Turks and Caicos Islands Travel Safety

Precautions

Stay in busy, reputable and well-protected accommodation and keep the doors locked at all times. Always verify the identity of a visitor before opening the door. Use the hotel safe for storage of valuables and travel documents, as thefts from unoccupied hotel and resort rooms and villas can also occur. Never leave valuables such as money, credit cards and personal electronics unattended, especially on beaches and in vehicles. Do not carry large amounts of cash, and use caution when using automated teller machines (ATMs), especially after dusk. Avoid secluded, isolated areas, such as roads, parks and beaches, after dark. If you plan to explore remote areas of the islands, such as for bird watching, diving or snorkelling, inform friends, relatives or hotel management of your destination, whether you will be companied and the time of your expected return. Excursions should be undertaken in groups, preferably with experienced tour operators.

Road safety

Main roads are generally in good condition. Be careful when driving after dark or on secondary roads, since unpaved surfaces, potholes, blind intersections and roaming animals may pose risks. Driving can be hazardous on Providenciales due to reckless driving and excessive speeding.

Water sports

Ensure that beach and aquatic equipment is safe and in good condition, and that helmets and life jackets are available.

Women's safety

Turks and Caicos Islands is generally safe, women travelling alone should maintain personal security awareness. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Women, particularly foreigners may be subject to unwanted male attention and catcalls in certain places. Be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance and exercise increased caution throughout your travel.

Crime

Petty crime occurs, including theft from rental vehicles. Muggings and armed assaults also occur, mostly in areas popular with tourists. You should be especially vigilant on Providenciales, which has a higher crime rate than the other islands. f you find yourself the victim of an armed robbery, you should comply with the perpetrator's demands without resistance, to avoid injury.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault or robbery.

LGBT

Homosexuality is legal under Turks and Caicos Islands' law. However, there's no provision for marriage or civil partnerships between same-sex couples. Attitudes in the main tourist destination of Providenciales are tolerant. Throughout Turks and Caicos, hotels and resorts are generally welcoming regardless of sexual orientation. Outside the tourist areas local attitudes can be conservative and some people may not approve of public displays of affection between same-sex couples.

Illegal drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Don't become involved with drugs of any kind.

Driving

Traffic drives on the left. It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol. An International Driving Permit is recommended. You must obtain a local licence from the Road Safety Department if you have been on the island for more than one month.