Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime, particularly in Nassau and Freeport. While the islands are a popular tourist destination renowned for their beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, it’s important for visitors to be aware of potential safety risks.
The majority of criminal activity is concentrated on the islands of New Providence, where Nassau is located, and Grand Bahama, home to Freeport. In Nassau, travelers should be especially vigilant in the “Over the Hill” area, south of Shirley Street. This area has seen a surge in gang-related violence, resulting in a high homicide rate that primarily affects local residents, but can spill over into surrounding areas.
Violent crimes, including burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, are a concern in both tourist hotspots and less-frequented areas. An increasing trend is the vulnerability of short-term vacation rentals. Unlike hotels and resorts with established security measures, private vacation rentals may lack adequate protection, making them potential targets. If opting for this type of accommodation, ensure you inquire about and confirm robust security protocols.
Beyond crime, water safety is another critical consideration for visitors to the Bahamas. Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, such as water tours and excursions, operate with inconsistent regulation. This raises concerns about the maintenance of watercraft and the qualifications of some operators, who may lack proper safety certifications. Before participating in any water-based activities, it is crucial to check and heed local weather forecasts and marine alerts. Despite weather warnings, commercial operators may still choose to run their tours, leading to preventable accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Due to these safety concerns, the U.S. government advises its personnel against using independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.
Irrespective of your swimming ability or age, never swim alone. Always swim with a buddy and stay within your personal fitness and swimming limits. Shark encounters are another potential hazard in Bahamian waters. Recent incidents, both fatal and non-fatal, underscore the importance of being mindful of sharks while swimming or engaging in water sports. Pay close attention to weather conditions, water conditions, and always heed any local warnings or advisories related to water safety and marine life.
For more comprehensive information on travel to The Bahamas, it is recommended to consult the country information page provided by the U.S. Department of State.
If you decide to travel to The Bahamas, remember to exercise a heightened level of caution and be proactive about your safety and well-being.
