The State Department is warning travelers about violent crime and other potential risks in a popular destination for cruise passengers and other tourists – The Bahamas.
The Caribbean nation was already listed at “Level 2: exercise increased caution,” according to the State Department’s rubric for travel safety, where Level 1 means “exercise normal precautions” and Level 4 means “do not travel.”
However, the destination’s travel advisory was updated with additional information this week to “reflect crime, swimming-related risks, and information on traveling with firearms and ammunition.”
Here’s what travelers should know.
Is it safe to go to The Bahamas right now?
The State Department is not discouraging travel to The Bahamas, but it is urging caution. Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.
“Violent crime – like armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults – can occur anywhere in The Bahamas,” according to the travel advisory, which was updated Monday. “Most crime occurs in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. Stay alert in the ‘Over the Hill’ area in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gangs have killed residents.”
The advisory also encourages vigilance in vacation rental properties, where there may not be private security.
What are the ‘swimming-related risks’?
The State Department’s travel advisory groups swimming-related risks into two categories: jet skis and boating, and beach safety.
Among the risks are reports of sexual assault by some jet ski operators as well as sexual assaults on or near downtown Nassau beaches. There are also concerns over watercraft operators who may be unlicensed or uninsured or who may ignore weather warnings.
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Beyond that, the guidance is similar to what would apply on any beach vacation: never swim alone, watch out for watercraft, beware of sharks.
Can you have guns in The Bahamas?
“Firearms and ammunition are illegal – including small quantities brought by mistake in carry-on bags or luggage,” the State Department warns, noting that U.S. citizens have been detained or barred from leaving The Bahamas for possession.
How can you be safe when traveling?
Travelers are encouraged to practice basic safety principles like being aware of their surroundings, locking their doors and windows, and not answering the door unless they know who it is.
They can also sign up for the State Department’s free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) when going abroad. This allows the State Department to send them real-time updates on health, safety and other urgent matters and contact them in the event of an emergency.
It’s worth noting the State Department has recently updated travel advisories for several other popular destinations, and other countries have also warned their citizens about visiting the U.S.
