pink flamingos in the Salina down town.  They are so elegant and certainly one of my favorite birds in the Turks and Caicos.    Many people go to Grand Turk for the superb diving, me I love the beach, the warm sun and the water birds.

     I am a big animal lover.  Our guests had been returning this year saying they had fallen in love with these 3 dogs on the beach and were sad to leave them.  There are always friendly dogs that come by and say hello and usually our guests are referring to a black lab mix dog that lives up the beach named Sandy, I assumed this was her and a few of her four legged friends.  Several of the guests had worried, when they departed, for this trio.  I have to say I didn't expect to find that this gentle crew would steal my heart too.  One of the dogs had a very large tumor on her jowl, I heard rumors the veterinarians, who own a house a couple doors down, were going to do something about the dogs tumor this February while they were on the island.  I am hoping this is true.

     Relaxation is a big deal to us, it's hard to find a place where you can relax and let your worries slip away.  If you don't return from your vacation on Grand Turk relaxed then I suggest you don't bring your computer and cell phone next time or take a good look at what is going on in your life.  The island is quiet with just enough to do to keep the boredom away but still return home relaxed and rested.

     I'm getting tired of the snow and cold here in New England and I would be happy to not see another snow shovel until next winter, if possible.  Therefore I'm looking forward to my trip back to Grand Turk with my girlfriends this March.  A little something to get me through these dreary winter days:)

                                                  Written by, Leslie Janes

How to get to Grand Turk

     Finding a place off the beaten path isn't always easy.  Though Turks and Caicos Islands have become a fairly familiar name in tourism these days, most people are referring to Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.   Providenciales and Grand Turk however are two very different beasts and most likely would attract two very different tourists.   So be sure to do your research and make sure you are getting  just the kind of vacation you are seeking.  Hopefully we will be able to help you out a little bit here:

     Providenciales or Provo as the locals call it is a newly developed island in the last 15-20 years.  The most famous beach on Provo is Grace Bay, a beautiful 12 mile long beach lined by several story resorts mainly five-star.  There are numerous gourmet restaurants, spas, a casino and lovely multi-million homes and condos along the shores of the island.  There are shops and strip malls and even mini-bus buses.  The typical Americanized vacation island.

  
Grand Turk on the other hand is a more rustic island.  There are no resorts, a handful independently owned 2 story hotels and open air restaurants many of which are perched on the beach.   The main streets are lined with colonial buildings dating back to the 1700's.  The main attractions are the spectacular diving, a few historical sites and the beach.  The island is slow paced and anything but fancy.  It's a nice place to relax, unwind, enjoy the views and read a good book.

Getting to Grand Turk is fairly easy.  Most vacationers would take a flight into Providenciales (airport code PLS) on either;
US Airways, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Air Canada, West Jet or British Airways.  

You would then take a flight on a local airline from Providenciales to Grand Turk.  These flights are usually about a 20 minute flight, some with a very short stop on South Caicos.  The most frequented airline is Air Turks and Caicos but Global Airways offers charter service to Grand Turk as well.

Coming Soon:

Jet Blue  has just announced service to the Turks and Caicos as well beginning in February.  They plan to begin booking soon and rumor has it they will be flying directly into Grand Turk, I'm hoping this is more than rumor.

TAC Air International will be having 2 scheduled flights from Ft Lauderdale directly to Grand Turk                       TAC Phone: 640-242-5038   Email: tacairintl@aol.com

Once you have arrived; kick off your shoes, pull up a seat on the beach, pick up a good book and enjoy the views or go for a splash in the beautiful tranquil turquoise sea.  We hope you enjoy this lovely island and in the word of our late friend Mr. X - "Let the island of Grand Turk soothe your soul"

                                                                                               Written by,  Leslie Janes

                                                                                              

Finding things to do on Grand Turk

A lot of people ask me what there is to do on Grand Turk.  First I would want to say that Grand Turk is not for those restless people that need to keep busy.  Unless, you are looking for a real rest from that.  That said, there are several things to do on Grand Turk, you just need to do a little research.

Grand Turk, being the capital of the Turks and Caicos, is rich with history.  Their history evolved from the Taino and Lucayan indians, the theory that Columbus first landfall in the Americas was Grand Turk, history of pirates and Grand Turk's place in the salt industry.

If you love architecture or local folk lore you will enjoy taking a walking tour along the narrow walled streets.  There are several antique buildings that line the main streets.  Many of the antique houses bear plaques with their history and legends upon them.   Another great place to explore the island's history is in the Turks and Caicos Museum, you'll find exhibits on the island's past as well as the environment and nature.  It's an unexpected treasure.

