Grand Turk: An island that really lets you get away from it all

Who likes it
Grand Turk is first and foremost a diving destination, offering world class diving yet with conditions suitable for beginners to advanced divers. The reef is part of a protected marine park, so there are few boats or other disturbances to the serene underwater life. But, while the inland is fairly barren and covered with scrubby vegetation, there is plenty to do for non-divers as well. The coral reefs and the fish are rich enough that snorkeling can be a very satisfying excursion. There is plenty of uncrowded beachfront for anyone to unwind, possibly without seeing another soul for hours on end.

Food and drink
Almost all of the food on Grand Turk is imported from Provo or the States, making for pricey menus and limited selection. That said, there are still some good, if mellow, times to be had. Along Front Street, there are a number of dining and drinking establishments right on the water, and if the fish market is open that day, you'll find fresh fish on the menu. Most of the offerings lean toward American tastes, with hamburgers, steaks, and pasta. But there are always a few Caribbean options on the menus, such as conch chowders and jerk chicken. A number of the hotels offer kitchenettes with their rooms, and there are a few sparse but adequate grocery stores to be found. But beware, at last sighting, a small bag of fresh cherries cost the equivalent of about five and a half pounds.

Travel
Grand Turk is an easy 30-minute flight from Provo. A number of major carriers fly to Provo, including British Airways, which offers a weekly flight from London. Air Canada has a direct flight from Toronto. A number of US carriers fly direct from Miami, and American Airlines flies from New York's JFK as well.

Once on Grand Turk, if you are staying on the waterfront, there is little use for a car. But if you choose to stay further from the centre of Cockburn Town, hotels such as the Island House give you the use of a pick-up truck free of charge. Additionally, there are a few taxi services and car and scooter rental agencies, as well as bike rentals.

Best beaches
Governor's Beach is the pride of the town, stretching down the west side of the island. The water here is usually calm and clear enough to snorkel just steps from your blanket. On the downside, there is a large pier being built nearby which will soon be the docking location for cruise ships.

Hotels
At present there are only about a dozen different accommodations to choose from, ranging from a few individual homes and apartments for rent to bed and breakfasts and small family-run hotels. There are no five star accommodations on the island as yet, but here are a few very decent, clean, and well-run recommendations:

• The Osprey Beach has the best location with well-appointed rooms overlooking the beach
• The Salt Raker, across the street from the beach, is also a good choice, if a bit shabby.
• A bit off the beach is the Island House - the friendly host Colin and his daughter, Donna, will treat you to great bits of local insight and the room rental includes use of pick-up truck to get around. Rooms include kitchenettes, and the house has a good view and a pool
• The addition of the Bohio Resort will add an upscale choice-complete with diving and a spa. (Opening date not likely until late 2005)

Nightlife
While there isn't much of a club or bar scene to speak of, there is always plenty of lively conversation and spirits to be had at the newly opened Sand Bar, right on the waterfront in the middle of Cockburn Town. Just a few steps away, The Water's Edge also serves good food and has occasional music. The island boasts a dive master cum acoustic rocker, Mitch Rollins, who plays classic rock at the Osprey Hotel and Salt Raker Inn. But don't forget to bring a good book, for the real draw is the quiet evenings and plenty of opportunity to unwind.

Kids in Tow
At present, Grand Turk isn't chock full of children-oriented adventures, although whale sightings and swimming with sting rays are sure to thrill all ages. If you are looking for a family vacation, you probably better served in the more modernised and accessorised island of Providenciales, which boasts excursions just for kids, playgrounds, and a number of high quality all-inclusive resorts.

Dive shops
All three dive shops offer similar opportunities to explore the nearby reefs. Oasis Divers seems to have the best equipment.