01-04-2025
US issues new travel advisory for The Bahamas
(WJW) – The United States Department of State issued an updated travel advisory for The Bahamas on Monday.
The Bahamas are under a level two travel advisory, warning travelers to 'exercise increased caution' because of criminal activity in the Caribbean island country.
According to the advisory, although violent crimes like armed robberies, burglaries and sexual assaults can occur anywhere in The Bahamas, they are most common in Nassau and Freeport on the New Providence and Grand Bahama islands.
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Travelers are advised to stay alert while in the 'Over the Hill' area of Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where officials said gangs have killed residents.
U.S. officials warned that boating in The Bahamas isn't well regulated, and sexual assaults by jet ski operators have been reported.
'Due to the risks, U.S. government employees are prohibited from using jet skis and personal watercraft rented from independent operators on New Providence and Paradise islands,' the advisory said, in part.
Sexual assaults have also occurred on or near beaches in downtown Nassau, the advisory said.
Travelers are urged to never swim alone and stay alert for sharks and weather conditions.
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The advisory also reminded travelers that firearms and ammunition are illegal and these laws are strictly enforced by police.
'Travelers with firearms or ammunition can face arrest, jail time, and fines,' the advisory continued. 'Authorities have detained U.S. citizens for several days or more after finding firearms or ammunition, preventing them from leaving.'
If you do have plans to travel to The Bahamas, the advisory asked that vacationers follow these guidelines:
Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
Lock doors and windows and use other security features, especially on balcony doors.
Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Check your luggage and hand baggage carefully for bullets or firearms before leaving the United States. Do not bring these items to The Bahamas.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Prepare a plan for emergency situations.
Review the Traveler's Checklist.
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
Learn more about travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State right here.
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