Jamaica has a reputation for being dangerous, and while most tourists will feel extremely safe, there are some places to avoid. You’re better off learning to get used to the slower pace during your stay! A few montsh ago, according to top social scientist Dr. Herbert Gayle (my name sake), the safest places (parishes) in Jamaica are Portland, St Elizabeth, Manchester, St … As a general rule, it would be best to remain close to your group if you are traveling with friends or family, or try to frequent areas where you can be around other tourists or visitors when staying in a resort. Top Places to Visit in Jamaica, Caribbean: See Tripadvisor's 6,70,407 traveller reviews and photos of Jamaica attractions. Warren-Troy-Farmington Hills, Michigan. This means travelers should "exercise increased caution" in such places. Those that do also tend to be located at the more expensive areas. Serving up the hottest food trends and the inside scoop on restaurants worldwide. There simply isn’t enough manpower to deal with all the crimes that occur, so their attention is often directed towards more serious crimes and not towards crimes like theft. The areas of "downtown" Kingston, which the U.S. Department of State says include Trench Town, Tivoli Gardens, and Arnett Gardens are high crime areas with lots of violence. Jamaica is one of the most well traveled destinations on the planet. Rather than peruse the whole island, we’ve decided to keep it simple. Norwood is another Montego Bay neighborhood that authorities suggest staying away from. Remote and offbeat beach 2. Plenty of travelers on TripSavvy rave about Treasure Beach, and we have to agree that the views are epic. It is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Jamaica including Frenchmen’s Cove and Winnifred Beach. YOU WOULD BE BETTER OFF GOING TO THE NORTH SIDE OF THE ISLAND, AVOIDING MONTEGO BAY. I'll let you know the wild and tacky places to avoid during spring break. There are a lot of bad things happening there, too. With its beautiful coasts, Jamaica is also rich in fresh and delicious seafood! Hotels & Vacation Rentals Near Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater, USA, Hotels & Vacation Rentals Near RFK Stadium, Washington DC, USA, Hotels & Vacation Rentals Near T Mobile Arena Las Vegas Nv, Hotels & Airbnb Vacation Rentals Near Kumamoto City Museum, Japan. It's on countless bucket lists and seems to make almost everyone's top ten list for places to visit. Some travelers say Negril is a fine place to visit, but we tend to disagree given the number of headlines centered on the criminal activity there. You can buy and claim online, even after you've left home. Tourist police, who are wearing white hats and shirts with black pants, can be found all around the cruise ports. Fortunately, there are plenty ways to avoid this. I'll let you know the wild and tacky places to avoid during spring break. The best thing to do would be to anticipate this, schedule activities in advance, and ultimately, just learn to be a little more lax about it. Pregnancy and parenting news, given to you in a way nobody else has. Per the U.S. travel advisory, violence, including incidents resulting in death, "occur regularly" in Spanish Town. Watch out for motorbike riders who may snatch your purse or engage in other petty theft. Located in the sleepy parish of Trelawny, The Martha Brae River Rafter’s Village is a handful of miles inland from … The sands are soft and golden and the waters are cl… "The beach is well supplied w/ fun music (awesome and entertaining dj), lots of chairs ($5 for the day), sun or shade a plenty, and gorgeous water." Of course, there are a couple of ways to get yourself into trouble in Jamaica … Learn More. Standpipe is yet another spot travelers should avoid in Kingston, says the U.S. travel advisory, because of regular violence involving particularly dangerous weapons. Travelers on TripSavvy also recommend Portland as an alternative to other big-name places in Jamaica. If you must get around Kingston at night, be sure to travel as a group and to stick to well-lit, heavily-populated areas. Mainly, this is because there is a bargaining culture in Jamaica and if you are not accustomed to haggling, some drivers may take advantage and demand you to pay an unfairly expensive fare. In total, Jamaica has only three "officially designated" cities, says World Population Review, so it can be challenging to narrow down what places to avoid. Roadside jerk shacks can be found almost anywhere in Jamaica! Visiting these waterfalls during weekdays is an ideal time to avoid the crowd, preferably