The Caribbean is a region that is synonymous with paradise. Home to over 700 islands and 13 independent countries, there is plenty to experience, from breathtaking beaches to local cultures to mouth-watering cuisines. Jamaica, Barbados, and The Bahamas are particularly popular tourist destinations.
But despite its incredible appeal, Britons visiting the Caribbean must remain vigilant when visiting some destinations. Britons have been warned holidaymakers that a curfew has been imposed in Haiti and they are advised not to travel there by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
Haiti
Britons were told: “On March 3, prisoners escaped after gangs overwhelmed security forces at the main prison in Port au Prince, Haiti’s capital. The government has declared a state of emergency until April 3, 2024, applying to all areas in the Department de l’Ouest.
“Under the state of emergency, a curfew for citizens will run from 7pm on March 11 to 5am every day until March 14, 2024.”
Britons have been told to steer clear of Haiti at the moment due to ‘state of emergency’
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The Government department said: “FCDO advises against all travel to Haiti. Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.
“FCDO advises against all travel to Haiti due to the volatile security situation. There are currently no British consular officials in Haiti and our ability to provide consular assistance is severely limited and cannot be delivered in person in Haiti.
“British nationals may get consular services assistance at our diplomatic mission in the Dominican Republic.”
Some Britons may choose to proceed with pre-planned holidays and they have been advised what to do if they still intend to visit the country.
Britons were told: “If you choose to travel to or stay in Haiti against FCDO advice, try to avoid all crowds and public events, and take appropriate security precautions.”
Before travelling, Britons should consult GOV.UK for information on support for British nationals abroad.
They can also follow and contact FCDO on social media platforms Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Britons can sign up to receive email notifications when this advice is updated.
The Bahamas
Britons thinking of visiting The Bahamas should remain vigilant and take heed of travel advice given to tourists.
Holidaymakers were told to be aware of crime, including drink spiking and sexual assault, and break-ins and thefts.
Britons were also warned: “There have been violent crimes and armed robberies, sometimes fatal, in residential and tourist areas of New Providence and Grand Bahama.
“To reduce your risk, do not go on foot outside the main tourist areas and beaches, especially if you are alone. Stay in downtown Nassau, where there are regular police patrols. Avoid unlit areas, and travel in groups after dusk.
“Take care if travelling on local bus services at night away from the main tourist areas. If you are attacked, do not resist and comply with any demands. Robbers may have concealed weapons.”
As for terrorism, Britons were warned to remain vigilant despite there being no imminent risk in The Bahamas. GOV.UK said: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
“UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack.
“Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in The Bahamas, attacks cannot be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreigners. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.”
Britons were also warned that penalties for possessing or trafficking drugs in The Bahamas are severe.
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Holidaymakers in The Bahamas were told to be aware of crime, including drink spiking and sexual assault, and break-ins and thefts
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For LGBTQ+ visitors, local attitudes towards the LGBT+ community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean, however public affection “may attract unwanted and negative attention”.
In late January, Americans were given a travel advisory warning as holidaymakers were advised to “exercise increased caution” in The Bahamas due to crime. They were also advised why they should exercise caution when swimming and taking part in recreational water activities.
The US Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs, said: “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.
“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.”
Britons thinking about heading to Turkey have also been warned to remain vigilantdue to an increased threat to their safety.
Holidaymakers were told: “Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey.”
Britons jetting off to popular holiday hotspot Spain have been warned that booking the wrong transport could lead to £500 fines.
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