Turks & Caicos

Hurray for new country and besides, a milestone: Turks & Caicos, which is the 100th country in my collection! A very exotic destination as can be derived from this postcard. White beaches with crystal clear water + a whole different world underwater.

The Turks and where? That’s the reaction most people have when you mention these tropical isles. Like all great Shangri-Las, this one is hidden just under the radar. Be glad that it is, as this tropical dream is the deserted Caribbean destination you’ve been looking for. And the best part – it’s only 90 minutes by plane from Miami; this slice of paradise is just around the corner.

So why would you want to go there? How about white-sand beaches, clear blue water and a climate that defines divine. Secluded bays and islands where you’ll see more wild donkeys than other travelers. Historic towns and villages that look like something out of a pirate movie, where life creeps along at a sedate pace. While development is on the rise, all one has to do is dig a bit deeper, catch a boat to the next island over and the solace of solitude returns: islands like Grand Turk (part of the Turks Islands) are set in a time long since past, with dilapidated buildings, salt ponds and narrow lanes, and contrast with the ever-expanding Providenciales, tourist gateway to the Caicos Islands.

Divers and beach aficionados will rejoice at the quality of the sea here. Clear warm waters teem with sea life, yet are devoid of crashing waves. Even the most ardent land lubber can’t help but be mesmerized by the azure water and golden sand. [source: lonelyplanet]

Thank you very much Gilles!