Amanyara, the ultra-luxurious hideaway from Amanresorts in the Turks and Caicos islands, has opened a Nature Discovery Center with a full-time naturalist in residence to introduce visitors to the island’s natural wonders. For the past four years, Lindsay Mensen has studied the indigenous flora and fauna on these tropical islands, and now the on-site naturalist will be educating guests of all ages. Younger visitors will get a kick out of the daily programs created by Lindsay and teachers from the American Museum of Natural History's Science and Nature department. Think research expeditions, nature-themed yoga classes, beach walks, scavenger hunts and even turtle nesting site conservation.
Adult guests can also learn about the islands’ diverse wildlife. Morning eco-hikes shed light on the geology of the island of Providenciales, the dry tropic forest, the medicinal uses of native plants and the many bird, reptile and invertebrate residents of the island. Guests can also explore the ocean, learning about the marine biology of the area while kayaking, snorkeling or diving. Complete a fun-filled day at the Nature Discovery Center with stargazing, a screening of a nature documentary or evening discussion with one of the Center's regular guest speakers, including: Dr. Glenn Gerber of the San Diego Zoo, Founder of the Caribbean Wildlife Foundation; Dr. Graham Reynolds, Philosophy in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; Dr. Peter Richardson, Marine Conservation Society and The Turtle Project; and Brian Naqqi Manco, Department of Environmental and Coastal Resources, Turks & Caicos Islands.