Up on the north-east ridge of the island is a 150 year old light house.  The government has created a little park there where you can walk down the cliffs along a dirt path to the sea.  The vista is gorgeous, grass blowing in the breeze with the royal blue sea and white churning waves below.   As you follow the path along the shore you will probably find bleached Sea Urchins, Sand Dollars and Starfish.

If you are an animal lover you might enjoy a horseback ride along the sea.  Chukka Horseback Riding will takes groups along the east shore of Grand Turk ending with a ride in the sea.  A local man, Mubbles, if you can find him, may take you out.  We hired him and his horses for a ride along the shore one lovely evening at sunset.  I'm not sure if he is still offering horseback rides but ask around when you are there.  Mubbles, (John) is also well know for his delicious conch and has been chef at several restaurants.

I would be negligent to not meantion Scuba Diving.   Grand Turk is very well known for it's superb diving.  It has been listed as one of the top Caribbean places to dive.  I have heard many divers excitedly discussing their dives on the planes to and from Grand Turk.  Many of the divers return again and again to explore the famous "Wall" and all it's inhabitants.  Not to mention the fact that all this beauty is only a short 5-10 minute ride out.  Something scuba divers really appreciate.  Grand Turk Diving, Blue Water Divers and Oasis Divers are all great dive operations, each having something unique to bring.

Several of the dive operations also offer outings and day trips.  The Gibbs Cay outing is one of my favorites.  The boat ride out to Gibbs Cay, an uninhabited island off the coast of Grand Turk,  alone is enjoyable, seeing the gorgeous colors of the sea varying from deep royal blue to marine blue to turquoise, but then to arrive on a wonderful sandy beach to swim, snorkel, feed the ray and dive for fresh conch, which will be served for lunch.  It's great fun to explore the island and just relax.  The dive ops offer day trips too to Salt Cay and South Caicos so ask what they have going on.

Evening entertainment comes in different forms; the restaurants each offer at least once during the week, some form of entertainment.  The Bird Cage on Duke St frequently has a night of music and dance with Mitch Rollings on the guitar accompanied by various local artists.  You will probably find that 1 or 2 restaurants will offer a barbecue and a local band to enhance the Caribbean atmosphere.

Shoppers won't be left out of the mix.  Though it may not be a shoppers paradise, you will find enough to keep your interest.  Margaritaville, where the cruise ships come in, boasts a mini shopping paradise with shops from Jewelry to flip-flops.  On the days the cruise ships come in there are a host of tiny colorful shops that open up down town, fun to poke around in.  I was worried when the cruise ships started coming to Grand Turk but they have added a lot to the island with very little intrusion on the rest of the island.

For me, I love best to sit back on my own private veranda at Crabtree Apartments and watch the birds, the dive boats and the constant changes of color.  I even love to see the cruise ships go by at night all lit up like Christmas, mirrored in the black sea.

Though you won't find, parachuting, parasailing, casinos and gourmet restaurants on Grand Turk, you'll find plenty to do and lots of relaxation too.

Meeting the locals - Dolly

     One thing I really love about Grand Turk is the people.  The local people of Grand Turk are genuinely kind and mostly religious people.  When we first visited 20 years ago, several times a day someone would pass us on the street and say "Hello, how do you like Grand Turk?"  Though you don't hear that now days, as fequently as we did back then, the Grand Turk people are still very proud of their island and friendly.    Over the years we have made many friends.  I have found the local people to be reserved at first taking a few hellos before they open up, but once they do open up, you are friends for life.

One of my favorite people is Dolly at Moore's Cozy Corner Store.   Moore's Cozy Corner Store, a tiny 12X12 room off Pond St.  Moore's has been there as long as we have been traveling to Grand Turk, 20 plus years.  We would stop in from time to time, when her father ran the tiny store, but didn't discover Dolly's yummy cakes until about 10 years ago  Dolly makes home made cakes and sells them by the slice.   Each night she makes 2 or so cakes and displays them under clear plastic covers on the counter for easy viewing of the delectable cakes.  These are not decadent cakes with thick frosting but more of the mother's homemade kind like; Martha Washinton Cake or Pound Cake.   She has a faithful following of locals who stop in each night to purchase a piece of cake and to chat a bit.


It's a tradition now for us to stop in after dinner, on our walk back to Crabtree, to pick up a slice of cake "To Go".  Dolly always greets us with that wonderful smile.  Over the years we got know Dolly a bit,  heard all about her large family and sadly the losses she has had too.  It was a heartbreaking story to hear of the loss of her daughter, mother and sibling all in one month.  These losses shook Dolly to her soul yet her strong faith never wavered.  You can see the sadness in her eyes somedays, but that warmth, which perhaps stems from that strong faith, still glows when she smiles.  It's a great feeling when we walk through the door; Dolly's face lights up with that grand smile and she greets us with a warm "Hello it's good to see you, how long have you been on the island?"  Her smile tells me she means what she just said and that we have made a friend.


