Jamaica, Bahamas Not Safe for Travel, Says US State Department

The US Department of State has issued new travel advisories, urging Americans to reconsider travel to both Jamaica and the Bahamas due to an alarming rise in violent crimes and homicides, according to Beaumont Enterprise.

These advisories highlight the severity of the situation in each country, with the Bahamas receiving a level 2 advisory, indicating "exercise increased caution," and Jamaica facing a level 3 advisory, advising travelers to "reconsider travel."

The travel advisories specifically point to heightened crime concerns.

The advisory notes that "gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population."

Additionally, violent crimes like burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults are reported in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

Travelers are urged to remain vigilant, particularly when staying at short-term vacation rental properties lacking private security.

Details of Jamaica Travel Advisory

Jamaica travel advisory emphasizes the country's high homicide rate, which is among the highest in the Western Hemisphere, NBC Miami noted.

A staggering 65 murders were reported last month alone. The US Embassy raises concerns about local police responses to serious crimes, noting ineffective handling and rare prosecutions even when arrests are made.

Families of US citizens facing accidents or homicides may experience prolonged waits for final death certificates from Jamaican authorities.

The Jamaica travel advisory also underscores challenges with medical services on the island, citing their unreliability.

Some facilities may demand upfront payment before providing care, and most overseas hospitals and doctors do not accept US health insurance.

Travelers are strongly encouraged to obtain comprehensive traveler's insurance, including medical evacuation coverage.

Details of the Bahamas Travel Advisory

The Bahamas advisory, issued on January 26, urges travelers to exercise increased caution if choosing to visit, per ABC Chicago.

Most reported crime is concentrated on the islands of New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama.

The Bahamas travel advisory specifically highlights the 'Over the Hill' area in Nassau, where gang-related violence has led to a high homicide rate affecting the local population.

Travelers are advised to be vigilant, especially at short-term vacation rental properties lacking private security.

Additionally, the State Department cautions against activities like boat tours with commercial recreational watercraft, citing inconsistent regulations.

Poorly maintained watercraft and operators lacking safety certifications pose risks.

US government personnel are prohibited from using independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands due to safety concerns.

The US Embassy in the Bahamas issued a security alert, revealing that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024.

These incidents have taken place at various hours, including broad daylight on the streets, with retaliatory gang violence identified as the primary motive for 2024 murders.

In conclusion, the travel advisories emphasize the urgency for Americans to exercise caution and reconsider travel plans to Jamaica and the Bahamas.

The specific details provided aim to inform travelers of potential risks and ensure their safety amid rising concerns of violent crimes and homicides in these destinations.

Travelers are strongly encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions for their well-being.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Travel advisory issued for Jamaica, The Bahamas due to uptick in crime - From Fox 32 Chicago