Need help with October trip to Royal West Indies Resort
Jun 15th, 2006, 10:44 AM
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Need help with October trip to Royal West Indies Resort
Hi,
I hope some of you seasoned Turks and Caicos travelers can help us out on our first trip to the Caribbean in October. Our primary goal is to relax, read, relax, swim, relax and take pictures. We booked a room at RWI. It looks so gorgeous I can't wait.
1.How do we get from the airport to the resort?
2. Is the preferred method of travel to restaurants/ grocery store the Gecko shuttle or taxi? Can we walk to the store and or restaurants from the resort?
3. We would like to take a cruise and are thinking of Sail Provo as we have never been on a sailboat. Is this a good choice?
4. I realize everyone has different opinions on restaurant choices but definately want to try some of the more popular ones.
5. Is it easy to learn how to sail a Hobie? I would love to try it.
thanks,
Roger
I hope some of you seasoned Turks and Caicos travelers can help us out on our first trip to the Caribbean in October. Our primary goal is to relax, read, relax, swim, relax and take pictures. We booked a room at RWI. It looks so gorgeous I can't wait.
1.How do we get from the airport to the resort?
2. Is the preferred method of travel to restaurants/ grocery store the Gecko shuttle or taxi? Can we walk to the store and or restaurants from the resort?
3. We would like to take a cruise and are thinking of Sail Provo as we have never been on a sailboat. Is this a good choice?
4. I realize everyone has different opinions on restaurant choices but definately want to try some of the more popular ones.
5. Is it easy to learn how to sail a Hobie? I would love to try it.
thanks,
Roger
Jun 15th, 2006, 11:04 AM
#2
1. Should be included in the room. There is a RWI shuttle at the airport.
2. I like to rent a car, don't like wasting time waiting for Gecko or taxis. But taxis are easy to get, and I've seen the Gecko around. (I;ve never been on it) Plus with a car, you can go see Chaulk Sound, where the water is so turqouise, it glows, and even have a picnic lunch at Sapadilla Bay. With a high clearance vehicle, you can even go to Malcolm's Beach, which is stunning)
3. Sail Provo is on a catamaran, it's awesome.
4. best restaurants (also most expensive) are Coyobas, Grace's Cottage, Magnolia's. Lesser expense, and really good are Bay Bistro and Hemingways. Even less than that and decent are Mango Reef (at RWI) and Tiki Hut. go to www.wherewhenhow.tc for all the restaurants and menus.
5. I've never tried it by myself, but the water is nice and calm, so great place to try it.
2. I like to rent a car, don't like wasting time waiting for Gecko or taxis. But taxis are easy to get, and I've seen the Gecko around. (I;ve never been on it) Plus with a car, you can go see Chaulk Sound, where the water is so turqouise, it glows, and even have a picnic lunch at Sapadilla Bay. With a high clearance vehicle, you can even go to Malcolm's Beach, which is stunning)
3. Sail Provo is on a catamaran, it's awesome.
4. best restaurants (also most expensive) are Coyobas, Grace's Cottage, Magnolia's. Lesser expense, and really good are Bay Bistro and Hemingways. Even less than that and decent are Mango Reef (at RWI) and Tiki Hut. go to www.wherewhenhow.tc for all the restaurants and menus.
5. I've never tried it by myself, but the water is nice and calm, so great place to try it.
Jun 15th, 2006, 12:12 PM
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We used the gecko. If you aren't going to do a lot of exploring and are looking mainly to relax, I would recommend this. We used it to buy some drinks and snacks at the IGA, and to go out to dinner most nights.
The restaurants we liked the most are Hemingway's (request a table with a view), Grace's Cottage, and Bay Bistro (also request a table with a view...they have an excellent Sunday brunch). Inexpensive and good was Tiki Hut, which has a Tuesday or Wed. night (I'm not sure) bbq chicken and rib special. It's in the marina area and really pretty at night.
RWI has a shuttle bus that picks guests up at the airport; I saw it when waiting for the Sands shuttle. They will have a clipboard with your flight number and name on it. You'll just have to e-mail RWI your information.
I can't help you with the Hobie b/c my husband and I are really uncoordinated. However, we went parasailing and it was really awesome.
The restaurants we liked the most are Hemingway's (request a table with a view), Grace's Cottage, and Bay Bistro (also request a table with a view...they have an excellent Sunday brunch). Inexpensive and good was Tiki Hut, which has a Tuesday or Wed. night (I'm not sure) bbq chicken and rib special. It's in the marina area and really pretty at night.
