The Canadian government has updated several travel advice for the Caribbean this month.
This time, Canada issues advisories regarding violent crime, sexual abuse and 2SLGBTQI+ harassment.
Most of the countries on this list fall into the ‘Exercise Caution’ category, meaning travel to these countries is not prohibited, but neither is it encouraged.
Haiti – Avoid all travel
The government calls on its citizens to “avoid all travel‘to this nation or leave it immediately if you are still there.
The political situation Haiti has deteriorated significantly in recent months, with gangs controlling most of the country’s capital. The island is currently under a state of emergency and a curfew.
If you decide to visit Haiti despite this advice, you run the risk of being kidnapped and even murdered.
Dominican Republic – Exercise extreme caution
Although crimes of opportunity pose the greatest threat to tourists in… the Dominican RepublicViolent crimes can even occur in tourist hotspots and locations such as resorts, airports, beaches or public transport.
Canada has received multiple reports of stolen items and money from all-inclusive resorts, hotels, checked luggage and even carry-on luggage at airportsespecially during departure.
To ensure a safer trip, make sure you book reputable accommodations with good security systems, keep electronic devices out of sight, check that your bags have not been tampered with before they are x-rayed at the airport, and do not put valuables on your suitcase. checked baggage.
Honduras – Exercise extreme caution
Canada acknowledges that crime problems have improved since 2022. However, the country is still concerned that violent crimes are occurring more often than they should.
The government reminds us of this Honduras has one of the highest murder rates in the world and that a significant number of local residents carry firearms and even machetes, which are used to commit crimes.
If you are in trouble, calling the police may not be the best choice because this institution has been infiltrated by gang members and has no resources to ensure justice.
Jamaica – Exercise extreme caution
Easy access to firearms Jamaica has led to locals committing multiple violent crimes in a large number of ‘traditional hotspots’ or ‘high-risk communities’.
There are at least 50 areas that should be avoided at all costs. Check them out here.
Violent crime has also spread to tourist areas such as Kingston and Montego Bay, despite regular police patrols. Although it is common, the country is not currently under a state of emergency.
The 2SLGBTQI+ community and women traveling alone have experienced verbal or physical abuse. When in rural areas, avoid PDA, it is frowned upon.
Bahamas – Exercise extreme caution
Violent crime in the Bahamas is not as high as other destinations on this list, but the Canadian government is still advising citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting.
Bahamas has experienced a steady decline in crime since 2018 but it is still prone to violent crimes such as armed robberies and sexual assaults.
On this point, recently there have been more and more cases of women being sexually assaulted. Incidents occur regularly in and outside hotels, cruise ships and on beaches, especially at Freeport and Nassau.
Many of the victims have been drugged, so never leave your drinks unattended or accept snacks from the overly friendly locals.
Belize – Exercise extreme caution
Belize A state of emergency has been in effect since March 26 due to a spike in crime in Southside Belize City and the Cayo District (Hattieville Area, Roaring Creek Village, Roaring Creek Village and Young Bank Area, Camalote Village). So avoid these areas at all costs.
Please note that for the time being The army and police have been given more powers to search, arrest and restrict your movements.
Violent crime can also extend to Belmopan, the country’s capital. Like Honduras, Belize also has one of the highest murder rates in the world.
