Planning a trip to Jamaica? It’s essential to stay informed about the current safety conditions. Due to crime, the U.S. Department of State advises travelers to reconsider their plans. Exercise increased caution regarding medical services as well. Certain areas pose a higher risk than others, so it’s important to read the entire Travel Advisory before making your decision.
Understanding the Safety Concerns in Jamaica
Country Summary: Violent crime is a reality throughout Jamaica. While tourist areas generally experience lower crime rates compared to other parts of the country, it’s crucial to remain vigilant. The homicide rate in Jamaica, as reported by the government, ranks among the highest in the Western Hemisphere. Armed robberies and sexual assaults are common occurrences.
The U.S. Embassy regularly receives reports of sexual assaults, including incidents involving U.S. citizen tourists at resorts. U.S. citizens have also reported slow or unsatisfactory responses to serious criminal incidents. Even when arrests are made, cases often face delays in prosecution, and final verdicts and sentences are not always guaranteed.
Healthcare Considerations
The level of healthcare available in Jamaica may not match the standards you’re accustomed to in the United States. This includes potentially slower emergency service response times and limitations in routine care for illnesses or injuries. Private hospitals typically require upfront payment before admitting patients and may lack the capacity to provide specialized care. Ambulance services might not always be staffed with EMTs or readily accessible, particularly in rural areas. It’s wise to bring extra prescription medication with you, as common medications like insulin can be difficult to obtain locally.
Recommendations and Precautions
Traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, is strongly recommended before traveling. The Department of State does not cover medical expenses. U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas, and most hospitals and doctors in Jamaica do not accept U.S. health insurance. Air ambulance services to the United States can cost between $30,000 and $50,000.
If you decide to proceed with your trip to Jamaica, take the following precautions:
- Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition. The penalties are severe, even for unintentional possession, and can include long 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 facilitate location in emergencies.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
- Review the State Department’s Country Specific Information for Jamaica.
- Make 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.
Restricted Areas for U.S. Embassy Personnel
U.S. embassy personnel are prohibited from traveling to certain areas of Jamaica due to crime, using public buses, and driving outside of prescribed areas of Kingston at night. These off-limits zones offer an indication of areas with elevated risk.
Off-limits locations for U.S. embassy personnel throughout Jamaica – Level 4: Do Not Travel
St. Ann’s Parish – Steer Town and the Buckfield neighborhood near Ocho Rios
St. Catherine’s Parish – Spanish Town, Central Village, areas within Portmore, including: Naggo Head, New Land, Old Braeton, Portmore Lane, Gregory Park, and Waterford
Clarendon Parish – all of Clarendon Parish, except passing through Clarendon Parish using the T1 and A2 highways.
St. Elizabeth’s Parish – Vineyard District Community, between the communities of Salt Spring and Burnt Savanna, St. Elizabeth
Hanover Parish – Logwood and Orange Bay
St. James Parish/Montego Bay – Inland side of the A1 highway and The Queen’s Drive from San San to Harmony Beach Park
Kingston and St. Andrew Parish – Cassava Piece, Duhaney Park, Grants Pen, Standpipe, Swallowfield, Elleston Flats, August Town, and downtown Kingston, defined as between Mountain View Avenue and Hagley Park Road, and south of Half Way Tree and Old Hope Roads. Downtown Kingston includes Arnett Gardens, Cockburn Gardens, Denham Town, Olympic Gardens, Seaview Gardens, Trench Town, and Tivoli Gardens.
Manchester Parish – Green Vale, Gray Ground, Red Ground, and Vineyard neighborhoods of Mandeville
St. Thomas Parish – Black Lane neighborhood in Seaforth, Grands Penn, Church Corner neighborhood near Yallahs, Town of Yallahs, except when driving through on the main highway.
Trelawny Parish – Clarks Town
Westmoreland Parish – Russia community in Savanna-la-Mar (The Southeastern quadrant of Savannah la Mar east of Darling Street and south of the A2 highway/Barracks Road), Morgan Bay, Kings Valley, The Whitehall, Bethel Town, and Red Ground neighborhoods of Negril
Making an Informed Decision
Traveling to Jamaica involves inherent risks. By staying informed, taking necessary precautions, and being aware of your surroundings, you can minimize potential dangers. Evaluate the information provided in this advisory alongside your personal risk tolerance to make a responsible decision about your travel plans. Remember that the situation can change, so continue to monitor travel advisories and local news before and during your trip.
