Is the Caribbean Safe?

High-profile incidents published in newspapers or reported on TV leave many tourists wondering, “Is the Caribbean safe?” However, rumors about the Caribbean being an overall “dangerous place” are unfounded.

At the same time, it’s important to remember that crime can take place anywhere, anytime. It’s not something that occurs only in the Caribbean. In fact, some Caribbean islands have a lower crime rate than the United States!

Nevertheless, hearing about terrible events, like the disappearance of Natalee Holloway in Aruba, sometimes puts people off the Caribbean. Therefore, it’s important to know the facts, and also know how to stay safe before you go.

Facts about crime in the Caribbean

Travel Warnings

The most important thing to consider about safety in the Caribbean is that statistics can change. Because of this, you should check the U.S. Department of State website periodically for any travel warnings for the country you’re considering visiting. Click on this link and enter the country’s name in the search bar on the left.

Besides revealing any travel warnings for a specific country, you’ll be able to see weather warnings and visa requirements for entry, and other helpful things.

Crime statistics

In developing Caribbean countries, the overall murder rate is four times higher than it is in the United States. However, violence mainly takes place among drug traffickers and the impoverished, who suffer in countries with high unemployment rates.

That being said, foreigners who do find themselves in trouble most often get there because they purchase drugs on the streets, or roam the streets and bars late at night. You can avoid become a crime victim by taking the same precautions you would in any country. Don’t purchase illegal substances, don’t get involved in illegal activities, and don’t walk the streets alone at night.

Nevertheless, there are actually a couple of Caribbean countries that have a murder rate of 0, making them safer than the United States. Here are the countries that are considered the safest in the Caribbean:

The safest islands in the Caribbean

Montserrat. Montserrat is the safest country in the Caribbean, with no murders since 2008.
St. Barts. This popular celebrity hangout has a murder rate of 0.
The British Virgin Islands. The rate is about 2 for every 100,000 people.
The Cayman Islands. The murder rate here about the same as it is for the United States (about 4.7 for 100,000 people)
Bonaire. Bonaire is safe for two reasons: it’s outside Hurricane Alley, and it has a very low murder rate.
Antigua and Barbuda. Although the murder rate per population here is slightly higher than in the United States, it ranks far lower in violent crime murders and drug use.

All statistics from NationMaster.com.

Is the Caribbean safe for kids?

Ok, so maybe you’re convinced that the Caribbean is safe enough for you, but what about your kids?

Sometimes children are not aware of their surroundings. They can become easy targets for thieves. In addition, they may have no qualms about talking to strangers, who could potentially harm them.

Nevertheless, the Caribbean is safe for children, as long as they are cared for by responsible adults. Never leave your children alone and unsupervised while on vacation in the Caribbean. That’s something you shouldn’t do anywhere, for that matter!

Before you go, teach your children what to do in case of an emergency. Instruct them to stay near you to avoid getting lost. Help them understand and avoid any potential dangers: big ocean waves, strangers, wild animals, etc.

Two boys doing some beach activities. — Source: Internet (Unknown)

For more information, see Traveling with Kids to the Caribbean.

Staying safe while on vacation in the Caribbean

Here are tips from the United States Department of State for staying safe in the Caribbean:

Caution after dark

It is no secret that most crimes take place after dark. Don’t assume that the friendly Caribbean beach you spent the day at will be just as friendly at night. Avoid unpopulated, unpatrolled areas after dark.

Alcohol Consumption

The United States Department of State warns against consuming excessive alcohol while in Caribbean countries. The legal drinking age, which is 18 in most Caribbean nations, is not rigorously enforced. In addition, being under the influence of alcohol increases your chances of being targeted by criminals. Above all, drink responsibly, and don’t drink and drive. For more information, read this report about the dangers of consuming alcohol abroad.

Cybersecurity

The U.S. government suggests using caution with U.S. credit cards while traveling. This is because they often do not require a PIN for use. Keep your card with you at all times, and monitor transactions constantly. Take someone with you when using a card at an ATM to withdraw funds. Criminals often target people who leave banks alone in order to steal cash and cards. Avoid withdrawing large sums of money while traveling in the Caribbean.

Petty theft

Here’s one of the main reasons why many people wonder, “is the Caribbean safe?”: petty theft. Everyone is at least a little bit worried about being pick-pocketed. However, there are plenty of smart ways to avoid become a victim of theft.

First, don’t put your wallet in your back pocket, or in a backpack placed on your back.
If you wear a backpack, place it in front of you while walking through crowds.
While using public transportation, hold your purse or backpack in front of you, clutched close to your chest. That way, you can see it at all times.
Don’t bring valuables with you on vacation. If you absolutely must bring something of valuable, keep it on your person, or in a locked safe in your hotel room.
Don’t compromise your judgement by taking drugs or drinking too much alcohol. People “under the influence” are easy targets for thieves.
Don’t look down at your phone while walking or standing in a public place.
Avoid questionable parts of town, and walking the streets at night.
And, most importantly: be aware of your surroundings. Know where you are, where police stations are, where your hotel is, what’s going on around you, etc.

Main image source: iStock

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