If you’re longing for a Caribbean dream vacation, but are worried about the crowds or your budget, then the TCI in the offseason may very well be the best possible solution for you. In fact, all savvy travellers know this is a great season to explore, have fun and enjoy the beaches and the watersports in almost undisturbed splendour. This picture-perfect destination is as splendid off-season as during the peak season, and the weather and water change a lot less than you’d think, too! Here’s the Big Blue Collective’s definitive guide to travelling the TCI in the off-season.
Deals, deals everywhere
The off-season in the TCI is typically seen as May to November, and is mostly driven by the fact that it’s summer in the Northern Hemisphere and people feel less of a need to flee their inclement, snow-covered homes as they do in the winter peak season. The islands don’t stop, however, and you’re more than welcome to come join the party year-round. Remember, while the ‘permanent’ TCI community is small, it’s super welcoming and we know how to relax no matter what the calendar says!
Even better news is coming, though. Because of the drop-off in visitors, the off-season in Turks and Caicos is easier on the budget then the peak season. Unlike many other destinations, the prices fall fast, too, so you’ll be able to sneak in on the tail of the winter peak with much better pricing as long as you time it right. Of course, the Big Blue Collective offers some sweet deals all year round, but imagine being able to save anywhere between 20% and 50% on your hotel stay while you are here? Great, isn’t it?
One thing to note- as with many tourist destinations, hotels and facilities may choose to time any renovation and construction they need to do to stay competitive, welcoming and modern for visitors to the off-peak season. When you make your booking, feel free to ask to be placed away from any such activities that may be taking place, so you don’t get disturbed needlessly. They will be happy to accommodate.
How will I get to the TCI in the off-season?
You may be worried that there will be a slowdown in flights to the TCI during the off-season. Fortunately, although some airlines do slow their routes down a little, buying a package vacation can be the perfect way to avoid having to worry about your flights at all. If you are more of a book-it-yourself vacationer, then simply sign up to some airline sales pages. These will put specials on flights up two to three months ahead of the departure times, and these specials tend to be ‘less popular routes’- just like the off-season TCI! Combined with the airlines who regularly offer hops from the U.S mainland to Provo, you’re sure to find a sweet deal at just the right time.
Meet the locals and live their real lives
The islands are gorgeous at any time of year, but peak season in the TCI does tend to see the tourists outweigh the locals. By coming in the off-season, you’ll have an unprecedented opportunity to experience the true local flair and meet the people who call this corner of the Caribbean home for good. It’s a relaxed atmosphere full of local colour, and a great time to sign up for activities like our eco-tours, or to explore the smaller islands.
The ‘slow’ season is also the best time to sample island cuisine. Both crab and lobster season kick off around about now, so succulent, delicious dishes await your eager taste buds. Expect to find a plethora of festivals unrolling around you to celebrate this bountiful natural harvest. There’s also the South Caicos Regatta and a bunch of local holidays celebrated through the TCI off-season, and the fall even features the world’s one and only Conch Festival. Experience TCI culture at its very best.
Guaranteed relaxation and ample privacy
Not one for the crowds? Then the Turks and Caicos off-season is perfect for you. Hotel occupancy is lower [hey, you may even get a room upgrade to sweeten the experience], the beaches are even less full than usual, and you’ll feel like an exclusive VIP no matter where you venture. You’ll also score a better price on car rentals to get around, and have a smoother, quicker airport check-in too. Thinking of heading to the islands for a honeymoon or vow renewal? There’s no better time for some intimate, romantic fun.
What about hurricane season?
Summer in the TCI is, indeed, officially ‘hurricane season’- but don’t panic just yet! The area has experienced very few ‘true’ hurricanes in the last hundred years. The most you are actually likely to experience is increased rainfall, which can even be refreshing given the heat. The weather is a little hotter, but for many folks that’s just an extra drawcard. Just be sure to pack your sunscreen! All the hotels and resorts will offer hurricane policies to cover you if, for any reason, the weather does get too inclement for you to fly in, but the chances are pretty low. The water gets a little warmer and the winds stronger, so if you’re keen on water sports and windsurfing, you’ll find a stiffer challenge awaiting you. The smaller crowds will also mean tour operators like Big Blue Collective are freer to give you truly personalised instruction. There’s less chance of anyone spotting your learning oopsies, too!
The warm water and basking heat also make this the perfect opportunity for you to book your very own private cruise, allowing you to play, explore and go where your whims take you. Enjoy having the seas to yourself, and being able to fully explore the dive sites with the utmost freedom.
So, looking for something exciting to do with your summer vacation this year? Why not consider visiting the Turks and Caicos in the offseason to top up your fun-o-meter, nab yourself some private time on the beaches, and enjoy all this fascinating island chain has to offer with a sweet deal or two to make the experience even better? The Big Blue Collective looks forward to welcoming you to this summer paradise this year!