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A country of legendary status, Jamaica is one of the most culturally fascinating and vibrant countries on the planet. Home to an overly well-known musician, a fast bloke, and rum, this Caribbean gem is a top tier place to visit.
But with many travel advisories highlighting several issues, is it really a safe place to visit?
The reputation for crime may have you asking “is Jamaica safe to visit?” and it’s a fair question.
We’re going to provide all the answers you’re looking for in this Jamaica safety guide, with everything you need to ensure your trip to Jamaica is trouble free. We love travelling smart, and one of the best things you can do is to be here, stocking up on our extreme travel wisdom…
Let’s dive into the Jamaican situation!
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There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Jamaica Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.
The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Jamaica.
If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!
Updated December 2023
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- Is it Safe to Visit Jamaica Right Now?
- Safest Places to Visit in Jamaica
- 16 Top Safety Tips for Travelling to Jamaica
- Is Jamaica safe to travel alone?
- Is Jamaica safe for female travellers?
- Where to Start Your Travels in Jamaica
- Is Jamaica Safe for Families?
- Getting around Jamaica Safely
- Crime in Jamaica
- What to Pack For Your Jamaica Trip
- Jamaica Travel Insurance
- Jamaica Safety FAQs
- So, is Jamaica safe for travel?
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Is it Safe to Visit Jamaica Right Now?
As reported by the Ministry of Tourism in Jamaica, in 2022 they received 3.3 million visitors. With the steady growth of tourism, visitors mostly had safe travels
Whilst you should steer clear of certain areas, travelling to Jamaica is generally safe. There are some unbelievably awesome places to visit, and the history and culture are astounding.
The biggest safety issue that Jamaica faces is crime. This is a nasty side of the country and has resulted in Jamaica’s unfortunate reputation in recent years. The media has painted a pretty bleak picture, and whilst you’ll be avoiding areas where gang violence is rife, there are instances of isolated incidents which are concerning for every traveller.
Tourists are more likely to face petty crime and robbery, but keeping an eye out, travelling smart, and using your common sense (especially at night), can help you minimise this risk. It’s worth investing in travel insurance, since medical expenses can be high, and the Jamaican health system less than straightforward.
Another safety issue can be the hurricane/tropical storm season. This runs from September to November and can completely batter the island. If possible, avoid visiting Jamaica during this time of the year.
Overall, whilst Jamaica does come with some health warnings, it is safe if you stay cautious, and travel smart. It has a ton of culture to offer travellers, and if you’re visiting the Caribbean, it is a hard place to leave off the list. Just remember to be crime smart, and don’t flaunt those valuables!
Upwards of 4 million travellers visit Jamaica each year, and the majority of visits are trouble-free.
Check out our detailed where to stay guide for Jamaica so you can start your trip right!
Safest Places to Visit in Jamaica
Jamaica is, as previously stated, a generally safe Caribbean country. However, some areas are much better suited to a good tourist visit than others. There are some fantastic places to stay in Jamaica, and you don’t have to sacrifice amazing experiences for extra safety. I’ve listed some great areas below!
- Ocho Rios: Located on Jamaica’s northeastern shore, Ocho Rio is the most popular tourist destination on the island. A former fishing village, this city is where you’ll find a majority of Jamaica’s all-inclusive resorts. It’s one of the most family-friendly areas on the island since crime statistics are very low, plus there are loads of things to do in Ocho Rios.
- Port Antonia: Located on the northern coast of Jamaica, this town is home to a number of great natural attractions, including waterfalls, the Blue Lagoon, animal exhibitions and more. Same as Ocha Rios, crime statistics are just as low, but you might get to experience a little extra local culture in Port Antonio.
- Negril: Located on the northwestern coast of the country, this is where you’ll find more stunning beaches, gorgeous natural scenery and a wide variety of cultural attractions. If you’re visiting for the first time or with your family, Negril is a great base for beginning to explore Jamaica.
Places to Avoid in Jamaica
Unfortunately, not all places in Jamaica are safe tourist hubs. The general rule is; the further you go into rural areas, the more dangerous it gets. Avoid getting stuck in slum/shack-looking areas. Whilst they may present a side of the country worth knowing about, they tend to be far less safe.
- Kingston: Kingston is Jamaica’s capital city, and it’s BUSY! There are tons of interesting attractions, but the crime rates are probably the worst. This is where you’ll find most gang activity, robberies and violence. Some parts of Kingston, like Cassava Piece and Grants Pen, are a no-go for tourists, while others are okay as long as you visit during the day. Just make sure to get yourself a decent hotel in Kingston and you’ll be golden.
