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Is It Safe to Travel to the Bahamas? Here’s What You Need to Know.

A string of gang-related murders in the local community prompted the U.S. embassy in the island nation to issue a security alert.

By Shannon Sims

Drawn by clear turquoise waters and miles of white-sand beaches, around seven million travelers visit the Bahamas each year, but a new warning about increased violence on the island nation has raised alarm over the safety of visiting there.

On Jan. 24, the U.S. Embassy in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, issued a security alert advising U.S. citizens “to be aware that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024. Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets.”

The startling alert was unusual for the Bahamas. In addition to security alerts and other notices released by its embassies, the State Department issues travel advisories for countries to provide the suggested vigilance visitors should take. Currently, the Bahamas has a Level 2 (“Exercise increased caution”) warning.

Many tourism-reliant countries, including Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic, currently have Level 2 warnings, and most travelers experience safe and enjoyable vacations. The tourism industry in the Bahamas contributes around 70 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce, and employs half the country’s work force.

Here’s what you need to know about the security alert and traveling to the Bahamas.

What prompted the alert in the Bahamas?

According to the State Department, “retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders,” and it is primarily affecting the local population, particularly on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands, where the cities of Nassau and Freeport are. The warnings mention that the violent crime has been occurring in both tourist and nontourist areas.

What does Level 2 mean?

To help advise Americans traveling to particular countries, the State Department employs a scale from 1 to 4 to indicate the local security situation, starting with the safest, Level 1. The levels can vary within a country, with certain areas considered a greater security risk than others.

According to the department’s website , Level 2 means, “Exercise increased caution: Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security.”

Many parts of the world are under Level 2 advisory, for reasons ranging from street crime to concerns over terrorism. The majority of visitors to those countries do not experience any danger — many are not even aware of the heightened risk indicated by the levels.

Level 3, by contrast, advises Americans to “reconsider” or “avoid” travel (countries such as Egypt, Nigeria and Pakistan are now at Level 3). Level 4 means “Do not travel” and emphasizes that “during an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance.” Currently, Russia and Ukraine are among the countries with a Level 4 rating.

What about the rest of the region?

Currently, Turks and Caicos and Cuba are also Level 2 because of concerns over crime. Many areas of Mexico are under elevated warnings ranging from Level 2 (Mexico City) to Level 4 (Colima). On Jan. 23, Jamaica was raised to Level 3 because of crime and uneven medical care, with the State Department warning that “sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.”

Aren’t there sharks in the Bahamas, too?

On Jan. 15, a 10-year-old boy was attacked by a shark while participating in a “shark experience” at a hotel on Paradise Island, according to the Royal Bahamas Police Force. He was reported to be in stable condition. Last month, an American woman died by shark attack while paddle-boarding in the Bahamas, the police said.

However, shark attacks are extremely rare in the Bahamas: The Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File indicates that there have only been 29 unprovoked attacks in the country since the 16th century.

How can I stay safe on my trip?

The U.S. Embassy in Nassau offers some guidance for staying safe , advising travelers to use “extreme caution” in the eastern part of New Providence Island — where Nassau is — especially “when walking or driving at night.” Specifically, the Over the Hill neighborhood , south of Shirley Street, should be avoided.

Travelers are also advised to take typical precautions and use common sense: to remain aware of their surroundings (leaving jewelry and electronics at home), to create a personal security plan, not to answer the door if you don’t know who it is and, if things go wrong, not to physically resist any robbery attempt. The U.S. government suggests staying especially vigilant if you’re staying at a short-term-rental property without a security presence, and women traveling alone may want to take special precautions .

Before traveling, consider obtaining traveler’s insurance, including a medical evacuation policy. Most foreign hospitals and doctors do not accept U.S. health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Another way to stay informed is to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program . The free program sends travelers updated information on security situations by email or text message, and makes it easier for a U.S. Embassy to contact you should an emergency arise.

Ultimately, travel comes down to a question of one’s personal comfort. If you interpret a Level 2 warning as sufficient reason to cancel your trip, there’s no shame in making a choice that eases your mind.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this story misstated that gang violence prompted the State Department to raise its travel advisory level for the Bahamas. The advisory was already at Level 2. The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a security alert for the Bahamas, but the State Department did not raise the travel advisory in response to the violence.

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State Department Issues Travel Advisory for This Caribbean Island

The Bahamas' travel advisory is currently at a “Level 2," warning Americans to “exercise increased caution” when visiting.

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The U.S. Department of State is warning travelers to be careful when visiting the Bahamas due to crime and safety issues on the water.

The travel advisory, which was updated on Friday, classifies the Bahamas under a “Level 2,” warning Americans to “exercise increased caution” when visiting, according to the department . The U.S. Embassy in Nassau also issued a security alert , urging Americans to “exercise extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence Island (Nassau)” and to “not physically resist any robbery attempt” after 18 murders have occurred there since the start of this year.

“The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands,” the State Department wrote in its advisory. “In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.”

In response to the alert, the The Bahamas Prime Minister, The Honourable Phillip Edward Davis said, "The incidents described in the January 2024 U.S. Embassy crime alert do not reflect general safety in The Bahamas," in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure.

