travel advisory canada jamaica

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Canadian tourists may not be able to claim trip cancellations to Jamaica amid violence on island, travel expert warns

Despite Jamaica’s prime minister recently declaring a widespread  state of emergency  following a surge in gang violence and murder on the island, a travel expert warns that Canadian travellers may not be granted cancellation claims for travel insurance policies.

According to Government of Canada’s travel advice and advisories  notices , travellers entering Jamaica should “exercise a high-degree of caution in Jamaica due to a high level of violent crime.”

The state of emergency applies to regions in the capital of Kingston as well as six of Jamaica's 14 parishes. This includes popular tourist spots in Montego Bay.

The Associated Press has reported that the island of 2.8 million people tallied 1,421 killings so far this year. This time last year, Jamaica had 1,375 reported killings, according to Jamaica’s Constabulary Force.

As the situation continues to unfold in Jamaica, advisory warnings could change.

Martin Firestone, president of Travel Secure Insurance, warns that travel insurance policies do not necessarily account for cancellations or medical concerns when they are attributed to what constitutes as “known causes.”

“There’s a small clause in many of the contracts that basically addresses a ‘known cause,’” he told CTVNews.ca on the phone Thursday. “If you bought that policy and it’s starting to be shown in the media that there is unrest [in a specific destination] and you bought it while knowing that you may want to cancel your trip, it’s too late.”

Firestone remains uncertain as to whether most cancellation policies will cover claims given the fact that media coverage has already notified Canadians about surges in crime and violence in Jamaica.

“If you wanted to cancel a trip to Jamaica right now that you bought a couple weeks ago, and you bought cancelation insurance, will you be able to get paid on that claim? Or, if you buy [cancelation insurance] tomorrow after watching all the news reports, is that now too late and after the fact? I can’t seem to get a clear answer on that.”

Firestone warned that “being afraid of the rioting” is not a legitimate reason to be granted a cancellation claim, despite the pressing dangers spreading throughout Jamaica.

“You could buy a ‘cancel for any reason’ policy, but that’s a very expensive proposition and again that is maybe the only advice that could be given to people right now,” he said.

The bottom line, he explained, is travelling to Jamaica right now is “a really personal decision, but if you have concerns, you have to decide whether you’re going to be protected by insurance, both medically and from a cancellation perspective.”

"It’s going to be dicey how this all falls down.” he added.

With files from The Associated Press

CTVNews.ca Top Stories

Fatal plane crash reported near Squamish, B.C.

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada has confirmed it is working with local Mounties and the BC Coroners Service after a plane crash near Squamish, B.C. Friday night.

Grayson Murray, two-time PGA Tour winner, dead at 30

Two-time PGA Tour winner Grayson Murray died Saturday morning at age 30, one day after he withdrew from the Charles Schwab Cup Challenge at Colonial.

Humboldt Broncos crash victims and families react to decision to deport truck driver

The family of one of the victims of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash in 2018 says they are 'thankful' for a decision by a Calgary immigration board to deport the driver of the truck involved.

Community mourns victims of fatal boat crash near Kingston, Ont.

The three people killed in last weekend's tragic collision between a speedboat and a fishing boat north of Kingston are being remembered Friday.

'God forgives but we don’t': Loud outburst from stabbing victim’s family during sentencing hearing

An emotional outburst in a London, Ont. courtroom Friday disrupted the sentencing hearing of a woman who pleaded guilty for her part in the death of 29-year-old Mohammed Abdallah.

American Airlines drops law firm that said a 9-year-old girl should have seen camera on toilet seat

American Airlines has replaced the law firm that told a judge a nine-year-old girl was negligent in not noticing there was a camera phone taped to the seat in an airplane lavatory.

Family of toddler found dead at small-town Ont. daycare no closer to answers after year of investigation

A year has passed since two-year-old Vienna Irwin was found on the property of a home-based daycare in small-town Ontario, but her family says they are no closer to answers of what happened that day.

Nicki Minaj's England concert postponed after rapper was detained by Dutch authorities over pot

Nicki Minaj's concert in Manchester scheduled for Saturday night was postponed after police in the Netherlands discovered marijuana in her bags as she was preparing to leave the country.

1 dead, 3 in hospital after flying wheel crashes into bus windshield on QEW

A man is dead, and three others are in hospital after a flying wheel crashed into a coach bus on the QEW in St. Catharines.

Sea to Sky Hwy closed north of Whistler after multi-vehicle crash

Highway 99, or the Sea to Sky, is closed in both directions north of Whistler, B.C., after a multi-vehicle crash, according to DriveBC.

New wildfire burning near Spences Bridge in B.C. Interior

Crews from the BC Wildfire Service are battling a new blaze about five kilometres north of Spences Bridge.

Toronto police to boost presence after firearm discharged outside of Jewish elementary school

Toronto police say they will increase their presence in certain neighbourhoods after a firearm was discharged outside a Jewish elementary school in North York on Saturday morning.

Kerry Carpenter's 2-run homer sends the Tigers to a 2-1 victory over the Blue Jays

Kerry Carpenter hit a two-run homer for a second straight game and the Detroit Tigers edged the Toronto Blue Jays 2-1 on Saturday.

Former Stampeder memorialized at Stamps game

Friends and family of Bruce Covernton held a barbeque in the parking lot of McMahon Stadium on Saturday to honour his legacy.

Babies line up for annual diaper dash

As adult runners prepare for the Servus Calgary Marathon on Sunday,some pint-sized competitors took part in another race on Saturday. The Wee Wild Ones Diaper Dash saw 64 babies and toddlers race down a 42.2 foot long raceway at GMC Stadium at Stampede Park.

Calgary newcomers find community garden, learn Indigenous ways at Land of Dreams farm

A unique farm in southeast Calgary that offers newcomers a chance to connect with, and learn from, Indigenous communities, launches its growing season Saturday morning.

Man on suspended licence drives himself to Ottawa OPP detachment, faces additional charges

An eastern Ontario man arrested for impaired driving on Friday night is facing additional charges for driving himself to an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) detachment in Ottawa after he thought he forgot his cellphone.

Here's what you need to know about Ottawa Race Weekend

Thousands of runners will lace up their sneakers this weekend for the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend. Here is everything you need to know about Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, including road closures.

