Due to 18 murders in January and other criminal activity, on January 26th, the U.S. Department of State issued a level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas. The advisory sparked concerns for tourists, but Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis stated that the Bahamas are welcoming visitors and taking action to ensure their safety.
Level 2 Travel Advisory Explained
Although boasting beautiful tropical beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant cuisine, the Bahamas has been a concern for travelers due to gangs. Since the beginning of 2024, there have already been 18 murders, along with burglaries, sexual assaults, and armed robberies. The crimes are rampant in Nassau and Freeport but occur in tourist and non-tourist locations during daylight and nighttime hours.
The Bahamas have been on a level 2 travel advisory since 2022. The current State Department alert did not change the advisory’s level but did stress its importance.
Bahamas Working Hard to Ensure Safety
The Bahamian commonwealth relies heavily on tourism, so the travel advisory was not overlooked. On January 30th, Bahamian Prime Minister Phillip Davis issued a statement stressing that the travel advisory level had stayed the same. He also listed ways the nation was addressing the current rise in crime:
- Increased Police Presence
- Implementation of advanced technology like facial recognition CCTV surveillance technology
- Zero tolerance for firearm possession
- Increased police training
How to Stay Safe When Traveling to the Bahamas
If you plan on traveling to the Bahamas, it’s vital to take a safety advisory seriously. A level 2 safety advisory requires increased caution, and there are steps you can take to do just that.
- Avoid booking private rentals. Instead, book at secure locations with security.
- Do not go out alone. Travel in pairs or groups.
- Keep a low profile.
- Be aware of your surroundings, whether walking or driving.
- Do not resist robbery attempts
- Establish an emergency plan
- Stay in contact with loved ones back home
Why Choose the Bahamas for Your Next Getaway
The picturesque nation is composed of almost 700 coral islands, 30 of which are inhabited. These islands have been bucket list travel destinations for many and were visited by 8 million travelers last year. If you are considering a trip to one of the Bahamian Islands, continue, but stay cautious and safe.