Jamaica is a popular destination for many Americans, but the US government recently issued a travel warning for the Caribbean island. According to reports, Jamaica has been experiencing a recent spate of murders and other crimes in recent weeks, prompting a Level 3 advisory.
The State Department issued its travel advisory late last month, citing recent crimes in Jamaica, which have included murders, sexual assaults and robberies, even inside all-inclusive resorts where travelers are believed to be safer. As it stands, the government agency is suggesting potential visitors reconsider their trip there.
From advisory:
Country summary: Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, even at all-inclusive resorts.
Local police often do not respond effectively to serious crime. When arrests are made, cases are rarely prosecuted with a decisive sentence. Families of US citizens killed in accidents or homicides often wait a year or more for final death certificates to be issued by Jamaican authorities. The homicide rate reported by the Jamaican government has for several years been among the highest in the Western Hemisphere. US Government personnel under COM security responsibility are prohibited from traveling to the areas listed below, using public buses, and driving outside of designated areas of Kingston at night.
On January 29, the US Embassy in Jamaica added, “We strongly encourage you to obtain travel insurance, including evacuation medical insurance, before traveling to Jamaica. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not pay medical bills.”
News of the travel advisory made the rounds on social media with reactions ranging from humor to some seeing it as an opportunity to visit the country at a cheaper price.
See the reactions below.
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Photo: Getty