RWI has a shuttle bus that picks guests up at the airport; I saw it when waiting for the Sands shuttle. They will have a clipboard with your flight number and name on it. You'll just have to e-mail RWI your information.
I can't help you with the Hobie b/c my husband and I are really uncoordinated. However, we went parasailing and it was really awesome.
Jun 15th, 2006, 12:37 PM
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RWI does provide airport transfers and like mah1980 mentioned just make sure RWI has your flight info and they'll be there with a 'sign' with the resorts name, waiting for you. We used this both times we stayed at RWI and it's very convienent.
Also agree, rent a car for at least part of your trip. I've never used the Gecko shuttle but i've heard it's not very reliable. Driving on Provo is very easy and you can't walk to all the different restaurants or shopping from RWI.
We're not foodies, but our favorite restaurants were Coco Bistro, right across the road from RWI. Hemmingways at the Sands, Gecko Grill at Ocean Club and Calico Jacks at Ports of Call. Our favorite lunch place was at Mango reef right at RWI. They had the best fish and chips on the island.
If you get a chance do the parasailing. They pick you up right on the beach at RWI and it was fantastic. You can see the whole island!
We really enjoyed staying at RWI. The grounds and the pools are beautiful and the beach area is awesome. The staff is also very friendly and helpful. Enjoy your trip to Provo!!
Sandy
Also agree, rent a car for at least part of your trip. I've never used the Gecko shuttle but i've heard it's not very reliable. Driving on Provo is very easy and you can't walk to all the different restaurants or shopping from RWI.
We're not foodies, but our favorite restaurants were Coco Bistro, right across the road from RWI. Hemmingways at the Sands, Gecko Grill at Ocean Club and Calico Jacks at Ports of Call. Our favorite lunch place was at Mango reef right at RWI. They had the best fish and chips on the island.
If you get a chance do the parasailing. They pick you up right on the beach at RWI and it was fantastic. You can see the whole island!
We really enjoyed staying at RWI. The grounds and the pools are beautiful and the beach area is awesome. The staff is also very friendly and helpful. Enjoy your trip to Provo!!
Sandy
Jun 15th, 2006, 12:47 PM
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Thanks for all the wonderful info. I may just use Gecko as we probably won't go out too much and I'm not sure about driving on the left side of the road. My wife thinks I can't drive on the right side as it is!
Jun 15th, 2006, 12:58 PM
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Restaurants we liked were Bay Bistro, Hemmingways and Annacona (expensive but very romantic). The beach by RWI is quiet and really nice.
Ps: driving on T&C is easy if you do choose to rent a car.
Ps: driving on T&C is easy if you do choose to rent a car.
Jun 15th, 2006, 01:05 PM
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We stayed at RWI a couple of months ago and loved it.
We used the Gecko and for the most part it was fine. But if you do rent a car I would receommend Scooter Bob's. They were great. If not for the whole trip, at elats rent one for a day so you can explore the island.
have fun!
We used the Gecko and for the most part it was fine. But if you do rent a car I would receommend Scooter Bob's. They were great. If not for the whole trip, at elats rent one for a day so you can explore the island.
have fun!
Jun 15th, 2006, 03:51 PM
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hi, wanted to add to above that walking to the grocery is not possible. gecko and taxi's go. restaurants are quite spread out so walking in not an option there for the most part either - again gecko/taxi.
my favorite restaurants are hemingways for lunch, aqua bar at turtle cove marina and for the ultimate romantic experience anacona at grace bay club.
coyaba is supposed to be outstanding but may be in the process of moving out of coral gardens?
have used scooter bob twice and all went well with the vehicles. scooter is a character.
if you only rent for a day be sure to drive out to chalk sound. there are 2 really wonderful small beachs - sopadilla bay beach and taylor bay beach to enjoy/relax on for a couple hours. plus some reeeally nice villas along chalk sound road.
re driving. imho driving on the left is easier and once you start it makes more sense. plus this a tiny island, top posted limit is 45 and its not like the belongers don't recognize us tourists and know we may suffer momentary confusion.
they are soft spoken, gentle people always with a smile. fyi is you greet the ppl who will be serving you in various capacities (even the grocery checker) you will get much better service. have a great time relaxing and relaxing - you've chosen the perfect spot for it! the weather will be hot. the water will be warm. and the island should be fairly quiet.
for those pics try the views coming down the various roads between leeward hwy to the bight road. chalk sound is a must. and perhaps a trip out to malcolm road beach if you rent a jeep. have a cocktail at miramar and shoot the marina at sunset.
oh yes, try the hobie cat.
