palm fronds gently urging me to wake. My husband stretched beside me as I sat up in bed. A canvas of turquoise blues and emerald greens took my breath away. I slipped out of bed and gently pushed the doors wide open. As I padded softly out onto the bleached white terrace I took a long deep breath and closed my eyes, simply enjoying the soothing scents and sounds that surrounded me. Moments passed into minutes as I luxuriated in the warmth of the morning sun. A hand quietly came to rest upon my shoulder, a cup of coffee slid into my hand. "Welcome to your island home. What do you think?" My husband's voice assured me that no, this was not a dream, at least for the next two weeks... The author's first villa vacation Villa Oasis, Grace Bay, Providenciales.For many, picking up and moving to an exotic destination seems completely impossible. However, one might still fancy having the ocean at their doorstep, a beach to walk at the end of the workday. A warm consistent climate would definitely beat the seemingly endless winters, and you would like to enjoy your summer leisure activities throughout the year. For most, a villa vacation in such a destination is the answer to this dilemma. And here, in the Turks & Caicos, an incredibly wide variety of options are available, making this alternative possible for anyone wishing to play at the fantasy of an island life.
Renting a villa often satisfies a number of holiday needs that have perhaps made previous vacations not all they were meant to be. You may be looking for that extra bit of privacy, flexibility, or perhaps plenty of space. You may not want to do anything, just simply be. In a variety of situations, an island home is the perfect option.
Families enjoy the flexibility that a villa provides. Individual members can spread out as they would at home, each finding their own private corner. Villas are often designed with the master bedroom set off allowing parents that extra buffer, as it's their vacation, too! Children have room to socialize inside, room to play outside - always within sight. Even the pool may be right outside the door.
For many families, morning and afternoon meals are often on different schedules, especially while on holiday. A full kitchen allows an individual to wake up when they want, get dressed when they're ready, and grab a bite to eat at their leisure. The evening can be when everyone shares a long and relaxing meal together. Villas often offer many of the little comforts that may otherwise need to be carried hundreds of miles from home. Everything may be at your fingertips the moment you unlock your door.
A villa vacation is perfect for a larger group such as an extended family or several couples travelling together. There are three popular options. You may wish for everyone to be under the same roof, and if this is the case, a number of villas that sleep up to ten are available, some even larger yet. Then there are those that have a main villa and guest villa or villas on the same property. Large dining areas, terraces, and oversize pools offer gathering places for every member of the group to be together at any one time, while individuals or couples have the option to retreat to their own private space whenever they wish. Neighbouring villas offer even more privacy, with a variety of configurations possible.
One accommodation for larger groups is situated directly on Grace Bay Beach - the Aquamarine Beach Houses are comprised of three adjacent two-level beach homes, all fully equipped with appliances and linens, as well as air-conditioning, laundry facilities, cable television, barbecues, sun lounges and a large pool. The houses may be rented as a whole - offering space for up to twenty-four guests. Or, smaller groups or couples may choose to rent one of the upper or lower units of any given house. Each unit faces the ocean, providing spectacular views throughout the day.
Couples are often the ones that dream of stealing precious time together, completely alone. It may be for that first wildly romantic holiday together, as a once in a lifetime honeymoon, or to get to know one another all over again after a very busy or stress filled time at home. Anything is possible. From an intimate villa perched alone on its own private little beach or a luxurious property, two can indulge in what they thought only dreams were made of. Together, take a dip in a private pool under starlit skies or sip a glass of wine in the outdoor jacuzzi, the fragrance of frangipani permeating the air. Wake up in a four poster bed with the ocean as backdrop, wander through private gardens at your leisure, listen to music, read a book, share a quiet intimate meal on the terrace - perhaps in bed. Stroll on the beach, sleep Ôtil noon. You don't have to see another soul the entire time away. It's whatever you desire.
Others crave the time to go completely solo. Get up when you want, do what you want when you want to. Finding our very own rhythm is sometimes essential. Perhaps life has just gotten carried away and the time is needed to focus on personal goals or challenges without the day to day distractions. Perhaps this is the year for you - and there are small villas available that are simply perfect for such an adventure.
No matter what the reason for exploring the possibility of a villa vacation, it goes without question that Turks and Caicos, specifically its tourism hub of Providenciales, has come a very long way in what it has to offer within this realm. Many people renting villas now have much higher expectations than in the past when Provo was just a sleepy little island set away from the rest of the world. Today, vacationers often desire resort style service while enjoying the bonuses of a private villa. You are not alone if you hesitate upon hearing the phrase "home away from home" when considering a vacation... because home comes with the pitfalls of cooking and cleaning, something you wish to leave behind.
Today, most TCI villas come complete with maid service, whether it is scheduled for once a week, biweekly, daily, or even including evening turn down service. When inquiring about your specific choice of accommodation, check the frequency, if maid service is not frequent enough for your needs, additional times can be arranged with a minimal additional charge. All you have to do is ask.