"The safety and security of everyone is of paramount importance to us and we are confident that The Bahamas will remain safe and welcoming for millions of visitors to continue to enjoy the magic and beauty of our beautiful islands," he added.

The State Department classifies countries on a 4-level scale, from telling them to “exercise normal precautions” all the way up to “do not travel.”

In addition to crime, the State Department warned travelers about commercial recreational watercraft and water tours, which may not be properly regulated. The caution comes months after a 74-year-old Royal Caribbean cruise passenger died when the boat she was on sank during an excursion, according to NBC 6 South Florida .

“Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications,” the State Department warned.

Still, many trips to the Bahamas are safe and offer the chance to bask on gorgeous beaches , spot wildlife in crystal-clear water , and celebrate its colorful festivals in style. Many cruise lines also call the Bahamas home for their private islands, including Royal Caribbean, which just added an adults-only beach club on its private island , Perfect Day at CocoCay.

US issues new travel advisory for Jamaica, Bahamas due to increased crime

The Jamaica alert asks U.S. visitors to "reconsider travel."

The U.S. Department of State has issued a new warning for American travelers headed to the Caribbean due to violent crime that has impacted the local populations of Jamaica and the Bahamas.

US raises travel advisory for travel to Jamaica

The State Department reissued a Level 3 travel advisory for Jamaica last month, asking Americans to "reconsider travel to Jamaica due to crime and medical services."

"Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts," the advisory, reissued on Jan. 23, stated in a summary of what's happening in the Caribbean country.

"Local police often do not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a conclusive sentence," the alert warned. "Families of U.S. citizens killed in accidents or homicides frequently wait a year or more for final death certificates to be issued by Jamaican authorities."

The State Department further reminded that homicide rate as reported by the Jamaican government "has for several years been among the highest in the Western Hemisphere."

As of time of publication, the State Department has "prohibited" U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission (COM) security responsibility "from traveling to the areas" listed in the advisory, as well as "using public buses, and from driving outside of prescribed areas of Kingston at night."

Additionally, the agency said emergency services and hospital care in Jamaica may not meet U.S. standards, because response times and quality of care can vary throughout the island.

"Public hospitals are under-resourced and cannot always provide high level or specialized care. Private hospitals require payment up front before admitting patients and may not have the ability to provide specialized care," the State Department said. "Ambulance services are not always readily available, especially in rural areas, and are not always staffed by trained personnel."

The State Department does not pay medical bills, and advisory notes, so it strongly encourages that Americans "obtain traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling to Jamaica."

Finally, U.S. Medicare or Medicaid does not apply overseas and most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance, according to the advisory.

"U.S. citizens with medical emergencies can face bills in the tens of thousands of dollars," the advisory stated, adding that the cost of air ambulance services to the U.S. can range from $30,000 to $50,000.

Read the country information page on the State Department website for additional information on travel to Jamaica.

Areas in Jamaica on State Department's Do Not Travel list

St. Ann’s Parish, St. Catherine’s Parish, Clarendon Parish -- except if passing through Clarendon Parish using the T1 and A2 highways -- St. Elizabeth’s Parish, Hanover Parish, St. James Parish and Montego Bay, Kingston and St. Andrew Parish, Cassava Piece, Downtown Kingston, Manchester Parish, St. Thomas Parish, Trelawny Parish, Westmoreland Parish.

Click here for further details regarding each county and parish, including specific neighborhoods and popular tourist areas.

Safety information for Americans who travel to Jamaica

While the State Department has urged U.S. travelers to avoid the Caribbean country, it also shared a list of best practices if you are still planning to visit the island.

Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition. This includes stray rounds, shells or empty casings. The penalties for carrying firearms and/or ammunition, even inadvertently, are severe, and can include lengthy prison sentences. Avoid walking or driving at night. Avoid public buses. Avoid secluded places or situations. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile. 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 Country Security Report for Jamaica. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. Violence and shootings occur regularly in many neighborhoods, communities, and parishes in Jamaica.

If you do decide to travel to the above-listed "Do Not Travel" areas, the Department of State asks Americans to visit this website for information on travel to high-risk areas.

What to know about US travel advisory for the Bahamas

The advisory , issued on Jan. 26, urged travelers to "exercise increased caution" should they decide to visit the Caribbean country.

According to the State Department, the majority of crime – which includes burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults – has occurred on the island of New Providence, home of the Bahamian capital of Nassau, and on the island of Grand Bahama.

"In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the 'Over the Hill' area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population," the government alert states. Violent crime has been happening "in both tourist and non-tourist areas," according to the alert, so the State Department is urging travelers to "be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence."

The State Department also suggested that U.S. travelers steer clear of activities like boat tours with commercial recreational watercraft because they are "not consistently regulated."

"Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications.  Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities," according to the State Department. "Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred. Due to these safety concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands."

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Click here for additional travel information on the State Department's country information page for the Bahamas.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas also issued a security alert on Wednesday , advising "U.S. citizens to be aware that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024."

"Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets," the statement declared. "Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders."

Safety tips for travel to the Bahamas

If you do decide to travel to the Bahamas, the State Department shared a checklist of dos and don'ts to help Americans stay safe.

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, Twitter, and Instagram.   Review the Country Security Report for the Bahamas.   Prepare a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations.  Review the Traveler's Checklist.   Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

The U.S. Embassy in Nassau also issued its own list of safety precautions for U.S. travelers.

