News
Support for Local Artisans Being Championed by Beaches Resorts and the Sandals Foundation
PROVIDENCIALES, June 27, 2024 – Sandals Resorts International, parent company of Beaches Turks and Caicos and the Sandals Foundation, continue to invest in the vibrant culture of the Turks and Caicos Islands and supporting local artisans with the recent addition of a sun mural, cementing a positive message at the Cultural Marketplace.
To commemorate its 15th anniversary, the Sandals Foundation recently gifted 13 communities across nine islands with sun murals,
cementing a positive message that inspires hope. The Cultural Marketplace was deemed the ideal location for TCI’s mural in an effort to enhance the shopping experience and trade of the local artisans.
‘This mural is a tangible reminder of the strength and beauty that lies within each of us and can be seen as a symbol, reminding communities that they are powerful beyond measure,” says Patrice Gilpin, Public Relations Manager of the Sandals Foundation.
Local artist, Zachary Solomon, was commissioned to design and paint the mural with a key feature to insert the inspirational words of “dream”, “hope”, “joy”, “love”, and “believe”, among others
Beaches Turks and Caicos is committed to maintaining its relationship with the talented craft entrepreneurs which serves a dual purpose of helping to create a viable source of revenue and independence for many while also exposing the local culture and artistry of our people to the rest of the world.
For the Beaches Turks and Caicos guests who want to explore the rich culture of our island through artistic artifacts, the craft market may be easily accessed through the Italian Village gate. Additionally, there are a select number of craft vendors who are granted access to the property on Wednesdays and Fridays, offering guests more opportunities to discover our island’s treasures.
An unveiling ceremony was held with key stakeholders where Managing Director, James McAnally shared, “This mural helps to
beautify the community but it also has a longstanding message of hope and love and imagination, and dreaming big, and believing. It highlights all those positive thoughts, feelings and values that we should share.” McAnally explained that anyone who comes to the marketplace feeling down, the inspirational mural is definitely something that will lift their spirits. “It’s also a beautiful backdrop for taking selfies and family photos,” he noted.
Karen Cox, the appointed spokesperson on behalf of the craft vendors shared, “As vendors, we appreciate the partnership with Beaches and the Sandals Foundation. They have helped us a lot with the market. They keep beautifying it so that it always looks attractive. They also give us the opportunity to go on property to sell our products.”
Winnifred McIntosh, owner of Winnie’s Craft store at the Cultural Marketplace, boasts of being one of the first craft vendors in the Turks and Caicos Islands. She continues to find great pleasure in weaving straw to make baskets, bags and fans. She also does beadings and carving of shells for jewelry and hair accessories. The handmade dolls which are donned in TCI’s local dress are also ideal for having patrons take a piece of local history back home with them, given the significance of the colours of the ribbons. “I enjoy what I do, and I like to teach others the craft because it is very important that these aspects of our culture continue. If someone needs something specially made, once they place their order, I set about doing my designs and stitching. I am so happy when I know that my customers are happy,” Winnifred shared.
Seventy – nine-year-old, Esther Stubbs, who has been a craft vendor since 1971, recommends that other entities build a relationship with the craft entrepreneurs. “I am grateful for what Beaches Turks and Caicos has been doing for us, but more can be done by other entities. For example, music festivals can be held at the Cultural Marketplace. This will remind people that we are here while guests and locals can come and enjoy the culture.”
Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Managing Director who also serves as President of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA), encourages all the hoteliers to establish a partnership with the local craft artisans. “This partnership stands to enrich not only guest experiences but also our communities. Our local artisans bring extraordinary creativity and cultural heritage to life through their work. I encourage you to host artisan fairs in your lobbies, feature their work in your gift shops, integrate their products in your room amenities, and visit the market with friends and family. All the citizens have our part to play in promoting and supporting, through our purchases, the artisans of the Cultural Marketplace and elsewhere.”
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the recently unveiled Sandals Foundation 15th-anniversary inspirational sun mural. This stunning artwork not only adds charm to the space but also serves as a beacon of inspiration. Whether you’re purchasing a one-of-a-kind piece or snapping selfies against the backdrop of the inspirational mural, the Cultural Marketplace provides countless picture-perfect moments for all visitors to cherish.
