Officials emit a new warning for popular Caribbean destinations: "Reconsider travel"
These spots have experienced a high volume of crime in recent weeks.
While we are preparing for another cold front, many of us are starting to vacuum at warmer and sunny weather. Fortunately, there are countless tropical destinations It is a quick flight far from the continental United States-and a long weekend getaway to the Caribbean is the music of our frozen ears at this time of the year. Between shiny beaches, sand, favorable temperatures and fun nautical activities, places like Bahamas and Jamaica are a traveler paradise. At least they should be.
In relation: 10 places that are not sure to travel right now, says the United States .
In fact, it may be preferable to postpone a trip to these tropical destinations this winter: last week, the US State Department issued travel opinions for Jamaica and Bahamas due to an increase in crime, of gang violence and sexual assault.
On January 23, officials asked Americans "Reconsider travel" in Jamaica Due to recent violent attacks and the lack of medical aid, noting that US government staff are "forbidden to go to many regions due to increased risk".
"Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robbery, sexual assault and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including in all inclusive seaside resorts," the statement said.
"Local police often do not effectively respond to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are rarely prosecuted to a conclusive sentence," the statement continues. "Families of American citizens killed in accidents or homicides are frequently waiting for a year or more so that the final death certificates are issued by the Jamaican authorities."
Because violence and shootings are regular, travelers are advised to stay away from public buses and isolated areas, and refrain from going out at night, including traveling by car. A complete list of travel do and not be found online.
The State Department also noted that he was not responsible for medical invoices and said that Americans traveling in Jamaica are strongly encouraged to obtain traveler insurance as well as medical evacuation insurance.
In relation: The new cocovated variant encourages the travel warnings of doctors .
In a separate opinion, the department warned the Americans going to the Bahamas "Exercise increased prudence" When browsing tourist and non -tourist areas, especially if your accommodation accommodation does not provide private security.
"Violent crimes, such as burglaries, armed robbery and sexual assault, occur both in the tourist and non-tourists. Be careful when you stay in short-term vacation rental properties everywhere Or .
Although the country's capital is generally considered a hot spot among tourists, the travel agency cited Nassau as well as freeport as regions where crime is the most widespread. In addition, managers ask travelers to practice "increased vigilance in the region of" Over the Hill "(south of Shirley Street) where gang-gangviolence has led to a high homicide rate mainly affecting the local population" .
The United States Embassy in Nassau has also published a message, alerting American travelers that the city knows An alarming volume of violence , specifically murder.
"The United States Embassy in Nassau advises American citizens to know that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024. Murders have taken place at all hours, including in broad daylight on the street. Violence of the recovery gangs was the main reason in 2024 of murders "The Council reads.
In relation: Do not drink tap water if you travel in these places in 2024 .
Those currently in the Bahamas or in Jamaica, or who intend to visit soon, are invited to register for the Smart Traveler Program Registration (STAP) to receive security alerts and get in touch with the American consulate in the event of emergency. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB
In addition, travelers should refrain from responding to their door to foreigners or unidentified staff, to keep a low profile, to develop a plan in an emergency or medical situation and practice additional caution at night , by officials.
If you are caught in an attempted theft, the managers strongly advise you to "do not resist physically", as this can cause the other individual.
The American State Department pronounces countries according to Its four -level advice protocol . Things like crime, terrorism, kidnapping, civilian disorders, natural disasters, health risks and events limited over time help to determine whether a country should be considered a level 1 or a level 4 . The Bahamas are now level 2, while Jamaica is level 3.
The agency frequently updates its website to maintain American citizens up to date on risks and potential opinions internationally, jointly with alerts from the United States Embassy.