By
- Carol Ann Benanti | benanti@siadvance.com
The U.S. State Department is continuing to urge residents to remain vigilant and be careful when traveling to the Bahamas
The department recently reposted the ”Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” travel advisory for the island country due to high rates of crime, particularly violent crime in Nassau and Freeport
A notice posted on travel.state.gov. warned travelers about violent crime, including armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults
The warning urged travelers to stay alert in the “Over the Hill” area in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gangs have killed residents. In addition, vacation rental properties, especially where private security is not present, are also considered risky
The State Department also indicated that boating is not well regulated. Injuries and deaths have occurred. The notice cited that there have been reports of sexual assaults carried out by jet ski operators
The department urged vacationers to not operate a fishing boat or other charter in Bahamian waters without a license from The Bahamas Port Department. Police have detained American boaters and seized their vessel; penalties include a fine of up to $100,000 and 3 years in prison
Those who decide to travel to the Bahamas are encouraged warned about the following: don’t answer the door to strangers; lock the entrance to their place of stay; don’t physically resist robbery attempts; do not carry firearms or ammunition into the country, as they are strictly prohibited
Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact individuals or emergency contacts during a crisis