From skillfully crafted straw and shell creations to intricately designed beadwork, wood carvings, and stylish clothing, the Cultural Marketplace showcases the exquisite beauty of the Caribbean’s natural resources. As citizens of this island, let us lead the way in showcasing the beauty and diversity of our local cultures. Together, we can create a win – win situation for our hotels, our guests, and our local artisans.
Photo Captions:
Header: BTC local Artisian Winnifred McIntosh (L) and BTC’s Social Media Coordinator Emmathanael Thervenin
1st insert: BTC local Artisian Esther Stubbs with one of her handmads craft items
2nd insert: BTC Local Artisian Winnifred McIntosh shows off one of the locally designed dolls
3rd insert: BTC local Artisian Winnifred McIntosh stands at the Sandals Foundation 15th Anniversary mural
News
The Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals
PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS – (February 25th, 2026) – The Turks and Caicos Islands began 2026 on a positive note, with stayover arrivals in January surpassing the same period in 2025.
Preliminary figures indicate that 56,830 stayover visitors arrived in January 2026, representing a two percent increase year-on-year. The steady growth continues the positive momentum experienced at the close of 2025.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant, attributed the encouraging performance to new collaboration with tour operator partners as well as increased airlift from key source markets.
“We anticipated a strong January performance following the growth recorded in November and December. The winter season has traditionally been a robust period for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this year that strength has been further supported by enhanced collaboration with partners and expanded airlift from Canada and the United States We are cautiously optimistic about maintaining this upward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead.
Cruise Sector
In cruise, preliminary figures show 122,935 cruise passenger arrivals in January, reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to January 2025.
The decline is attributed to a reduction in cruise calls during the month. A total of 33 vessels called on Grand Turk in January, seven fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
Marketing Shows
As part of its ongoing efforts to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier luxury destination, Experience Turks and Caicos has been actively participating in the Travel & Adventure Shows across several major cities in the United States.
The destination has already been showcased in Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago, with Fort Lauderdale and Denver scheduled in the coming weeks.
Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich represented the Turks and Caicos Islands alongside the destination’s U.S. marketing agency, ABA Global.
Beaches Turks & Caicos – Stone Creek Travels
“One of the most encouraging takeaways from these shows is that the Turks and Caicos Islands is indeed on travellers’ radar. We met many visitors who shared fond memories of their time here, others who already have trips booked and were seeking recommendations on activities and dining, and many more who aspire to visit. It was a pleasure highlighting our multi-island destination and sharing the many experiences that make the Turks and Caicos Islands truly special,” said Ms. Dowrich.
Awards & Recognition
Building on a stellar year of accolades in 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands has begun 2026 with additional international recognition.
The destination earned a Gold Badge in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, placing #5 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and #5 in Best Beaches in the World. In the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand Turk was ranked #10 among the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
About Experience Turks and Caicos
Middle Caicos Dragon Cay Resort
Experience Turks and Caicos is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The organisation is committed to positioning the destination as a premier, sustainable luxury tourism hub. By leveraging smart tools, data-driven strategies, and stakeholder collaboration, Experience Turks and Caicos focuses on enhancing the visitor experience and fostering long-term industry success.
About the Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago—the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands. Home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the award-winning Grace Bay Beach, the destination is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury accommodations, and rich cultural heritage. Each island and cay offer a unique experience:
- Providenciales boasts world-class resorts, fine dining, and high-end tourism offerings.
- Grand Turk serves as the vibrant hub for cruise tourism and historical exploration.
- The sister islands provide a gateway to nature, adventure, and authentic local culture.
Recognised as the world’s best-kept secret, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer effortless luxury, with seamless connectivity via direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Photo Captions:
Grand Turk – slow travel with us
North Caicos – Correy Forbes
South Caicos Sail Rock
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 25 February 2026: Staff of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) participated in a one‑day Professional Staff Development Workshop on Thursday, 19th February 2026. The session was facilitated by former DDME Director (2011–2021) and current Permanent Secretary of the Governor’s Office, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux.
