Connect with us

TCI News

TCI: International Travel Report

Published

on

#TurksandCaicos, May 24, 2018 – Providenciales – In an effort to inform and educate the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands on the regional and international obligations of the Office of Premier and Minister of Finance, Premier Robinson has issued an International Travel Report for 2018.

  • OCTA (Brussels, Belgium) February 2018

(PREMIER)

The Turks and Caicos Islands has had a long relationship with European Union and as such the islands have significantly benefitted in expertise, advice and financial assistance over the years.  The TCI most recently benefitted from two European Development Funds (EDF) 10 and 11 and is also a participant in several Regional EU Programs. Under the EDF 11 Program, which is focused on improvements in the education sector and sustainable energy, marine biodiversity, climate change and disaster risk reduction, we are currently receiving funding for our new School in Providenciales among other support for the education sector.

As the Chair of OCTA, the Premier was responsible for chairing the Ministerial Conference of OCTA and round table discussions, with her Ministerial colleagues.  This year, the TCI also participated in a one-day meeting on oceans organised by OCTA, under the theme “More than 17,000,000 Km2 of Ocean Policy: OCTs and the Sustainable Management of the Ocean and its resources”.  The Premier in her discussions as chair highlighted her governments challenges and commitment to the issues faced including: challenges with pollution, fisheries, new opportunities for blue growth and new opportunities for research.  It is customary for the Chair of OCTA to host a Gala Dinner in honour of the delegates, officials and guests who have travelled to the host country, or in this instance Brussels, for the auspicious occasion. Following the Storms, the TCI did not have the usual expense for the Dinner and the costs were borne by the EU.

 

  • 11th Commonwealth Business Forum (London, United Kingdom) 16-18 April, 2018

    (PREMIER) 

The Premier was invited by the Commonwealth of 52 countries to be a VIP speaker at the 11th Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) in London on 16-18 April 2018 in conjunction with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).  The Forum is a truly global event, that brought together Heads of Government, Ministers, and senior business leaders from around the world.  It provided a valuable opportunity for high level dialogue on trade and investment between business and government leaders from across the Commonwealth and beyond. Organized by the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, working with the UK Government and in partnership with the City of London, it was a unique gathering of global leaders.  This event provided an opportunity to identify areas in which the Commonwealth can help its member countries to access modern financial services, harness technology and innovation, attract inward investment, and to improve sustainable business practices, particularly through public-private sector collaboration.  The Premier addressed the session Economic and Climate Volatility: Innovation and Resilience for Island States and contributed her experience and leadership in this area.

 

  • CDB Board of Governors Meeting (Grenada)

(AS MINISTER OF FINANCE)

 

The TCI is a member of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). Each year the CDB hosts a general meeting for its members to discuss economic and social matters relevant to the financial viability of the region that will enhance growth, achieve and maintain stability, as well as reduce and alleviate poverty amongst its member countries. Last year, this Meeting was held in TCI as the Minister of Finance for the Turks and Caicos Islands was the serving Chair.

The forty-eighth (48th) Board of Governors meeting will be held in Grenada at the end of May 2018 and the theme of this year’s meeting is “Resilience”.  The Hon. Premier was selected to speak on the topic ”Building Resiliency” as the Turks and Caicos Islands experienced two major tropical cyclones in September of 2017.  The general theme for this year’s meeting would allow her and other leaders in other governments to share information and network as they embark on initiatives to build each country’s resilience to climate change, natural hazards and environmental changes for the survival of its people.

This Meeting will also allow the Hon. Premier to hold bi-lateral discussions with members of the CDB on the three areas of assistance that the Government is pursuing with the CDB in the following areas:

  • Transport Sector Study;
  • Climate Resilient Coastal Protection and Management; and
  • Solid Waste Management
  • Pre Joint Ministerial Council and JMC OT-EN (United Kingdom) June 11-15, 2018

(PREMIER)

 

The Pre- Joint Ministerial Conference meeting of Oversees Territory (OT) Leaders precedes the Joint Ministerial Conference that is slated for December 27-29, 2018 as a planning session to have candid discussions on those matters of priority affecting the Overseas Territories for inclusion on the Agenda of the JMC.

The Pre-Joint Ministerial Council (Pre-JMC) 2018 takes place against the backdrop of the United Kingdom (UK) decision to leave the European Union (EU). Overseas Territories (OT) Political Leaders will consider the direct engagement of the United Kingdom on Brexit without either side losing focus on non-EU issues which OTs require support on in areas such as environment, health, economic development and security. Given the anticipated UK preoccupation with Brexit, OT Political Leaders will present their priorities to the British Government to ensure they are on the UK’s agenda and that the UK follows through on agreed commitments.

The JMC OT-EN was established following the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union as a forum for the implications of Brexit on the OT’s to be discussed and the priorities of the OT’s in the negotiations to be considered.