City looks to purchase former Nortel building with a $70 million discount

The City of Ottawa is set to get a $72.2 million discount on the purchase price of a Nepean business complex if council moves to buy it in its entirety before the lease comes to an end.

Legault calls social media platforms 'virtual pushers' as party mulls age restrictions

Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat are nothing less than 'virtual pushers,' according to Premier François Legault.

Driver, 18, gets $3,000 ticket, 32 demerit points after speeding on Laval boulevard

A young driver received a hefty fine from Laval police after they say he was driving nearly 100 km/h over the posted speed limit.

Emilise Lessard-Therrien's shadow looms large over Quebec solidaire general convention

Despite her absence, the shadow of Émilise Lessard-Therrien hangs over the opening of the Québec solidaire (QS) general convention.

Appeal denied for Edmonton soldier accused of trying to kill her 3 children

An Edmonton woman found guilty of trying to kill her three children has been denied an appeal.

Edmonton police fined by Human Rights Commission after Black men pepper-sprayed, wrongfully arrested

The Alberta Human Rights Commission has fined the Edmonton Police Service after ruling two Black men who had called police for help were instead racially discriminated against by officers during a wrongful arrest.

Rainmaker Festival kicks off with wonderful weather in St. Albert

The weekend-long Rainmaker Festival in St. Albert features a parade, midway, live music and a rodeo with 10 events for adults and youth.

Three dead after vehicle plunged down a 100-foot embankment in Shediac, N.B.

Three people have died after a vehicle veered off the road in Shediac N.B., Friday morning.

Fifth Arctic and Offshore Patrol ship officially named HMCS Frédérick Rolette

The name of the Royal Canadian Navy’s fifth Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship is now official.

'Our homes shake': N.B. Residents protest over noise concerns

For the second straight day, a group of people from a Moncton neighbourhood gathered to protest the operation of a scrap metal recycling facility located in their backyard.

‘It’s pretty alarming’: Urban wildlife encounters in Winnipeg this week

When you consider what kind of animals you might encounter in your Winnipeg neighborhood, a bear probably isn’t on your list.

Part of Pembina Highway closed after pedestrian hit by vehicle

Police have shut down part of Pembina Highway after a pedestrian was hit by a vehicle in Winnipeg’s Fort Garry neighbourhood Saturday afternoon.

Heavy rain, snow drenches southern Manitoba

Parts of southern Manitoba were walloped with rain and snow Friday, with some regions seeing more than 85 millimetres of precipitation.

Regina city councillor Andrew Stevens not running in next municipal election

After eight years of serving on Regina’s City Council, Ward 3 Coun. Andrew Stevens will not be running again in the next municipal election.

Human remains found in Canora, Sask.

An investigation us underway after RCMP say human remains were found in the town of Canora about 50 kilometres north of Yorkton.

Purolator truck drivers from Guelph, Ont. save man walking in Hwy. 407 lanes

A pair of Purolator transport truck drivers from Guelph, Ont. are being hailed as heroes for their efforts in helping a person in crisis.

Drugs and weapons seized, two arrested in downtown Kitchener

Waterloo regional police have arrested two men and seized a large quantity of drugs in downtown Kitchener.

Waterloo unveils fully accessible, self-cleaning washroom

A new public washroom has opened in Uptown Waterloo and not only can it self-clean, but it's all fully accessible.

Hundreds walk in Saskatoon to raise awareness for Alzheimer's

A walking party of 200 people gathered at River Landing Amphitheatre on Saturday to prepare for either a one or four-kilometer walk to advocate awareness for Alzheimer's, dementia, and other neuro-degenerative diseases.

Sask. swimmer qualifies for 2024 Olympic Games, sets Canadian record

A swimmer from Saskatoon has qualified for the 2024 Olympic Summer Games in Paris.

Northern Ontario

Suspect sought in suspicious death in northern Ont.

Ontario Provincial Police in Cochrane are asking for the public’s help in locating a man they want to speak with in connection with a suspicious death.

Police clear scene near Highways 11 & 654

Provincial police say they have concluded their investigation in Callander, Ont., south of North Bay, after asking residents to avoid the area of Highway 11 and Highway 654 on Saturday morning.

Out-of-control fire rages southeast of Cobalt, Ont.

A now 134-hectare fire is burning three kilometres southeast of Cobalt near the east shore of Kerr Lake, the province’s Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services says.

City councillor withdraws proposed curfew for gas powered lawn equipment after negative feedback

Several days after a motion was first put forward that would have limited the time of day when Londoners could use gas powered lawn equipment, the city councillor who proposed it is speaking out.

Pandemic pets still being surrendered, animal care officials say

It’s been nearly two years since London and area residents returned to nearly normal life after the COVID-19 pandemic turned many of us into temporary shut-ins. However, pets that were adopted during the pandemic continue to be surrendered to local agencies.

Londoners get soaked at 'Touch a Truck' event

On a rain-soaked Saturday morning, families with excited children filled the Earl Nichols Recreation Centre parking lot to learn all about trucks.

Community unites for 12th annual 'Walk for Suicide Awareness' in Barrie

Dozens participated in the 12th annual Walk for Suicide Awareness event on Saturday.

Toddler dies after being struck by recycling truck in Barrie, Ont. neighbourhood

A toddler has died after being struck by a recycling truck in a Barrie, Ont. neighbourhood on Thursday afternoon.

Annual memorial golf tournament honours Chase McEachern's legacy

The legacy of a young boy's passionate campaign to install defibrillators in schools and arenas to save lives continues to inspire people across the province.

Bodies recovered in search off Sandpoint Beach

Windsor police report the bodies of two young men swept underwater by the current near Sandpoint Beach on Thursday have been recovered.

New pro wrestling promotion holding its first show in Leamington next weekend

On June 1, Noble Champions Group will present its inaugural event called In Your Town at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre in Leamington.

Man breaks into residence, is discovered by homeowner asleep in chair: CKPS

A 45-year-old man has been charged after breaking into a Chatham home and falling asleep inside the residence.

Vancouver Island

No merger: bc conservatives rejected non-competition deal, bc united says.

BC Conservatives have rejected a non-competition deal proposed by BC United, the party formerly known as the BC Liberals says, putting an end to talks about a possible merge between the two parties.

