Whereas the Caribbean stays a primary vacation spot for world vacationers, sure islands within the area pose heightened dangers on account of crime and different security considerations.
In 2025, 5 islands stand out for his or her potential risks, as indicated by U.S. journey advisories and up to date incidents.
Right here’s a better take a look at these locations, their particular dangers, and the areas most affected.
5. Cuba
Present U.S. Journey Advisory: Degree 2 – Train Elevated Warning
As of November 22, 2024, the U.S. Division of State has issued a Degree 2 journey advisory for Cuba, advising vacationers to train elevated warning on account of crime. Vacationers are inclined to petty crimes resembling pickpocketing, purse snatching, and automobile break-ins. Incidents of violent crime, together with armed theft and murder, have additionally been reported.
Whereas the voluntary departure of non-emergency U.S. personnel was lifted on November 21, 2024, following Hurricane Rafael’s aftermath, journey outdoors Havana for U.S. Embassy staff requires particular notification, doubtlessly limiting emergency help capabilities for U.S. residents. Vacationers are suggested to stay vigilant, keep away from displaying indicators of wealth.
Moreover, U.S. credit score and debit playing cards don’t operate in Cuba; guests ought to deliver enough money and alternate it for Cuban Pesos (CUP) at licensed establishments.
4. The Bahamas
Present U.S. Journey Advisory: Degree 2 – Train Elevated Warning
The Bahamas is a well-liked vacation spot, however its crime charges warrant warning. The capital, Nassau, sees probably the most incidents, with violent crimes resembling armed theft, sexual assault, and residential invasions often reported.
Based on information from early 2024, the nation recorded a startling 128 murders, many linked to gang violence and drug trafficking. Vacationers are suggested to keep away from “Over-the-Hill” neighborhoods and be vigilant even in tourist-heavy areas like Cable Seaside.
3. Jamaica
Present U.S. Journey Advisory: Degree 2 – Rethink Journey
Jamaica stays a preferred vacation spot regardless of its enduring challenges with crime. Final 12 months, the U.S. authorities issued a number of advisories highlighting dangers, notably in Kingston, Montego Bay, and Spanish City, the place gang-related violence, shootings, and carjackings are prevalent.
Vacationers staying at resorts are typically safer, however venturing outdoors gated communities requires additional warning. The nation’s incapability to curb crime successfully in 2024 has continued to gasoline security considerations in 2025.
Do Not Journey – Particular Areas of Jamaica (Degree 4 Advisory):
U.S. authorities staff are banned from touring to sure high-risk areas in Jamaica, and vacationers are suggested to not go to those areas below any circumstances.
Restricted Areas by Parish:
- St. Ann: Steer City, Buckfield (close to Ocho Rios)
- St. Catherine: Spanish City, Central Village, elements of Portmore (Naggo Head, New Land, Outdated Braeton, Portmore Lane, Gregory Park, Waterford)
- Clarendon: Total parish (besides driving by means of on T1 and A2 highways)
- St. Elizabeth: Winery District (between Salt Spring and Burnt Savanna)
- Hanover: Logwood, Orange Bay
- St. James (Montego Bay): Inland aspect of A1 freeway, Queen’s Drive (San San to Concord Seaside Park)
- Kingston & St. Andrew: Cassava Piece, Duhaney Park, Grants Pen, Standpipe, Swallowfield, Elleston Flats, August City, downtown Kingston (together with Arnett Gardens, Cockburn Gardens, Denham City, Olympic Gardens, Seaview Gardens, Trench City, Tivoli Gardens)
- Manchester: Inexperienced Vale, Grey Floor (Mandeville)
- St. Thomas: Black Lane (Seaforth), Grands Penn, Church Nook (close to Yallahs), city of Yallahs (besides freeway transit)
- Trelawny: Clarks City
- Westmoreland: Russia group (Savanna-la-Mar SE quadrant), Morgan Bay, Kings Valley, Whitehall, Bethel City, Crimson Floor (Negril)
These areas are thought of too harmful for journey on account of crime and security dangers.
2. Trinidad and Tobago
Present U.S. Journey Advisory: Degree 3 – Train Elevated Warning
Trinidad and Tobago’s crime points are notably concentrated in Trinidad, with hotspots together with Port of Spain, Laventille, and St. James. Violent crimes resembling homicide, theft, and kidnappings are the first considerations, with many linked to gang actions and narcotics.
Trinidad and Tobago – Rethink Journey Advisory (Up to date April 13, 2025):
Vacationers are urged to rethink journey on account of excessive ranges of violent crime, together with dangers of terrorism and kidnapping. Crimes embrace homicide, theft, assault, sexual assault, dwelling invasion, and kidnapping, a lot of it linked to gangs and drug trafficking.
Restricted for U.S. authorities staff:
- Anytime: Laventille, southern Charlotte Avenue, Piccadilly Avenue, Besson Avenue, Beetham, Sea Heaps, Cocorite, and inside Queens’ Park Savannah.
- At evening: Downtown Port of Spain, Fort George overlook, and all seashores.
👉 The nation faces critical security dangers, particularly in and round Port of Spain.
1. Haiti
Present U.S. Journey Advisory: Degree 4 – Do Not Journey
Haiti continues to grapple with extreme political instability, gang violence, and pure disasters. Kidnappings have surged alarmingly, with armed gangs focusing on each locals and international nationals in Port-au-Prince and different city areas. Violent protests, frequent roadblocks, and restricted entry to emergency providers exacerbate the scenario. The U.S. authorities strongly advises towards all non-essential journey to Haiti on account of these pervasive dangers.
Security Journey Ideas for 2025
Whereas these islands pose vital dangers, correct precautions can reduce risks. Vacationers ought to:
- Keep knowledgeable by means of up to date U.S. journey advisories.
- Keep away from high-crime areas, particularly after darkish.
- Use respected transportation providers.
- Chorus from displaying valuables or giant quantities of money.
The Caribbean stays a fascinating vacation spot, however understanding potential dangers and exercising prudence is important for protected travels in 2025.
