TCI News
Turks and Caicos Islands Join Global Leaders in Fiji to Champion Regenerative Tourism
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (August 26th, 2025) – The Turks and Caicos Islands joined global sustainability leaders, policymakers, and tourism experts at the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Training and Conference 2025, held from August 2nd to 9th at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, Denarau Island, Fiji.
The landmark gathering focused on advancing regenerative and resilient tourism models, particularly for small island states which face
unique challenges such as climate change, ecosystem fragility, and economic dependence on tourism.
The GSTC2025 programme unfolded in three distinct phases: in-depth training sessions on the GSTC Criteria and best practices in cultural heritage preservation, destination stewardship, and environmental protection; a conference featuring keynotes, panels, and workshops with international experts, industry leaders, and representatives from Small Island Developing States (SIDS); and cultural celebrations that showcased Fiji’s rich heritage through music, dance, crafts, and cuisine—highlighting the inextricable link between culture, stewardship, and tourism.
Representing the Turks and Caicos Islands were Mr. Courtney Robinson, Strategic Development Manager, Experience Turks and Caicos alongside Mrs. Jasmine Thomas, Executive Director of the Turks and Caicos National Trust, and Ms. Claudia Munnings, Chair of the National Trust Board. The delegation actively contributed to global knowledge-sharing sessions, presenting the country’s progress in ecotourism, biodiversity conservation, heritage site management, and community engagement. The TCI team also gained insights from other island nations on strategies for climate adaptation, policy alignment, and safeguarding cultural identity.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant of Experience Turks and Caicos, said The Turks and Caicos Islands’ presence at the GSTC 2025 Conference is an important step in affirming our commitment to sustainability and resilience.
“As a small island destination, we are uniquely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and environmental pressures. Participating in
this global dialogue allows us not only to share our progress in biodiversity conservation, heritage preservation, and community engagement, but also to learn from other nations facing similar challenges. This exchange of knowledge ensures that Turks and Caicos continues to grow as a world-class destination while safeguarding the natural and cultural treasures that define who we are,” he said.
Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Robinson, said: “The GSTC2025 conference was a powerful reminder that sustainability is not a choice but a necessity for islands like the Turks and Caicos. We learnt that collective stewardship, cultural authenticity, and strong partnerships are not only critical to protecting what we have but also to positioning the TCI as a global leader in sustainable tourism. The lessons shared by our fellow island nations will be invaluable as we continue to shape a tourism sector that benefits both our people and our environment.”
Key takeaways from the conference, included the importance of collaboration among government which is key to sustainability, how partnerships across sectors amplify impact and help integrate environmental, cultural, and economic priorities; and how vital authentic cultural experiences are for tourism differentiation and community pride.
The insights from GSTC2025 underline several strategic directions for the islands, including reviewing and strengthening national tourism and environmental policies in line with GSTC standards, leveraging partnerships and funding to advance sustainable initiatives, embedding community voices in decision-making processes, and incorporating climate adaptation measures into tourism infrastructure and practices.
TCI News
Turks and Caicos Islands Reaffirms Status as Premier Beach and Romance Destination at World Travel Awards
Turks and Caicos, September 21, 2025 – On Sunday, September 21st, 2025, the United States Coast Guard Southeast (USCG), working
in coordination with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) Marine Branch, the TCI Regiment, and the TCI Border Force, intercepted a vessel carrying 103 migrants bound for Providenciales.
The suspicious vessel, first tracked by the USCG, was stopped at sea and later secured by the Sea Guardian vessel, which towed it safely to South Dock Marina. Upon arrival, the migrants were disembarked and handed over to the TCI Border Force for processing.
A breakdown of those on board confirmed:
- 75 males (including two minors)
- 28 females (including two minors)
This interception marks the 18th such operation in 2025, bringing the total number of migrants detained this year to 1,510. The RT&CIPF thanks the USCG and local agencies for their close cooperation, noting that this successful outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of layered security measures protecting the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Force reminds the public that illegal migration is dangerous and life-threatening, and violations of the law will not be tolerated.
Anyone with information on illegal migration is urged to contact the nearest police station, call 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or via the P3 app.
Photos Courtesy: Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force
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