 

  • CARICOM (Jamaica)

(PREMIER)

The Thirty-Ninth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community will be held 4-6 July 2018 in Montego Bay, Jamaica. During the three (3) day conference Premier will seek to hold a bilateral with CARICOM Secretary-General Ambassador Irvine LaRocque and region leaders. This meeting of the conference of heads will also offer the opportunity to network with CARICOM leaders to address the body of Caribbean leaders to garner support for our challenges faced by the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The meeting is expected to focus on the effects on the economic climate on member states of the Caribbean Community and framework by which the Community can achieve growth and development amidst the current environment. Additionally, the issue of crime and security is top among the three broad area that are up for discussion.

The Heads of Governments are also scheduled to discuss issues relating to the region’s slow recovery from the global economic crises; the heavy debt burdens of some members and the effects policies by international financial institutions have had on the economies of CARICOM.

 

  • Joint Ministerial Conference (JMC) NOVEMBER 2018

(PREMIER)

The Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) is the highest political forum under the 2012 White Paper, bringing together UK Ministers, elected Leaders and Representatives of the Overseas Territories for the purpose of providing leadership and a shared vision for the Territories. The mandate is to monitor and drive forward collective priorities for action in the spirit of partnership.

 

Hon Sharlene L Cartwright Robinson

Premier & Minister of Finance

The Turks and Caicos Islands

 

Continue Reading

News

Beaches Turks & Caicos wrapped up another successful Provo Men’s Premier League season  

Published

on

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — Beaches Turks and Caicos continued its strong commitment to sports development in the Turks and Caicos Islands with its sponsorship of the 2025/2026 Provo Men’s Premier League, a partnership that has significantly elevated the competition for a second consecutive year.

The season, which saw an increase in participating teams and heightened competitiveness across the league, has been widely regarded as one of the most successful in recent years. The top honours were shared between two of the league’s most dominant sides, SWA Sharks FC and Academy Eagles FC, both delivering consistent and high-level performances throughout the campaign.

Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) Technical Director Dane Ritchie highlighted the critical role Beaches Turks and Caicos played in strengthening the league’s structure and overall quality.

“The sponsorship from Beaches Turks and Caicos for the second year helped tremendously in making the competition a success,” Ritchie said. “This season we were able to have a more structured programme with the inclusion of youth talents coming to the fore, as well as the improvement of the coaching staff for the different teams being certified by Concacaf.”

Ritchie noted that the enhanced organisation of the league created more opportunities for emerging players, while also raising the standard of coaching and match preparation. The integration of youth talent into senior teams was particularly impactful, signaling a positive shift toward long-term player development within the territory.

Provo Men’s Premier League President Patrick Baptiste echoed these sentiments, describing the season as a milestone for both football and youth advancement in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“This was a very good year for football and youth development,” Baptiste said. “We were able to overcome a few challenging moments, but the overall grade for this season is an A.”

Baptiste emphasised that the continued support from Beaches Turks and Caicos has been instrumental in driving the league forward, providing much-needed financial backing and stability.

“With a title sponsor like Beaches Turks and Caicos providing the financial support again for this season, we are grateful,” he added. “We have come a far way and we still have a way to go, but the TCIFA team has been charged to continue to be creative in our marketing and being more inclusive in how we seek to showcase the talents of the TCI.”

Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort General Manager Deryk Meany also expressed satisfaction with the partnership and the overall progress of the league.

“Our commitment to youth development and the growth of sports and community throughout the TCI is of paramount importance to us as an organisation,” Meany said. “We are satisfied with this partnership and being the main sponsor is a major accomplishment for the resort. We are happy to have fielded a team this season that was placed fourth in the knockout round of the competition. We are seeking to continue to provide growth for our team members as well as the development of talent throughout the TCI.”

The 2025/2026 season also reflected broader efforts to professionalize football operations locally, including improved scheduling, officiating standards and fan engagement initiatives. Matches drew increased attendance, while community interest in the sport continued to grow, particularly among young athletes aspiring to compete at higher levels.

Continue Reading

News

Platinum Sponsor Beaches Turks & Caicos celebrates top Corporate Engagement title at DG’s 5K 2026  

Published

on

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — Beaches Turks and Caicos has been recognised with the corporate engagement award after fielding the largest number of participants in the second staging of the Turks and Caicos Islands Deputy Governor’s 5K Run/Walk, held recently.

The resort, which also served as a platinum sponsor for the event, mobilized an impressive team of 100 participants, demonstrating its strong commitment to community engagement, health, and philanthropy. Proceeds from the initiative will benefit three key organisations: the Turks and Caicos Islands Cancer Society, the United Way of the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Ashley Learning Centre.

General Manager Deryk Meany praised the collective effort of the Beaches team, highlighting the significance of the initiative both for employee wellness and community impact.