early in the morning or late noon. Jerk shacks are also great places to mingle with the locals and meet other tourists. Police presence is often felt there, too, which may or may not be a good sign. Here, we’ll look at the best places to stay in Kingston, the capital city. Its mountains, beaches, rainforests, and friendly locals are highlights no matter when you visit. Do not travel to the following areas: Cassava Piece As Jamaica’s capital city, Kingston is one of the busiest and most popular areas there. Epic coastlines, including amazing coral reefs, welcome visitors to Runaway Bay. Visiting these falls is surely one of the free things to do in Jamaica that you ought to try. Jamaica is a vacation destination for international travelers of all types. Although Jamaica is one of the most relaxed vacation spots in the world–and certainly not any less safe than most other places–taking a few precautions will go a long way towards being able to enjoy your trip to the fullest. The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2021 Whether you're traveling solo or planning a family vacation, here are the 50 best places to visit in 2021. What not to do there i.e. Although resorts are generally safe and their staff, friendly and accommodating, it is often advised not to let yourself be alone with resort staff! There are places in the Caribbean that are lively, friendly, and as safe as anywhere else. It would be best to do your research on the costs of basic goods in Jamaica before your trip. So, if you ever lose your belongings or get pick-pocketed, you are probably going to have to deal with it on your own. While it could be tempting to try every seafood dish on the menu, it would be wise to be mindful of which kinds of seafood are available locally and which ones have to be sourced elsewhere. Staying safe in Jamaica’s cruise port towns Ocho Rios and Falmouth are the two main cruise port towns in Jamaica, plus there’s a newly opened cruise port in the historical town of Port Royal. Spanish Town and nearby Kingston are two places where it’s wise to exercise precautions. If you want to enjoy a truly hassle-free vacation, read on to learn more about what not to do in Jamaica! Nearby are lush jungles, waterfalls, mountains, and more. With an estimated population of 2.7 million and an area of over 4,000 square miles, choosing where to live in Jamaica is not an easy decision. Street harassment such as whistles, catcalls, and honking is commonplace. The Marthae Brae River is one of Jamaica’s top bamboo rafting destinations and one of the best places to visit in Jamaica for a romantic day out. Warren-Troy-Farmington Hills is a combination of three suburbs which are each a part of the city but know as a general are. Erynn Ruiz is a freelance writer with a history of writing about pop culture, travel, and parenting. This is why it is important to exercise caution on your trip! Her ghostwriting work also takes her from website copy to blogging and back, and Erynn credits such projects with her vast knowledge of random facts. See the Frequently Asked Questions for more information.. A new report details the most dangerous—and safest—places for gay travelers. Travelers in TripSavvy forums agreed Port Antonio is a smart choice when visiting Jamaica if you must head to Portland Parish. Though the idea of exploring a country as beautiful as Jamaica sounds very exciting, it is actually not recommended for tourists - especially those who are inexperienced or just visiting the country for the first time - to go backpacking. Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19 in Jamaica Key Information for Travelers to Jamaica Travelers should avoid all travel to Jamaica. Review the Crime and Safety Report for Jamaica. This is especially true for female travelers. But not everything is sunshine and tropical fishes in Jamaica. Flankers is another Montego Bay neighborhood that authorities suggest you avoid. Organized crime is present in Jamaica but rarely affects visitors. The idyllic and tranquil beach stretches for around 9.7 kilometres (six miles) and rarely feels crowded. Kingston may be the most recognizable city, but it's also one of the most dangerous. A trip to Jamaica is so much more than laying on the beach soaking up the sun and drinking Jamaican rum punch. Many people have lost their lives as a result of crime sprees involving reported gangs. As a California native, she finds it intriguing to write about (and plan to visit) exotic locales. With its pristine beaches, mouthwatering seafood, and extremely laid-back vibe, Jamaica is the ultimate Caribbean