As you mightve realized, Jamaica is a place of contrast and contradiction. Do not be in the dangerous areas of the city alone. The safety situation in Montego Bay is better than in Detroit. The property is gated, and we have never felt anxious about our safety. The epicenter of the infamous lottery scamming, gang war playing out in the streets, shootings, and murders, contrasting to tourists happy tourists sipping Pina Colada chilling on a beach. Jamaica has been selected to host the 42nd edition of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association's (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace on May 20-22, 2024, the CHTA announced over the weekend. Saint Kitts and Nevis What's the hip strip? There are already many posts here that have addressed this issue. Drive defensively, and take great care on the roads, whether you are in a vehicle or a pedestrian. Most hotels and resorts have assigned JTB drivers who carry photo ID and display a prominent blue JTB sticker on the front windscreen. How Safe Is Montego Bay for Travel? - Travel Safe - Abroad The airport in Montego Bay is safe for solo travelers and families. Right now I am at Kingston, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Top Posts Just give up your money and valuables. Till then driver waited and like hanging over me, as some were standing outside.please try to understand urself. Use a taxi to return to the hotel late at night, always get behind the driver and close the windows of the car. Their marches and riots in the town trying to get equality didnt win them any favors. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Montego Bay is the most popular tourist town in Jamaica and welcomes thousands of visitors each year. You will have no concerns going between the two Sandals ( shuttle provided ) and many people continue to visit the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Jamaica, the possibility of attacks cannot be ruled out. If you want to take expensive equipment such as cameras or smartphones, keep them hidden, locked away, and on your person. The main problems are related to the theft of things, car theft, and hacking, attacks, vandalism, and corruption problems. However, it is worth watching your pockets, and things as pickpockets can wield. I guess it was not noticed that the person asking this question only has two posts on this site so I would assume they have not visited it much. In Montego Bay, women are better off traveling in the company. Is It Safe to Go to Montego Bay, Jamaica? | Oyster.com est Things to do in Montego Bay, Jamaica (Updated 2023) - Layer Culture Gang violence is said to be the reason for 71% of those murders. Some hire cars and minibuses dont have seatbelts fitted in the rear. Gated and guarded compounds are normally the safest type of accommodation. Aggressive behavior from these vendors can ruin your vacation. All the usual stuff. So you are wondering, is Montego safe? The U.S. Department of State recommends you take common-sense precautions during your . Be sure you will lose. Hostel main entrance locked. Only use Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) approved taxis or minibuses for excursions, airport transfers and sightseeing. As much as possible, use cash rather than your card. The reputation (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Patience and kindness plz. Round Hill is a phenomenal luxury property with a small private beach, about a 30-minute drive from the airport. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Hotels and resorts have security and measures in place to protect guests. Throughout your vacation, make it a habit to let your friends and family know what youre up to and where youll be. Dont let fear have you holed up in your resort the whole time. You have accepted additional cookies. Quite frankly, it wouldnt be such a sought-after vacation destination if visitors felt endangered! Locals are always pushing to sell you something (drugs or jewelry, for example) and there is crime away from the tourist sites. Many travelers venture out because it is common to see bag packers in the city or explore local communities. It takes most of Jamaicas international flights. Sometimes when your digestive system is introduced to a different area of the world you can develop a bug or contract a parasite that causes vomiting and diarrhea. They are not stupid. When it comes to health and weather safety, Jamaica is as safe a travel destination as any Caribbean island. Most Montego Bay scams involve lottery tickets when you are offered to buy them to win. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Jamaicans are warm, well-coming, and like to help strangers. Always be mindful of your surroundings. The government and the powers that be cared little because it was not affecting their bottom line, the tourism cash cow. Saint Eustatius Lucea is it safe? - Jamaica Forum - Tripadvisor Hi friend ! Nothing wrong with pointing out that it has been covered ad nauseum, or directing a newbie to those posts. 