The Turks & Caicos Islands are great for the soul but may be even better for the body. The TCI has no poisonous snakes or spiders, no malaria or other tropical diseases, is rabies-free, and boasts the Caribbean's lowest crime rate. The wildest animals you'll find here are the islands' "potcake" dogs, which are generally as gentle as lambs. The waters are protected by a coral reef that rings the islands, so you won't have to deal with rough surf; in fact, the sea is so gentle and clear (and the sand has so few pebbles and rocks) that this is the perfect spot to teach toddlers and young children how to swim. Still, keep the following suggestions in mind to stay healthy and safe on your trip:
- Be mindful of the brutal tropical sun. Wear sunglasses and a hat and use sunscreen liberally. Limit your time on the beach the first day. If you do overexpose yourself, stay out of the sun until you recover. If your exposure is followed by fever or chills, a headache, or a feeling of nausea or dizziness, see a doctor. And keep hydrated: Drink lots of water if you plan to be outside for long periods.
- Bring insect repellent. Fortunately, malaria-carrying mosquitoes in the Caribbean are confined largely to Haiti and the Dominican Republic, so you don't have that to worry about. In late afternoon, however, it's a good idea to spray on insect repellent (most restaurants have outdoor seating and often have insect-repellent spray on hand).
- Be mindful of diving risks. The Turks & Caicos is a diver's paradise. One of the more serious risks associated with diving is decompression sickness -- more commonly known as "the bends." Associated Medical Practices (located in the Medical Building on Leeward Hwy. in Providenciales; tel. 649/946-4242) has a dive decompression chamber to treat the bends. Note: The treatment is expensive, so be sure to check your dive insurance before you dive.
- Consider drinking bottled water during your trip. If you experience diarrhea, moderate your eating habits and drink only bottled water until you recover. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor.
- Pack prescription medications in your carry-on luggage. Carry written prescriptions in generic -- not brand-name -- form, and dispense all prescription medications from their original labeled vials. Many people try to carry drugs such as cocaine via prescription containers; Customs officials are well aware of this type of smuggling and often check medication bottles. (Exception: Liquid prescriptions must be in their original containers, per the latest Transportation Security Administration regulations, and all other liquids, gels, and creams have been banned from carry-on luggage.)
- Pack an extra pair of contact lenses (if you wear them), in case you lose one set.
Contact the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers (IAMAT; tel. 716/754-4883, or in Canada 416/652-0137; www.iamat.org) for tips on travel and health concerns on the islands you're visiting and lists of local English-speaking doctors. The United States' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (tel. 800/311-3435; www.cdc.gov) provides up-to-date information on health hazards by region or country and offers tips on food safety. The website www.tripprep.com, sponsored by a consortium of travel-medicine practitioners, may also offer helpful advice.
What to Do If You Get Sick Away from Home
Finding a good doctor in the Turks & Caicos is not a problem, and most speak English.
If you suffer from a chronic illness, consult your doctor before your departure. If you worry about getting sick away from home, you might want to consider medical travel insurance.
Staying Safe
The TCI is justifiably proud of the fact that it has one of the lowest crime rates and one of the highest rates of solved crimes in the Caribbean. A slight uptick in petty crimes of late has been attributed to the changing population dynamics -- the influx of a non-national workforce. Although crime is minimal in the islands -- the locals are deeply offended when someone resorts to robbing people of their possessions -- petty theft does take place, so protect your valuables, money, and cameras. Don't flash big wads of money around, especially when you arrive at the airport. Use common sense and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