Governments must disaster-proof Canada's hospitals against climate change: experts

Last month, the Canadian Medical Association warned that Canada's health-care facilities are among the oldest public infrastructure in use. Half were built more than 50 years ago, making them especially vulnerable to extreme climate events.

'Altercation' in Penticton leaves 1 dead: RCMP

One person is dead after a fight in Penticton early Sunday morning, according to authorities.

Suspect fled in 2-door Fiat after convenience store robbery, Merritt RCMP say

A suspect is at large after robbing a convenience store at gunpoint in Merritt, B.C., Friday, according to local police.

Kamloops RCMP issue public warning about 2 men allegedly at centre of 'organized crime conflict'

After four targeted shootings in four days, Mounties in Kamloops are taking the unusual step of warning the public about two men they believe are likely to be targeted in future violent incidents.

Organizers have high hopes as Lethbridge launches collector and entertainment expo

The entertainment and collector expo in Lethbridge got underway Friday afternoon.

Lethbridge police, fire responders set to square off on the diamond in Battle of the Badges

A friendly competition between Lethbridge police officers and fire responders will take place Saturday, all for a good cause.

Maintenance work shuts down Lethbridge online services this weekend

People trying to access a variety of online services offered by The City of Lethbridge may run into a digital roadblock this weekend.

Sault Ste. Marie

Sault marks 70 years of Community Living Algoma

Dozens gathered at the steps of Sault Ste. Marie’s city hall Friday for a moment 70 years in the making.

Federal loan supports Sault apartment development

The federal government is providing a low-interest loan of $25 million for new rental units in downtown Sault Ste. Marie.

Lack of services means at-risk youth in the north sleeping in hotels, Airbnbs

Dozens of young people in the care of the Children’s Aid Society will be going to sleep tonight in motels, hotels, and short-term rentals because there aren’t enough foster beds or treatment facilities.

Unknown Newfoundland soldier from the First World War heads back home from France after 100 years

Canadian soldiers and government officials arrived in northeastern France this week for a historic mission: returning an unknown Newfoundland soldier back home.

Newfoundland grandmothers can wail on the accordion. A historian wants them on stage

79-year-old Madonna Wilkinson has been playing the accordion since she was 15, when she picked one up that had been left behind at one of her parents' rollicking parties in the oceanside town about 25 kilometres north of St. John's, N.L. She has played Sunday masses and St. Patrick's Day parties, and community events of all kinds.

The latest advice for expecting parents? Sign up for child care as soon as you're pregnant

Canada's new $10-a-day child care program is expanding, but there's growing evidence that demand for the program is rising even faster, leaving many parents on the outside looking in.

Local Spotlight

Pomp, circumstance, and Crocs: Barrie, Ont. couple's unforgettable day at Buckingham Palace

When one is extended an invitation to the Royal Garden Party in London, England, there's undoubtedly no shortage of pomp and circumstance. Barrie, Ont. natives Megan Kirk Chang and her husband Brandon experienced just that as they entered the prestigious event hosted at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday.

Tim Meadows pledges not to shave until the Oilers win the cup, who are the team's other famous fans?

An unlikely celebrity emerged from social media to cheer on the Edmonton Oilers as they face the Dallas Stars tonight in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals.

'Near and dear to all filmmakers': Return of Regina's discount theatre bodes well for fans, movie makers alike

The proprietors of Regina's sole discount theatre are aware they're carrying on a significant legacy.

'Best experience ever': B.C. baker on making it to the finals of Netflix's 'Is it Cake?'

When Jujhar Mann said he wanted to be a pastry chef on a grade school career project, he didn't imagine that pursuing his dream would land him on a popular Netflix baking competition.

Winnipeg flair on the menu at neighbourhood Houston restaurant

A city known for its history, ties to outer space and southern barbecue, is also home to a Winnipeg chef dishing out dozens of perogies.

Montreal photographer captures dramatic Canada goose vs. fox fight on video

A Montreal photographer captured the moment a Canada goose defended itself from a fox at the Botanical Garden.

Beyond books: Halifax libraries lends instruments, sports equipment, memory kits and more

Public libraries in Atlantic Canada are now lending a broader range of items.

'A special bird': The unbreakable bond between purple martins and humans

Flashes of purple darting across the sky mixed with the serenading sound of songs will be noticed more with spring in full force in Manitoba.

7-year-old Pokémon prodigy heading to Hawaii for world championship tournament

Catching 'em all with impressive speed, a 7-year-old boy from Windsor, Ont. who only started his competitive Pokémon journey seven months ago has already levelled up to compete at a world championship level.

Public safety minister pledges to 'massively' reduce auto theft

Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc insists the federal government is 'doing everything (it) can' to eliminate auto thefts in Canada, and he hopes to see 'a significant reduction quickly' following this week's announcement of new measures to counter the problem.

House of Commons committee recommends feds tackle 'excessive' profits in food sector

The federal government should consider policies to tackle "excessive net profits" in the food industry, the House of Commons committee studying food prices said in its latest report.

Border intelligence program needs improved training, analytical tools: evaluation

Better training and information-processing tools are needed to help the intelligence program at Canada's border agency fight everything from firearms smuggling to human trafficking, says an internal evaluation.

Avian flu: Catch up on spread, risks, and guidance from health experts

After another case of H5N1 avian flu linked to dairy cows was confirmed in a second dairy farmer in the United States, some Canadian experts say the federal government needs to expand surveillance of the virus north of the border.

'A really bad car crash': Why health experts are raising concerns over surging syphilis cases

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) that was once thought to be a thing of the past is now a public health priority for North American doctors.

NASA launches tiny CubeSat to set its sights on Earth

NASA has launched the first of two research satellites to measure how much heat is lost to space from the Arctic and Antarctica.

Crows can count up to four, a new study finds

Perhaps 'birdbrained' isn’t such an insult after all –– crows, the ubiquitous urban bird, can vocally count up to four, the latest research has found.

Boeing's 1st astronaut flight now set for June after a review of small leak on new capsule

Boeing is now aiming for its first astronaut launch at the beginning of June, after spending the past few weeks struggling with more problems on the space capsule.

