Have a hankering for a trip to Tuscany but don’t want to be away from the ocean for too long?
Head to the Turks and Caicos, specifically, Providenciales — Provo for short — and you’ll get the best of both worlds at the aptly-named Tuscany on Grace Bay, a small boutique hotel tucked away from the noise and crowds of Grace Bay. One look at the exterior, and you’d be forgiven for thinking you were about to walk into a Tuscan villa.
The Tuscany is located on the northeast end of Grace Bay, and it’s the last hotel on the row so it’s quieter and more secluded than other beachfront properties. Plus, the Tuscany’s beach is actually wider than elsewhere due to an extensive beach restoration project from a few years ago.
Although there’s no restaurant on the premises, with a fully-equipped high-end kitchen in each suite you won’t miss it, since staff can stock the fridge and cupboards in advance and/or arrange for a private chef to come to you. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants within a short walk or drive, and the Tuscany’s concierge will take care of anything you’ll need.
Though The Tuscany has 30 luxury three-bedroom condos, only 12 are open to non-owners, which creates an air of exclusivity. But the hotel caters to all ages, from spreading rose petals across the threshold for a honeymooning couple to furnishing a family with five kids under 10 years old with the latest family-friendly DVDs, changing tables and toys.
When I stayed at The Tuscany, it almost felt like I was on my own private beach in Tuscany. Which, of course, is impossible in the real world.
Like the real thing, however, this Tuscany will make you feel like you’re miles away from the real world.