I had difficulty rating this one. I try to judge things compared to what they are supposed to be. So, let me begin with, if you are a person that prefers nice, clean resorts, with all amenities (pool, restaurant, bar all onsite, beach service, etc.), then this is NOT the place for you. My wife and I occasionally like those things too and there is nothing wrong with that, it's just that this is not that type of place. In fact, North and Middle Caicos, in general, are not those kinds of places. Those are all over on Providenciales (Provo) at Grace Bay.
However, if you're the least bit adventuresome and don't mind a little grit with your paradise, then this is the place for you. I'm attaching pictures for you to see the stunning scenery. However, what it doesn't show is that on this mile and half of turquoise water beach front, we saw two other couples in a total of six days. We virtually had the entire beach all to ourselves. I can't stress enough that it has a little grit and few amenities, but it has everything you need (or Alvita will get it for you... more on that later), and is like having a piece of paradise all to yourself. Here are some bullet points and tips:
1. It is a suite with full-size refrigerator, stove, microwave, small kitchen with all utensils and small appliances. There is a couch and chairs. There is a TV, but it only serves to play movies from the DVD selections there. Bedroom is small, but with a very comfortable king bed. Both bath and beach towels are provided. Also has a screened in front porch facing the beach. Large, nice gas grill 10 steps outside.
2. There is no beach service (chairs, umbrellas) but they do provide about everything else, including a kayak.
3. Rent a car! Unless you are just going to stay on property the whole time (and if you're going to do that, go to one of the big resorts on Provo), to get around you really need a car. The hotel provides bikes, which can get you to two of the restaurants (Barracudas and Silver Palm) and the one local small grocery (KJ's), but I still recommend a car. Small cars run $65/day, small SUVs run $75/day. Gas is expensive ($6.50/ gallon), but with the small cars and the islands being fairly small, that isn't a problem. 5 gallons did us in a small sedan for the whole trip. Part of the experience of North Caicos is the people, so go explore! There is only one main road, so virtually impossible to get lost. Alvita can arrange for one to be brought to the hotel for no extra charge.
3. Bring sunscreen with bug repellant. The gnats and flies aren't too bad, but can be just enough to be annoying. Hotel provides a can of Off!, but since you're going to use sunscreen anyway, bring some with the repellant built in.
4. The water is turquoise as toothpaste and looks like a postcard. There is a decent wind blowing most days which makes the waves a little choppy, but since you're inside the reef, the waves are not big, just choppy.
5. Groceries... okay, you definitely will want to make a grocery store run before getting to the hotel or shortly after. Since you'll land in Provo the question is to buy there before ferrying to North Caicos or wait until you get there. The prices are similar (expensive as hell... most things are between 1.5 to 2 times normal cost in the States) in either place. Provo might be slightly cheaper, but if so not by much. However, the trade off is convenience of lugging the groceries on the ferry but with a lot more selection vs. less selection, but you can bike to the store. Hotel provides salt, pepper, cooking spray, one gallon of water (you can't drink the tap water) and one bottle of complimentary wine.
6. Alvita is a hands on manager/owner. She is not the most talkative person, nor does she offer a lot of unsolicited advice. However, if asked, she can answer anything, provide anything, and connect you with anyone. For a nominal fee, she will even come and cook for you... but you have to ask. Also, everyone on North Caicos island knows her, sho if you're somewhere on ther island and need something, just say, "I'm staying with Alvita" and it will make an immediate connection.
Overall, I highly recommend this place as a great getaway. It's not a 5* property, but I gave it five stars because if this is what you're looking for and you're able to fend for yourself the least little bit, the tradeoff of getting your own very private paradise is well worth it.