Entertainment

Michael Stipe photo of Kurt Cobain sets personal record at Vancouver auction

Before Michael Stipe was known the world over as the lead singer and lyricist for the multimillion-selling rock band R.E.M., he was taking pictures. And while his outsized music career has since overshadowed his visual pursuits, the 64-year-old set a personal sales record earlier this month at a private art auction in Vancouver.

Sean Baker's 'Anora' wins Palme d'Or, the Cannes Film Festival's top honour

Sean Baker's 'Anora,' a comic but devastating Brooklyn odyssey about a sex worker who marries the son of a wealthy Russian oligarch, has won the Cannes Film Festival's top award, the Palme d'Or.

Lawsuit filed in the death of dancer with a peanut allergy who died after eating mislabelled cookie

The estate of a young dancer who died after eating a mislabelled cookie containing peanuts has filed a wrongful death lawsuit, claiming the failure to properly label the package was grossly negligent.

Luciano Benetton says he's stepping down as chairman of family-run brand as losses top US$100 million

Luciano Benetton, a co-founder of the apparel brand, announced he was stepping down as chairman in an interview published on Saturday with Milan daily Corriere della Sera. He blamed current management for losses of 100 million euros (US$108.5 million) that he discovered last year.

GameStop surges after fetching US$933M from stock sale

GameStop made nearly US$933.4 million by selling 45 million shares, the struggling videogame retailer said on Friday, sending its shares up more than 12 per cent after the bell.

How to keep insects out of your house, according to an entomologist and other experts

Now that temperatures have warmed up even more this spring, you may be anxious at the thought of bugs invading your home or you may already be battling the pests. Here are expert tips on how to keep them away.

This type of screen time has the worst effect on kids: experts

According to some experts, there is one type of screen time that is continuously excessive, and it's having a severe effect on our children.

A woman took her dog to a shelter to be euthanized. A year later, the dog is up for adoption again

Exhausted and short on options after consulting two veterinary clinics, Kristie Pereira made the gut-wrenching decision last year to take her desperately ill puppy to a Maryland shelter to be euthanized.

Switzerland knocks out Canada in World Championship, advancing to finals against Czechs

Switzerland prevailed in a penalty shootout to stun Canada 3-2 and set up the final against the Czech Republic at the ice hockey world championship on Saturday.

Five things to know about the NHL playoffs

The Florida Panthers got close but fell short of going up 2-0 in their series on Friday, something the Edmonton Oilers look to do Saturday night.

Their Nissan SUV was parked in the driveway. Then it caught fire and exploded

In the early morning of May 14, Vicki Hill was startled awake by the sound of explosions outside her home in Bethesda, Md. The loud bangs, she learned later, had come from the airbags of the family’s SUV, a 2015 Nissan Murano that was parked in the driveway. It was on fire.

How to make your car ready for summer

If you’re planning a road trip this summer, it won’t hurt to make sure your car is reliable and would take you there and back.

BMW unveils its latest 'Art Car,' courtesy of abstract artist Julie Mehretu

BMW and Ethiopian-American artist Julie Mehretu unveiled her newest 'Art Car' at the Pompidou Centre in Paris, France.

Shopping Trends

The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop.  Read about us.

Editor's Picks

If you want to upgrade your summer wardrobe, try adding a few of these stylish pieces from amazon to your closet, if you're looking for a new face sunscreen, here are 16 that reviewers are loving right now, 17 useful amazon products that deserve to be in your home, 14 grilling accessories that'll help you get ready for barbecue season, our guide to the best air quality monitors in canada in 2024 (and where to get them), 15 amazon products that'll make you love your bed even more than you already do, 18 of the best father's day gifts under $50, 16 foolproof father's day gifts your dad is almost guaranteed to love, 15 unique father's day gifts they're guaranteed to love, 15 of the best niacinamide serums you can get online right now, i tried 7 of the most popular eye creams on amazon canada, and here are my thoughts, health & fitness, if your feet always hurt, you probably need a few of these things in your life, the best under-desk treadmills under $300, these accessories for golfers will take your game to the next level, stay connected.

Language selection

Canada and jamaica.

Services for Canadians if you're visiting, studying, working or doing business in Jamaica. Includes information about coming to Canada.

Travel advice and advisories - Jamaica

Exercise a high degree of caution

Travel advice, passport and entry requirements, health and safety information, and more.

Services and information

Coming to canada.

Apply to immigrate. Get a visa to study, work or visit Canada.

Travelling outside of Canada

Travel advice for how to stay safe and returning to Canada.

Living abroad

Everything you need to know to prepare to leave Canada to live in a foreign country.

Canada-Jamaica relations

Canada’s diplomatic, economic or cultural relationship with Jamaica.

Doing business in Jamaica

Business opportunities, market and sector advantages and other insights.

Most requested

• Authentication of documents
• Registration of Canadians Abroad

Find a Government of Canada embassy, high commission or consulate

• Canada and Jamaica news (Canada news)
• Canada and Jamaica news (Local statements)

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

• High Commission of Canada to Jamaica

Terms of service

X (Twitter)

• @CanadaJamaica

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Jamaica Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Jamaica.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Jamaica.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Jamaica. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Jamaica.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Jamaica is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Jamaica, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Jamaica. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Jamaica include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Jamaica’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Jamaica may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Jamaica, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Jamaica.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Jamaica for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

Create an account

• Gain access to free articles
• Daily free newsletter(s)
• Ability to comment on most articles
• Build your 3D avatar and gain points

• Everything in the Free plan
• Ad-free reading and browsing
• Unlimited access to all content including AI summaries
• Directly support our local and national reporting and become a Patron
• Cancel anytime.

Forgot password

Please enter your email and we'll send you a new password request code.

Please complete your profile to unlock commenting and other important features.

This is a Pro feature.

Time to level up your local game with narcity pro..

Canada Has Issued A Travel Advisory For Jamaica & Here's What Tourists Should Know

If you're planning a vacation to the country, you'll want to take note.

A beach in Montego Bay. Right: A person holds a Canadian passport.

Canadians planning a vacation to Jamaica anytime soon will want to take note of a new travel advisory issued by Canada.

The government recently issued an advisory for the country due to a high level of violent crime, and there are certain areas that tourists will want to avoid .

The Government of Canada is warning citizens to exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to Jamaica amid a surge in gang violence and crimes on the island.

In response to the increase in violence, the Jamaican government implemented a state of emergency on December 6, 2022.