good island map at: http://www.aquamarinebeachhouses.com/map.htm
my favorite restaurants are hemingways for lunch, aqua bar at turtle cove marina and for the ultimate romantic experience anacona at grace bay club.
coyaba is supposed to be outstanding but may be in the process of moving out of coral gardens?
have used scooter bob twice and all went well with the vehicles. scooter is a character.
if you only rent for a day be sure to drive out to chalk sound. there are 2 really wonderful small beachs - sopadilla bay beach and taylor bay beach to enjoy/relax on for a couple hours. plus some reeeally nice villas along chalk sound road.
re driving. imho driving on the left is easier and once you start it makes more sense. plus this a tiny island, top posted limit is 45 and its not like the belongers don't recognize us tourists and know we may suffer momentary confusion.
they are soft spoken, gentle people always with a smile. fyi is you greet the ppl who will be serving you in various capacities (even the grocery checker) you will get much better service. have a great time relaxing and relaxing - you've chosen the perfect spot for it! the weather will be hot. the water will be warm. and the island should be fairly quiet.
for those pics try the views coming down the various roads between leeward hwy to the bight road. chalk sound is a must. and perhaps a trip out to malcolm road beach if you rent a jeep. have a cocktail at miramar and shoot the marina at sunset.
oh yes, try the hobie cat.
good island map at: http://www.aquamarinebeachhouses.com/map.htm
Jun 16th, 2006, 05:14 AM
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We recently returned from the Sibonne. We were within walking distance to Salt Mills and Ports of Call, but should have went ahead and rented a car just for convenience of getting to/from resturants. We used taxis a few times and the Gecko twice. Car rental was around $240+ for the week so we didn't do it. DH doesn't like driving in unfamialr areas or on the left either, but after a few days there, he would not have had a problem driving.
We did the full day catamaran sail with Sail Provo and it was great. We went to several snorkel spots and a couple of beaches. We had 2 dolphins follow the boat for a little while. Totally awesome.
We also really enjoyed the full day boat trip to Middle Caicos on Silver Deep.
We had the best chicken pot pie at Danny Buoys, and we really enjoyed our entrees at Gecko Grill. They have a Sat. night special of steak, salad, veggies and dessert for $30. Iguanas has an all-you-can-eat Caribbean bar-b-cue on Mondays for $30 that we liked also.
We did the full day catamaran sail with Sail Provo and it was great. We went to several snorkel spots and a couple of beaches. We had 2 dolphins follow the boat for a little while. Totally awesome.
We also really enjoyed the full day boat trip to Middle Caicos on Silver Deep.
We had the best chicken pot pie at Danny Buoys, and we really enjoyed our entrees at Gecko Grill. They have a Sat. night special of steak, salad, veggies and dessert for $30. Iguanas has an all-you-can-eat Caribbean bar-b-cue on Mondays for $30 that we liked also.
Jun 16th, 2006, 12:38 PM
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We rent from Avis & they will pick you up at the airport. We only keep the car a day or two at the most & use the car to grocery shop at Iga & lunch at bogaloos & the night we arrive dinner at one of the Turtle Cove restaurants (usually Tiki Hut). Not much to see driving around the island. Rest of week use shuttle.Hemmingway's great lunches & Mango Reef is very good.Gecko Grille at Ocean Club very good also.
Jun 22nd, 2006, 06:30 AM
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I have to disagree with those who recommend the Gecko Grill, I've eaten there four times in the last 6 years (I keep giving them the benefit of the doubt) and haven't enjoyed a meal there yet!
On our last trip in October 2005, we enjoyed meals at Hemingway's and Coco Bistro. On the remainng nights, we nights we ate in.
On our last trip in October 2005, we enjoyed meals at Hemingway's and Coco Bistro. On the remainng nights, we nights we ate in.
Jul 2nd, 2006, 06:35 AM
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We were at RWI last October and got caught at Bay Bisto in an incredible storm. (Can't remember which hurricane was heading towards Miami, I think it may have been Alpha) We lost power for a few days and there was flooding. The storm we saw was the most incredible thunder and lightening show I have ever seen! The bartender at Bay Bistro actually ended up taking us back to RWI (bless him)as the roads were flooded and the taxis stopped running.
Anyway, it was actually an amazing experience and the locals are great. Just be prepared, bring a couple of flashlights and keep water, ice and a couple of snacks in your fridge. When we were with out power, we just left our front door and sliding door open at night for the breeze. Many of the restaurants are pretty good at being able to serve you with out electricity and you can always find someone with a generator and cold beer! Also, I think RWI is built up to cat 4 standards, so no worries.
