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Planning and Tips
The warm weather was perfect for my family of five with the youngest at age 10, but I observed quite a few families with babies and toddlers who seemed uncomfortable with the temperature and too young to amuse themselves with the water sports.
Conch
This island specialty is prepared in so many ways that it will be almost impossible to avoid giving it a try on your trip. Look for conch fritters, chowder, salad and curries and if need be, bribe your children to join you in enjoying this incredibly fresh and delicious shellfish.
All About the Extras
Family Photography
A special opportunity offered by The West Bay Club is the chance to schedule a professional portrait of your family on the beach during your vacation. Photography sessions are promised to be fun, relaxed, quick and easy. If you're considering, be assured that photos taken at this tropical destination on one of the world's most beautiful beaches are sure to be fabulous.
Grocery Provisioning
Guests who are interested in taking advantage of West Bay's high-end kitchens can send a simple e-mail to the resort and request that their cabinets and refrigerator be stocked with all of the family's favorite foods and drinks; imagine arriving at this beautiful destination and finding favorite snacks and beverages lining the shelves and filling the pantry! (Note that an additional fee charged for this service.)
Cell Phone Loaner Program
Consider utilizing West Bay's cell phone loaner program. Instead of accumulating enormous roaming charges on your own cell phone, West Bay will provide a complimentary cell phone offering very reasonable rates for international and domestic calls and texts. Prior to arrival you'll be advised of your island cell phone number, enabling you to receive calls from family, friends or work (only if necessary!) while on vacation. The phone also includes a preset speed-dial that connects you to West Bay from anywhere on the island. Costs related to your calls are charged to your room through the Front Desk. Do not hesitate to utilize this invaluable service; we took advantage of the cell phone program and found it to be a very reasonable alternative to using our own cell phones.
The Art of Smart Timing
The weather in Turks and Caicos is beautiful, warm and sunny all year long, but the island does have its high and low seasons. The most popular and also most expensive time to visit is over the winter holidays, specifically from December 21st to January 2nd. The months from January to June are considered the high-season, and this is when you'll find the driest and most moderate temperatures. June to mid-November is considered the off-season, delivering the highest temperatures, but also offering the most reduced travel rates. The island is so peaceful and quiet that crowds or traffic are never a problem any time of year.
Getting There and Around
The West Bay Club is a short, 15-minute cab ride from the Povidenciales International Airport. Cabs are readily available at the airport, as well as rental cars. Prior to arrival, my family was undecided about renting a car. After a day or so without our own form of transportation, my husband rented a car and we really enjoyed the freedom it afforded us.
For Mom and Dad
If you are traveling with children and can arrange for some "couple time," fine dining or a joint spa treatment would be a fabulous way to relax and enjoy each others' company.
Spa
The Spatropique at the West Bay Club has a choice of two experiences for couples. The first package is dubbed "Afternoon Delight" and includes 50-minute Swedish massages and mini-foot massages, and the second is "Ahhh Bliss," including 70-minute aromatherapy massages and spa pedicures.
Anacaona
This special restaurant is well worth a splurge. Located directly on the beach at the Grace Bay Club, diners are seated in a gorgeous, round open-air dining room with a dramatically tented palapas ceiling topped with conical thatched palm roofs and nestled amid beach foliage in seaside pods. Couples looking for a romantic evening should have no fear of disruptive children at the next table as this is an adults only restaurant-
Lounge and Infinity Bars
These chic bars are also located at the Grace Bay Club and are two of the hottest spots on the island. The Lounge features white-cushioned seating around glowing fire pits under sail-type canopies. The Infinity Bar is the longest bar in the Caribbean, with a ninety-foot-long, sleek black marble bar inset with blue lights. The bar also features an infinity edge that is incredibly unique.
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