News
LUXURY WITH A CONSCIENCE – WYMARA RESORT + VILLAS LEADS THE WAY IN TURKS & CAICOS
Resort-wide customer-facing initiatives
Team activations supporting local activations
Striving for Green Globe Certification
31 January 2025: Turks and Caicos is known as a destination for being “beautiful by nature”. As a leading privately-owned resort, firmly embedded in its community, conservation and social responsibility are key drivers at Wymara Resort + Villas.
CEO Shelley Rincon says “At Wymara we understand that however luxurious our resort is, with the highest standards of service, the reason that many guests choose to come here is also because of the natural attractions close by. From snorkeling and scuba diving on one of the finest reef systems in the world, to kayaking in the mangroves with turtles, it’s a huge draw and one that we feel compelled to support as best we can.”
Supporting reef conservation
The resort takes a multi-faceted approach towards its corporate social responsibility, much of which goes to support the Turks & Caicos Reef Fund. Established in 2010 as a nongovernmental organisation, the Fund focuses on the protection of the fragile ecosystem around the islands.
Other projects led by the Fund include tackling Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease, installing dive boat moorings, reporting on invasive
Lionfish and surveying the coral reefs off the coast of uninhabited East Caicos.
These projects are all funded by private donations including the income generated by initiatives such as those put in place by Wymara as well as an ‘adopt-a-coral’ scheme, and research grants.
Wymara’s support for the Reef Fund encompasses straightforward donations, practical assistance and awareness-raising. A new Guest Surcharge introduced in 2023 and rising to $5 in 2025 sees optional donations added to each night’s stay on checkout.
Additionally, 10% of all revenue generated by cauliflower-based dishes served at the resort’s award-winning restaurant Indigo also go directly to the Fund.
At a practical level, guests and team members are strongly encouraged to spend time with the Reef Fund on their ongoing activities, including working in the coral nursery where key varieties are propagated, and sinking new ‘coral ladders’ that help to maintain the integrity of the reef around the islands.
In 2024 alone, Wymara donated over $50,000 to the Turks & Caicos Reef Fund from the guest surcharge alone. Alizée Zimmerman, Executive Director of Turks & Caicos Reef Fund said “We are incredibly grateful for this partnership with Wymara. The additional $50,000 per year in guest donations will allow us to significantly increase our conservation initiatives. From creating new moorings to expanding our coral nurseries for reef restoration, we will be able to accomplish so much more.”
Sustainable spa treatments
The Spa at Wymara Resort + Villas in Turks and Caicos represents a first-of-its-kind collaboration with on-island skincare brand The Wildflower Skincare Lab to dramatically shift its carbon footprint and cement its practical sustainability efforts.
Many treatments at the resort’s Spa are delivered using vegan, sustainable and organic products developed exclusively by The Wildflower Skincare Lab for Wymara. The collaboration also extends to include reef-safe sunscreen (SPF50 and SPF30), available at the Resort’s boutique.
Shelley Rincon says “Sustainability is one of the bedrocks of our development. We have banned single-use plastic from all departments across the Resort and the Villas and redesigned our water system to increase recycling of grey water. As a tropical island that traditionally relies heavily on imports, reducing our carbon footprint is a priority.
“Since 2019, we have switched from miniatures to larger refillable toiletry bottles which helps to minimise imports and eliminates the use of single-use plastic. The new partnership with fellow islanders Wildflower – who also use minimal packaging, all of which is recycled and biodegradable – allows us to take that one step further in sourcing exclusive spa products onisland.”
In December 2024, Wymara announced a new spa partnership with 111SKIN, headquartered in Harley Street, London. The luxury skincare brand holds the coveted Butterfly Mark certification, for upholding exceptional standards of sustainability and philanthropy. All products are made with ethically-sourced ingredients and are cruelty-free, paraben-free and silicon-free, in readily recyclable packaging.
As Shelley explains “Our shared values with 111SKIN as well as their amazing products and treatments make this a brilliant partnership for Wymara. Their commitment to reducing their environmental impact in any way they can, and to giving back to organisations that really value their support such as Women for Women International really resonate with us”.
A pragmatic approach
Other community organisations are also offered practical assistance. Wymara team members are given paid time off to assist with beach and coral clean-ups. With colleagues coming both from within the local community and a variety of international backgrounds, this is an excellent way to not only promote team bonding but to also embed them in their local community. A recent session saw the team collect over 70kg of rubbish from Grace Bay Beach, preventing it from entering the ocean and contaminating the marine environment.
In August 2024, the resort introduced a new range of uniforms, designed from Turks and Caicos and based on the concepts of natural coral and flora found around the islands in order to further highlight these endangered species to all of Wymara’s guests. What’s more, variance in colourways and styles for different departments helps the team to feel more connected to their colleagues, and aid guests in understanding each person’s role while further supporting local talent and issues.
Leading the way
Wymara Resort + Villas is a Member of Green Globe, the International Standard for Sustainable Tourism. It is currently awaiting
certification, based on the consistent achievement of 44 specific criteria and over 380 compliance indicators to assure guests of the highest level of sustainable operations and management.
Shelley explains “The exceptional marine environment around the islands is one of the highlights for any guest and we want to do everything we can to ensure that we help guests to travel responsibly and sustainably.”
Community support
In addition to sustainability-focused initiatives, Wymara Resort + Villas supports a whole range of local charities and voluntary organisations by way of sponsorship and donations. More than $44,000 has been distributed to 19 different beneficiaries in 2024.
In addition, in the past three years, Wymara has donated $300,000 to the Edward C Gartland Youth Center, in acknowledgement of the crucial role that it plays in providing extra-curricular activities and skills development for the youth of Providenciales and across the islands. As well as essential financial support, Wymara’s team members are heavily involved in specific tuition in mentoring and teaching notably in hospitality and catering.
“Hospitality is a huge element of the local economy,” explains Shelley. “We want to encourage as many young people from the islands to enter the industry, and equip them with the knowledge and tools to succeed. We believe that this genuinely helps to ensure the sustainability of tourism as the largest contributor to the Turks and Caicos economy, by training our young people here so that they can really see their own future without having to leave for other shores.”
As a leading voice in the Turks & Caicos hospitality industry, Shelley keenly hopes that the example set by Wymara will encourage other luxury hoteliers across the islands to adopt similar initiatives.
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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News6 days agoDDME Staff Strengthen Disaster Management Capacity Through Professional Development Workshop
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Caribbean News7 days agoLiberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
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News6 days agoThe Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals