State Department issues Travel Advisory for Bahamas
The U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory for visitors to the Bahamas. Travelers are urged to exercise increased caution when visiting the islands. The advisory says, “violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assault, is common, even during the day and in tourist areas.” The advisory said the vast majority of crime occurs on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. U.S. government personnel are not permitted to visit the Sand Trap area in Nassau due to crime. The U.S. Department of State says activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. The advisory also says jet ski operators have been known to commit sexual assaults against tourists.
If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:
- Exercise caution in the area known as “Over the Hill” (south of Shirley Street) and the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay in Nassau, especially at night.
- Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Report for The Bahamas.
- U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.