Jamaica

The crime rate is relatively high in Jamaica. Travellers should be alert and aware of their surroundings and personal security. Gang activity and violent crime does occur in urban areas. To minimize risk, avoid signs of wealth, such as expensive clothing or jewelry. Ensure that travel documents and personal belongings are safe at all times. If robbed, do not resist as this can lead to more violence. Check local news for unexpected curfews.

Never leave food or drinks unattended as there have been cases of people being drugged.

There are tourist police near resort areas and are identified by white shirts, black pants, and white hats.

There have been reports of robberies when travelling to private accommodations from the Norman Manley International Airport. When travelling from the airport to your accommodation, keep windows up and doors locked.

Reports of sexual assault have been made in Jamaica, including at resorts. Always remain vigilant to your personal safety and security, avoid isolated areas, including in your resort area, especially at night.

Exercise caution when driving. Although main roads are generally well maintained, roads in the interior may not be well maintained, may be narrow and winding, or may not be well marked or lit. Reckless driving is common in Jamaica. Keep doors locked and do not stop if flagged down by pedestrians. Driving in on the left.

Avoid taking public transportation due to high risk of crime and overcrowding. Use only taxis authorized by the Jamaican Union of Travellers Association (JUTA), identifiable by their red and white PP licence plate and lime green JUTA sticker on their window. Taxis do not use a meter; arrange a price in advance.

Exercise extreme caution when participating in outdoor adventure activities as safety standards may not be adequate. Also exercise caution when swimming as currents may be strong and unpredictable. Ensure travel and medical insurance is purchased before departing and ensure your insurance policy covers outdoor adventure activities and medical evacuation, before participating in these activities.

Wearing, buying or selling camouflage clothing is illegal.

LGBTI travellers should note that same-sex sexual behaviour and same-sex marriage are illegal in Jamaica. There is a lack of social acceptance for LGBTI people, although there may be more tolerance in resort areas. Nevertheless, avoid public displays of affection.

Hurricanes occur off the coast of Jamaica, especially between May and November. Flooding, landslides, major damage to infrastructure and disruption to travel plans may result. Monitor weather reports closely. Jamaica may also experience earthquakes due to its location in an active seismic zone. If a natural disaster occurs, follow advice of local authorities.

Exercise a high level of caution in Saint Catherine and Saint James due to high levels of violent crime and heavy police and military presence. If staying in a resort in these areas, avoid leaving the resort or do so only with organized tour groups.

Avoid the following neighbourhoods in Kingston due to high levels of violent crime: Tivoli Gardens, Whitfield Town, Payne Land, West Kingston, Grant’s Pen, August Town, Denham Town, Hannah Town, Arnett Gardens, Olympic Gardens, Harbour View, Central Village, Spanish Town, Mountain View, Trench Town, Cassava Piece, Canterbury, Norwood and Rose Heights. You should also avoid some parts of Montego Bay, namely St. Clavers Avenue and Hart Street, Flankers, Canterbury, Norwood, Rose Heights and Mount Salem.

Avoid demonstrations and other political gatherings as they can be unpredictable and dangerous. Roadblocks may be set up on main roads during such gatherings. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, even if they appear unattended.