- Montego Bay: Just like Kingston, Montego Bay is a popular tourist destination, but it’s also known for pickpocketing There are lots of places to stay in Montego Bay that come in gated communities, which offer much better security. In particular, watch out for:
- Rose Heights
- Canterbury
- Norwood
- Flankers
- Salt Spring
- Spanish Town: With a tagline of “the valley of death”, it’s not worth coming here at all. Just don’t do it. There are large quantities of gang violence, violent crime, drug trafficking and sexual assault. You should reconsider travel to this area.
Keeping your money safe in Jamaica
One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.
Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.The best solution? Get a money belt.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!
As a tourist, you shouldn’t be affected by Jamaica’s gangs, so don’t be put off from travelling to this stunning country. To help you travel smart and have an epic time, we’ve shared some top safety tips for travelling to Jamaica.
- Be vigilant in these areas – In Kingston: West Kingston Grant’s Pen, August Town, Harbour View, Spanish Town. In Montego Bay: Flankers, Barrett Town, Norwood, Glendevon, Rose Heights, Mount Salem. These are definitely places to avoid in Jamaica.
- Watch your back at ATMs – Robberies can happen. Try to use ATMs only in busy areas.
- Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt.
- It’s a good idea NOT to look flashy – Expensive jewellery, smartwatches, and other swag is a big fat target for a potential thief.
- Avoid going to the same restaurant every night – This can make you a target as thieves get to know your routine.
- Try not to use buses at night – It’s better to take a taxi. Buses can be sketchy.
- Your money, or your life – If someone tries to rob you, this is the real scenario. Hand it over; it’s not worth it.
- Get your hands on a money belt – no one suspects hidden cash in your belt (even though people do it).
- Make sure where you’re staying is secure – Lockable doors/windows, a safe, security, gates, etc. If you don’t have one yet, make sure you purchase a padlock before you go.
- Ganja was decriminalized in 2015 – But possession is still illegal. There are often police roadblocks and they will search your car. Other drugs are completely illegal.
- Don’t take pictures of ganja fields when you’re out hiking – It may look cool or whatever, but this can upset the owners of said fields.
- Be polite but firm to hustlers – Selling drugs, sunglasses, or whatever, just say “No, thank you,” firmly and politely. Stick to your guns.
- Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
- The sun can be dangerous – Wear sunglasses, cover-up, and go in the shade when the sun’s at its hottest. Limit your time in the sun.
- Keep an eye on local news for hurricanes – Know what to do in the event of a hurricane; it could literally save your life.
- Aside from mosquitoes, protect against no-see-ums – You don’t see them. They hang around the water and are very annoying. Cover up (especially at dawn/dusk), use repellent, and burn coils if possible.
Travelling alone in general means being more of a target for petty crime. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible or you shouldn’t do it, it just requires a lot more preparation and caution before you start exploring the island. Here are some things you need to think about before heading out alone.
Travelling to Jamaica Alone – Tips and Pointers
- Think about where you’re heading and what you’re doing. It’s not a good idea to be winging it, wandering around towns looking a bit lost, or looking like you don’t know what to do. Petty crime is often opportunistic, and if you make yourself a target, you aren’t doing yourself any favours.
- Get chatting to some local people! They’re really friendly and most will be happy to help you out and give you good local tips. Not everyone is a violent crime-loving maniac. Most people are nice!
- There are some really cool hostels to stay at around Jamaica: perfect for intrepid travellers looking to meet new people. Often with amazing, good food on offer, and run by local rastas who’ll give you a warm welcome. Stay at this safe hostel while you’re in Jamaica.
- Don’t ghost your friends and family. Make sure you keep in contact with people back home so that they know what you’re doing.
- Let travelling friends or your guesthouse know what you’re doing. You don’t want to go missing without anyone realizing that you’re gone.
- Try to travel in daylight hours as much as possible. This will decrease the risk of anything bad happening to you when you’re on the road.
- Keep your money safe. Have a money belt handy and keep your money and cards in different places. It’s horrific if you have all of your stuff in one bag and then that bag goes missing.
- Don’t get too intoxicated. If you’re heading out for the night, to drink or smoke, don’t get too crazy. Know your limits. There’s no easier way to get exploited than by being messy.
Is Jamaica safe for female travellers?
It might seem more than a bit overwhelming to travel to Jamaica as a female traveller, solo or otherwise, but women do go there.