1. Avoid walking at Montego Bay late at night and alone. This Is Why Jamaica Is Still Safe Despite U.S. Safety Warnings Feel much better about our trip now. In a situation where you feel you are truly in danger, make a fuss, shout, or even scream. So they did nothing to fix it. Check with the hire car company before you arrive. There also same fate and experienced more. Honest advice about SAFETY in Montego Bay needed It has always been a place of struggle and privilege since its inception. These sellers can be very rude when you turn them down. Montego Bay is known for its great nightlife, beautiful beaches and top ranked resorts. Violent crime typically involves residents of Jamaica, not necessarily visitors, but that doesn't mean you couldn't get caught in the middle of domestic disputes. There's a lot of taxis and transportation for cheap If you know where your going and how to count jamaican money. Public order incidents, demonstrations and large celebratory gatherings can occur across Jamaica, and may cause significant disruption to traffic and public transportation. Another issue in Montego Bay is the possibility of ATMs being rigged to compromise your information. The 8 Safest Travel Destinations in the Caribbean Right Now, 5 Caribbean Islands (Generally) Not Hit by Hurricanes, 12 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Aruba, How to Tell If Youre Ready for Your First Swingers Resort, The 14 Best Adults-Only All-Inclusives on the Beach. If youre visiting between June and November, remember that this is the height of hurricane season which means youll need to take the necessary precautions. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. When taking taxis, make sure youre entering a vehicle with a red license plate (there are some illegally operating taxis that use the regular white license plate). Holness predicted an increase in murders over the next several weeks with the onset of theholiday season, when violent crime typically spikes. If you do decide to rent a car, always park it either inside a parking lot with an attendant, inside a residential compound, or somewhere that youll be able to see it from where youll be going. The Hip Strip & Margaritaville. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. The Jamaican Constabulary Force have produced a safety and security guide for returning citizens. Saint John Consider purchasing and drinking bottled water rather than local tap water. Most often, this is a showdown between drug dealers. You don't want to walk down empty streets or back alleys. Crime levels are high, particularly in and around certain areas of Kingston and Montego Bay. It is important for the child to understand that they trust you enough to sit and talk with you, said Tufton. With common sense it's not as bad as many travel forums claim, but it has always had some tough areas where no tourist has any right being in, especially at night. Montego Bay is safe, depending on where you are and with who you are hanging. The U.S. states in its level two travel advisory from January 10: "Violent crime, such as home invasions, armed robberies, and homicide, is common. Editors note:The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about dangers and warnings in Montego Bay. Be it a resident or a visitor. Its best to only use the ATM at your resort or hotel, or in busy shopping centers. Well send you a link to a feedback form. Before returning to resettle, seek advice from the Jamaican High Commission in London and the local Jamaican Information Service. Many of the best scams are in disguise in the form of taxi drivers and other personnel. There have been some violent incidents, including armed robbery, murder, rape and sexual assault, including the specific targeting of tourists and visitors. We use some essential cookies to make this website work. Montego Bay is the capital of St. James Parish, one of the 14 parishes in Jamaica and one of the famous tourist arrival destination. In 2017 according to the Jamaica Tourist Board, the country received 4.3 million tourists. Secrets St. James Montego Bay is ranked #28 among luxury hotels in Jamaica by U.S. News & World Report. Current Situation at Sangster International Airport - Montego Bay Forum 4 Places In Jamaica That Are Super Safe (15 That Are Just - TheTravel 142 helpful votes. I have always chosen to hire VIP transport services rather than ride the bus or van service offered. If you must, stay in populated areas and on the main roads. From a safety standpoint, my most harrowing experiance on any vacation was in Hawaii. The United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom have issued travel warnings and advisories to their citizens about visiting these regions. Like all other posts, the military etc are looking for bad guys who are hiding and be aware that places like Dunns river is over 90min away from the " hot spot ". The ultimate safest way to get around Montego Bay is to hire a cab driver who is either part of the JUTA (Jamaica Union of Travellers Association) or from a trusted tour company. Listen to The World Nomads Podcast: The Caribbean Is it safe for women to travel solo in Jamaica? 