TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

The Turks and Caicos Islands is an upscale Caribbean destination, with miles of pristine beach, spectacular coral reefs, crystal clear seas and tropical wilderness. The TCI boasts a small but vibrant open economy that operates from a strategic position in the middle of the Caribbean. The Islands' economy depends largely on tourism and the offshore finance industry. As a British Crown Colony, TCI is politically and socially stable. At the same time, TCI confidentiality legislation has established one of the world's best protective frameworks for lawful business to be transacted in privacy.

The country enjoys year-round sunshine with a prevailing easterly breeze from the Atlantic tradewinds. The temperature on the islands ranges between 65 F in December and 95 F in June.

The TCI is the fastest growing travel destination in the Caribbean with average annual growth of 11.3% per annum over the last decade. Arrivals from North America represent 70% of the total, with growth noticed in the European market.

POPULATION

The permanent resident population is also growing and was estimated to be 25,000 in 2002. The population is mostly of African decent with a number of North American and European Expats.

The majority of islanders are black descendants from the early Bermudan, Loyalist and slave settlers and salt rakers dating back 300 years. The 1/2 inch thick telephone directory reflects this heritage, with long listings under the names Astwood, Butterfield, Forbes, Lightbourne, Stubbs, and Williams.

WHERE DID TURKS & CAICOS GET IT'S NAME?

The name Turks is derived after the indigenous Turk's Head "fez" cactus, pictured to the right, and the name Caicos is a Lucayan term "caya hico," meaning string of islands.