Sexual harassment and assaults aren’t rare in Jamaica. They, unfortunately, do happen, even to tourists. A lot of Jamaican women have to put up with this as part of their lives. It isn’t completely a no-go country for females, but it does lean towards the more unsafe side.
This is difficult female solo travel for sure, and there are high risks.
- If you get chatting with somebody and you don’t want their attention, stop engaging with them. That means no eye contact and ignoring them. Any replies are basically seen as a challenge and men will try to win you round.
- Don’t tell people where you’re staying or what your plans are. People who seem overly interested are probably sketchier than you think, so ignore them, lie, or just remove yourself from the situation.
- Don’t be afraid to say ‘no’. Don’t worry about hurting someone’s feelings out of politeness. What about your feelings?
- If someone’s really hassling you and it’s beginning to get worried, make a fuss. Not joking: shouting “FIRE!” may be more effective than shouting “HELP!”
- Rape and sexual assaults in Jamaica are sadly not uncommon. You should always stay smart as a female traveller, be aware of your surroundings, and not put yourself in a situation where you are at risk.
- Dress modestly to reduce harassment levels.
- When you’re checking in anywhere, don’t use a title. Ms, Miss, Mrs – anything that implies your marital status, don’t use it.
- If you’re in a ground-floor room or if you have a balcony, you should definitely make sure that your windows (and doors) are locked. These types of rooms are the ones people will be trying to get into.
- Follow simple safety precautions: locking your door when you’re inside; using chains/bolts for extra security, and always use the spy hole if somebody knocks unexpectedly.
- If your key has a room number on it, don’t leave it lying around. Local people may be able to recognise both what hotel the key is for and make a note of your room number, too.
- Join tours and use drivers to get around. Read reviews online, ask other travellers, talk to your accommodation staff and find trusted people and companies to use.
Where to Start Your Travels in Jamaica
Negril
Sapphire water and white sand meet to make Negril the best beach destination in Jamaica.
Is Jamaica Safe for Families?
Whilst Jamaica is a great travel destination for families, the high crime rate should make you triple check your plans before heading out.
Crime is less of a worry when you travel with a family, as you are more likely to select safer locations in general. However, this does not mean you are immune. You are perceived as wealthy, and this will make you a target. Stick to the areas we mentioned at the start (Ocho Rios, Port Antonia, Negril), and your trip should go smoothly.
Note that the sun can get quite strong during the day and that mosquitos are literally everywhere. Protecting yourself and the tribe against these bloodsucking critters will make your holiday a whole lot less whiny. If you’re travelling with a toddler, just know that breastfeeding in public isn’t kindly viewed, and you might get some tricky looks/ comments.
Getting around Jamaica Safely
Transport in Jamaica mirrors that of most developing countries. There is an effective but reasonably grungy city bus network, and buses called ‘coasters travel between cities and towns.
Photo: Jason Lawrence (Flickr)
There is a fleet of genuinely licensed taxis, which are set apart by their red number plate. A whole bunch of illegitimate taxis are flying around too, including motorbike taxis. These can be super cheap but are a little less safe.
Hiring a car is a great idea because distances between points of interest are quite large. Unfortunately, prices of hire cars have recently skyrocketed, so this can be pricey. Hiring a private driver may work out better for you, as you avoid having to drive in new (and often worse) conditions!
Crime in Jamaica
The U.S. travel authorities rate Jamaica as a level 3 country due to high crime. There are areas you should completely avoid due to increased gang violence and violent crimes, and you should stay alert to the possibilities of robbery and pickpocketing. Jamaica’s murder rate is one of the highest in the world, which should make you double (or triple) check your Itinerary.
In tourist areas (and even all-inclusive resorts) emergency services can vary, and local police response times can be slow. Crime does occur in the tourist industry, and you should exercise caution when you visit Jamaica.
Reports of robberies on the route from Norman Manley international airport to various accommodations have been made, although most journeys are trouble-free. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from travelling on public buses, and from driving in certain areas at night.
Laws in Jamaica
It is legal to carry a very small amount of Ganja in Jamaica. Every year, British nationals are arrested for trying to traffic ganja and other drugs out of the country. LGBTQ+ squad members should be aware that there are some laws against same-sex intercourse, so it is best to turn off the affection whilst travelling here unless you keep things MI5 level private.
What to Pack For Your Jamaica Trip
Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Jamaica without…
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Head Torch
A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.
SIM card
Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Money Belt
This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.