Exercise extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence Island (Nassau). Use caution when walking or driving at night. Keep a low profile. Be aware of your surroundings. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Review your personal security plans.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

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The Islands Of The Bahamas Announces Updated Travel and Entry Protocols

Mandatory Vacation-in-Place Requirement is Replaced by COVID-19 Health Insurance, Monitoring Procedures, and On-Island Rapid Testing for Those Staying Longer Than Five Days

For more information see: https://www.bahamas.com/pressroom/islands-bahamas-announces-updated-travel-and-entry-protocols

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Heading to the Bahamas? Here's what you should know about travel warning

The United States Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for travelers heading to the Bahamas.

The advisory warns travelers to "exercise increased caution" due to crime, specifically on the islands of New Providence, which includes Nassau, and Grand Bahama, which includes Freeport.

There have been 18 murders in Nassau since Jan. 1, according to the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas.

"Murders have occurred at all hours, including in broad daylight on the streets. Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders," the embassy said.

Another travel advisory urges travelers to reconsider a trip to Jamaica.

The Level 3 travel advisory was issued due to crime and medical services.

"Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts," the department said.

Are there travel warnings for Bahamas?

Yes. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory , urging visitors to use increased caution in the Bahamas due to crime.

"The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the Over the Hill area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population," the State Department said.

"Violent crime — such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults — occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence. "

The department also warned tourists about activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours since they are not consistently regulated.

"Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications ... and injuries and fatalities have occurred."

If in the water, the U.S. Department of State warned people to be cautious of s harks since there have been fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks recently.

What is a 'Level 2 travel advisory'?

A level 2 travel advisory warns travelers to exercise increased caution, according to the U.S. Department of State.

"Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security.

"Alerts are used to notify U.S. citizens of specific events and changes happening locally, and as quickly as possible."

There are 4 levels of travel warnings. Here's what they mean

Level 1: Exercise normal precautions: This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk. There is some risk in any international travel.

Level 2: Exercise increased caution: Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security.

Level 3: Reconsider travel: Avoid travel due to serious risks to safety and security.

Level 4: Do not travel: This is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks.

Is there a Bahamas travel ban?

No, but as officials warned those who travel there, use caution and stay informed.

Where is the Bahamas and how can you get there?

The Bahamas is a chain of more than 700 islands that stretch from southeast of Miami to east of West Palm Beach. You can get there by boat or plane.

It's also a popular destination of cruise ships.

A ferry goes from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport. The trip takes about 3 hours.

US Embassy, State Department offer these tips if you go to the Bahamas

Exercise extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence Island (Nassau).

Use caution when walking or driving at night.

Keep a low profile.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

Review your personal security plans.

If you decide to travel to The Bahamas, do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.

Actions you can take

For assistance, contact the embassy at :

U.S. Embassy Nassau, The Bahamas#42 Queen Street, [email protected]

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts.

For U.S. citizens in an emergency:

Call State Department Consular Affairs at: 1-888-407-4747 (when dialing from within the U.S.)

1 (202) 501-4444 (when dialing from overseas)

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Bahamas travel advisory in effect. What you need to know

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Can I travel to the Bahamas right now? US embassy issues alert

A travel advisory update has been issued for the island nation following a series of gang-related murders in and around the capital, nassau. this is the latest advice on whether it’s safe to visit.

A security alert was released on January 24 by the US embassy in Nassau, capital of the Bahamas, following a string of 18 murders that have taken place in both tourist and residential areas of the country since the start of 2024. The Bahamas has been assessed as a Level 2 security risk, a rating that also currently applies to Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Turks and Caicos.

Main photo: Harborside Resort at Atlantis, Paradise Island in the Bahamas (Getty Images)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to the Bahamas?

The UK Foreign Office updated its travel advice for the Bahamas on January 15. It advises that visitors should not go out alone on foot outside the main tourist areas, and should travel in groups after dusk. It also states that tourists should stay in downtown Nassau, where there are regular police patrols, avoid any unlit areas and take care if travelling on local bus services at night. If you are attacked, the Foreign Office advice is that you should not resist and should comply with any demands, as robbers may have concealed weapons.

Why has the US issued a travel alert for the Bahamas?

The US embassy has increased its security risk assessment from Level 1 (“Exercise normal precautions”) to Level 2 (“Exercise increased caution”) following a string of gang-related murders that have been carried out at all hours, including in broad daylight. On this scale, Level 3 advises Americans to reconsider or avoid travel (Egypt, Pakistan and Nigeria currently have this rating), while Level 4 means “do not travel”. For comparison to the Bahamas, other places that have Level 2 warnings include the likes of Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Cuba and Turks and Caicos.

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Is it safe to travel to the Bahamas right now?

Violent crimes and armed robberies have been occurring in both residential and tourist areas, including the cities of Nassau in New Providence and Freeport in Grand Bahama islands. Travellers should use extreme caution if in these areas and avoid the Over the Hill neighbourhood in Nassau. It’s also advisable to take the typical safety precautions — such as leaving jewellery and valuables out of sight and obtaining travel insurance before travelling.

What are the entry requirements for the Bahamas?

Be mindful that for Brits who travel to the Bahamas from the US, the time they spend in the country counts towards the 90-day limit. US travellers are required to have passports that will remain valid upon departure and have two spare pages for the entry stamp. There are no Covid testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the Bahamas.

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State Department, CDC urge Americans to avoid travel to the Bahamas amid COVID spike

The  State Department and   the   Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  are urging U.S. travelers not to travel to the Bahamas and several other countries because of the risks of COVID-19 .   

On Monday, the State Department issued its  highest travel alert,  "Level 4 - Do Not Travel," for the Bahamas, Kosovo, Lebanon, Morocco and Sint Maarten, which takes into account CDC travel health notices.

The CDC also lists the Bahamas as "Level 4: Very High" for COVID-19, according to an advisory updated Monday.

According to Johns Hopkins University data, 3,134 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the Bahamas in the past 28 days. That's nearly a fifth of the small country's total cases throughout the pandemic. Just over 14% of the population is vaccinated.

"Because of the current situation in the Bahamas, even fully vaccinated travelers may be at risk for getting and spreading COVID-19 variants," the CDC said.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

►Bahamas issues emergency order: Cruise passengers must show proof of vaccine at ports

►'Now is not the time to visit: Hawaii Gov. David Ige urges tourists to stay home amid COVID surge

The Bahamas issued an emergency order  Thursday barring cruise ships from entering ports in the Bahamas with unvaccinated passengers 12 and older  who don't have medical excuses starting Sept. 3.

The CDC's website said that if you must visit Level 4 countries, "make sure you are fully vaccinated before travel."

The State Department regularly issues travel alerts for countries based on a variety of factors, including public health and safety risks. It has issued a string of alerts  over the past month based on dynamically changing CDC travel health notices. 

The State Department and the CDC recently downgraded travel advisories for Canada, which reopened to U.S. tourists earlier in August. 

►Need to show proof of COVID vaccination?  How to safely store vaccine info on your phone

U.S. officials warn travelers about violent crime in Bahamas

The state department issued a level 2 advisory, urging visitors to exercise increased caution.

The State Department issued a travel advisory for the Bahamas, telling visitors to “exercise increased caution” because of a spike in crime earlier this month.

The Level 2 advisory, posted Friday, says the majority of crime has taken place in New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. It warns visitors to practice “increased vigilance” in the “Over the Hill” area in Nassau, which has had an uptick in gang violence, according to the department.

The advisory comes after a notice on Jan. 24 from the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas, citing 18 murders since the start of the year in Nassau, the nation’s capital. The violent crime — some of it gang-related, according to the statement — has primarily affected the local population, but U.S. officials are urging tourists to take caution.

“Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas,” reads the Friday advisory. “Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.” The department warned visitors not to answer their doors or resist any robbery attempts, and to enroll in safety alert systems while visiting.

The prime minister of the Bahamas, Philip Davis, told local media that he doesn’t believe the U.S. warnings will affect the nation’s tourism industry, which makes up 70 percent of the country’s GDP and employs about half of the workforce. Authorities in the Bahamas held a news conference Sunday to address the recent spate of murders, according to the Associated Press . None of the killings this year have targeted tourists.

Homicides in the Bahamas increased by 8 percent from 2021 to 2022, according to the Royal Bahamas Police Force . Crime data for 2023 wasn’t available.

The advisory further instructs tourists to take caution when using recreational watercraft, as they may not be “consistently regulated”; it says that maintenance of the vessels may be poor and that some operators may lack certifications. In November, a tour boat carrying roughly 100 passengers sank as it headed toward Blue Lagoon Island northeast of Nassau, killing one U.S. tourist and injuring two other passengers. A spokesperson for the State Department didn’t immediately respond to questions about whether the incident had anything to do with Friday’s warning.

“Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred,” the advisory reads.

The department also told tourists to take caution when swimming, advising people to never swim alone and to stay within their abilities and check local weather advisories before heading out. There have been recent shark attacks, some fatal .

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Travel | Bahamas pushes back against US travel advisory,…

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Travel | bahamas pushes back against us travel advisory, says it remains ‘safe and welcoming’.

The Bahamas government says the island nation remains safe for United States tourists despite two alarming travel warnings posted last week.

“The Government of The Bahamas is alert, attentive, and proactive to ensure that the Bahamas remains a safe and welcoming destination,” insists a statement dated Tuesday from the Office of the Prime Minister.

The first warning, called a “security alert,” was issued on Jan. 24 by the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas. It urged travelers to “exercise extreme caution” when in Nassau in the wake of 18 murders in the city since Jan. 1.

The alert said that murders have occurred “at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets,” primarily because of “retaliatory gang violence.”

Davis’ statement on Tuesday said the government is implementing a “robust and innovative crime prevention strategy” involving “rigorous steps to maintain our well-earned reputation.”

Those steps include an enhanced police presence, additional police resources including facial recognition closed-circuit television surveillance technology, training, and a zero-tolerance policy for firearm possession.

On Sunday, Chrislyn Skippings, chief superintendent of the Royal Bahamas Police Force said nine firearms and 1,500 rounds of ammunition were seized in crime roundups last week, according to the Bahamian outlet OurNews.bs .

In his statement, Prime Minister Philip Davis said that the murders “do not reflect general safety in The Bahamas, a country of 16 tourism destinations and many more islands.”

Two days after the embassy posted its security alert, the U.S. State Department updated a travel advisory on its website urging visitors to exercise “increased caution due to crime” in the Bahamas.

The advisory identified two areas of Nassau where gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate “primarily affecting the local population.” It also warned that “violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas,” including short-term vacation rental properties without private security.

According to a story by the Nassau Guardian , some U.S. news sources incorrectly reported that the State Department increased its advisory status on Friday from Level 1 to Level 2, which means travelers are urged to “exercise increased caution.”

Davis’ statement pointed out that “the rating of The Bahamas has not changed; we remain a Level 2 alongside most tourism destinations.”

The Bahamas had been at Level 2 status since 2022 and was first assigned the level in 2018, according to online archives of the Overseas Security Advisory Council, a public-private partnership between the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service and security professionals from U.S. organizations operating abroad.

From 2020 to 2022, the nation was at various times assigned Level 3 (“rethink travel”) and Level 4 (“do not travel”) status due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Warnings about crime in the Bahamas go back further. In October 2005, the U.S. Embassy in Nassau warned of an increase in armed robberies in the nation.

The State Department’s Jan. 26 advisory, while citing crime as the reason travelers should exercise increased caution, contained much of the same language as advisories dating to 2018. Additional language was added to reflect water safety concerns due to recent fatal and non-fatal shark attacks, the Nassau Guardian reported .

The Bahamas shares Level 2 status with 71 countries, including several other island nations popular among Western tourists, including the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Philippines, Turks and Caicos Islands, Sri Lanka, and Solomon Islands.

According to the department’s website, 93 of 211 countries enjoy the most lenient advisory status — Level 1, in which travelers are advised to “exercise normal precautions.”

Twenty-four nations are at Level 3, which means tourists should “reconsider travel” to them. They include Colombia, Egypt, Guatemala, Saudi Arabia, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Jamaica’s status was upgraded to Level 3 last week amid a travel advisory stating that violent crimes are common in the nation and sexual assaults occur “frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.”  Law enforcement is often ineffective and the homicide rate has for several years been among the highest in the Western Hemisphere, the advisory said.

Just 19 nations are assigned Level 4 — “Do Not Travel” — status. Among them are Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Mali, North Korea, Russia, Syria, Ukraine and Venezuela.

On Monday, spokespersons for Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruise lines, which run frequent trips to the Bahamas from Florida ports, said they are closely monitoring situations on the islands. But neither cruise line announced any itinerary changes.

Christopher Caulfield, owner of a CruiseOne.com cruise planning franchise based in Croton-on-Hudson, New York, said he hasn’t experienced any guest cancellations or concerns from clients since the embassy’s posting.

“I advise clients to take caution (in the Bahamas), as I do with any destination,” Caulfield said by email. “I remind them that cruise lines do everything they can to ensure the safety of their passengers and their ships, and cruising remains a very safe way to travel. If violence escalates and cruise lines feel it is unsafe to travel, they will change the itinerary.”

Ron Hurtibise covers business and consumer issues for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He can be reached by phone at 954-356-4071, on Twitter @ronhurtibise or by email at [email protected].

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Bahamas travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 25, 2024 11:43 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, bahamas - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in the Bahamas due to high rates of crime, especially in Freeport and Nassau.

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There has been a decrease in violent crime since the beginning of 2018. Crime, however, including violent crime, still occurs, mainly on the islands of Grand Bahama and New Providence.

Armed robberies, burglaries, purse snatchings, theft, fraud and sexual assaults are the most common crimes committed against travellers in Freeport and Nassau. Incidents of robbery also take place in cruise ship terminals and in and around popular resort areas, even in daylight hours. Crime increases during the holidays.

• Avoid Nassau’s “over the hill” (south of Shirley Street) and Fish Fry (Arawak Cay) areas, especially at night
• Stay alert to your surroundings at all times
• Don’t walk alone, particularly after dark
• Don’t carry large sums of cash or wear expensive jewellery
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid deserted beaches
• If you are threatened by robbers, stay calm and don’t resist

Women’s safety

Sexual assault occurs frequently in The Bahamas, particularly near hotels, in hotel rooms, in casinos, on cruise ships and on the beach. Reported incidents are on the rise in Nassau, including on Paradise Island. In some cases, the victim was drugged.

• Be wary when embarking on jet-ski rides with licensed or unlicensed operators, as several incidents of sexual assault have been reported
• Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and avoid using drugs
• Don't accept rides from strangers or from unlicensed taxi drivers

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs in The Bahamas, especially in Nassau. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Water activities

The water sports rental industry is poorly regulated in The Bahamas. Tourists have been seriously injured using jet skis and other watercraft.

• Rent water sports equipment from reputable, locally registered operators only
• Insist on proper training before using the equipment
• Ensure that beach and aquatic equipment is safe and in good condition
• Ensure that helmets and life jackets are available

Water safety abroad

Boaters should be alert to the possibility of encountering water craft operated by illegal drug traders.

Remain vigilant and make use of officially recognized docking and berthing facilities only.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

Several ports in The Bahamas are cruise-ship stops.

Advice for Cruise Travellers

Road safety

Roads are generally adequate in major cities, but in poor condition in rural areas. Road construction is not always well marked.

Bicycles, mopeds and pedestrians can be hazards, particularly on the busy streets of Freeport and Nassau. Drinking and driving is prevalent. Accidents causing fatalities are common.

• Keep your car doors locked and your windows rolled up
• Never get out of your car to remove items blocking the road, as this could be a ploy by armed assailants to rob you
• Keep valuables out of sight in your parked vehicle

Public transportation

After dusk, avoid travelling on local buses on routes outside of the main tourist areas.

Taxis don’t use meters.

• Negotiate the price before you get in
• Only use licensed taxis
• Never share a taxi with strangers

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Bahamian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave The Bahamas.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 8 months Business visa: not required Student permit: required

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket.

You must complete and sign an immigration card upon entry to The Bahamas. This card will be stamped by officials at the point of entry and you are required to keep the card until your departure.

If travelling by private vessel, certain documentation is required for entry to The Bahamas.

Department of Immigration - Government of The Bahamas

Departure tax

You must pay a departure tax when you leave the Bahamas unless it is included in your airfare.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 25 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Medical care is good in Freeport and Nassau, but limited elsewhere.

Medical expenses can be very high. It is normal for clinics to require patients to sign an undertaking-to-pay agreement and to take a credit card impression as guarantee of payment prior to providing medical care.

Serious cases may be transferred to Freeport or Nassau, or to Miami, Florida, by air ambulance, especially those requiring surgery.

Response times to emergency calls might be slow.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in The Bahamas.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescription

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Pack all luggage yourself and don’t carry anything through customs for anyone else.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Bahamian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in The Bahamas.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of The Bahamas, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and the Bahamas.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the Bahamas, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Bahamian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the Bahamas to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Long-line fishing

Long-line fishing is illegal in Bahamian waters. All long-line fishing gear must be stowed below deck while transiting Bahamian waters. Stiff penalties are imposed for catching crawfish, lobster or other marine life in protected areas or out of season.

Investments

If you are interested in purchasing property or making other investments in The Bahamas, seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and The Bahamas before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.

Traffic drives on the left.

You can drive in The Bahamas with your valid Canadian driver’s licence up to 90 days. If you intend to stay longer in the country, you must obtain a Bahamian driver’s licence.

You should carry an international driving permit.

In case of an accident, you must remain at the scene and not move your vehicle until the police arrive.

International Driving Permit

The currency in the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar (BSD).

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Local services

Dial 911 or 919 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands

For emergency consular assistance, call the Consulate of Canada in the Bahamas, in Nassau, or the High Commission of Canada in Jamaica, in Kingston, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Bahamas Tourism Faces Booking Slowdown After U.S. Travel Alert

Dawit Habtemariam , Skift

February 12th, 2024 at 3:44 PM EST

The Bahamas is at risk of a tourism slowdown if it doesn't push back against the media's focus on a recent State Department travel alert.

Dawit Habtemariam

The Bahamas saw a January slowdown in short-term rental bookings — and, to a lesser extent, hotel reservations — following news reports about an uptick in murders and a U.S. State Department alert to travelers.

In January, short-term rental bookings fell 7.3% compared to the same month in 2023 after seeing months of growth, according to AirDNA .

Reservations per property and occupancy at short-term rentals were down 10%, according to Key Data .

Hotels, which tend to be concentrated in tourist areas, saw weekly occupancy declines year-over-year between 2% and 14% throughout January, according to CoStar’s STR . But average daily rates rose year-over-year, so higher prices may have played a factor in deterring bookings.

Travel Alert Sparks Alarm About Bahamas

The drops follow a recent travel alert from the U.S. government. On January 24, the U.S. Embassy in Nassau, Bahamas, released an alert that warned U.S. citizens that 18 people had been murdered in Nassau since the start of the year. “Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets,” it read.

The New York Times , CNN, and CBS News published stories highlighting crime in the Bahamas.

The prime minister’s office released an official statement on January 30 on the Bahamian tourism board’s website, reassuring travelers that the nation is “alert, attentive, and proactive” and that the archipelago “remains a safe and welcoming destination.”

Despite the government’s reassurance, short-term rental bookings fell 6.4% between January 28 and February 3 from the same week last year, according to AirDNA.

In early February, two American tourists were drugged and assaulted at a resort on the Grand Bahama island. Authorities arrested the suspects: two resort staffers. There’s now an ongoing investigation being conducted by the local authorities and the FBI.

The State Department hasn’t changed its guidance level: “The overall Travel Advisory for The Bahamas remains unchanged at Level 2, which advises U.S. citizens to exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime,” a State Department spokesperson told Skift.

Level 2 is behind Level 1, which is the safest category. Under Level 2, the destination is safe for Americans to travel to, but they are advised to be extra cautious once there. Many popular destinations like Morocco , France and the UK have a Level 2 Travel Advisory.

Where the Violence in the Bahamas Is

The murders occurred in an area called “Over the Hill” in Nassau. While the violence is concerning, Over the Hill has been long known to have incidents of gang retaliatory violence, said Frank Comito, a consultant and former CEO and director general of the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association .

Most tourists spend time in the resorts and hotels at Baha Mar Blvd and Cable Beach instead. These areas have extensive public security surveillance. On the Cable Beach strip, hundreds of people walk daily.

Nassau was one of the most popular international destinations for Americans in 2023, according to bookings data by Amadeus Market Intelligence .

The Bahamas brought in over 9 million visitors, according to the Bahamas government .

Bahamas Tourism Faces Media Frenzy Danger

Extensive negative media coverage of a portion of a locale can cause massive tourist drops to an entire destination. When wildfires hit the western portion of Maui in August, many tourists canceled or avoided trips to the island. Two months after the fire, tourist spending was roughly $100 million lower than compared to the level in October 2022.

What could make the situation worse is an incident involving a tourist that gains widespread media coverage. Aruba’s tourism industry, for example, took years to recover after the disappearance of Natalee Holloway in 2005, said Comito.

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Tags: alerts , bahamas , tourism , travel advisories

Photo credit: Tropic of Cancer Beach at the Exuma, Bahamas. Pritam Pebam on Unsplash Pritam Pebam / Unsplash

US issues travel alert for Bahamas due to increasing crime rate

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Department of State has issued a new warning for American travelers headed to the Bahamas due to violent crime that has impacted the local population.

The advisory , issued on Jan. 26, urged travelers to "exercise increased caution" should they decide to visit the Caribbean country.

What to know about US travel advisory for the Bahamas

According to the State Department, the majority of crime - which includes burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults - has occurred on the island of New Providence, home of the Bahamian capital of Nassau, and on the island of Grand Bahama.

"In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the 'Over the Hill' area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population," the government alert states. Violent crime has been happening "in both tourist and non-tourist areas," according to the alert, so the State Department is urging travelers to "be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence."

The State Department also suggested that U.S. travelers steer clear of activities like boat tours with commercial recreational watercraft because they are "not consistently regulated."

"Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications. Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities," according to the State Department. "Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred. Due to these safety concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands."

Click here for additional travel information on the country information page.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas also issued a security alert on Wednesday , advising "U.S. citizens to be aware that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024."

"Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets," the statement declared. "Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders."

Safety tips for travel to the Bahamas

If you do decide to travel to the Bahamas, the State Department shared a checklist of dos and don'ts to help Americans stay safe.

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, Twitter, and Instagram.

Review the Country Security Report for the Bahamas.

Prepare a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations. Review the Traveler's Checklist.

Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

The embassy in Nassau also issued its own list of safety precautions for U.S. travelers.

Exercise extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence Island (Nassau).

Use caution when walking or driving at night.

Keep a low profile.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Review your personal security plans.

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The U.S. State Department on Friday posted a travel advisory urging Americans to “exercise increased caution” in the Bahamas, citing crime.

“Gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population,” the advisory reads, calling out the most-affected islands of New Providence, including Nassau and Grand Bahama, where Freeport is located.

“Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.”

The Bahamas is now listed at Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, out of 4 advisory levels.

The State Department advisory comes on the heels of a security alert from the U.S. Embassy in Nassau on Jan. 24 calling attention to 18 murders that have taken place in Nassau since the beginning of 2024. The alert cites gang violence as the primary motive, noting murders have occurred at all hours, “including in broad daylight.”

The alert urges people to exercise “extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence Island (Nassau)” and also recommends being careful while driving or walking at night, not resisting robbery and other precautions.

In the travel advisory issued two days later, the State Department also urges travelers not to resist any robbery attempts and cautions against opening doors to strangers.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis told Bahamian news outlet The Tribune that he does not think the warning will affect tourism. CNN did not immediately receive a response to a request for comment from The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.

The Bahamas isn’t the only Caribbean destination with an updated travel alert. Jamaica’s advisory was updated on Jan. 23 to include new crime and health information. It is now listed at Level 3, Reconsider Travel.

“Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts,” the State Department advisory for Jamaica reads.

The advisory outlines specific crime risk areas in 12 of Jamaica’s 14 parishes. It also highlights difficulties travelers could face in accessing medical services.

Watch CBS News

Well-known politician shot dead while fleeing masked gunmen, Bahamas police say

Updated on: March 28, 2024 / 1:55 PM EDT / CBS/AP

A well-known politician in the Bahamas was fatally shot on Wednesday during an armed robbery, police said. Two gunmen opened fire on a group of people outside of an unspecified business establishment in a neighborhood near Nassau, the capital city, but only one person was reported to have been killed. 

Don Saunders, a former parliamentarian and the deputy chairman of the Free National Movement Party, died at the scene late Wednesday, according to officials. He was 49.

"It's with a heavy heart that I report the shocking murder of our colleague and friend, FNM Dep. Chair Don Saunders," wrote parliamentarian and FNM party leader Michael C. Pintard in a  social media post . "We are still gathering all of the facts as we come to grips with this tragedy. On behalf of my wife Berlice and I, I extend my deepest sympathies to Don's family."

The Royal Bahamas Police Force said in a statement that the shooting occurred before 9 p.m. on Wednesday night in Gambier Village, a community just west Nassau. Their investigation is ongoing, but early reports indicate that the victim was seated outside the establishment with other patronts when two masked gunmen approached them and demanded cash.

