Travel Advisory: U.S. Urges Caution for Visitors to Popular Caribbean Destination 

Travel Advisory: U.S. Urges Caution for Visitors to Popular Caribbean Destination 

By: Sheila Duncan 

Reporter 

Dreaming of a Caribbean getaway? I know some of my friends and I would like to go on one for sure!! Imagine pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant cultures waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking to relax on sun-soaked shores, dive into crystal-clear seas, or experience the rich local traditions, a Caribbean trip offers endless fun and adventure. However, before you set sail for paradise, it’s important to be aware of some key considerations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. From understanding travel requirements to staying safe and healthy.   

Tat this time, the U.S. State Department has updated its travel warning, advising people to avoid a popular Caribbean destination. The update, issued on July 25, recommends reconsidering travel to Jamaica due to crime and inadequate medical services. The initial alert in February highlighted a rise in home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and murders, some of which occurred at popular all-inclusive resorts. 

“The U.S. Embassy routinely receives reports of sexual assaults, including from U.S. citizen tourists at resorts. U.S. citizens report slow or unsatisfactory responses to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a final verdict and sentence,” the notice stated. 

The update emphasized that while tourist areas typically have lower rates of violent crime compared to other regions, incidents can still happen throughout Jamaica, which has one of the highest homicide rates in the Western Hemisphere. 

Jamaica is now under a level three advisory, indicating that people should “reconsider travel” there. Other countries with this advisory level include Egypt, Pakistan, Lebanon, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Saudi Arabia. Certain areas of Jamaica are also under a “do not travel” advisory for embassy personnel. Over 206,000 Americans visited Jamaica last year.  

Adding to the travel issues in Jamaica are significant healthcare concerns, officials said. Emergency service response times are slow, and routine care for illnesses or injuries is limited. Private hospitals require upfront payment before admitting patients, and specialized care is scarce. Ambulance services are not always staffed with trained EMTs and may not be readily available, particularly in rural areas. U.S. citizens traveling to Jamaica are advised to bring their own prescription medications, especially items like insulin which can be difficult to obtain and citizens are strongly encouraged to obtain traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling,” the alert noted. 

If you do travel to Jamaica, the State Department recommends: 

• Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition, including stray rounds, shells, or empty casings. The penalties for carrying firearms or ammunition, even inadvertently, are severe and can include lengthy prison sentences. 

• Avoid walking or driving at night. 

• Avoid secluded places or situations. 

• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. 

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile. 

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at www.step.state.gov to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency. 

• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. 

If you are planning on taking a trip no matter the location, please stay alert on your surroundings. Be safe and have fun! (source US Travel Advisory)