It is actually pretty crucial to have extra protection when travelling in Jamaica since things actually can and do go wrong. Don’t make the classic mistake of waiting for things to go wrong. Eventually, they will…
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Jamaica Safety FAQs
For a travel destination like Jamaica, there are lots of different things you have to consider when it comes to safety. We’ve listed the most common question, answers and facts to make your trip as easy as possible.
So, is Jamaica safe for travel?
Yes. There are crimes, but it’s mainly isolated in certain areas – areas you probably won’t be going anyway. It’s fairly safe for tourists in Jamaica.
You will have no issue if you’re just resort hopping during your stay. If you actually want to experience the culture, people and what this country has to offer in full detail, there are definitely a few things you need to be aware of.
That being said, if you use your common sense, avoid sketchy areas and ask locals for recommendations, you’ll have the time of your life in Jamaica without having to see the nasty sides.
Be smart and travel well. Book yourself into some locally run guesthouses, watch your surroundings, make your security a priority and have an awesome experience.
Looking for more info on traveling to Jamaica?
- Let me help you choose where to stay in Jamaica
- Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
- Get inspired by these EPIC bucket list adventures!
- Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
- Explore with the ultimate peace of mind with top-notch medical evacuation insurance
Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels! Some of the links in this post are affiliate links which means we earn a small commission if you purchase your insurance through this page. This costs you nothing extra and helps us keep the site going.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
Visiting Jamaica for the first time, can someone steer to a great beach and nitelife.
Love Ragae! Island food a real plus…thanks
Glenn
I’ve been going to Jamaica for the last 50 years. I’ve stayed in Red Ground With locals. On the beach and all the West End. The Authors were right about most everything. It is best to get to know locals and trust. I have never gone wrong being with a local about town. As the author says if you’re where are you shouldn’t be you’re asking for trouble and it’ll find you. Do not be scared to go to Jamaica is a wonderful place and the people are wonderful people. The rule areas or a safe is anywhere in the world because odious and polite and that’s worth 1 million. And the one thing nobody did mention was God is in control of everything we have free will and that being said used improperly you may meet the burdens you don’t expect.
Jamaica is beautiful but can be dangerous, which is siimulanteous with anywhere in the world. I felt the article was for the most part realistic. Inner city areas are very dangerous and I wouldn’t recommend visiting there on your own (especially at night) however, if you’re staying with or visiting trusted family and friends living in such areas your experience is gonna be different and you may never encounter any dangers while there. But be realistic, for a stranger/ tourist not knowing anyone and choosing to stay in such places it could be potentially dangerous! Most of the locals living in these communities are usually honest, helpful, kind and friendly people but there are also dangerous and unscrupulous individuals living among them and those are the ones to worry about! Use common sense, especially at night, and follow your instincts.
I travelled to Jamaica often 2 or 3 times a year. I stopped going for numerous reasons but let me offer this advice……the key to having a safe and
enjoyable time in Jamaica is to become friends with Jamaicans. The tourists who isolate themselves in gated communities etc. are more often
the targets of crime. No Jamaican will bother you if they see you with other Jamaicans especially if you live with them in their homes. For me this
was the way to discover Jamaica…their food (I miss ackee), way of life, and incredibly warm people.
I have been to Jamaica all of twelve times and had a wonderful time. I’m a female 73 years old and two years ago I traveled there alone. I have never experience anything un-pleasant form the locals. I hate to hear comments as to how bad crime is in
Jamaica. The US has soo much crime it’s unreal..needless crimes like shooting at a party, killing school kids, drive by shootings killing innocent people. The list can go on and on..hate crime because of the color of your skin. Yet, it’s funny when someone ask about “is it safe in Jamaica”..I cannot wait to get back to Jamaica..I feel safer there than in USA..LOVE JAMAICA and I’m not a local, I’m American!
Is it that bad? Oh my Gosh ? I’m trying to meet a lover of mine for the first time but the way I’m seeing comments I’m becoming so scared. God please help me
Hi Ezinne
We would never advise anybody against visiting Jamaica. Most visitors love the country and don’t experience any problems. However, statistically speaking it is less safe than some other travel destinations and we have a duty to inform people of this.
What I will say however is that perhaps it’s not an ideal destination if you are ‘nervous traveler’ – although I’d say the same thing about Kenya, India, Mexico and a lot of other very popular countries.
Take care.
Kind regards
Aiden
Sad to say honestly it’s not safe anymore for anyone that’s the fact you all know so stop pretending.