The state of emergency is in effect in several areas, including sections of Kingston, a popular spot for tourists, and areas surrounding Montego Bay , like Hanover and St. James.

It's also in effect in the parishes of Clarendon, St. Ann, St. Catherine, St. Andrew and Westmoreland.

Canada warns that during the state of emergency, security forces have increased rights to conduct searches, seizures, and detain persons of interest.

Those travelling in the affected areas may also be subject to searches by security forces, it warns.

\u201cThe government of #Jamaica has reinstated the state of emergency in certain parishes due to increased violence and gang-related crimes. For more information: https://t.co/ltuzgtxIcw\u201d — Travel.gc.ca (@Travel.gc.ca) 1670456109

The government advises tourists travelling in these areas to always cooperate with military and police officers, follow the instructions of local authorities, carry valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints.

You'll also want to give yourself extra time to reach your destination and monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation in the country.

The government says the state of emergency is in effect until December 19, 2022.

While Canadians will want to be cautious when travelling to the country, the state of emergency is not necessarily a reason for tourists to worry, according to Jamaican officials.

In a statement on December 12, Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, assured travellers that the country remains a safe destination, PAX news reports .

"The enhanced security measures being implemented are a deliberate strategy by our government to take proactive steps to maintain a safe and secure Jamaica for all law-abiding citizens and tourists," Bartlett said.

"These enhanced measures apply to limited areas in Jamaica and the vast majority of the island's resort areas are not impacted."

"Jamaica remains a safe place for travellers and the statistics reflect this fact," he continued. "Visitors can continue to come to our island with confidence and enjoy all that the destination has to offer."

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.

• 11 Countries The Government Of Canada Has Issued Important Travel Warnings For In 2022 ›
• The Deadliest Destinations In The World Were Ranked & Canada Isn't As Safe As You Thought ›
• 7 Must-Know Tips For Travelling Through Canada's Biggest Airports This Holiday Season ›
• Canada Issued A New Travel Advisory For Mexico After Violence Erupts In Several Regions - Narcity ›
• Canada Has Issued New Travel Advisories For These Countries & Here's What You Need To Know - Narcity ›
• Spring Breakers Should Keep These Travel Advisories In Mind & Mexico Has Several In Place - Narcity ›
• 7 Popular Destinations Canada Has Issued Travel Advisories For, From Mexico To France - Narcity ›
• These Countries Are On Canada's Do Not Travel List & Here's What You Need To Know About Them - Narcity ›

Already have an account? Log in

Create an account to keep reading.

1. choose a plan.

Limited access to free articles

Unlimited access to all content, AI summaries, ad-free browsing and directly support our reporting by becoming a Patron 🙏. Cancel anytime.

2. Create your account

Canada has issued travel advisories for these 7 holiday hot spots & it could affect your trip, 8 canada travel advisories to know about if you're flying abroad that could affect your trip, canada issued travel advisories for 7 summer vacation spots and it could affect your plans, ​canada issued travel advisories for these 8 popular tourist spots and here's what to know, new canada travel advisory says to 'avoid all travel' to haiti & canadians should leave asap, canada has issued travel advisories for these 8 popular vacation spots ahead of spring break, canada updated its mexico travel advisory and here's what the latest safety advice says, canada travel news: travel advisories, all-inclusive vacations & more you may have missed, 7 things to know if you're a canadian travelling internationally this week, this low-cost airline has a sale on flights from toronto to europe and some are under $200, 8 tips for canadians travelling to mexico in 2024, from entry rules to tipping etiquette, this white sand beach near toronto was named one of the 10 most popular in the world.

• Your Profile
• Your Subscriptions
• Your Business
• Support Local News
• Payment History
• Sign up for Daily Headlines
• Sign up for Notifications

Is it safe to visit the Bahamas or Jamaica? Canada warns of increased violence

• Share by Email
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share via Text Message

The Canadian government has issued travel warnings for the Bahamas and Jamaica following an increase in violent crime. 

Canada updated advisories for both Caribbean countries on Monday, Jan. 29, advising travellers to exercise a high degree on the islands.

The updates follow an increase in murders and other violent crimes in the popular tourist destinations. The United States has also issued travel advisories, warning travellers of increased safety risks.

Travellers should be "very cautious at all times" in both countries and monitor local media for updates.  

The Bahamas travel advisory

While violent crime has been decreasing in the Bahamas since 2018, there are still incidents of violent crime, particularly on the islands of Grand Bahama and New Providence — both coveted destinations for Metro Vancouver travellers. 

On Jan. 24, the U.S. Embassy in Nassau issued a warning to U.S. citizens  that 18 people have been murdered in Nassau since the beginning of 2024. The murders took place at all times "including in broad daylight on the streets" but "retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders."

The Canadian government states that "armed robberies, burglaries, purse snatchings, theft, fraud and sexual assaults are the most common crimes committed against travellers in Freeport and Nassau."

People are also robbed at popular tourist locations, such as cruise ship terminals and resort areas, and these crimes increase during the holidays.

To stay safe, the government offers the following recommendations: 

• Avoid Nassau’s “over the hill” (south of Shirley Street) and Fish Fry (Arawak Cay) areas, especially at night
• Stay alert to your surroundings at all times
• Don’t walk alone, particularly after dark
• Don’t carry large sums of cash or wear expensive jewelry
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid deserted beaches
• If you are threatened by robbers, stay calm and don’t resist

Jamaica travel advisory

In November 2023, Jamaica declared a state of emergency due to high levels of violence in the country. While it is no longer in effect, the Canadian government continues to warn travellers of high rates of violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, particularly Jamaica's big cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay. 

Many people own firearms and many violent drug- and gang-related crimes, result in shootings. Tourists may get caught in the crossfire; they are also at risk of armed robberies.

While crime tends to be concentrated in "high-risk communities," they may occur anywhere and at any time. 

On Jan. 23, the United States advised travellers to reconsider a trip to Jamaica due to "crime and medical services," raising its advisory to a level three from a level two.

