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TCHTA Reveals Jaw-Dropping Cover and Features Local Talent in Destination 2022 Magazine

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#TurksandCaicos, January 28, 2022 – The highly anticipated return of the TCHTA’s Destination Turks & Caicos Islands Magazine delivered all the sensation and dazzle befitting the time-honoured publication.

Now in its 16th year of production, the “Destination Guide”, as it has been endearingly dubbed, is a mainstay of the tourism product in the Turks & Caicos Islands. It is a cover-to-cover representation of the sights, accommodations, activities, and culture of this destination with all resort, villas, and hospitality businesses proudly displaying and sharing the guide with those who come to our shore.

The powerful imagery within the pages of the Destination magazine has made it a collector’s item for visitors and residents alike with requests from past visitors for the latest edition to be mailed to them each year.

At the 15-year mark, the TCHTA took the bold leap to contemporize the publication and to discontinue the outsourcing of its production, taking on the task in-house. The Marketing Committee and Office Team brought on local talent to build a powerhouse creative group that would give a face-lift to the showpiece and modernize its production to assure continued appeal to the today’s market. The result was astounding, with the TCHTA adopting a modern, sleek, oversized luxury magazine and retiring the hardcover coffee table book that had become synonymous with the annual.

Chair of the Marketing Committee, Karen Whitt, shared “We are ecstatic over the success of the new approach we have taken to ‘Destination’.  More than just a piece for guests to enjoy while on island, it is a critical tool we use internationally to market the destination and show travel partners and their clients what awaits them here in Turks & Caicos. Now that we are launching the 2022 edition, truly, the 2020 magazine is still fresh and so powerful that people are still falling in love with it every day. After seeing the stunning cover for the 15th edition, I wondered how we could possibly top it. But as you can see, our team has somehow delivered another unbelievable cover and I simply cannot stop looking at it.”

And arresting, it is! The 2022 cover of the Destination Magazine features a magnificent montage of 20 faces representing a wide array of roles in the hospitality sector: Bartenders, Event Planners, General Managers, Human Resources Management, Pool & Beach Attendants, and more. The mosaic face made up of black and white images is not only a visual representation of the fact that it takes the efforts of many to make ‘brand TCI’ what it is, but a symbolic one as well. The dynamic photography provided for the work of art was aptly done by Anita Marcus and David Gallardo of Brilliant Studios, and it is indeed just that…. brilliant.

High praise was extended to the core creative team: Designer & Art Director, Erin Patrick of EP Designs; Editor, Nicholette Thomas of the TCHTA; Editor and Head Writer, Sonia OMEGA Simmons of TCHTA/SOS Media; and Head Writer, Dominique Rolle of Caya Hico Media, all of whom collaborated on the creative direction of the publication with overall guidance from the association’s Marketing Committee Chair & Co-Chair, Karen Whitt and Stacy Cox, respectively.

The strength of the piece does not end with the breathtaking cover or the dynamic images within its pages. The Destination Magazine is also filled with strong stories giving way to readers learning more about the Accommodations, Activities, Shopping, Wellness, Weddings, Photography, Dining, and Businesses across the country with the magazine using a feature story in each of these categories.

Last year, the TCHTA sent out a clarion call inviting local writers to join the creative team and author these fascinating stories. As such, Destination 2022 proudly features work by Jayne Baker, Tiersa Hall, Tatiana Handfield, Cynclair Musgrove, Brianna Walcott, and Keton Whitter.

“This has added an elevation to the piece that makes it historical and provides a further connection to community, highlighting that hospitality is a part of each and every one of us here in these islands,” said Stacy Cox, TCHTA CEO. “We are so proud of the work these writers have done and how special they have made this edition with their contributions. We invite all residents to collect a copy of the magazine and to celebrate these thespians along with us. Front to back, Destination 2022 is a testament to the strength of the association, and its commitment to the continued advancement of the people and the industry.”

Cox continued, “I cannot extend enough thanks and appreciation to our members for supporting the magazine, and to our photographers for always providing us the awe-inspiring imagery that makes the Destination Guide distinct and exceptional.”

Caya Hico Media, Paradise Photography, Visit TCI and Brilliant Studios provided all photography for the magazine along with feature photography from TCHTA members.

Magazine distribution to accommodations and businesses around the island is now underway, with the option of collection available to the public at the TCHTA’s office at #52 Salt Mills, Grace Bay. With the current climate in mind, for businesses and resorts who are still on a reduced touch-points protocol, the association has produced tent cards featuring a QR code that allows anyone wishing to view the magazine to conveniently do so via their mobile device. As an added feature, the TCHTA is prepared to take Destination 2022 around the world on USB drives compatible with Android or Apple devices which will be distributed at marketing shows and conferences.