Author may want to upgrade their knowledge on hurricane season. Jamaica is fine. I lived there for four years and now visit 5-6 times a year. I’m a white 52yo male and never get hassled much, other than by very nice people who might be hitting me up for a few dollars because they’re genuinely hungry. Having a Jamaican girlfriend helps, though! Go visit, you’ll love it!
I am Jamaican. I’m 59, Lived here all my life but didn’t know we had jungles & tsunamis. I don’t care for the latter but would love to explore those jungles. Where are they? ?
Hi Beryl
In your lifetime, 2 Tsunami’s have hit Jamaica although I am glad to hear that they clearly have not effected you. They are very rare, but the copy in the post does make this clear.
As for Jungle, 26% of the country is covered in Rainforest but I presume you already know that. Our writer did incorrectly refer to its a “jungle” in one single instance so thank you very for taking the time to point out this heinous over-sight.
Regards
Aiden
The author was simply stating that higher crime rates do occur in parts of Jamaica and some places should be avoided, why is everyone so defensive, it’s the truth. People also trot out the tired USA and guns but most shootings in America are between people involved in criminal activity and in an area where average citizens or tourists don’t go , outside of this, if murder/attempted murder occurs by any method in the US, it’s like any other country in that it’s usually between people known to each other. The chances of a tourist of average American getting shot in a mass shooting are rare but they get huge media attention. The USA is safe but there are bad areas in cities that are not safe at night and tourist guides to the US warn people of this.
While I appreciated the writer taking time out to tell us about Jamaica, most of the comments were very untrue and lack transparency. There is crime everywhere; we have to use common sense in order to survive and have a great experience.
Hi Paulette
Our writer offered their own personal experience on Jamaica which may not chime with yours.
I have no personal experience of the island myself (though I will get there one day) so can’t really comment. However, whilst you are right that Crime does exist everythere, it does happen more frequently in some places than in others.
Aiden
I stopped reading when the article said ‘earthquake is a thing’ in Jamaica. Wrong. Ask any jamaican.
Hi Van
Earthquakes in the Caribbean ocean are not uncommon and can sometimes send Tsunamis’ towards Jamaica. I agree that the post could make this clearer and we will get it updated.
Regards
With all due respect.
Jamaica is just a dot on the mop where crime is concern.
I’m not just saying this because it’s my home.
The good about this small island is not out as the bad.
We are so small compared to other countries so when a crime is committed everyone knows about it.I have been fortune to travel outside of my own country.
When I watch the news and listen to the stories of the gun crimes,scamming robing and killing of innocent people even kids ,it’s a disgrace.Moments like these would have me reflect back to my beautiful island home call Jamaica ,feeling proud that it’s really not that bad as others caved it to be.
People just don’t go around shooting and robbing every visitors nor everyone in the streets.
We need to take more time and write about the good instead of the bad, then maybe we will see change, not only for Jamaica but worldwide.
Jamaica is a beautiful place to visit, I would encourage everyone that have never being there before to have that in your next vacation trip.
I would encourage anyone that is going through depression stress, feeling like giving up to take a trip to Jamaica.
Experience it for yourself!
Hi there
I have read through the article myself just now and I feel the writer was very positive about Jamaica. Here are a few examples;
“So yes, visiting Jamaica right now is still safe, and probably the safest it has ever been.”
“Jamaica is safe to visit as long as you use your common sense”
Of course, our writer did point our that crime against tourists does sometimes happen but we point this out in all of our Safety guides.
I look forward to venturing to Jamaica myself one day!
Aiden
I really hate the double standard. Can we just put out an alert on how much more unsafe it is in the USA compared to Jamaica? The kind of random mass shootings thats so frequent in the US does not happen in Jamaica. Like everywhere else, in Jamaica you just have to be vigilant. There are lots of places here in the US I would never venture into; it’s the same in Jamaica n every other country . I’m sure if it wasn’t for covid-19 there would have been a few mass school shootings over the past year. Let’s report how dangerous the US can be and places to avoid, like Chicago, Oakland, certain areas in Baltimore etc. There is good n bad in every country; but we’re not gonna let that stop us from exploring the world. Just go n be smart. Come to Jamaica n feel alright…everything nice. The most fun place on the planet…full of vibes, food nice.. Blessings~
Hi Kay
I have read through the article myself just now and I feel the writer was very positive about Jamaica. Here are a few examples;
“So yes, visiting Jamaica right now is still safe, and probably the safest it has ever been.”
“Jamaica is safe to visit as long as you use your common sense”
Of course, our writer did point our that crime against tourists does sometimes happen but we point this out in all of our Safety guides – it would be remiss of us not to.