Canada's advisory notes that travellers should avoid the following areas because they have a "significant gang population and high incidences of violent crime":

Greater Kingston

• Arnett Gardens
• August Town
• Cassava Piece
• Delacree Park
• Denham Town
• Felstead Pen
• Grant’s Pen
• Greenwich Town
• Hannah Town
• Harbour View
• Lower Cockburn Gardens
• Mountain View
• Olympic Gardens
• Rennock Lodge
• Riverton City
• Seaview Gardens
• Tavares Gardens
• Tivoli Gardens
• Trench Town
• Waltham Gardens
• West Kingston
• Whitfield Town

St. Catherine

• Central Village
• Ravensworth
• Spanish Town

Montego Bay

• Hart Street
• Mount Salem
• Norwood Gardens
• Rose Heights
• St. Clavers Avenue

South Coast

If you plan to travel to Jamaica during the travel advisory, you may be subject to searches by security forces.

• Always cooperate with military and police officers
• Carry valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints
• Allow extra time to reach your destination
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation

If you are threatened by robbers, hand over any cash and valuables, as "resistance may provoke the use of violence." 

Women travelling alone are frequently harassed. Compounds are "gated and guarded" and therefore generally safer. However, there have also been reports of sexual assaults by resort staff and other tourists. 

• Be wary of strangers who seem friendly
• Refrain from excessive drinking, especially at all-inclusive resorts
• Ensure that your hotel room doors and windows are locked

Travellers should also purchase a  comprehensive travel insurance policy  when they book their ticket, which will cover the cost of your ticket in case you can't leave due to an unforeseeable medical or other emergency reason. It will also cover incidents like missed connections, baggage interruption and loss, and more. You may not be entitled to reimbursement for trip cancellation if you purchase a holiday while the warning is in place. 

Canadians should always register trips that they take  online  before they leave so that the government can contact them in an emergency.

• Oldest Newest

This has been shared 0 times

Featured Flyer

The U.S. Says to Reconsider Travel to Jamaica. Jamaica Disagrees

J amaican officials are pushing back against the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory for the island, which was re-issued in January due to “crime and medical services.” The country remains at Level 3 (which encourages people to “reconsider travel”— just one level away from the most severe warning.)

“In recent years, the Government has more than doubled its investments to strengthen our capacity to tackle crime and health-related challenges across the island for the benefit of our citizens and indeed everyone who wishes to visit Jamaica,” said Jamaican Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister Johnson Smith in a press release . Jamaica is listed as one of the top honeymoon destinations for U.S. residents, according to Tripadvisor . 

The State Department claimed that Jamaican local authorities do a poor job of responding to serious crimes, robberies, assaults, and more. “Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts,” the statement says, adding that Jamaica has one of the highest homicide rates in the Western Hemisphere.

The country’s level 3 designation has been in place since 2022. Jamaican officials have warned that while there are areas in Jamaica that certainly do report a high risk for crime, tourists do not often experience that firsthand. “Overall, the crime rate against visitors to Jamaica remains extremely low at 0.01%," the Jamaican Tourist Board told NPR .  

Jamaica travel advisory and response

The advisory mentions that families of U.S. citizens that have been killed on the island have had to wait for a year, if not more, to receive the death certificate of their family member. U.S. government personnel are also personally prohibited from taking public buses and driving out of certain areas of Kingston, the Jamaican capital, during the evenings. 

The advisory also says that hospital care is not timely and can be of low quality, when compared to U.S. standards. 

Following the State Department’s decision, Smith said that Jamaica was disappointed that the U.S. had not taken into account the country’s progress towards creating a safer community for all. “We are making serious improvements, although we still have much more to do to achieve all that we wish to deliver. It is not insignificant that Jamaica has recorded a more than 20 per cent decline in serious crimes, along with strong improvements in arrests and prosecution,” Smith said in a statement.

Jamaica experienced 83 murders during the first month of 2024, per the Jamaica Constabulary Force . That number is less than the 109 reported in 2023, during the same time period.  

The country heavily relies on tourism, which accounted for more than 30% of the country’s economic output prior to the pandemic. “If there was ever an industry that has the potential to transform our nation, our communities and the lives and livelihoods of the Jamaican people for the better, it is tourism,” the Jamaican Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, said in April 2023 when speaking about the return of tourists. Jamaica had a level 4 travel advisory during the pandemic due to high levels of Covid-19.

Jamaica has encouraged travelers to continue to come to the island, which last year hosted 4.1 million people, according to a statement the Jamaica Tourist Board provided NPR. “Visitors can continue to come with confidence to enjoy all that Jamaica has to offer,” they added. 

How to stay safe if you are traveling to Jamaica  

Those who are still planning to visit the Carribean destination were advised to avoid walking or driving at night, taking public buses, and any secluded areas. They were also told to not resist any robbery attempts. 

The State Department said that U.S. government workers were prohibited from traveling to several parishes due to crime, including much of downtown Kingston and St. Andrew Parish, Westmoreland Parish, and more. You can read the extensive list of neighborhoods here.

More Must-Reads from TIME

• Javier Milei’s Radical Plan to Transform Argentina
• The New Face of Doctor Who
• How Private Donors Shape Birth-Control Choices
• What Happens if Trump Is Convicted ? Your Questions, Answered
• The Deadly Digital Frontiers at the Border
• Scientists Are Finding Out Just How Toxic Your Stuff Is
• The 31 Most Anticipated Movies of Summer 2024
• Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Contact us at [email protected]

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Jamaica — What Travelers Should Know

The advisory is at "Level 3," urging Americans to "reconsider travel."

Getty Images

The U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory for travelers to Jamaica.

The advisory, which is a "Level 3," encouraging Americans to "reconsider travel" cites "violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common" as the reason for the alert.

The advisory also mentions all-inclusive resorts.

The U.S. Embassy in Jamaica also posted the same advisory. In addition to the guidance of reconsidering travel, the agency recommends that travelers do not walk or drive at night, and avoid public buses.

The agency also posted specific guidance for each neighborhood in Jamaica, with some having, "Level 4: Do Not Travel" advisories.

The agency also recommends travelers take extra precautions for insurance and healthcare planning, prior to visiting the island. “We strongly encourage you to obtain traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling to Jamaica,” the advisory states. “The Department of State does not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.”

In a statement to Travel + Leisure, Jamaica's tourism board noted that, "there are very distinctly defined areas within Jamaica that the advisory cites as having high risk for crime, so the majority of the island’s tourism product remains unaffected."

