The US Department of State has issued a warning for American travelers headed to the Bahamas, citing an increase in violent crime, including burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults.
The advisory, particularly emphasizing concerns for the islands of New Providence, home to the Bahamian capital Nassau, and Grand Bahama, urges increased vigilance, especially in areas marked by gang-on-gang violence.
State Department Warns Travelers
In Nassau, the State Department specifically highlights the ‘Over the Hill’ area south of Shirley Street, where a high homicide rate primarily affects the local population.
The alert emphasizes that violent crime occurs in both tourist and non-tourist areas, urging travelers to exercise caution, particularly when staying at short-term vacation rental properties lacking private security.
The advisory also recommends that US travelers avoid certain activities, such as boat tours with commercial recreational watercraft, citing inconsistent regulation.
Concerns include poorly maintained watercraft and operators without safety certifications. The State Department emphasizes the importance of reviewing and heeding local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities, as commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate regardless of weather forecasts.
The US Embassy in the Bahamas has issued a security alert, highlighting that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024. The embassy notes that murders have taken place at various hours, including broad daylight on the streets, with retaliatory gang violence identified as the primary motive.
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Guidelines for Travelers to the Bahamas
For travelers deciding to visit the Bahamas, the State Department has provided a checklist of dos and don’ts to enhance safety.
This includes not answering doors at hotels or residences unless the visitor knows who it is, not physically resisting robbery attempts, enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts, and following the Department of State on social media for updates.
Additional recommendations cover reviewing country security reports, preparing contingency plans for emergencies, and checking the latest travel health information on the CDC page.
The US Embassy in Nassau has also issued its own set of safety precautions, advising extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence Island, exercising vigilance during nighttime activities, maintaining a low profile, and being aware of surroundings.
The embassy underscores the importance of not resisting robbery attempts and encourages travelers to review their personal security plans.
As the situation evolves, US citizens planning travel to the Bahamas are urged to stay informed about local conditions, exercise heightened awareness, and adhere to recommended safety guidelines to ensure a secure and enjoyable travel experience.
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