The U.S. State Department has updated its travel warning, advising against visiting a popular Caribbean destination. On July 25, it urged travelers to reconsider trips to Jamaica due to crime and inadequate medical services.
The initial alert in February highlighted an increase in home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and murders, including incidents at all-inclusive resorts.
The U.S. Embassy frequently receives reports of sexual assaults, including from American tourists at resorts.
The response to serious crimes is often slow or unsatisfactory, with few cases leading to prosecution, the notice stated.
Although tourist areas typically experience lower violent crime rates than other regions, incidents can occur anywhere in Jamaica, which has one of the highest homicide rates in the Western Hemisphere.
Jamaica is under a level three advisory, advising people to “reconsider travel.”
Other countries in this category include Egypt, Pakistan, Lebanon, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Saudi Arabia.
Certain areas in Jamaica are classified as “do not travel” for embassy personnel.
Healthcare issues also complicate travel to Jamaica. Emergency services and routine medical care are limited, with private hospitals requiring upfront payment and specialized care being scarce.
Ambulance services may lack trained EMTs and may not be readily available, particularly in rural areas. U.S. travelers are advised to bring necessary prescription medications, such as insulin, which can be hard to obtain locally.
Travelers are strongly encouraged to obtain travel insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before their trip.
For those who do travel to Jamaica, the State Department recommends:
– Do not bring firearms or ammunition, including stray rounds, shells, or empty casings, as penalties are severe.
– Stay aware of your surroundings and maintain a low profile.
– Avoid public buses.
– Avoid walking or driving at night.
– Avoid secluded areas.
– Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at www.step.state.gov to receive alerts and facilitate location in an emergency.
– Do not resist robbery attempts.
– Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