“This was a team effort that saw the resort mobilising a strong team to participate in this event,” Meany said. “It provided a healthy activity for participation as well as giving back to a worthy cause. Congratulations to the Deputy Governor and her organising team for staging such a successful event.”

Participants from across various departments joined the early morning run/walk, showcasing camaraderie, determination and a shared commitment to making a difference.

Hotel Manager Ghislain Boutoulle described the event as both physically rewarding and meaningful.

“The route was very good. It was challenging at first but once I got the pace of the run, it was a good morning workout that was done for a worthy cause,” Boutoulle shared. “The Beaches team were well organised and showed the grit and determination to complete the run.”

For many team members, the experience extended beyond fitness, offering opportunities for personal connection and memorable moments. Soraha Jolly from the resort’s entertainment department highlighted the event’s emotional significance.

“This was good. I got the chance to participate with my mother and we ended the run feeling healthy,” Jolly said. “The event was a combination of partnership, healthy lifestyle and camaraderie. I am looking forward to the next staging to be the first to register for the Beaches team. It was a great experience for the entire team, but a very special one for me and my mom.”

Deputy Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams commended all participants and sponsors, with special recognition given to Beaches Turks and Caicos for its outstanding contribution.

“The three beneficiaries for this year’s staging were carefully selected to benefit from this event,” the Deputy Governor noted. “Giving back to the community, providing support for health through the Cancer Society and building a strong platform for education with the Ashley Learning Centre allowed the team to give back to a great cause.”

She continued, “We are grateful for all our sponsors but a special commendation to our platinum sponsor, the Beaches Turks and Caicos team, for not only donating but having the largest contingent of participants for this event. This is what true partnership looks like as we continue to build a strong relationship to make our community and the Turks and Caicos Islands better.”

The Deputy Governor’s 5K Run/Walk continues to grow as a signature community event, promoting wellness while raising critical funds for organisations that support health, education and social development across the islands.

Beaches Turks and Caicos’ strong showing this year underscores the resort’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and community partnership. With its record participation and enthusiastic team spirit, the resort has set a high benchmark for future events, reinforcing its role as a leader in both hospitality and community engagement in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Continue Reading

News

Experience Turks and Caicos and Statistics Authority Publish Latest Visitor Exit Survey Report    

Published

on

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (June 16th, 2026) — Experience Turks and Caicos, in collaboration with the Statistics Authority, has announced the completion and publication of the latest Visitor Exit Survey Report, providing enhanced insights into visitor behaviour, spending patterns and overall travel experiences in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Visitor Exit Survey is a joint initiative designed to better understand the characteristics of visitors to the destination, including their travel motivations, length of stay, expenditure, satisfaction levels and perceptions of the Turks and Caicos Islands as a tourism destination.

While exit surveys have been conducted in previous years, this latest publication marks a significant enhancement in the way tourism data is collected and shared. It introduces a new quarterly reporting framework, with surveys conducted at the end of each quarter and findings published on a more frequent basis throughout the year.

This improved reporting cycle is intended to provide more timely and actionable insights to support tourism planning, policy development, marketing strategy formulation and broader industry decision-making.

“The Statistics Authority is pleased to partner with Experience Turks and Caicos on the Visitor Exit Survey program,” said Mr. Shirlen Forbes, Director. “As tourism remains the cornerstone of our economy, reliable and timely data is essential for understanding visitor behaviour, measuring tourism’s economic impact and supporting informed decision-making. We value our ongoing collaboration with Experience Turks and Caicos and believe these quarterly reports will provide stakeholders with valuable insights to help guide the future growth and development of the industry.”

Miss Sharissa Lightbourne, Marketing Intelligence Manager of Experience Turks and Caicos, noted that the expanded approach will allow government and industry stakeholders to better track trends in visitor behaviour and assess the economic contribution of tourism beyond traditional arrival statistics.

“Data is the foundation of informed decision-making and plays a critical role in shaping the future of our tourism industry. The insights contained in this report provide a deeper understanding of who our visitors are, how they experience the destination, and how they engage with our tourism product. This information is invaluable to our hotel partners, service providers, investors and other stakeholders as they refine their business strategies, enhance the visitor experience and identify new opportunities for growth. I would like to thank the Statistics Authority for its continued collaboration and commitment to strengthening tourism intelligence in the Turks and Caicos Islands. I encourage everyone in the industry to download the report and explore the valuable insights it contains,” she said.

The findings will also support more targeted destination marketing efforts, improved visitor experience initiatives and more informed investment decisions across the tourism sector.

Experience Turks and Caicos and the Statistics Authority reaffirm their commitment to strengthening tourism intelligence and ensuring that stakeholders across the industry have access to reliable, timely and relevant data.

Download the report here: https://issuu.com/myexperiencetci/docs/tci_departing_visitor_survey_report_q1_2026

Continue Reading

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TRENDING