Though not a large island, Grand Turk has come far in the development of its infrastructure and maintains a strong connection to the US. It has an interesting history. particularly regarding N.A.S.A and the Mercury space program. During the 1950s and '60s, there was a U.S.A.F. base and space tracking station located near the current cruise pier. Several astronauts, including John Glenn and Scott Carpenter, trained at the base and they were both brought to Grand Turk after splashing down in the Atlantic Ocean after their historic space missions in 1962. To commemorate the connection to the Mercury space program and Grand Turk, there is a replica of John Glenn's capsule Friendship 7 on display at the entrance to the airport and you will see it.

As you work your way through the island and its downtown, you can stroll down Front Street and feel as if you have entered the past. Excellent displays and exhibits can be seen in the Turks & Caicos National Museum, as well as the famous Grand Turk Lighthouse, a great place to hang out and where you may want to attempt to feed stray donkeys. Once you're finished exploring the lighthouse, we'll stop to see vibrant, wild flamingos.

All in all, it will be both your guide and the stops that make this a worthwhile experience.