State Department Issues Travel Advisory For Tourists Traveling To the Bahamas Due To Crime

The Bahamas - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – The State Department is warning those traveling to the Bahamas to exercise increased caution due to crime in the area.

Officials released a travel advisory for U.S. travelers.

U.S. government personnel are not permitted to visit the Sand Trap area in Nassau due to crime.

Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assault, is common, even during the day and in tourist areas, according to the State Department.

Authorities say the family islands are not crime-free, as the vast majority of crime occurs on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands.

The State Department specifically warned against jet-ski operators who have been known to commit sexual assaults against tourists in New Providence and Paradise Islands.

“Watercraft are often not maintained, and many companies do not have safety certifications to operate in The Bahamas,” according to the State Department.

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.

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