Dolly's store is a little convenience store where you will find a little of everything from sodas in a little refrigerator, snacks and Parmalet milk on hand built shelves to frozen goods kept in a large chest freezer behind the counter.  Dolly opens her door about 4:00pm in the evening "to fill in the gap" as she would say, when the grocery stores close.  If you stop by in the evening you will find Dolly sitting behind a tall counter on a folding chair packing or unpacking things as she watches the news from a 19" tube TV hanging in the corner of the shop.  Or you may find her chatting with someone who has stopped in to say hello and talking a little politics.  


If you ever make your way to Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, be sure to drop by and try one of her delicious pound cakes.  

Bird Watching - Grand Turk

One of my favorite pastimes when I am visiting Grand Turk is to bird watch. I love to sit on the front step of our vacation rental, Crabtree Apartments, early morning as the sun is rising and watch the birds that are feeding in the Salinas. The Salinas across the street are filled with Pipers, Egrets and Heron. The crazy Tricolored Heron is a comical sight as it zig-zags through the water and then abruptly turns, he sometimes will spread his wings and clumsily flop through the water to chase away other birds. There is nothing like seeing the graceful Great Blue Heron take off or land by the waters edge with barely a sound. In the evenings as we walk to or from diner, I sometimes hear a rustling in the grass of the Salinas and with closer examination I usually find a Little Blue Heron hunched in the grassy edge. The noble Brown Pelican can sometimes be seen floating in the Salinas by the Courthouse. But of all the water birds that visit the Grand Turk Salinas I would have to say the Flamingo is my all time favorite, with it's plump body that mimics the pink of a conch shell, reflecting in the water below.

The bird watching on the sea shore is amazing too. I have often heard the piercing cry of the Osprey outside on the beach, to discover it roosting in the tree outside our apartment and then see it suddenly take flight and moments later plunge into the sea for it's dinner. Sometimes the Oyster Catchers will congregate in a pod of 2 or 3 on the cement pier that juts out into the sea. Pipers and Plovers scurry down the beach picking away as they go.

From time to time I catch a brief glimpse of a Hummingbird as it zooms by or hovering in the tubular flowers of a nearby tree. I love to watch these as well as the many other birds I have yet to discover the name of.

Many people may think of Grand Turk for the spectacular under sea world that is along it's shores but for me, a non-diver, I truly enjoy what I find above the sea.

Leslie Janes 

Getting To Know You

Running a vacation rental can be crazy but it is fun too. I have met so many people from all over. We have had guests from Italy, England, Germany, Canada and the US. Some people try to find every scrap of information they can on the internet about us or have a zillion questions while others just see the pictures and information they have seen on our website and are ready to book.  I'm always nervous that the person with the zillion questions won't be happy, and that I didn't tell them something they needed to know about Grand Turk or our place or that the person who didn't ask anything but just booked, didn't expect the kind of island they landed on or thought Crabtree Apartments was something different than it actually was.

I don't know why I worry because time and time again my guests write back saying they loved Grand Turk and they loved our place.  To me it feels so good to know, I, in my little way, am making people happy.  I have enjoyed the telephone conversation I have had with my guest too, being invited to visit when I am in England and come to an Italian dinner if I ever find myself in Italy.  People can be so friendly.

We have had one of every kind, Fudge Makers, Ministers, Authors, Florists, Doctors, Heritage seekers, Honeymooner, Anniversary Celebrators, Engineers, Professors, Families with Toddlers, Families with Teens, Retirees, Ladies Groups, Divers, Father's and Sons and the list goes on.  Some guest come with laptops and have a working vacation and others don't even want to see a bit of communication equipment, not even TVs.

One thing they all have in common; When they return home they are all rested, relaxed, only in a way Grand Turk can make you relaxed, and rejuvenated. In the words of Xavier Tonneau, a colorful resident of Grand Turk and previous manager of Crabtree Apartments, an artist, musician and wonderful chef, whom sadly passed away a few years ago; "Grand Turk soothes your sole." I have to admit that somehow it does.

Grand Turk Then And Now

Twenty years ago my husband and I discovered this little bit of paradise - Grand Turk. Then Grand Turk, being the capital, was the most known island of the Turks and Caicos Island chain. Relished for it's superb diving and known for it's off shore banking. There were only a handful of restaurants and small hotels or inns, the streets were unpaved and the only street lights where the antique replica's of gas lamps you found on Duke St., the historic district of Grand Turk, per say.