Meals are a completely different kettle of fish. Gourmet Goods can arrange for your villa to be stocked with the essentials upon arrival. They also have chefs on hand as many vacationers are looking for more. Discerning travellers now wish to have the convenience of a restaurant meal within the privacy of their own space including no fuss or muss, and so in-house catering is rocketing to the forefront. There are those special occasion meals and romantic interludes that definitely warrant such a treat.
Chef Clive and Mike from Aqua Bar & Terrace are well experienced in catering elegant private dinner parties. Caicos Catering in association with Tiki Hut offer a couple of different options when it comes to catering for larger parties, events and special celebrations. Give them a call if you have a specific need in mind.
Spa services are also one that many individuals do not like to leave behind when making the decision to stay in a villa versus a resort. Providenciales now has a number of independent spas, and all resorts offer their services to outsiders as well. In addition, Spa Tropique will come to you at any location, their professional mobile service fully equipped for your convenience. Imagine a full massage on your own private terrace as the sun sets, just in time to roll off the table and into your hot tub, only to climb out and slip quietly into bed. That's perfect relaxation.
You might be thinking, just how do I go about coordinating all of this AND pick out the perfect villa to make this a vacation to remember... when time is limited in a life that already seems far too busy? Property Management Companies are your answer. Although there are a number of privately owned and operated villas across the islands, putting your holiday in the hands of an expert is an excellent choice. They are there to see that your every need is met, and are now organizing packages that were once only a part of the hotel industry. You may ask for a rental car to be arranged, additional maid service, babysitting, and groceries on site, daily dives organized, and spa visits set throughout the week.
On top of that, you may also leave it up to them to have a formal dinner on the table for your entire family... just as you'd have it back home. You just have to ask. One coordinator to deal with all on island details. Of course, all companies organize airport greeting and transfers and ensure that every effort is made to maintain the rental properties. They are on island ensuring that any question that may arise is answered or dealt with promptly and professionally.
Some management companies even go so far as to help you with simple wedding preparation, and those who do not will connect you with NILA Destinations, a one-stop shop that will organize everything for you from flowers and wedding decorations to the legal documentation and honeymoon location. (Of course, they will also organize your vacation accommodation, as they are a full, free service for vacation planning.)
There are a several companies to choose from. Backed by ten years of experience Sea Feathers takes pride in their dedication and commitment to those who give them the responsibility of taking care of their personal property, as well as to those who book a vacation with them. Another long-standing management company is Elliot Holdings. They specialize in villa rentals in Leeward, offering an array of modest to magnificent private villas. Prestigious Properties has been associated with the Islands through heritage for over 200 years; the company was established in 1981 and has enjoyed an excellent reputation throughout its existence.
Island Villa Management is one of the newest property management and villa rental companies on Providenciales but has already earned a reputation for handling some of the most luxurious villas. They offer a wide range of villas suitable for 4 - 12 persons, and they are keen in providing extensive event services. They are more than happy to put together all the elements necessary for you to host that special celebration in an exotic island destination.
T C Safari represents exclusive oceanfront and beachfront villa and condominium rentals from five-bedroom accommodation to cozy cottages. The managing director comes with 16 years of experience living and working on Providenciales. Caribbean Way is also a booking agent for vacation villas in the Turks and Caicos. In association with Caribbean Way Turks & Caicos Realty has been in the real estate and property management business for many years here in TCI. Caribbean Way represents over 900 luxury Caribbean villas on over 20 Caribbean islands.
Whether choosing your holiday villa independently or taking advantage of an expert's services, the process can be an exciting adventure unto itself. Not so long ago only a few homes were available, often older without many of the modern conveniences. Now you can expect a wide range of fabulous state of the art homes island-wide, all with their own special niche that may be right for you. But don't be disillusioned. There are still those that speak of older days, a place that feels you've been before that encourages you to kick back and relax.
The following will give you an indication of the AREAS where you will find a variety of villa rentals. When looking, be sure to be honest as to what exactly you need in a villa and the budget you must work within. Beware that your budget can go a little further if your holiday dates are flexible. Thanksgiving through Easter is high season, with highest rates and the least booking flexibility. During specific holiday periods, some rentals require full week bookings, no partials, and multi unit villas may even look at block booking during those times. By booking outside of this, your dollar will go much further
Many individuals that click onto internet sites in search of the perfect holiday home often look for those associated with world famous Grace Bay Beach. There are a few, but not so many due to the nature of the area. Grace Bay is noted for the fabulous world class condominium resorts lining that perfect strip of beach. Only a few villas remain conveniently dotted along as is the grand four bedroom Villa Oasis recalled precluding this article with its unprecedented view and infinity edge pool, privately operated with an on-site manager to ensure you are well taken care of throughout your stay. There is also a two-bedroom, two-bath unit on ground level.
Other beachfront villas include: Villa Camilla, Serenity House and the Treasure Beach Villas.
Some Grace Bay villas are set back from the hustle and bustle. Behind The Mansions and Le Vele is privately owned and managed South Fleetwood. It offers three different options including a meticulous two-bedroom ground floor villa, as well as a wonderful open studio perfect for a couple. The private pool stretches beneath towering palms amidst a perfectly manicured garden just outside the cottage door.
