Providenciales 4-Day Luxury Escape

Afternoon:

Arrival at Providenciales International Airport

Welcome to Providenciales: The vibrant heart of the Turks and Caicos Islands, offering a blend of pristine natural beauty, luxury resorts and rich cultural experiences. Known for its world-renowned Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales boasts powdery white sands and turquoise waters that attract beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts from around the globe. The island features upscale accommodations, gourmet dining and a range of activities including snorkeling, diving and sailing. Beyond the beaches, visitors can explore local markets, historical sites, and the island's diverse culinary scene, making Providenciales a premier destination for relaxation and adventure.

Pro tip: Utilize the Fast Track TCI for a swift and effortless experience. The TCI Fast Pass team, identifiable by their red shirts, will greet you immediately as you walk inside the terminal from your plane, guide you to baggage claim and fast track you through customs and immigration. Your private car, also bookable through this service, will then take you to the resort, a quick 15-minute drive away.

Check-in at Seven Stars Resort

Upon arrival, enjoy a cool towel and a refreshing rum punch drink in the elegant lobby while the staff handles your check-in seamlessly.

Settle into your luxurious accommodations. This property offers a variety of room categories designed to cater to different preferences and group sizes. We opted for a Junior Oceanfront Suite. It was appointed with a beautiful poster bed, enormous bath and shower room, the perfect sized mini kitchen for two people that included an ice maker, fridge, sink, small cooktop and the views of Grace Bay that are simply amazing. In addition, the location of this resort is perfect. Close to shopping and restaurants and next door to all of our water activities.

Pro tip: If you would like to skip renting a car as they drive on the left, with many roundabouts on the island, our recommendation is to stay at Seven Stars or The Ritz Carlton as they are the most centrally located five-star resorts on the island of Providenciales. Nestled on the secluded western shore of the island, Amanyara offers an exclusive retreat surrounded by pristine nature reserves and the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. The resort is 30 minutes from a paved road. It is the ultimate in exclusivity, but far from the Grace Bay area.

Evening:

Saxaphone Sunset Cruise - Lady Grace

We opted for the Thursday night champagne and saxophone sunset cruise that conveniently boarded directly next door at the Ritz Carlton pier. The champagne flows effortlessly and the small bites included my favorite... sushi! Along with other treats for less adventurous palates. The resident dolphin, JoJo welcomed us and the sunset that night was spectacular.

End the night at Coco Bistro

Pro tip: We ordered a few small dishes from the bar as we did not have a seated reservation for the evening. We walked right in and were seated immediately at the outside bar on the left. Make sure to book a reservation well in advance for a guaranteed table for a more romantic experience.

We decided on a night cap each, the two conch salad, a perfect blend of sweet and sour flavors and the highly recommended butter poached shrimp. Everything was superb.

Early rise and Included breakfast buffet at Seven Stars Resort

Enjoy a variety of options including fresh pastries, fruits, an omelet station, European breakfast meats and cheeses, potatoes, sausages, bacon, mushrooms, oatmeal and more at the complimentary breakfast buffet for resort guests.

Private full-day charter

Head back over to the Ritz Carlton pier, conveniently located next door, to meet your private charter. The itinerary is fully customizable to suit your preferences. Just speak with your crew before departing the dock.

Enjoy breakfast pastries and fruit on board if you'd like, and opt for an add-on bottle of champagne for a touch of luxury.

Snorkeling at Turtle Cove and Grace Bay Reef

We began our day with an exhilarating snorkeling session at Turtle Cove. Swim among turtles and vibrant reef fish in the crystal-clear waters. Our first mate, Dennis, guided us through the experience, diving under reef arches and pointing out various marine species.

We continued our underwater adventure at Grace Bay Reef, located directly out in the distance from the Seven Stars resort. Marvel at the beautiful coral formations and abundant sea life.

Champagne at the secluded sandbar

Visit a serene sandbar and enjoy a leisurely walk along the pristine shoreline. Sip on your champagne as you take in the breathtaking views and the gentle lapping of the crystal-clear water

Floating bar experience

Make stops at two unique floating bars, each offering a distinct vibe. Relax, enjoy a drink and soak up the sun while experiencing these must-visit spots. Meet some locals along the way. We met Lunchbox.

Lunch at Omar’s

We docked at Omar’s for a delightful sit-down lunch. Savor Caribbean flavors with dishes like whole fish, curries and Jamaican favorites such as oxtail and conch. You might even get the chance to meet Omar, who frequently visits with guests. We did!

Pro tip: Invite your captain and first mate to have a non-alcoholic drink with you at the floating bars. Invite them to lunch with you. They eat too. And, you will have a great time talking to and listening to the locals tell stories of island life.

Island Tour by boat

Embark on a scenic tour of the island. Highlights include:

Enzo Ferrari's Island Compound: Marvel at the luxurious estate of the legendary car manufacturer.

Prince's House: Admire the iconic purple driveway and the grandeur of the property.

We concluded our tour with a visit to Split Rock, a stunning natural outcropping by the sea, offering fabulous photo opportunities and breathtaking views.