getaway! Montego Bay is a huge tourist draw, but that also means pickpockets know where to find targets. Unsubscribe in one click. According to Jamaican politicians, the "economic factors" of the area are significant contributors to the level of crime residents and tourists experience. Violent crime typically involves residents of Jamaica, not necessarily visitors, but that doesn't mean you couldn't get caught in the middle of domestic disputes. Port Antonio is a great places to make a base to explore the Jim Crow Mountains National park, and Jamaica s Largest River, the Rio Grande. What To Plan For When Visiting, The Biggest Dinosaur Fossil Ever Found Belonged To A Long-Reining Canadian T-Rex, These Influencer Tips Are Sure To Boost Your Following, If You're Seeking A Large Audience, North Carolina, New York, Tennesse And Other Major Cities With The Best BBQ (According To Stars), Valentine's Day Looks Different Around The World With These Sweet Traditions, Here's Why, And How, You Should Be Making A Charcuterie Bouquet For Valentine's Day, How Being Aboard The Titanic Compares To A Vacation On Today’s Largest Cruise Ship, This Is What You'll Want To Prioritize When You Come To Lisbon, If All You Have Is 3 Days, Maine Is More Than Just Nature, These Historic Foods Are Worth The Road Trip, The Coolest Streets In New Orleans, Rome, L.A. And Other Major Cities (According To Stars), This Is What's Eaten On Lunar New Year, With Some Dishes Said To Bring Good Fortune, If You're Going To Tackle Mediterranean Cuisine, Let It Be These Dishes First, Think Thailand Is Only For Backpackers? At night, however, these areas become a hotbed of crime. A 20-minutes boat ride from Negril’s coast will … It would be best to have your money changed even before you leave home, but if you somehow forget to, you can always have your money changed at a bank or even at your hotel in Jamaica. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. You definitely wouldn’t want to miss out! It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities. It would be better if you could take public transport, like buses or the red-plate cabs, and simply ask the drivers for directions, if you are unsure. From sampling food to exploring the countryside, lounging on beaches to immersing yourself in a new culture, there is plenty to do on Jamaica that will keep you occupied for days on end! Grants Pen is another Kingston hotspot for crime. Although one would think that taking a cab would be the best way to explore an unfamiliar place, there are actually a few reasons why it would be best to avoid exploring the island by private cab, especially if it is your first time there. Clavers Street is another area of regular criminal activity, per the travel advisory from the U.S. state department. Many all-inclusive restaurants serve jerk-style fare at lunch or have jerk barbecue nights, but it’s hard to beat a small jerk shark where locals and tourists mingle. ... Montego Bay, Jamaica; Negril, Jamaica; In addition, there are numerous cruises that depart during spring break. Answer 1 of 7: Never been to Jamaica. (Do a quick search on the following sites), Search Vrbo for the best Holiday Homes & Rentals, Value-For-Money Airbnb In Jamaica: Lovely Family Home In Montego Bay, Dunn's River Falls: Most Popular Waterfall & Attraction In Jamaica, 11 Best Airbnbs In Montego Bay, Jamaica - Updated 2021, Best Adult-Only Hotels In Negril, Jamaica, Top 5 Treehouse Hotels & Vacation Rentals In Jamaica - Updated 2021. Top Places to Visit in Montego Bay, Caribbean: See Tripadvisor's 1,93,692 traveller reviews and photos of Montego Bay attractions. Looking for a house vacation rental. Website for moms seeking advice, community, and entertainment. It seems like anywhere you go in Jamaica, you can expect to have to watch out for your safety both day and night. The tiny bar is made of driftwood stilted on a huge sandbar, about a quarter mile (400 metres) out at the sea. These have ranged from theft to sexual assault, at worst. LIKE | COMMENT | SHARE | SUBSCRIBE Jamaica Safe - Where NOT to GO in Jamaica!Jamaicans always want to be the worst for some strange reasons. Take taxis back to your accommodations if you're out at night in Kingston, Bay or any large town. Fortunately, there are plenty ways to avoid this. Extreme violence often occurs in Cassava Piece, says the U.S. travel advisory, and contributes to Jamaica's Level 2 travel warning. The only place to satisfy all of your guilty pleasures. 