"Visitors can continue to come with confidence to enjoy all that Jamaica has to offer," the tourism board added.

The U.S. State Department also recently published a Level 2 advisory for the Bahamas , encouraging travelers to exercise increased caution due to ongoing crime. 

Travelers who are heading to international destinations can view all current travel advisories on the State Department’s website . 

Related Articles

Is Jamaica safe? State Department advisory raises concerns; here’s what to know

M ONTEGO BAY, Jamaica – Two months before my planned trip to Jamaica, the U.S. State Department advised Americans to “reconsider travel” to the popular Caribbean nation.

I considered their advice and I went anyway.

It did give me pause, however, and prompted me to make a few adjustments to the trip.

First, I bought travel insurance for this trip – which I might have done anyway, but the travel advisory confirmed its necessity. Second, I employed a local guide to show me around, rather than exploring on my own. Again, I might have done this anyway, but the travel advisory made it a priority.

The result: I had a great trip, did everything I wanted (and more) and never felt unsafe (well, except perhaps on some of those narrow, windy inland roads alongside some crazy local drivers).

I met plenty of American travelers, however, who were pretty spooked about the updated advisory. Some said they considered canceling their trips. Others said they didn’t feel comfortable venturing from their resorts.

Business owners on the island told me they were already feeling the effects of the advisory.

“Even people who are coming aren’t leaving the resorts,” said Simon Browne, whose family owns YS Falls, a popular waterfall and swimming area on the south side of Jamaica. “It’s been a quiet March.”

Milton Williams, who cooks jerk chicken and other delights along the highway between Montego Bay and Negril, was also feeling the loss of business.

“Lots of people have canceled their vacations,” he told me, as I feasted on his chicken.

I was glad I wasn’t one of them.

What the State Department said

The State Department uses a four-point scale to assess the safety of travel to every country in the world. Level 1 is the safest (“exercise normal precautions”) and Level 4 is the most dangerous (“do not travel”).

In March 2022, Jamaica was elevated from Level 2 (“exercise increased caution”) to Level 3 (“reconsider travel”).

In January, the State Department updated its advisory with additional details about areas of concern, citing specifically crime and medical services in the country.

A spokeswoman for the State Department called the update “routine” and said there was no specific incident that spurred the advisory. She said the crime information remains substantively unchanged from the previous advisory.

Routine or not, the media reported the update as major news, sparking concern about travel to the country during the busy winter and spring vacation season.

Indeed, the language included in the advisory is enough to give any traveler pause. “Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common,” it reads. “Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.”

It continues, “Local police often do not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a conclusive sentence. Families of U.S. citizens killed in accidents or homicides frequently wait a year or more for final death certificates to be issued by Jamaican authorities. The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica has for several years been among the highest in the Western Hemisphere.”

It goes on to list specific geographic areas of concern, and strongly encourages travelers to obtain traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling to Jamaica.

In response to the advisory, the Jamaican Tourist Board noted that crime involving visitors “remains extremely low at 0.01%,” adding, “Jamaica has recorded its lowest crime rate in 24 years in 2023 and this downward trajectory has continued in 2024.”

It’s worth noting that other countries that issue travel advisories to their citizens have not change their guidance on Jamaica in recent years.

Canada, for example, has a similar four-point system for assessing danger. Jamaica is a level 2 (“exercise a high degree of caution”), which is the same as for the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago and other Caribbean nations.

Both the United States and Canada cite Jamaica’s high crime rate as among the reasons for concern.

Indeed, Jamaica does have one of the highest murder rates in the world. But both locals and security experts point out that violence in Jamaica is almost never targeted at tourists.

“Jamaicans often told me – Jamaica is only dangerous for Jamaicans,” said Paul Doucet, security director at International SOS , a private health and security service firm.

Doucet visited Jamaica in February, shortly after the State Department updated its advisory, to see for himself whether anything had changed in Jamaica to warrant increased concern.

His conclusion: “It’s fine to go to Jamaica with an understanding of the areas to avoid.”

He added, “We haven’t changed our advice. We haven’t seen any reason to change our advice.”

Doucet acknowledged the country’s high crime rate, but said everyone – from the government to gang members – understands it’s not smart to target tourists, who contributed $4.3 billion to the nation’s economy in 2023.

“No one has an interest in seeing tourism decline,” said Doucet.

He also said that the country’s high homicide rate probably isn’t the best statistic for concerned travelers to worry about. Sexual assaults, carjackings and short-term kidnappings (which he noted are not a problem in Jamaica) are typically a bigger concern for tourists on vacation.

“There’s actually been an improvement in crime in Jamaica,” he said, although he noted that the numbers are subject to underreporting.

Lee Weinstock, a Shaker Heights native who runs a tourism business in Montego Bay, said he has been a victim of crime twice in Jamaica in more than 30 years. His apartment was broken into once, as was his car.

He speculates that there might be a political motivation for the State Department advisory – that it’s a way for the U.S. government to register its discontent with increasing Chinese investment in Jamaica, or disapproval of Jamaica’s anti-LGBTQ laws and policies.

The spokeswoman for the State Department denied that there were political reasons for the update. “This analysis is undertaken without regard to bilateral political or economic considerations,” she said.

She provided this explanation about the process: “Travel Advisories are based on a comprehensive and objective review of safety and security conditions, and ongoing developments that could affect the lives and interests of U.S. citizens abroad. We consider many factors to determine the Travel Advisory level for each country, including crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest, kidnapping or hostage taking, health risks, natural disasters/weather, and current events. The information we use to formulate Travel Advisories is collected from a range of sources, such as crime statistics and other publicly-available information, and information gathered from U.S. government sources, including assessments by our embassies and consulates abroad.”

I asked Doucet if the safety I felt in Jamaica was a good gauge of how safe I actually was.

“If you’re traveling around and didn’t go into areas you shouldn’t go, you probably were safe,” he said.

He noted that he spent some time in downtown Montego Bay – not an area where most tourists visit – and didn’t feel particularly safe.

“It was crowded,” he said. “There were a lot people who looked like they didn’t have enough to do.”

Common sense, he said, goes a long way in Jamaica and elsewhere.

“Don’t flash around money,” he said. “Don’t hold three iPhones in your hands.”

Being cautious, however, doesn’t mean being fearful.

