Heading to the Bahamas? Here's what you should know about travel warning

Cheryl McCloud, USA TODAY NETWORK - Florida
Updated ·3 min read
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The United States Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for travelers heading to the Bahamas.

The advisory warns travelers to "exercise increased caution" due to crime, specifically on the islands of New Providence, which includes Nassau, and Grand Bahama, which includes Freeport.

There have been 18 murders in Nassau since Jan. 1, according to the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas.

"Murders have occurred at all hours, including in broad daylight on the streets. Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders," the embassy said.

Another travel advisory urges travelers to reconsider a trip to Jamaica.

The Level 3 travel advisory was issued due to crime and medical services.

"Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts," the department said.

Are there travel warnings for Bahamas?

Yes. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory, urging visitors to use increased caution in the Bahamas due to crime.

"The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the Over the Hill area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population," the State Department said.

"Violent crime — such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults — occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence. "

The department also warned tourists about activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours since they are not consistently regulated.

"Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications ... and injuries and fatalities have occurred."

If in the water, the U.S. Department of State warned people to be cautious of sharks since there have been fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks recently.

What is a 'Level 2 travel advisory'?

A level 2 travel advisory warns travelers to exercise increased caution, according to the U.S. Department of State.

"Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security.

"Alerts are used to notify U.S. citizens of specific events and changes happening locally, and as quickly as possible."

There are 4 levels of travel warnings. Here's what they mean

  • Level 1: Exercise normal precautions: This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk. There is some risk in any international travel.

  • Level 2: Exercise increased caution: Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security.

  • Level 3: Reconsider travel: Avoid travel due to serious risks to safety and security.

  • Level 4: Do not travel: This is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks.

Is there a Bahamas travel ban?

No, but as officials warned those who travel there, use caution and stay informed.

Where is the Bahamas and how can you get there?

The Bahamas is a chain of more than 700 islands that stretch from southeast of Miami to east of West Palm Beach. You can get there by boat or plane.

It's also a popular destination of cruise ships.

A ferry goes from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport. The trip takes about 3 hours.

US Embassy, State Department offer these tips if you go to the Bahamas

  • Exercise extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence Island (Nassau).

  • Use caution when walking or driving at night.

  • Keep a low profile.

  • Be aware of your surroundings.

  • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

  • Review your personal security plans.

  • If you decide to travel to The Bahamas, do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.

Actions you can take

For assistance, contact the embassy at:

U.S. Embassy Nassau, The Bahamas#42 Queen Street, Nassau1-242-322-1181ACSNassau@state.gov

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts.

For U.S. citizens in an emergency:

  • Call State Department Consular Affairs at: 1-888-407-4747 (when dialing from within the U.S.)

  • 1 (202) 501-4444 (when dialing from overseas)

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Bahamas travel advisory in effect. What you need to know