20. This article highlights the 7 best places to live in Jamaica. Avoid deserted areas and beaches even in the daytime, and try not to walk at night or hitchhike. Scenic views 3. One of things that makes Jamaica an excellent vacation destination is the locals’ laid-back vibe. By and large, the island nation is a tourist-friendly spot that’s eager to reward your time (and your coin). Backpackers are among the top targets of criminals in Jamaica, because they are often vulnerable and know very little about the area. Thanks for stopping by! Over the last few years, some reports have surfaced about harassment faced by tourists when left alone with a staff member of the resort they’ve checked into. It might look unassuming, especially with all the beachside vacation properties. This promotional code cannot be used with any other discount offer, including World Nomads Members’ discount for travel insurance policy holders. Is there anything we could have done to help you? From luxurious resorts to beachfront relaxation, Runaway Bay has everything you need to enjoy a vacation, with less worry over crime statistics than other areas on the island. Constantly learning and exploring the world! Travel may increase … Erynn's also a bibliophile with a day job as a homeschooling mom of two. To avoid becoming a victim of these crimes, it is best to explore Kingston during the day. In thi… Relaxation Why it’s awesome:Situated in St. Elizabeth, Treasure Beach is a picture-perfect gem. Grants Pen is another Kingston hotspot for crime. … Unfortunately, not all places in Jamaica are safe tourist hubs. This is an area that is situated in Detroit’s northwest metro area. When you book your trip to Jamaica, the odds are good that you’re headed for a spirited, but relaxing island vacation. Luckily, there's less crime here than in other areas. Floyd’s Pelican Bar is one of the most unique places to have a drink or grab some lunch in Jamaica. Kingston is notorious for its high crime rates, particularly within the inner-city areas. But the area of Rose Heights in Montego Bay is another area rife with robberies and worse crimes. Spring break is a challenging time for adults to travel. The most recent headlines out of Negril revolve around the untimely passing of an Italian businessman and his wife, who were staying in the popular resort town. Places to Avoid in Jamaica. Kingston. Looking for the best places to stay in Jamaica but don’t know where to start? After all, it is an entire island! There are a ton of things to do in Jamaica, so plan on getting off the resort a few days or making the most of your port day in Jamaica if you're on a Caribbean cruise. Canterbury is also on the travel advisory's "do not travel" list. Of course, there are still plenty of gorgeous beaches, colonial-style mansions, and rich forests to explore and experience. Lobster, while sourced locally, is another type of seafood to steer clear of during the months of July through March, as catching them is illegal during the off-season. BEEN TO JAM A DOZEN TIMES. Another thing to avoid when exploring the city is traveling or taking rides with strangers! These two cities are the exception, being both populated and hectic. The 1.5 km long cave system was a hiding place for both slaves and the Spanish in the 17th century *5% off when you book with our promo code: TRIP101. Clearly, tourists who gave the resort 5 stars on TripAdvisor felt super comfortable visiting and wouldn't hesitate to return to this seaside spot. Falmouth is a port stop for many cruises, but experts say that's why it's the perfect spot for pickpockets to hang out. "This was the best experience I'd had in Jamaica,the scenery along the coastline was simply amazing,The history of the landmarks was very informative." Here are the best places to live to avoid natural disasters. Headlines speak of missing teens, aggravated crimes, and unsolved incidents with deceased victims. While personally I have been fortunate to have never experienced such horror, there is no denying that there have been a few reports of visiting yachtsmen being victims of crime in that region. Though I am posting this for Montego Bay, I am open to any place in Jamaica. Don’t be fooled by the low-frills appearance–much of the food that they serve in jerk shacks are not only more reasonably priced, but also much tastier than many of the restaurants in the area! Travel insurance from WorldNomads.com is available to people from 140 countries. It would be best to do your research on the costs of basic goods in Jamaica before your trip. In cities such as Kingston and Montego Bay, common sense precautions apply. 