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TURKS & CAICOSThe islands were part of the UK's Jamaican colony until 1962, when they assumed the status of a separate crown colony upon Jamaica's independence. The governor of The Bahamas oversaw affairs from 1965 to 1973. With Bahamian independence, the islands received a separate governor in 1973. Although independence was agreed upon for 1982, the policy was reversed and the islands remain a British overseas territory. WHEN TO GO The peak season is from mid-December to mid-April when rates are high. Prices drop by half during hurricane season from May to November when it's often extremely hot. FACTS ABOUT TURKS & CAICOS - Location: Caribbean, two island groups in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of The Bahamas, north of Haiti
- Geographic coordinates: 21 45 N, 71 35 W
- Area: 430 sq km
- Coastline: 389 km
- Max elevation: Blue Hills 49 m
- Population: 32,048
- Capital: Grand Turk (Cockburn Town)
- Government: overseas territory of the UK
- Currency: US dollar (USD)
- Internet Country Code: .tc
- Calling Code: 649
- Ethnic groups: black 90%, mixed, European, or North American 10%
- Languages: English (official)
- Religions: Baptist 40%, Anglican 18%, Methodist 16%, Church of God 12%, other 14%
- Major Industries: Tourism, offshore financial services
- Natural resources: spiny lobster, conch
- Environmental issues: limited natural fresh water resources, private cisterns collect rainwater
- Climate: tropical; marine; moderated by trade winds; sunny and relatively dry
- Average sea surface temp: 25 °C
- Average annual rainfall: 610 mm
- Average tourist arrivals: 543,343
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