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Is Jamaica Safe?
by Marsha Smith, Associate Writer
I am pretty sure that this is a question that has been running in your head while considering your vacation to Jamaica.
C'mon, be honest :-)
But that is a very valid question too!
After all, safety is still the most fundamental need in life.
It is a fact that Jamaica is perhaps the most beautiful and exotic island in the Caribbean, richly prized with warm people, sunshine, heritage, sumptuous cuisine, sweet reggae music, the best coffee, and the most pristine beaches – everything you need for that get away, to unwind!
However, it is also a fact that we have a high homicide rate per capita.
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But hold on… that does not mean that you will be hurt when you get here.
If that was so, we would have been long banned, certainly by the USA, as a destination not to even consider.
And while violence is unwelcome, you’ll be comforted knowing that over 85% of the violence that takes place in island is usually among gangs or gang affiliated members, scammers, or of a domestic nature - and the reports shows that they are confined to the inner city areas - also known as ‘garrisons’.
Garrisons are usually the most deprived areas where, in most cases, there is abject poverty and political victimization. And tourist doesn't go there.
I was speaking to a friend recently and joked that a Jamaican tourist is probably safer than someone in the garrison!
And that is probably true!
By the way, the island recently celebrated a historical milestone when we welcomed over 4,000,000 (yes, that’s four million, 4 with 6 zeroes!) visitor in a single year! (Read about the history of tourism in Jamaica here)
And bear in mind that a significant number of those visitors are actually repeat guests.
Doesn’t that say something? You be the judge.
During my recent stay at a lovely resort in the second city (Montego Bay), I met some wonderful visitors from Canada and the USA. They all gave glowing remarks about their visits to the island.
They hasten to mention how the staff at the hotel made them feel welcome, their guide that not only entertained but provided them with a wealth of information, and the locals that they encountered while walking the streets and enjoying the attractions.
One defined our people as friendly and warm as the Caribbean sun!
The truth is, like everywhere in the world, cultures are changing somewhat, and if criminals get a chance to take what you have - without been seen or captured, they will try.
So here are my suggestions to you (in Jamaica or anywhere in the world while on your vacation):
Here also are some additional resources that will help answer your question (is Jamaica safe):
And finally, read my extremely popular and helpful question and answer forum to get answers to a whole lot more questions that have already been asked.
For the complete guide to Jamaica, be sure to get my book ‘The Jamaica Insider Guide’.
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A patriotic Jamaican who adore its culture, Wellesley has been using this medium to share what he calls 'the uniqueness of Jamaica with the world' since April 2007.
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