Hotel at a Glance: Venetian Ridge Villas

Gardenia and jasmine perfume the air at Venetian Ridge Villas. The secluded resort is tucked away inside an organic botanical garden filled with tropical flowers and banana, papaya, and pomegranate trees. The resort isn't too far from Turks and Caicos' popular white-sand beaches—Grace Bay Beach, which consistently ranks among the world's best beaches, is just a two-minute drive away.

• Beach essentials: Villas are stocked with beach chairs, umbrellas, towels, and coolers that guests can bring to any of the island's beaches.
• Spacious villas feature full kitchens, outdoor patios, portable barbecue grills, and WiFi.
• Local cuisine: There's no onsite restaurant, but dozens of restaurants are within a short walk or drive of the resort. Be sure to try conch fritters, a regional specialty.
• Stock up on groceries and everyday items at the shops along Graceway Plaza, a five-minute walk from the resort.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands: Famed Beaches and 350 Days of Sunshine Annually

Providenciales—or "Provo," as the locals call it—is the largest tourist destination on the 40 islands and cays that make up Turks and Caicos. It's no wonder the area is popular, given its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and 350 days of sunshine per year. In 2012, the World Travel Awards recognized the island's Grace Bay Beach as the Caribbean's best, a distinction it had also won in 2007, 2008, and 2010.

Provo is ideal for snorkeling and scuba—a natural reef helps keep both waves and debris away, leaving the surf smooth and gentle. The water stays warm year-round and has outstanding visibility, so it's easy to spot the tropical fish, sea turtles, and enormous walls of coral below the surface. Brave snorkelers and scuba divers can head to Northwest Point, where it's common to see reef and hammerhead sharks mingling with rays.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to travel to the hotel from the airport?
The property is about 4 miles (6 km) from Providenciales International (PLS).

Is there an additional occupancy fee, or do I have to purchase another Groupon?
The Groupon covers two or four guests, depending on the option purchased. Additional kids 11 or younger stay free.

Will I be approached to attend a timeshare sales presentation?
Timeshares are common in the Turks and Caicos Islands and so are the sales pitches that accompany them. You may be asked at hotel check-in if you are interested in attending sales presentation. If you don’t want to attend, simply decline and you won’t be approached again. If you decline a presentation, you will not lose the value of your Groupon or have to pay additional fees.

Which activities and amenities are included in the resort credits?
No resort credits are included in this Groupon.

Are dinner reservations required for restaurants? Is there a dress code?
There is no onsite restaurant, but dozens of restaurants are withing a short walk or drive from the property.