Dinner and Leisure

Enjoy a relaxed evening dining at one of the resort's fine restaurants (Seven, The Farm or The Deck). BLT steakhouse, Noori Japanese and Casa Nona Italian reside in The Ritz Carlton, next door.

Pro tip: Tip everyone with cash. Bring a lot and bring small bills. Taxis are cash only.

Start your day with the breakfast buffet.

Pro tip: If you are a yogurt fan, you must try theirs. Best I've had since Greece.

Full-day private car tour

We reserved a car and driver with EVIP TCI prior to our trip and we couldn't have been more pleased. Our day was fully customizable.

Walk-in snorkeling spot

We started the day with a snorkel adventure at Smith's Reef. Our driver took us to Coral Gardens where we made a short walk to the beach area left of the hotel and rented a two chair and umbrella setup from the vendor there. The snorkeling was spectacular as the trail takes you around the fire coral - ensure to stay on the outside of the markers. We were greeted by the resident spotted eagle ray and an abundance of reef fish.

Pro tip: Make sure to place your valuables in a waterproof snorkeling bag or box that is worn around your neck. Take cash for the chair setup. They have some snorkeling gear and PFDs if you need to rent. We travel with our own gear.

Shopping at Salt Mills Plaza

Although these shops are within walking distance of Seven Stars Resort, we opted for a quick stop by car prior to lunch.

Pro tip: Anna's and The Wellington Collection are great stops for higher-end gifts. Dive Provo has better quality t-shirts than most. Potcake Place K9 Rescue is located in the Salt Mills Plaza if you would like to stop by and walk a puppy or donate to the organization.

Lunch at Da Conch Shack

We tasted every conch dish on the menu from conch fritters to conch soup to conch salad to cracked conch. Christian ordered the burger which looked pretty good as well. The location is beautiful right by the water's edge and they have live music playing most of the time. Since we love hot sauces, we picked up a bottle of Peppa Joy here for the best price on the island.

Pro tip: Invite your driver to lunch. They eat too. Their company will enhance your overall experience as Providenciales is a small island where most of the locals know each other. We met some wonderful people here with our driver, Christian.

Driving in the countryside

As mentioned, your EVIP TCI tour is completely customizable. You could ask for a stop at Taylor Bay to swim in the calm crystal waters or head over to the lesser visited northwest area of Malcolm's Beach. We had an invite to visit an exclusive resort this day for a site visit.

Beachside dinner and a sunset

You can't go wrong with any of the higher end restaurants on the island. We chose Infiniti at Grace Bay Club (a stones-throw from Seven Stars). The Bone Marrow Crusted Beef Fillet and the Moroccan Spiced Wagyu Cheek Tagine were our choices this evening along with a bottle of Silver Oak. Simply delicious. And, the sunset was stunning.

Pro tip: Secure dinner reservations at your preferred locations long in advance of your trip.

Rise and shine for a relaxing beach day

Breakfast buffet at Seven Stars is included with your stay

Bloody Mary anyone?

Pro tip: You can purchase up to 2 liters of alcohol per couple via duty free shop to enter into Providenciales. Graceway Gourmet is a two block walk from Seven Stars. Purchase mixers and snacks here.

It's a day at the beach

Settle into your beach spot and indulge in various water sports and activities. Grace Bay is perfect for snorkeling, paddleboarding or simply floating in the gentle waves. Equipment rentals are readily available for those seeking adventure on the water. For those preferring relaxation, lounge chairs and umbrellas line the beach, offering a comfortable setting to soak up the sun, read a book or simply enjoy the stunning views of the horizon.

Lunchtime spots

The Deck at Seven Stars offers beachside ordering as well as table service.

Coralli, next door at the Ritz, also offers lunch by the beach.

Indigo - Beach Dinner

While there are so many stellar restaurants on this beautiful island, we chose Indigo — the beach experience — at Wymara Resort for our last night. Let's just say that it didn't disappoint. From the individualized service to the superb wine list, to the appetizers, salads and entrees and let us not forget the perfectly ordered sunset for the evening, this experience is not to be missed. We sipped prosecco as we had our appetizers of Beef Tenderloin Carpaccio and Kale and Poached Pear Salad. We enjoyed a fantastic bottle of Spanish Mauro 2019 along with our entree choices of Shrimp Spaghetti and Jamaican Style Curry, Boneless Venison. What a night, and a vacation to remember.

Returning Home

Sadly, our trips have to end, but we bring back memories that will last a lifetime.

In closing out this wonderful getaway, I want to leave you with a few additional tips.

1. Secure VIP Lounge seats and Fast Pass through PLS security ASAP for your departure day.

PLS airport is a very small, cramped airport with little AC and seating. Departure service includes greeting at airport curbside, assistance through express security - no wait line, and an escort to the VIP lounge where you can relax until boarding time. The lounge is air-conditioned, and includes its own private lavatory, television, Wi-Fi. snacks and refreshments.

2. For US Citizens that do not have Global Entry, download the Mobile Passport Control App for your phone.

Submit your photos and documents and skip that long line at your point of entry. Go to the designated lines for Mobile Passport Control instead.