Also back from the beach in the heart of Grace Bay private two bedroom townhouse rentals with a central pool at the Island Club.
Just west of Villa Oasis at the Islands' best snorkel site is The Seagate, privately owned and managed, meticulously cared for with several different configurations to choose from and a lovely private pool on site. Only steps back from the beach along public access, The Seagate offers superb value and location.
Turtle Cove is also within the main tourist area, boasting many dining options and a variety of other services all within walking distance. These include deep-sea fishing charters, the semi-submersible submarine, dive and snorkle operators if you're the sporting type. In addition, Smith's Reef offers excellent snorkelling located a kick off the beach just before the marina entrance.
Beachfront villas in this area include: Avalon, Villa Paprika, Villa Tamarind, Turtle Beach Villa, Beach Villa Sandstone, Dawn Beach House and Bella Sur Mer.
Nearby - Turtle Watch, a lovely villa filled with character, has two separate accommodations on either side of the central pool, outdoor barbecue and dining terrace. It is set along the canal system amidst a lush indigenous garden only a short wander back from the ocean.
On the far eastern end of Grace Bay is the residential resort community of Leeward. There are wonderful properties on very private stretches of beach to choose from as well as canal front villas and many more in the planning stage. At Leeward Marina you'll find one restaurant, a number of boat charters, plus diving and eco-tourism options. Even with these conveniences, however, it is recommended to hire a car for your stay in order to fully appreciate the island and all it has to offer from this location. The Provo Golf & Country Club is west of Leeward with the Grace Bay restaurants and shopping areas all within three miles.
Leeward villas include: Acacia Villa, Antille, Casuarina Villa, Channel House and Island Time.
The fame of Chalk Sound's perfect hue of blue green waters is fast becoming almost as famous as Grace Bay's Beach. Located on the southwest end of Providenciales, villas have quickly sprung up over the past few years, their owners mesmerized by the incredible canvas that remains constant year round. A hop, step, and a jump away on the oceanside is Taylor Bay, the perfect cove of white sand beach and very shallow flat waters.
Forming one side of Taylor Bay is stunning Ocean Point - a rugged outcropping that is home to several striking oceanfront luxury villas. The Ocean Point Villas offer serenity and beauty in an exotic tropical setting - with each villa coming complete with private pool, nearby tennis courts and air-conditioned bedrooms upon request - even though this prime location benefits from the constant cooling effects of trade winds. The villas range in size from a romantic two bedroom cottage that is a favourite of honeymooners, to a spacious five bedroom, five bath villa - perfect for larger families. Ocean Point Villas include: The Cottage, Villa Seacliff, Villa Stonecrest and Villa Vieux Caribe. Within the same Chalk Sound area are found: Aqua Pulchra, Calypso House, Angelfish Reef, Emerald Shores and Crystal Sands on Sapodilla Bay.
Over a ridge and down the other side is Silly Creek, adding yet another watery element for many of the properties to take advantage of - incredible views from all angles. Because of its very private nature and natural features, this south side location is a popular area for luxury villas. Entering into estate areas will take your breath away. You'll know you have arrived. It is almost a necessity, however, to have your own car rental in the area, unless you wish to set up house upon arrival and then take full advantage of the most relaxing holiday ever!
Silly Creek villas include: Blue Waters, Oceanside Tower Villa, Villa Aqua Pulchra, South Seas, Villa Sublime and Five Turtles Villa.
Quickly gaining in popularity and also located on the south shores of Providenciales is Turtle Tail. Away from the hustle and bustle of the north shore, it offers privacy and seclusion, yet more centrally and conveniently located than the aforementioned. With higher elevation, Turtle Tail is becoming renowned for its unprecedented views of the Caicos Banks, shallow waters reflecting the intensity of sky blue during the day and incredible sunsets in the evening. Flamingos wade through adjoining salinas and numerous wee sandy beaches offer intimate ocean access.
Among the villas at Turtle Tail: Bajacu, Villa Palermo, Absolute View Villa, Best View Villa, Villa de Ligera, Five Little Cays Villa, Starfish Villa and Ocean Palms.
Privately owned and operated Harbour Club Villas offers unique accommodation on this part of the island. Six spacious one-bedroom villas, all comfortably furnished with room for four, are situated on two waterfronts. On one side, the Southside Marina opens out into the beauty of the Caicos Banks. You will find dive operators and a fishing charter available here for your convenience. On the other side you are just steps away from world class bonefishing in two saltwater lakes. There's also a freshwater pool on site, with a great gazebo and barbecue along side. It's a great property to chill at for a week or two.
No matter where you decide to stay and what villa you have chosen, we're sure that you will find yourself thoroughly enjoying a villa vacation in Turks and Caicos. For just one week you can close your eyes and pretend that you live where the skies are always blue, the water is always warm. And you never know. You may be like many that just couldn't get enough in that much too brief a time. You'll have to come back time and time again - or make it much more permanent!