"The patrons reportedly panicked and fled for refuge, and as a result, the perpetrators opened fire," the police force wrote in a  news release . They said the victim was shot in the upper torso and "showed no vital signs of life" by the time emergency medical services personnel arrived at the scene.

No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. After they opened fire, the armed suspects stole the victim's car, a gray 2014 Nissan, and fled the area, according to police.

Prime Minister Philip Davis posted a tribute on social media , saying he was "deeply saddened" by Saunders' death/

Police have asked anyone with information related to the crime to report what they know to law enforcement. 

In January, the U.S. Embassy in Nassau issued a security alert for the Bahamas , citing ongoing violence. The embassy said there had been 18 murders in the capital city in just the first few weeks of the year, which had "occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets."

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US issues new travel advisory for Jamaica, Bahamas due to increased crime

The U.S. Department of State has issued a new warning for American travelers headed to the Caribbean due to violent crime that has impacted the local populations of Jamaica and the Bahamas.

US raises travel advisory for travel to Jamaica

The State Department reissued a Level 3 travel advisory for Jamaica last month, asking Americans to "reconsider travel to Jamaica due to crime and medical services."

"Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts," the advisory, reissued on Jan. 23, stated in a summary of what's happening in the Caribbean country.

"Local police often do not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a conclusive sentence," the alert warned. "Families of U.S. citizens killed in accidents or homicides frequently wait a year or more for final death certificates to be issued by Jamaican authorities."

The State Department further reminded that homicide rate as reported by the Jamaican government "has for several years been among the highest in the Western Hemisphere."

As of time of publication, the State Department has "prohibited" U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission (COM) security responsibility "from traveling to the areas" listed in the advisory, as well as "using public buses, and from driving outside of prescribed areas of Kingston at night."

Additionally, the agency said emergency services and hospital care in Jamaica may not meet U.S. standards, because response times and quality of care can vary throughout the island.

"Public hospitals are under-resourced and cannot always provide high level or specialized care. Private hospitals require payment up front before admitting patients and may not have the ability to provide specialized care," the State Department said. "Ambulance services are not always readily available, especially in rural areas, and are not always staffed by trained personnel."

The State Department does not pay medical bills, and advisory notes, so it strongly encourages that Americans "obtain traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling to Jamaica."

Finally, U.S. Medicare or Medicaid does not apply overseas and most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance, according to the advisory.

"U.S. citizens with medical emergencies can face bills in the tens of thousands of dollars," the advisory stated, adding that the cost of air ambulance services to the U.S. can range from $30,000 to $50,000.

Read the country information page on the State Department website for additional information on travel to Jamaica.

Areas in Jamaica on State Department's Do Not Travel list

St. Ann’s Parish, St. Catherine’s Parish, Clarendon Parish -- except if passing through Clarendon Parish using the T1 and A2 highways -- St. Elizabeth’s Parish, Hanover Parish, St. James Parish and Montego Bay, Kingston and St. Andrew Parish, Cassava Piece, Downtown Kingston, Manchester Parish, St. Thomas Parish, Trelawny Parish, Westmoreland Parish.

Click here for further details regarding each county and parish, including specific neighborhoods and popular tourist areas.

Safety information for Americans who travel to Jamaica

While the State Department has urged U.S. travelers to avoid the Caribbean country, it also shared a list of best practices if you are still planning to visit the island.

Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition. This includes stray rounds, shells or empty casings. The penalties for carrying firearms and/or ammunition, even inadvertently, are severe, and can include lengthy prison sentences.

Avoid walking or driving at night.

Avoid public buses.

Avoid secluded places or situations.

Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.

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 Country Security Report for Jamaica.

Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Violence and shootings occur regularly in many neighborhoods, communities, and parishes in Jamaica.

If you do decide to travel to the above-listed "Do Not Travel" areas, the Department of State asks Americans to visit this website for information on travel to high-risk areas.

What to know about US travel advisory for the Bahamas

The advisory , issued on Jan. 26, urged travelers to "exercise increased caution" should they decide to visit the Caribbean country.

According to the State Department, the majority of crime – which includes burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults – has occurred on the island of New Providence, home of the Bahamian capital of Nassau, and on the island of Grand Bahama.

"In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the 'Over the Hill' area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population," the government alert states. Violent crime has been happening "in both tourist and non-tourist areas," according to the alert, so the State Department is urging travelers to "be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence."

The State Department also suggested that U.S. travelers steer clear of activities like boat tours with commercial recreational watercraft because they are "not consistently regulated."

"Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications.  Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities," according to the State Department. "Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred. Due to these safety concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands."

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Click here for additional travel information on the State Department's country information page for the Bahamas.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas also issued a security alert on Wednesday , advising "U.S. citizens to be aware that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024."

"Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets," the statement declared. "Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders."

Safety tips for travel to the Bahamas

If you do decide to travel to the Bahamas, the State Department shared a checklist of dos and don'ts to help Americans stay safe.

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, Twitter, and Instagram.   Review the Country Security Report for the Bahamas.   Prepare a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations.  Review the Traveler's Checklist.   Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

The U.S. Embassy in Nassau also issued its own list of safety precautions for U.S. travelers.

Exercise extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence Island (Nassau). Use caution when walking or driving at night. Keep a low profile. Be aware of your surroundings. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Review your personal security plans.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

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