Highlights of the magazine will be shared on the association’s social media platforms and website.

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Community Comes Together as ISU Community Engagement Exercise Delivers Essential Services in Kew Town  

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 3rd July 2026: Residents of Kew Town and neighbouring communities turned out on Saturday, June 27, to access a range of free services and information during the ISU’s Community Outreach Caravan at the Church of God Abundant Life Ministries.

The outreach initiative brought together several government agencies and partner organisations in a single location, providing residents with direct access to health, safety, and emergency preparedness services while creating opportunities for meaningful engagement within the community.

Services available throughout the day included health checks and education, vision screenings, emergency preparedness information, fire safety guidance, and community policing engagement. Participating partners included the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies, the Turks and Caicos Fire and Rescue Department, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force’s Community Policing Unit, the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit, and Menzies Optometry.

The exercise forms part of the ISU’s ongoing community engagement programme, which seeks to strengthen relationships with residents while improving access to public services through collaboration with partner agencies. By bringing multiple service providers together in one location, the initiative offered residents a convenient opportunity to access information, seek advice, and connect directly with agencies whose work supports the well-being of their communities.

The Informal Settlements Unit extends its sincere appreciation to the residents who attended and contributed to the success of the exercise, the partner agencies and organisations that dedicated their time and expertise, and the Church of God Abundant Life Ministries for graciously hosting the event. The Unit remains committed to working alongside communities and partner organisations to deliver initiatives that encourage engagement, strengthen partnerships, and improve access to essential services across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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Beaches Turks & Caicos resort hosts high school tourism clubs from Providenciales and North Caicos  

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Clement Howell High School students and teachers being welcome by the General Manager at Beaches Turks and Caicos resort, Deryk Meany as they prepare to learn more about the daily operations of the resort and the team

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort recently welcomed students from Clement Howell High School in Providenciales and Raymond Gardiner High School in North Caicos for an immersive educational tour designed to expose young learners to the dynamic world of hospitality and tourism.

The visit formed part of the resort’s ongoing commitment to youth development and community engagement, providing students with insight into the operations of the Caribbean’s leading hospitality brand. During the tour, students were introduced to various departments across the resort, gaining a deeper understanding of the wide range of career opportunities available within the industry.

General Manager Deryk Meany addressed the visiting students, encouraging them to think creatively about their future career paths and to remain open to exploring non-traditional roles within the hospitality sector.

“The hospitality industry is constantly evolving, and there is space for innovation, creativity and leadership at every level,” Meany shared. “At Beaches Turks and Caicos, we are proud to provide opportunities for young people to jumpstart their careers, while also developing the skills needed to grow into future leaders.”

The local youth engaged with team members across multiple disciplines, including guest services, food and beverage, entertainment and operations.

Kawanza Morley, Tourism Club leader at Raymond Gardiner High School, expressed appreciation for the experience, noting its value in reinforcing students’ academic learning.

“This visit allowed our students to see firsthand how what they learn in the classroom translates into the operation,” Morley said. “We are grateful to Beaches Turks and Caicos for their hospitality and for creating such a meaningful and engaging experience.”

Educators accompanying the students also highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between schools and industry leaders. Raphael Delpeche of Clement Howell High School commended the resort for its ongoing support of youth development initiatives.

“We are very pleased with the level of exposure our students received,” Delpeche stated. “This relationship continues to create valuable opportunities for our students to better understand the industry and envision their future within it.”

For many students, the tour provided inspiration and a renewed sense of possibility. Tamani Gardiner, a fourth form student from Raymond Gardiner High School, remarked on the professionalism and efficiency observed throughout the resort. “I was really impressed by how smoothly everything operates,” Gardiner said. “The level of professionalism from the staff shows what it takes to succeed in this industry.”

Similarly, Clement Howell High School student Tanika Lightbourne shared her enthusiasm for continued involvement with the resort through its internship programme.

“I’m looking forward to returning to Beaches Turks and Caicos for another year of internship,” Lightbourne said. “This experience has helped me grow and I’m excited to keep learning and developing as a young professional.”

Through initiatives like these, the resort continues to play a vital role in empowering youth across the Turks and Caicos Islands and preparing them for meaningful careers in one of the country’s most important industries.

