Inn at Grace Bay

There's not much scene to speak of at this 18-unit property, which is simply comprised of two buildings (each with nine condos), a small office, and a modest pool with nearby barbecue grill and picnic area. The office attendant, however, is exceedingly friendly, offering an old-fashioned guestbook for arrivals to sign and personally carrying luggage to the rooms.Expectations will be met -- though probably not exceeded -- in the suites, which are both spacious and clean with simple yet comfortable furnishings and a few island-inspired details. Each features a balcony or terrace large enough for two lounge chairs and a four-person table; however, views might be a disappointment, as the property is not located on the beach and has a particularly underwhelming pool.Amenities are not the Trade Winds' strong suit: it lacks a restaurant, fitness center, and spa. As such, travelers looking simply for a decently priced base while exploring the island -- not to mention the ability to cook at home and forgo pricey Providenciales restaurants -- will find the condo-hotel a decent deal. But those looking for more amenities and a modern room should try the Alexandra or Windsong Resort.

The biggest strike against the Trade Winds Condotel is its lack of beachfront. Located a five-minute walk from Grace Bay, the property is one of few that have no beachfront claim at all (even the Reef Residences, for instance, manages to wedge a handful of umbrellas on the sand between the Windsong and Beaches resorts). What it does offer, however, is great proximity to a slew of restaurants and shops, all of which are within walking distance.- 15-minute drive from Providenciales International Airport

• 5-minute walk to Grace Bay beach
• 5-minute walk to shopping and restaurants at Regent Village and Salt Mills shopping centers
• 10-minute walk to grocery store
• 5-minute drive to Provo Golf Club
• 10-minute drive to Smith's Reef for snorkeling
• 12-minute drive to the Caichos Conch Farm, the world's only conch farm
• 15-minute drive to Da Conch Shack and Rum Bar

The Trade Winds Condotel's rooms are just about the largest you will find for the price on Providenciales. Each of its 18 suites is identical, and features beachy, if somewhat dated, decor, with light wooden furniture and muted floral patterns. Unique details include the bookshelves full of books, bronze and carved wood figurines, and decorative tiles, though some accents lean toward kitschy.The all-white open-plan kitchens have everything you need to cook a full meal, and two dining areas -- one in the living room, the other on the balcony or terrace -- make dining in an attractive option.- Furnished balconies or terraces with views of the modest-sized pool and surrounding landscape.

• Full kitchens featuring full-size stoves, ovens, and refrigerators, and a microwave, coffeemaker, and all pots, pans, and tableware needed for proper meals
• Poor water pressure in the walk-in shower (no bathtub)
• Bathroom toiletries are minimal, with just shampoo (no conditioner) and soap (no shower gel).
• 27-inch flat screen TVs in both the living room and bedroom
• Wall-mounted air conditioners
• Washer/dryers (but no laundry detergent)
• Ceiling fans in the living room, kitchen, and bedroom
• Pull-out sofa in the living room for additional guests
• Beds appear rather old, and pillows are lumpy and small.
• Floors are thin, with periodic noise coming from above units.

• A small, somewhat unkempt pool featuring a few mismatched umbrellas and worn lounge chairs in disarray
• Beach umbrellas located in each suite for use on nearby Grace Bay beach
• A large barbecue grill and picnic table hidden behind a thicket of flora and fauna near the pool