• Jamaica Travel Advisory Update: US Considers Easing Warnings as Crime Rates Drop and Safety Improves

  • Mar 28 2025
  • Length: 3 mins
  • Podcast

Jamaica Travel Advisory Update: US Considers Easing Warnings as Crime Rates Drop and Safety Improves

Listen for free

View show details

  • Summary

  • The U.S. State Department currently advises Americans to reconsider travel to Jamaica due to crime concerns, maintaining a Level 3 travel advisory that has been in place since July 2024. However, recent developments suggest this may change soon. During a diplomatic visit to Kingston on March 26, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio promised to reevaluate the travel advisory to reflect Jamaica's improved crime statistics. The Jamaica Gleaner reports that Rubio acknowledged Jamaica's "impressive progress" in reducing its murder rate, which fell by 19% in 2024 compared to the previous year.

    Despite these improvements, travelers should remain vigilant. The U.S. State Department warns that violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, remains a problem in large cities and some tourist areas. Specifically, they advise avoiding certain high-risk neighborhoods in Kingston, Spanish Town, and parts of Montego Bay.

    For those planning to visit Jamaica, experts recommend staying at reputable resorts with good security measures. The Secrets/Breathless resort complex in Montego Bay is noted for its high level of security due to its location and guarded entrance. Travelers are advised to exercise common-sense precautions such as avoiding displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, not wandering alone at night, and using only licensed taxis or organized tours for transportation.

    Health concerns also factor into the current travel advisory. The U.S. State Department cautions that medical services in Jamaica may not meet U.S. standards, with slower emergency response times and limited specialized care. Travelers are strongly encouraged to obtain comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation coverage.

    Despite these warnings, many tourists report feeling safe during their visits to Jamaica, especially when staying within resort areas and taking basic precautions. Recent travelers to Montego Bay and Ocho Rios have shared positive experiences on travel forums, emphasizing the importance of situational awareness and following local advice.

    As Jamaica continues to address safety concerns and improve its tourism infrastructure, the situation remains fluid. Potential visitors should stay informed about the latest developments and official advisories. With the promised reevaluation of the travel advisory by U.S. officials, there's cautious optimism that Jamaica's safety rating may improve in the near future, potentially opening up more comfortable travel options for tourists considering this Caribbean destination.
    Show More Show Less
Show More Show Less

What listeners say about Jamaica Travel Advisory Update: US Considers Easing Warnings as Crime Rates Drop and Safety Improves

Average customer ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

Audible.co.uk reviews

Amazon reviews
No Reviews are Available