Recent travel alerts by the US State Department have prompted travelers' concerns about two popular vacation destinations.
Travel advisors for The Bahamas and Jamaica have tourists questioning whether these vacation hot spots are safe. CruiseNReview has gotten questions from several clients regarding these alerts, as both are common stops for those looking for a tropical getaway.
According to the US State Department, a level three travel advisory has been issued for the island nation of Jamaica due to concerns over crime and medical care. The department urges travelers to "reconsider travel" because violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts. Additionally, authorities often don't respond appropriately, and medical services are limited.
The areas listed in the report include Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Kingston, and more.
What does this mean if you plan to travel to Jamaica?
The tidbit in the alert about violent crimes at all-inclusive resorts is concerning. These alerts and news reports are often over-the-top and don't tell the whole story. That being said, the State Department is issuing this alert for a reason. A level three security alert is serious. The alert for The Bahamas was only level two, and most of the crimes listed were on non-tourists.
Don't overreact to travel news, but don't discredit it. News headlines are trying to get clicks, and negative, scary travel news is the low-hanging fruit. You should still stay informed and do your research, though.
There are dangers that exist abroad that also exist right here in the United States. Anytime you are in unfamiliar surroundings, it's best to do your research, stay alert, carry less cash, and have a plan should a potentially unsafe situation arise.
Should I cancel my trip to Jamaica?
Not necessarily. If you want to continue with your plans, can't cancel your trip because you'll lose money, or don't want to let fear dominate your travel, then you should, by all means, consider going. If you decide to go, please be safe, stay on ship tours or resort-sponsored excursions, and follow the following tips from the US State Department:
Avoid walking or driving at night.
Avoid public buses.
Avoid secluded places or situations.
Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
If it were me and I had the option to cancel my trip for free? I'd cancel. Please understand that this is something I NEVER say. I'm a bold traveler and love adventure, but frankly, Jamaica isn't worth the risk.
There are plenty of places in the Caribbean that you can visit that are safe, more fun, and just as beautiful, if not more. There are plenty of cruises that don't stop there as a port of call (many have already stopped calling in Jamaica). All-inclusive resorts exist all over the Caribbean.
I've never been a fan of Jamaica. It's popular among those that like to go to an all-inclusive and not leave the resort, but I love to venture out and experience the local culture. This is not something you can do and haven't been able to do in a long time in Jamaica. The people tend to be aggressive, deceiving, and unfriendly.
If you have the option, trust me, go somewhere else. The crime that has happened at all-inclusive resorts is very concerning to me. So much so that CruiseNReview will not be booking any trips to Jamaica All-Inclusive resorts. You can go on your own; we won't send you there.
If you are traveling to an affected area and need advice, you can always contact CruiseNReview, and we'd be glad to serve as a consultant for you free of charge, even if you didn't book your trip with us. We want you to be safe while still getting the maximum enjoyment out of your vacation. You can contact us by emailing info@cruisenreview.com or calling (870) 273-5004.
You can view the full travel alert by clicking here.
Travelers are always encouraged to:
Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Review the Country Security Report for The Bahamas.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations. Review the Traveler's Checklist.
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Be sure to subscribe to our alerts for the latest travel news and information. You can do so by clicking here.
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