Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Not a meat & potatoes kinda place

The Turks and Caicos are not what I would call  meat and potatoes islands. In fact, being that it is so small, there is very limited agricultural production on the islands. It really makes you feel rich in North America for our vast landscapes, fertile soil and ability to raise our own cattle (etc) and grow our own vegetables in the kinds of quantities that can feed the masses.

It also justifies why the grocery store prices are a little crazy for some things. Tetra packs of juice in the one litre were around $6-7 depending on the brand. A 24 of Coke was $17. Red peppers were $7 per pound (current Canadian price is about $3 per pound) and Campbell's Soup cans were just under $3. Peaches were listed at $5 per pound, while coconuts were a mere $1.  Prices were reflective of the import/shipping costs to bring them to the island it seemed.

However, things like milk, cheese, chicken and fish were typical Canadian Safeway-type store prices. So, you just needed to be aware, be selective and adjust your expectations for meals to stay on a reasonable budget.

Restaurant meals were similarly priced and reflective of the cost of goods. A modest lunch for two adults and 2 children at a beachside cafe was typically around $75.

We did plan for, and thoroughly enjoy, a dinner out at a 4star restaurant once during the trip. We were aware and embraced the regional cuisine. The Jerk spices, fruit salsas and seasoned rice accompaniments were absolutely delicious. Pictured below was my meal of snapper, which was the catch of the day.



Pictured below was a salmon salad. It was diced tomato, smoked salmon and spinach with a balsamic reduction and a regional cheese layer. Great taste and lovely presentation.



Ultimately, I came to know the Turks as a "fish and rice" kinda place, rather than meat and potatoes. The food was certainly delicious and memorable. I'm sorry I don't have more photos... the fish tacos, the fish burgers and the fresh catch salad were also winners!

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