 

Photo Caption (insert): Students from the Raymond Gardiner High School pause to capture a photo moment at the Treasure Beach Village overlooking the infinity pool during their recent resort tour and educational experience

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Caribbean News

Sandals® and Beaches® Resorts Launch Rebranded Loyalty Program, ‘Island Insiders Club’

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~All-inclusive resort company elevates rewards program, offering expanded benefits and member-only events & experiences, rooted in the spirit of the islands~

MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA, July 2, 2026 Sandals and Beaches Resorts unveiled today the introduction of its new Island Insiders Club, the next chapter of its refreshed loyalty program. Replacing the long-running Sandals Select Rewards program (established in 2008), the new program is designed to elevate the guest experience with a more immersive approach to awards and recognition. Effective July 1, 2026, the transition will preserve members’ current status and existing benefits, while expanding access to enhanced rewards, exclusive events and enriched experiences that bring members closer to the Caribbean.

“We are expanding how loyalty shows up across every stay to encapsulate what our loyal members already are — an inside part of the Sandals and Beaches family,” stated # SVP of Loyalty at Unique Vacations, Inc., worldwide representative of Sandals and Beaches Resorts. “We developed this program side-by-side with the guests who know the resorts, the islands, and the people best, drawing on extensive focus groups, surveys, and direct feedback. The result is a loyalty experience that goes far beyond points, and is felt in every welcome home.”

Guests can enroll in Island Insiders Club before their very first visit, and begin earning status after their first stay. The program features seven levels of loyalty, the highest being Ambassador, followed by Pearl, Diamond, Emerald, Sapphire, Coral and Shell (which replaces the former Select tier).

More Access. More Recognition. More Caribbean.

Sandals Select Rewards members will roll over to the Island Insiders Club on July 1, 2026, maintaining their status and benefits with no reset.

Island Insiders Club highlights include:

  • Choice of Insider Reward: A flexible credit that lets Insiders choose the experiences that best match their vacation style, from relaxing at the Red Lane Spa to embarking on an adventure with Island Routes.
  • The Insiders Shop: A private online merchandise store featuring premium collections and limited-edition drops, including handcrafted artisanal pieces, available exclusively for Island Insiders.
  • Room Upgrade Hotline: Now available exclusively for members, Insiders can request a room upgrade 30 days prior to travel and receive up to 50% off their upgrade when they call a dedicated number.
  • Dedicated VIP Concierge Line: A one-stop, full-service customer care team supporting Diamond, Pearl, and Ambassador members throughout their vacation journey, helping to book their flights, tours, special requests and more.
  • Expanded Insider Experiences, On and Off Resort: Exclusive Insider events including specialty weeks focused on diving, autism inclusion, and culinary experiences on resort. Plus, access to a series of experiential events across the globe.
  • 20% off Managers Wine List Discount: Returning members receive 20% off the Manager’s Wine List, offering another elevated touch for dinners, celebrations, and special moments on resort.
  • $200 Laundry Service Credit: Ambassador members will receive a $200 laundry service credit, adding an extra layer of ease and convenience to longer stays.
  • Complimentary Week Stay: A complimentary 7-night stay at any resort of choice is awarded to members after every 70 paid nights.
  • New Member Incentive: Those “newly inside” who book and travel will receive 5,000 bonus points after their first stay.

As always, Insiders enjoy special access to cabanas, a complimentary photo on every trip, member discounts on everything from retail and watersports to candlelight dinners, and added savings on future stays at the loyalty lounge.

New Name, New Look and a Nod to Nostalgia

The Island Insiders Club’s refreshed visual identity is built around a simple pair of sandals, now the signature symbol of Island Insiders Club and a throwback to an Insider tradition that’s been worn for decades, from vintage gold and silver pendants in the early days to the leather necklaces shared at member events today.

The new brand look will roll out across consumer touchpoints in the months ahead, from dedicated Island Insiders Club lounges to on resort signage, marketing and sales channels, digital and more, bringing Island Insiders Club to life through a modern design and multiplatform approach.

An Exclusive Inside Scoop

In true Insider fashion, Island Insiders Club was first unveiled to the brand’s most loyal members during a special “Step Inside Our Sandals” video conference. Designed as an Insider-first briefing, the call gives top members an early look at brand news and upcoming developments. Hosted by Peter Menges, the event walked members through the highlights of the new program, what to expect, and the refreshed look and feel of Island Insiders Club, before Sandals and Beaches Resorts’ Executive Chairman Adam Stewart gave an exclusive look at what’s next and the reimagining of three iconic Sandals Resorts in Jamaica.

For more information about Island Insiders Club or to become a member, visit: www.sandals.com/islandinsidersclub.

Go behind-the-scenes of the Island Insiders Club with Peter Menges on the Sandals Palmcast and read the latest on the Sandals blog.

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