The in-house workshop was organised by the DDME Training Unit, to focus on the National Disaster Management Framework, strengthening staff understanding of their roles and responsibilities within disaster management. The session also aimed to enhance the effectiveness of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and reinforce inter‑agency coordination.
Drawing on her extensive experience in disaster management in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as several deployments to CDEMA member states including Haiti, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, Dr. Clerveaux provided practical insights that reinforced key concepts and clarified operational expectations. Staff members actively participated in discussions and shared recommendations to improve sub‑committee performance and overall departmental efficiency.
To support learning retention, the workshop incorporated pre‑ and post‑assessments, enabling participants to evaluate their understanding and track improvements.
Acting Director of DDME, Mr. Kevaun Lucas stated: “Investing in the continued development of our team is essential to strengthening national resilience. This and future planned workshops will help to reinforce our commitment to building a highly skilled, well‑coordinated workforce capable of leading and supporting disaster management efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am proud of the team’s engagement and encouraged by the meaningful contributions they made throughout the session.”
This Professional Staff Development Workshop forms part of DDME’s ongoing commitment to enhancing internal capacity, strengthening operational coordination and improving overall departmental synergy as the agency continues to advance national preparedness and response capabilities.
Photo Captions:
Caribbean News
Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
Port of Spain, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO (February 24, 2026) — Liberty Caribbean, the operators of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, recently served as Gold-Level Partner of the two-day Trinidad and Tobago Internet Governance Forum (TTIGF), themed “The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience”.
The Digital Divide is of particular interest to Liberty Caribbean and is being addressed through its Charitable Foundation across the region. Low broadband penetration in the Caribbean contributes to diminished opportunities for individuals, communities, and local economies, but with the support of funding partners, this gap can be addressed through a comprehensive programme – JUMP – that focuses on providing access, devices, and digital skills.
“Liberty Caribbean was proud to serve as Gold-Level Partner of the TTIGF because the conversations taking place here shape key digital
policies for multiple stakeholders,” said Simone Martin-Sulgan, Vice President and General Manager, Flow Trinidad.
“As technology accelerates at an unprecedented pace, we must ensure that innovation strengthens our societies rather than fragments them. The theme, ‘The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience,’ speaks directly to the work we do every day: building networks that are not only fast and reliable, but secure, inclusive and future-ready.”
Across the Caribbean, the digital divide remains one of the most pressing barriers to equitable growth. Low broadband penetration limits access to education, entrepreneurship and essential services, and that is why we are deeply committed to closing this gap.
Through the Liberty Caribbean Charitable Foundation and initiatives like the JUMP Programme, the company is expanding access to technology, affordable connectivity and digital skills training so that individuals and communities are empowered to participate fully in the digital economy.
Martin-Sulgan further stated “at Liberty Caribbean, we believe progress and responsibility must move in lock step. By investing in resilient networks, inclusive programmes and trusted partnerships, we are helping to build a Caribbean that is innovative, secure and prepared for the opportunities ahead.”
Topics covered during the Forum, with over 140 participants, included “Securing Critical Infrastructure”, Integrating AI into Digital Transformation”, “The Digital Divide”, The Human Cost of Innovation – Mental Health and Well-being in the Digital Age’, and AI, Cyber Resilience and Regional Innovation”.
Focused on the underlying mandate of the Conference theme thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, technologists, researchers, and community stakeholders were invited to explore how countries can evolve boldly without compromising values or long-term stability.
Photo Caption:
TTIGF – l-r Darren Campo, Regulatory & Compliance Officer; Yolande Agard-Simmons, Senior Manager Communications; and Kevon Swift, Senior Manager Government and Regulatory Affairs of Flow Trinidad in attendance at the Post Event Mixer at Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s Head Office in St Clair, Port of Spain
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News5 days agoDDME Staff Strengthen Disaster Management Capacity Through Professional Development Workshop
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Caribbean News6 days agoLiberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
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News5 days agoThe Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals