by Suzanne Carmel

Even with a burgeoning industry in tourism, the government keeps a watchful eye on development. You won't see any buildings on Provo above four stories; on all other islands, two stories. Buildings must allow for public access to the beaches beyond them, all of which are public. A portion of the land and marine environment is comprised of 33 national parks totaling 272 square miles. On Provo, most of the hotel development is along Grace Bay which is actually part of a national park. In these parks, there are restrictions on water sports activities, and the environment is checked and monitored by the government department of environment and coastal resources and the national parks department.

Parasailing from Provo

This emphasis on protecting the natural environment ensures that visitors and locals will be able to enjoy the beauty of these islands and the local flora and fauna for many years. In addition to spectacular diving and snorkeling, there are many ways to enjoy these islands. Choose from deep sea, bone and bottom fishing; watching for humpback whales between January and April, sunset and glow worm cruises; bird watching; land activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, golf and tennis; water activities such as sailing, parasailing and wind surfing, and assorted day trips or excursions to the other islands.

Little Water Cay, not far from Provo, is a great stop along the way to some of the other islands. Stroll along the boardwalk here and you'll likely encounter some of the 2,000 rock iguanas that call this island home. There are 50,000 of this endangered species living on the islands. Many have been relocated to preserves such as this one in order to protect them. A day boat trip from Grand Turk to Gibbs Cay affords visitors a chance to meet another of the local residents. Slip into the water after donning mask and fins and friendly stingrays will swim up to greet you. Even from the deserted beach it is possible to see these graceful creatures gliding along the shallow water along the shore. (CONTINUED...)