Located southeast of the Bahamas and north of the Dominican Republic, the Turks and Caicos Islands boast over 40 islands and cays. Although only eight of those are inhabited, they collectively house a population of approximately 38,000 people. With a historical association with piracy, the islands gained their independence from Great Britain in 1962 and currently benefit from British Overseas Territory status. The Turks and Caicos Islands are home to a great number of stunning, pristine beaches, including some of the best diving sites in the world. The government operates a robust tourism industry, and while the per-capita income is high due to vast offshore financial services, poverty remains a significant issue.
Expat destinations in Turks and Caicos Islands
Demographics of Turks and Caicos Islands:
Ethnic groups
Black: 84.1%
Mixed: 2.9%
Other: 1.4%
White: 11.6%
Languages
English: 100%
Religion Overview
Although Christianity is the primary religion, many Turks and Caicos Islanders follow traditional African and Caribbean beliefs as well. The principal denominations include Anglican, Baptist, Methodist, Seventh Day Adventist, Pentecostal, and Roman Catholic.
Major Religions
Climate
The climate in the Turks and Caicos Islands is tropical, and as such, there is little difference between the seasons. The average temperature rarely drops below 21°C (70°F) or exceeds 32°C (90°F) throughout the year. The most significant weather events are hurricanes, which can occur between June and November.
Economy Overview
The Turks and Caicos Islands enjoy a strong economy, benefiting from a favourable location within the Caribbean region. Offshore financial services, especially trusts, are a key industry, with tax concessions remunerative for businesses that incorporate in the islands. Tourism is also vital to the economy, with a substantial portion of the islands' infrastructure dedicated to accommodating visitors.
Key Industries
- Offshore financial services
- Tourism
Major Companies
- Maples Group
- Appleby Global
- Harneys
- Stawny Studios
- Ambient Services Limited
Culture and Language Overview
The culture of the Turks and Caicos Islands is formed from an amalgamation of African, Caribbean, European, and Indigenous influences. Music, dance, and storytelling are integral parts of the community and are celebrated throughout the year during carnivals, festivals, and other community events. The national instrument is the conch shell, a shell that has blown calls of meetings, warning signs, or as musical instruments for centuries.
Cultural Highlights
- Masquerade Carnival
- Annual Conference and Gala Weekend
- Heritage Festival
- J'ouvert Morning
- Chalk Sound Salt Spa Festival
- BBC Good Food Caribbean Cookery School
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Of the forty islands and cays that make up the Turks and Caicos, only eight are currently inhabited. Cockburn Town, the capital, is located on Grand Turk, the largest of the inhabited islands. The highest point in the territory is just seven metres above sea level.
Notable Landmarks
- The Turks and Caicos Barrier Reef
- Chelsea Beach
- Cockburn Harbour
- Wall Cross
- Chalk Sound National Marine Park
- Grace Bay Beach
National Holidays
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Initial Public Offerings Day (First Monday in June)
- Her Majesty The Queen's Official Birthday (Second Monday in June)
- Proclamation Day (10 July)
- Islands Festival (Last Sunday in July to the Last Sunday in August)
- National Thanksgiving Day (Second Monday in October)
- Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II's Accession to the Throne Day (6 February)
- Turks and Caicos National Day (22 July)
Political Stability
As an Overseas Territory, the Turks and Caicos Islands is responsible for many of the domestic aspects of governance, while Great Britain deals with foreign and defence policy. The Turks and Caicos Islands Parliament comprises a twelve-member House of Assembly and the Governor, who is appointed by the Monarch. Political instability caused governmental and police corruption, but this has been largely overshadowed through reforms and appointments over the past few years.
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