Anyway, it was actually an amazing experience and the locals are great. Just be prepared, bring a couple of flashlights and keep water, ice and a couple of snacks in your fridge. When we were with out power, we just left our front door and sliding door open at night for the breeze. Many of the restaurants are pretty good at being able to serve you with out electricity and you can always find someone with a generator and cold beer! Also, I think RWI is built up to cat 4 standards, so no worries.
Jul 3rd, 2006, 08:12 AM
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I im the midst of planning our trip as well and you have some great suggestions but I need to put in my two cents... 
Rent a car /jeep for at least one day. One of the best parts of vacation other then beach and eating is exploring. It is so much fun to drive around the island and see the different parts, coming accross those amazing ocean vistas and finding great beaches and a neat local spot to stop by for lunch. Driving on the left isn't that bad at all (much like Anguilla or Grand Cayman - although Grand Cayman can be hectic at times) - once you get out of the main town the roads will be very quite. Don't miss a day exploring the island because you don't want to drive on the left - you'll be surprised of how much of the local flavour you can learn by doing this and the fun! Enjoy your trip!
Lori
Rent a car /jeep for at least one day. One of the best parts of vacation other then beach and eating is exploring. It is so much fun to drive around the island and see the different parts, coming accross those amazing ocean vistas and finding great beaches and a neat local spot to stop by for lunch. Driving on the left isn't that bad at all (much like Anguilla or Grand Cayman - although Grand Cayman can be hectic at times) - once you get out of the main town the roads will be very quite. Don't miss a day exploring the island because you don't want to drive on the left - you'll be surprised of how much of the local flavour you can learn by doing this and the fun! Enjoy your trip!Lori
Jul 5th, 2006, 01:19 PM
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Hi yalerider,
We're here now at RWI. I would rent a car as well. I have heard several people who are waiting on the Gecko out front who are complaining about taking so long. Besides, you really do want to get out and see the other parts of the island. We've been to Malcom's Beach and it was a stunner! Great snorkeling spot -- but we didn't have our gear!
The road was pretty bumpy but has a couple of spots that I wouldn't feel a car would make it.
Our rental company is Rent A Buggy and we're pleased. Not a pristine car but didn't want that as it would show any marks from taking the dirt roads to other beaches. Also, he will pick you up/drop you off at the airport as well. Gas the other day was $4.50 gallon.
Hoping to get in with Sail Provo tomorrow or Friday.
And bring your iPod/MP3 player. Two doors down they have the big trucks, jackhammers and power tools going -- just hate the "beep beep beep" backup noise at the beach!!!!!! Its pretty loud right now.
Hobie cats here at RWI are sail at your own risk. They have no rescue boat so if you go out and can't get back or flip over, I'm not sure how they could help you. Today had many flips as it was pretty windy -- Blew umbrellas out of the sand. Maybe you could find someone to take you out and show you how easy it is.
And, yes, the sand and water is everything people have raved about!!!
Sheila
We're here now at RWI. I would rent a car as well. I have heard several people who are waiting on the Gecko out front who are complaining about taking so long. Besides, you really do want to get out and see the other parts of the island. We've been to Malcom's Beach and it was a stunner! Great snorkeling spot -- but we didn't have our gear!
The road was pretty bumpy but has a couple of spots that I wouldn't feel a car would make it.
Our rental company is Rent A Buggy and we're pleased. Not a pristine car but didn't want that as it would show any marks from taking the dirt roads to other beaches. Also, he will pick you up/drop you off at the airport as well. Gas the other day was $4.50 gallon.
Hoping to get in with Sail Provo tomorrow or Friday.
And bring your iPod/MP3 player. Two doors down they have the big trucks, jackhammers and power tools going -- just hate the "beep beep beep" backup noise at the beach!!!!!! Its pretty loud right now.
Hobie cats here at RWI are sail at your own risk. They have no rescue boat so if you go out and can't get back or flip over, I'm not sure how they could help you. Today had many flips as it was pretty windy -- Blew umbrellas out of the sand. Maybe you could find someone to take you out and show you how easy it is.
And, yes, the sand and water is everything people have raved about!!!
Sheila
Jul 6th, 2006, 03:11 PM
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Sheila,
I found Rent a Buggy's homepage. Very reasonable. Now I have to figure out if we want to rent for a couple of days or the whole week. Is the 10% tax the only other charge they add to the price?
thanks,
Roger
I found Rent a Buggy's homepage. Very reasonable. Now I have to figure out if we want to rent for a couple of days or the whole week. Is the 10% tax the only other charge they add to the price?
thanks,
Roger