Nicole Tutzer from Bainbridge Township traveled to Jamaica last month with her 18-year-old daughter Annika. “They told us – don’t leave the resort by yourself,” said Tutzer, who was staying at the resort next to mine in Montego Bay.

She and her daughter walked across the street to buy water shoes and bug spray and felt perfectly safe.

I, too, left my resort every day – both on foot and with licensed drivers – and also never felt remotely unsafe.

Needless to say, I didn’t visit the areas that were outlined in the State Department advisory, which are well known to locals as areas to avoid.

Honestly, there are plenty of areas in and around Cleveland that I know to avoid, particularly at night and when I’m alone. It seems obvious to use that same commonsense approach when I travel.

Safety in Jamaica

In addition to recommending travel insurance, the State Department offers these suggestions to Americans traveling to Jamaica:

* Avoid walking or driving at night.

* Avoid public buses.

* Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

* Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.

* Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition into the country.

* Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Information: travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/jamaica-travel-advisory.html

5 days in Jamaica, from Negril to Montego Bay, beaches, bamboo rafting and waterfalls

Will this new Frontier flight from Cleveland to the Caribbean last? Enjoy it while you can

How a guy from Shaker Heights built a 30-year tourism career in Jamaica

©2024 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit cleveland.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Learn about your destination

Take 90 seconds for safer travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

Enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

Travel advice and advisories by destination

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada. Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change. See Travel Advice and Advisories – FAQ for more information.

Where are you going?

Take normal security precautions

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Travel advice from other countries

Travel advice is also provided by the governments of Australia , New Zealand , the United Kingdom and the United States .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

• Mobile Apps
• Subscribe Now

Secondary Menu

• Art & Leisure
• Classifieds

Tourist arrivals increase despite US travel advisory, other challenges

Senior Advisor and Strategist in the Ministry of Tourism, Delano Seiveright, has disclosed that official tourist arrival numbers as at the first week of May are ahead of the corresponding period in 2023.

Jamaica has recorded 1.7 million tourist arrivals up to the first week of May with just over one million stopover arrivals and over 700,000 cruise passengers. This represents a 4.6 per cent increase for stopover arrivals and 23 per cent increase for cruise passengers.

The release of the figures follows a declaration by tourism minister Edmund Bartlett earlier this month that Jamaica's visitor arrivals have not been negatively affected by travel advisories.

However, in a statement to the media Thursday afternoon, Seiveright noted that "there is no doubt that it (the advisory) has an impact."

Seiveright noted that the Government continues to treat the Level 3 US Travel advisory very seriously leading to multiple engagements with high-ranking US officials across the State Department, Congress, among others.

Headlines Delivered to Your Inbox

He also pointed out that several other countries impacted by similar negative travel advisories have raised also concerns.

Seiveright said "despite the decelerating effect of headwinds created by growing global economic uncertainties, relatively high inflation and interest rates in primary markets, continued difficulties in airlines securing equipment and adequate staffing, aggressive lower priced competition and the negative effects of recent travel advisories, the Ministry of Tourism and its agencies continue to effect multipronged initiatives and actions to bolster growth."

Follow The Gleaner on X and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at [email protected] or [email protected] .

• «18-year-old charged for Dunkirk gun attack
• Gun and ammunition seized in St Andrew, four arrested»

View the discussion thread.

• Latest News
• North & East
• Environment
• International
• Social Love
• Horse Racing
• World Champs
• Commonwealth Games
• FIFA World Cup 2022
• Art & Culture
• Tuesday Style
• Food Awards
• JOL Takes Style Out
• Design Week JA
• Black Friday
• Relationships
• Motor Vehicles
• Place an Ad
• Jobs & Careers
• Study Centre
• Jnr Study Centre
• Supplements
• Entertainment
• Career & Education
• Classifieds
• Design Week

Jamaica’s tourist arrivals continue to grow despite headwinds – Seiveright

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Senior Advisor and Strategist in the Ministry of Tourism, Delano Seiveright says official tourist arrival numbers as at the first week of May are ahead of the same period in 2023, which was a major growth year for the sector.

Seiveright noted that Jamaica recorded just over 1.7 million tourist arrivals up to the first week of May with just more than one million stopover arrivals and more than 700,000 cruise passengers.

“This represents a remarkable 4.6 per cent increase for stopover arrivals and a whopping 23 per cent increase for cruise passengers,” said Seiveright.

“The still strong numbers also reinforce the continued success of efforts and strategies piloted by Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett and his team since the devastating impact of the COVID -19 pandemic,” added Seiveright.

He pointed out that despite the decelerating effect of headwinds created by growing global economic uncertainties, relatively high inflation and interest rates in primary markets, and the negative effects of recent travel advisories, the Ministry of Tourism and its agencies continue to effect multipronged initiatives and actions to bolster growth.

Seiveright also noted that the world’s largest online travel agency, Expedia, recently cut 1,500 employees or nine per cent of its global staff due in part to slowing travel demand.

As it relates to most recent Level 3 US Travel advisory, Seiveright noted that Government at the very highest levels, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kamina Johnson-Smith, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Audrey Marks and several other Government officials, private sector leaders and influential US citizens  have and continue to treat this very seriously.

“There have been multiple engagements with high ranking US officials across the State Department, Congress and so on. Several other countries impacted by similar negative travel advisories have raised concerns too.

“The Jamaica Tourist Board also continues to work around the clock with its global team including its public relations and advertising teams and international partners like airlines, tour operators, travel agents, hotels and other critical stakeholders to drive Jamaica’s tourism growth efforts despite the odds,” said Seiveright.

HOUSE RULES

• We welcome reader comments on the top stories of the day. Some comments may be republished on the website or in the newspaper; email addresses will not be published.
• Please understand that comments are moderated and it is not always possible to publish all that have been submitted. We will, however, try to publish comments that are representative of all received.
• We ask that comments are civil and free of libellous or hateful material. Also please stick to the topic under discussion.
• Please do not write in block capitals since this makes your comment hard to read.
• Please don't use the comments to advertise. However, our advertising department can be more than accommodating if emailed: [email protected] .
• If readers wish to report offensive comments, suggest a correction or share a story then please email: [email protected] .
• Lastly, read our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy

Comments are closed.

• Privacy Policy
• Editorial Code of Conduct