Turks and Caicos?

[Anonymous]

Has anyone been here before? DH and I are thinking about going for our anniversary. I have done lots of research, but would love to hear from anyone who has had experience. Best beaches, where to stay, what to do...

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

We stayed at the Royal West Indies (I think) about 5 years ago on Grace Bay. Beach was gorgeous! Place we stayed was a timeshare, so had a kitchenette which was key because restuarants were crazy expensive (and usually not worth it). No local culture to speak of and we found locals to not be welcoming at all. But great place to stay at your resort and sit on the beach.

[Anonymous]

OP here: okay, let me add on to my question. Are there any other islands that you would recommend as well? We are totally open. We are also pondering the Dominican Republic as well...but I have heard it is not as nice?

[Anonymous]

How about Grand Cayman? We haven't gone (yet!), but have our eyes on it as it's close, has great beaches, great snorkeling, great diving. Cons: very expensive, esp dining. But I think you can get some reasonably-priced condos. The 7-mile beach area is I understand quite built-up, but it still looks gorgeous.

I like this site as it gives you a good comparison between condo options.

http://caymanvacations.com/gccondos.shtml

[Anonymous]

We have been to T&C twice and are going again in a few weeks. If you go, you will want to stay on Grace Bay Beach. We have stayed at T&C Club and Seven Stars. We have walked up and down the beach there and there are very few places that I would not stay. There are no traditional hotels on Grace Bay, so it might be worth it to check VRBO to rent a villa through and owner rather than the property manager. T&C is very quiet. The beach is gorgeous, once you go no other island will compare. Great restaurants! As I am sure you can tell, we love it! If you have other questions I will be happy to answer them

[Anonymous]

I loved the water and beaches. We stayed at the Beaches resort b/c we had kids w/ us. I would recommend hiring a boat for the day and have them drop you off at remote small islands. We did that one afternoon and it was like being shipwrecked on our own private island. Ahhhh.