As for the US, rest assured we arew well aware of the gun culture that the country suffers from, and do mention this in many of our US safety guides.
Aiden
I live in jamaica (im indigenous but white passing) in kingston and there is crime everywhere in the world some of these are great tips though!
Hi Teejay
There is indeed crime everywhere in the world, but there is more crime in some places than in others. Also, the fact is that in some parts of the world, tourists are specifically targeted.
We feel our Jamaica post was even handed and the writer repeatedly pointed out that Jamaica is ultimately safe to visit for everybody. I am very glad you approve of some of the safety tips!
Aiden
I have a special friend he was born in Jamaica and came here Philadelphia he lived here for 20 years Anyway he lives on Runaway bay Jamaica Flankers area I would like to visit him but I am terrified after reading a article it says that this is a very bad area .Does anyone know about this area im supposed to be going in June?
Hi Nicole
The only person who can make this decision is you. Personally, I would not hesitate to visit a friend anywhere in the world.
Aiden 🙂
I stayed in Montego Bay from December 28 to February 10 I first stayed at the Hyatt zilara then I stayed down on the hip Strip I’m 55 years old never had so much fun in my life it’s very safe the people are warm you just need to have common sense that’s the way of the world Jamaica is beautiful awesome culture great food great people one love ya man
I have been doing research in Jamaica for 49 years now. My experience is that rural areas are the safest. I avoid tourist areas, MoBay, and Spanish Town in particular. There are hustlers and petty thieves in tourist areas, and they can be a nuisance. And there are instances of resort staff taking advantage. In rural areas, everyone knows everyone, and they look out for others, including you. But there is little infrastructure to support rural tourism. Treasure Beach is an exception. But it is far from the airports.
Bottomline is every country has criminals who prey on people. Using your common sense will ensure you have a safe trip. The reality is being flashy with clothing, jewelry, etc. makes you a target any state in the US &/ country.
People go away on vacations sometimes & forget that people are really financially struggling. The oppression of the poor is prevalent with lack of opportunities & government assistance isn’t provided like in the US. Lastly , my recommendation to the author is to use caution when even visiting her country. Jamaica is the best. One Love
Most of Jamaica’s crime is domestic related and does not affect visitors to the island and those of us who live here also – the main thing is to stay away from drugs being offered which is mainly marijuana called ganja here.
I am so happy for the comments here…. because I was also bothered by a lot of negative comments about Jamaica. I am glad so many readers spoke up..
Do not knock it until you try it…Jamaica the most beautiful place on this earth….Jamaican people you can’t beat then….Jamaican food is the best food to eat….
We agree – Jamacia is a beautiful place with great people and culture.
Uhmmm… Jamaica is full of crime gangs etc…. No it’s not. Not to say we don’t at all but it’s not an issue where it imposses a threat to tourist. Thats not true. Every country has a crime issue tho. Why say that Jamaica is unsafe?
Hey Yuhmumma,
I completely agree with you – every country has issues with crime and most of the time these issues don’t affect tourists directly. There is always a chance of some sort of spillage though and a tourist becoming a victim, even if it is comparably lower than if you were a local. As is always the case when it comes to traveling, it is safe to visit Jamaica so long as one keeps their wits about them.
Jamaica always gets a bad rap.What most of the media that perperutates this doesn’t realize is that the areas that have the warnings are not places that the average Jamaica, moreover tourists, would venture.
And we need to acknowledge the double standard with reporting crime and safety concerns. See this article – Why is the US Never Deemed Unsafe as a Travel Destinationation? With all the random gun shootings, even in churces, movie theatres, schools, the US is never deemed unsafe … Just saying….
https://skift.com/2019/08/06/why-is-the-u-s-never-deemed-unsafe-as-a-travel-destination/?fbclid=IwAR0Yqj6Pnstlugn1HOgnUgnQFqGq5_Us_obtF0sslFuARAQtg3oSPPQbCSg
Are there secure guides around Jamaica?, could I pay a local guide to help me stay safe in places like Kingston?
Jamaica has gotten a bad rap. The truth is, it is a safe place for tourists. For example, here in Silver Sands, we have a large gated estate of villas that enable you to have a home away from home experience by the beach. You are free to move about and if you want to visit any of Jamaica’s attractions, you are free to do so. Staying in our villas have proven to be very safe.
For the rest of the country, visitors here tend to also be safe, as long as they do not venture into the trouble spots. As long as you know where not to go, and do not venture there, then you are okay.
yeah, say it’s safe as long as you’re in your “gated villa”, lol.