The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel advisory for the Bahamas due to violent crime, including sexual assaults.
By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist
For anyone planing a trip to the Bahamas, a new warning has been issued and is effective immediately. The Level 2 Advisory was issued on Monday March 1st, and urges travelers to “Exercise Increased Caution.”
The advisory states,” Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assault, is common, even during the day and in tourist areas. Although the family islands are not crime-free, the vast majority of crime occurs on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. U.S. government personnel are not permitted to visit the Sand Trap area in Nassau due to crime.”
In addition, officials warn, “Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft are often not maintained, and many companies do not have safety certifications to operate in The Bahamas. Jet-ski operators have been known to commit sexual assaults against tourists. As a result, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.”
The advisory gives this advice if you decide to travel to the Bahamas:
–Exercise caution in the area known as “Over the Hill” (south of Shirley Street) and the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay in Nassau, especially at night. –Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is. –Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. –Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. –Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. –Review the Crime and Safety Report for the Bahamas. –U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.