1. The minister noted that, in order to help their children find a balance for their mental wellness, parents must reassure their children that they can come to them and trust them. Saint James Parish forums Montego Bay forum shimsgrl Toronto Level Contributor 191 posts 7 reviews 5 helpful votes airport safety and transfers 9 years ago Save Hi all, Some of you may think this question is silly, but honestly how safe is the airport in montego bay Credit card skimming is a very real risk in Jamaica, especially in tourist areas like Montego Bay. If you are a tourist walking the hip strip, you dont have to worry about getting attacked or robbed. Yes! By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Is Montego Bay Safe For Tourist? - EDBTRAVEL Security operations are ongoing and further activity including curfews could occur with little or no notice. What we are seeing with gang activities in these areas is cause for grave concern, he added. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Hostel is just opposite market and bus stand. Jamaica Co-operative Automobile & Limousine Tours (JCAL) and Jamaica Union of Travelers Association (JUTA) operate the official taxis. There will be a huge crowd of people mainly taxi and limo drivers waiting for you at departures so be ready for that. What is the Safest Resort in Jamaica? - My-Island-Jamaica.com You'll be fine. 12. Secrets St. James, Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay All-Inclusive. For two adults and two children, you can expect to pay around $415 per night during the same time period. The government has stepped in to help enhance security in the travel and tourism sector by assigning special police to patrol on foot and bicycle. Anguilla Gangsters were getting reckless and started having shootouts in broad daylight on the main street near resorts, forced their hands. The main problems are related to the theft of things, car theft, and hacking, attacks, vandalism, and corruption problems. The poor working class, primarily black Jamaicans, lived in informal settlements while the wealthy decedents of the colonizer and other groups lived lavishly. The city has been getting a bad rap for the past few years. We will give up our beds to visitors while we sleep on the floor. The good news, at least for tourists, is that crime rates are highly concentrated in certain neighborhoods, so it is easy to avoid a bad incident. Re: Honest advice about SAFETY in Montego Bay needed. 2023 Copyright by Travel Safe - Abroad. As mentioned earlier, if Montego Bay was truly unsafe, it would not be such a frequented vacation spot. Areas of Kingston, Montego Bay, and Spanish Town are the three most dangerous neighborhoods in Jamaica. Is Jamaica SAFE to Visit? (2023 Insider Tips) - The Broke Backpacker Dont accept offers of drugs. The chance of a tourist in Montego Bay becoming a victim of violent crime is extremely low. 16 IDEAL Things to Do in Montego Bay, Jamaica - Cruise Hive Updated: January 9, 2022 In the last weeks of 2017 and early 2018, there were reports about a surge in violent crime in the area of Montego Bay. Crime, however, is a serious concern in the capital Kingston and Montego Bay, where demonstrations, violent theft and shootings can occur at any time. In particular, watch out for: . Can I travel to Jamaica right now? Pros and Cons of Living in Montego Bay - Nomad List Re: Lucea is it safe? U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to many areas due to increased risk. The currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar (JMD). 10 Safest Cities in Jamaica (2023 Updated) - Travel Safe Rainfall ranges from between 0.5-1.5 inches per each of these months. Gang violence and shootings are common, and while these incidents are generally confined to . Saint Barts RandBTravel, https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g147311-i93-k7425763-Gay_Visitors-Montego_Bay_Saint_James_Parish_Jamaica.html. A surge in violence on the tourist-popular Caribbean island of Jamaica has prompted officials to declare of state of emergency in parts of the country. An excellent historical tribute to . What's Doctor's Cave? Booked in Reggae hostel and it is walkable. Montego Bay is a popular tourist destination in Jamaica with beautiful beaches and exquisite hotels. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. 1. Keep the windows up except when passing through a police checkpoint and doors locked. To help us improve GOV.UK, wed like to know more about your visit today. Be vigilant at all times, even if youre staying with friends and family. Apply sunscreen as often as every hour to keep your skin healthy. Did anyone cancel their vacation for this month? 3 years ago Save There is nothing within walking distance - except a nice cow pasture opposite :-) You would need to take a taxi to get anywhere. Secrets St. James Montego Bay - U.S. News Travel I know! Report inappropriate content LuvCSA Royal Tunbridge. There have been outbreaks of violence in recent years in the Mountain View area on the route between Kingston and Norman Manley International Airport. Hostel main entrance locked. Grenada Some concern is the growing level of drug-related crimes. Montego Bay is no exception. 