1. It would be best to have your money changed even before you leave home, but if you somehow forget to, you can always have your money changed at a bank or even at your hotel in Jamaica. New Travel Requirements: All air passengers coming to the United States, including U.S. citizens, are required to have a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before they board a flight to the United States. KINGSTON IS THE NWORSE CITY THERE FOR BOTH TOURISTS & JAMAICANS. Many of these roadside jerk shacks also offer great deals, like all-inclusive meals and barbecue nights. There's plenty of culture (we have Jamaica to thank for reggae music), lots to see (diving and snorkeling on the reef are perks), and amazing food. Violence and shootings occur regularly in some areas of Kingston. Ask fellow travellers and travel experts here. Sydney, Prague, New York And Other Major Cities With The Coolest Bridges (According To Stars), 4 Places In Jamaica That Are Super Safe (15 That Are Just Plain Dangerous), Does The Little Mermaid Statue In Copenhagen Deserve Its Fame? One of the things I learned about the Caribbean during my sailing trips in the region, is that it is not a tiny geographical region. Most stores and services do not accept payments in anything but the local currency. There's plenty of culture (we have Jamaica to thank for reggae music), lots to see (diving and snorkeling on the reef are perks), and amazing food to eat, too. There’s no wonder that this sunny island nation remains one of the most popular vacation destinations, as you can enjoy everything here–from fresh eats, being out in nature, great music, and an exciting nightlife. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. This ties into the advice listed earlier, regarding sharing rides with strangers. We’ve put together a quick list of three places we’d recommend based on budget, travel style, and facilities. Just be mindful of these travel tips and you should be able to kick back, relax, and soak in the Jamaican sun without any stress or worry! Though not all drivers are out scam you, it would be wiser to just make use of services like car rentals or even guided tours of the city. Major ones are Dunn River Falls, Reach Falls, Mayfield Falls, and YS Falls. Other areas that you should avoid are: Jamaica (unless you change from the subway and LIRR to the Airtrain) South Jamaica. Both tourists and residents of Jamaica fall victim to many different types of crimes, leading people to believe that the island is fraught with danger. Putting yourself in a position where you can be taken advantage of by a complete stranger in an unfamiliar place is not the most prudent thing to do, no matter where you are! What areas and neighborhoods are safe. Travelers feel safer here than other places in Jamaica, so it might be worth checking out on your next vacation. Far Rockway. The general rule is: the further you go into rural areas, the more dangerous it gets. But it’s not just famous for the movie, the Green Grotto Caves played a large roll in Jamaican history. In fact, U.S. government personnel who visit there (and other places in Jamaica) are prohibited from using public buses, driving outside certain areas at night, and even traveling in specific Kingston municipalities. 3. If hustlers … It is best to avoid non-local seafood, because these tend to be less fresh and priced higher–you’ll end up paying more for lower quality seafood! It definitely would be safer if you set an itinerary and chose to visit highly populated areas instead of going off the beaten path. There's significant risk associated with visiting any area of Kingston at night, regardless. Areas to avoid. One of the very first things you should do before traveling to Jamaica is to make sure you’ve converted your American Dollars into Jamaican Dollars. If you decide to explore them, just keep your eyes open for potential sketchy situations. In Jamaica, there are fourteen parishes across three counties. Jamaica. Good luck Though dedicated and well-meaning, the Jamaican police have a reputation for being unreliable when it comes to dealing with petty crimes. Masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation … Snorkelling 4. And news headlines coming from the area aren't very positive; it seems like the police presence isn't helping much. Hopefully that should go without saying (and if it doesn’t, you might be a little too young for a solo trip to Jamaica). Are you planning to spend your next vacation in Jamaica? Top 15 Interesting Places to Visit in Jamaica. There is plenty that you can enjoy here during the day, including the beautifully preserved 19th-century Devon House, as well as the National Gallery of Jamaica.