Second Thoughts about Jamaica Travel

 Why Second Thoughts About Jamaica Travel?

My daughter just told me she and her friend were planning a girls getaway trip to Jamaica.  My reaction  was Wait! What?  I'm a Travel Advisor and I get daily news and updates about what is going on in the world of travel.  I had just received news that the government had issued a travel advisory to use extreme caution traveling to Jamaica.  Of course I warned my daughter.  The thought of two women traveling alone frightened me.  To my relief they have cancelled the trip to Jamaica and are looking for a safer place to go.

So what is going on in Jamaica that would make the U.S. and Canada governments warn travelers to exercise a high degree of caution in Jamaica due to the high level of violent crime?

The government of Jamaica has reinstated the state of emergency in  8 parishes due to increased violence and gang related crimes.  During this period, security forces have increased rights to conduct searches and seizures.  What should you do to be prepared?

• Always cooperate with military and police officers
• Carry valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints
• Allow extra time to reach your destination
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation

What are the problems?

Violent Crime

  Armed robbery and murder is a problem in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay.  The availability of firearms is wide-spread. There is a risk of becoming the victim of crossfire.  Tourists are also at risk of crimes of opportunity, especially theft and robberies.

Crimes tend to be concentrated within what the police refer to as "traditional hot spots" or "high-risk communities", but can take place anywhere and at any time.

• Maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times
• Avoid visiting or travelling at night
• Avoid walking alone, even during the day
• Go out in groups with people that you know
• Avoid visiting isolated areas and beaches
• If you're threatended by robbers, don't resist, and hand over your cash and valuables.  Resistance may provoke the use of violence

Petty Crime 

    Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, are common in major tourist areas.

• Ensure that your belongings and travel documents are secure at all times
• Don't carry large amounts of cash
• Don't show signs of affluence
• Use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or a business
• Protect your cell phone, which is a poplular item for theft
• Use the hotel safe to secure your valuables
• Don't leave valuables in plain view, even while you are in your hotel room
• Enquire with reception upon check-in on security precautions related to theft from hotel rooms

Womens Safety

    Women travelling alone are often harassed.  Be vigilant.

• Be wary of strangers who seem friendly
• Refrain from excessive drinking, especially at all-inclusive resorts
• Ensure that your hotel room doors and windows are locked
• Carry a fully charged phone with local emergency contact numbers
• Choose carefully what you post on line, avoid sharing your exact location
• Watch your drinks as they are being prepared, never leave your food and drinks alone, and never accept snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from strangers
• If you're robbed stay calm and don't resist: resistance can increase the risk of violence
• Keep information about your accomodations private
• Use legal (that is registered) and reputable taxis
• For added security pack a door alarm, a wearable alarm or a rubber door wedge

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

• Pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• Use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• Cover the keypad with one hand when entering you PIN
• Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Tourists have been targets of lottery scans.  Scammers convince targets that they have won a prize or lottery, but must pay a fee to claim their winnings.

• Never send money to someone in Jamaica who says you've won a lottery or prize
• Never travel to Jamaica to claim a "prize" or money

Public Transportation

Public transportation is generally not safe due to high levels of crime and overcrowding.

Avoid travelling on local city buses

Taxis and Ridesharing Services

Use only taxis ordered from hotels and authorized by the Jamaica Union of Travellers Association (JUTA).  These are identified by red and white "PP" license plates and lime-green JUTA stickers on the window.

• Agree on the fare with the driver before departure, since taxis aren't metered
• Don't share a taxi with strangers

Conclusion

If you already have travel to Jamaica booked use the official advise from the government above.  This advise is also good to use for all International Travel.  KEEP SAFE!

Infinity Fun and Travel
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