28 Helpful Travel Tips For Jamaica | Dos & Don'ts | BEACHES I have read that (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? TheFCDOhas guidance for women travelling abroad that may be helpful. Re: How safe in Montego Bay Sandals with state of emergency? We are going to the Royal (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Be aware that Jamaicans are VERY homophobic. Then, chill Mon! Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-89515008', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Jamaica forums. Is Jamaica safe? - Montego Bay Forum - Tripadvisor Rising crimein Jamaica has caused the countrys prime minister to declare a state of emergency in several areas, including the popular tourist destination of Montego Bay. Try your hand at the worlds fastest-growing sport. Venturing outside the resort? Travel Smarter! Cost. Local can be very intrusive if they see you as a tourist. If you are a tourist walking the hip strip, you . Things may change. Its also in your best interest to not walk around deserted areas, even in groups and even during the daytime. In the event that someone tries to rob you, do not resist. He will also pick you up and take you shopping during your stay ensuring you go no where unescorted. All Rights Reserved. Avoid wearing smartwatches or flashy jewelry. There have been police reports of British nationals being robbed when travelling to private accommodation from Norman Manley International Airport. Is Montego Bay Safe? - A Must Read Before Travel - Layer Culture Avoid walking alone at night. Is It Safe to Travel to Montego Bay, Jamaica? | Getaway USA 7 things to know about Montego Bay's Hilton Rose Hall Resort - The You can contact the emergency services by calling 119 for police, ambulance, and fire. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-95426606', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Jamaica. These can be as a result of poor weather conditions or operational problems. Montego Bay has an average level of travel safety. Seeing military personnel at checkpoints in the city was shocking. We've been to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The government wanted to provide lands for the low-income families of Montego Bay and formalized the entire city; however, families that owned the lands refused to sell to the Government. Still here since 6days waiting for durable flight for my next destination. Buses tend to be overcrowded and lend themselves to more petty crime. While Montego Bay is a relatively safe city, reasonable precautions should be observed. There's a lot of activities to do. Dont be too trusting or let down your guard around strangers, even at the resorts. Most visits are trouble-free. If you must walk somewhere, stick to main roads and more populated areas. If youre drinking sweet rum cocktails on the beach all day, remember to supplement it the bottled water. However, they always try to do a service for Western tourists for money. If you are in residential accommodation, make sure proper door locks and window grilles are fitted and consider employing a guard and fitting a house alarm. Sign up for The Gleaners morning and evening newsletters. Taxis are preferred if you return to the hotel late at night. Montego Bay vs Negril Where Should You Stay on Your Vacation? Everywhere you turn in Montego Bay, you are greeted with a swath of locals selling everything from hair braids and pictures to drugs like marijuana. hate to think we will be locked up inside our resort the whole time. You can go on excursions to the many attractions in and around the city. Jamaican Prime . People on the streets may try extremely hard to sell you things sometimes just items like souvenirs or t-shirts, but sometimes drugs as well. If you walk alone, especially at night and in disadvantaged areas, then there is a high probability of becoming a victim of the increased and persistent attention of local men. You'll find most meals and drinks very affordable, so if you're bringing the whole family to our island, look forward to a few treats out. Is Montego Bay, Jamaica dangerous? : r/travel - Reddit Foreigners are safer in Jamaica than some Jamaicans living here. Since then the police force and Jamaican military forces have worked hard to remove a lot of the criminal element. This service is usually in a luxury car or SUV (BMW,Mercedes Benz, etc.) They were a nuisance to the government and their prosperous neighbors. We go every year! The focus of their efforts is mostly residential areas, not places where tourists would travel. Montego Bay is a city, so it is not without crime. Exclusive Offer: 7-Night Upscale, Small-Group Kenya Athens to Barcelona: Luxe, 10-Night Mediterranean Pennsylvania: Daily Car Rentals from Pittsburgh, Montego Bay Things to Do Attractions & Must See, Montego Bay Nightlife Clubs, Bars & Nightlife Tips, Montego Bay Shopping Shops, Stores, Best Buys & Inside Tips.