When you arrived on Grand Turk your plane would screech to a halt on the tiny runway and you almost felt like you were going to spill over into the sea. The airport was made up of a stone single room open air building with ceiling fans whirring overhead. Bags were unloaded onto a plywood platform and shuffled down by hand to make room. The taxi that brought you to your hotel was likely to be a rusted out chevy impala with no floorboards. Donkey's, horses and chickens roamed the narrow dirt roads freely.

When you strolled the streets it wasn't unusual to have one of the local people say "Hello, how do you like Grand Turk?" They were proud of their island. You would wake in the morning to the cock crow and the beautiful blue sea and dine in the evening under a veil of stars.

Today, things have changed a bit but not as much as you would think. When your airplane lands on the larger and improved runway you may feel the force of the stop and hear the chirp of the wheels but there is now plenty of room for the large bird to have a graceful landing. There is a modern air-conditioned building where the old stone one once stood, though the bags are still loaded onto a plywood platform.

The taxi's no longer have rusted floor boards though the do show their age and to see a donkey roam the streets is probably a thing of the past, since they have been shipped off to other Caribbean islands to work, but in their place you will probably see a big bull amble down the road and scratch it's horns on a nearby car causing the car to bobble and then stroll away. There are still only a handful of restaurants, maybe a few more, there are more street lights though and many of the roads are paved yet potholed.

It's much easier to find necessities on the island now that the shopping center at the cruise pier has been built. But even the addition of cruise ships hasn't changed the island and hasn't overloaded it with tourist either and that to me is amazing. It has actually been an asset to the island.

The restaurants are still the same restaurants perched on the edge of the sea, you still dine there under a veil of stars and still wake to a gorgeous blue sea, with a few less cocks a crowing. Grocery shopping isn't the task it used to be with a few more grocery shops to make your purchases in. These are far from the Grocery stores in the states but have come a long way from the tiny shops of Grand Turks past.

If you were to ask me how has Grand Turk changed in the 20 years I have been fleeing the snow and winters, to bask in the tropical sun, I would have to say, it hasn't really, with the exception of the names of the hotels and restaurants, it has somehow managed to pretty much stay the same. There have been a few improvements to make life more comfortable but basically the island has remained the same.

There is just something about this tiny island that calls me back again and again. It could be the gorgeous seas, it could be the friendly people, it could be the fact that it has somehow kept the commercialism at bay but I think for me it's what happens when I get here. Time seems to stand still, I can almost feel my blood slow down it's flow, my worries just wash away with the gentle waves and I find that I am totally relaxed.

Grand Turk a little piece of Paradise

Some days you just feel like getting away from it all; the people, the rush and the hubbub - all of it.

There is a tiny island in the Caribbean that puts meaning in the quote "Don't Worry Be Happy", that island is Grand Turk. One of a string of islands in the Caribbean that make up the country of the Turks and Caicos Islands. There is not a lot to do here but swim, snorkel or scuba dive and join the locals for a drink at one of the local restaurant/bars that are perched on the edge of the sea. There are no fancy hotels or restaurants, no fast food or for that matter, fast anything.   Dinner itself is a long ordeal, service is not the quickest and nobody on Grand Turk appear to worry about anything.  After one mere day here, you can almost feel all the negative energy you are carrying melt away. Suddenly you realize you are free of your burdens, at least while you are there, and you begin to relax.

I love to get up in the morning and bring my breakfast out onto the veranda that overlooks the beach and turquoise sea, watch the birds fly by and listen to the gentle lapping of the waves. I usually wonder down the beach, sometimes meet a friendly dog or a single fellow beach comber but for the most part it's just me, the sand, the gorgeous sea and sun.   I like to comb the beach for sea glass and then make my way back for a dunk in the warm waters.  Later I find myself relaxing in the lovely shade of the veranda, enjoying my book and the glorious view. One of the most pleasurable times of the day is at sunset, I love to have a glass of wine and watch the sun sink down over the horizon, hoping to catch the "Green Flash", which on a clear day I do.

Under the glittering stars of the velvet evening sky my family and I will make our way on foot to one of the restaurants that are plunked on the edge of the beach and enjoy a rum punch while we wait for our dinner, listening to Jack Johnson or the like, blending in with the sound of the waves.

We then make our way back to our little haven on the beach.  My husband and I will sometimes step out onto the beach to enjoy the evening air and the beauty  of the stars reflecting on the sea.   I might even stick my feet into the glorious warm waters.

At the end of the day we stretch out in a soft comfortable bed with the gentle breeze wafting by and listen to the comforting sounds of the sea.

This to me is a little piece of Paradise!  Here on the sandy beach, just outside of Crabtree Apartments.