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Jamaica Dangers > Crime in Jamaica

Although Jamaica is depicted now and in the past as a crime ridden, dangerous place to visit, that rumor is far from the truth. Other countries have more crime per capita including the United States.

Because tourism is experiencing a dynamic new growth and is the number one foreign-exchange earner, the Jamaican government has taken steps to ensure the visitor will have a safe and pleasant experience. Special tourist police officers can be noticed in the larger tourist cities such as Montego Bay, Negril and Ocho Rios. These police officers are there to answer your questions or to help should something arise that needs immediate attention.

Most crime against tourists, if there is any at all, is petty and opportunistic. As in any other country you are visiting, including your own, take sensible precautions. Try to avoid walking at night alone, stay in well lighted areas, take the customary precautions with your valuables, use your room safe, and don't walk around with wads of cash in your pocket or purse. Keep hotel room and windows securely locked at night or while away from your room. Don't invite someone you've known for just a short while back to your room, and think carefully about traipsing off "to see the countryside" with someone whom you know nothing about. There are reputable tour companies and drivers everywhere who have track records for safety and reliability, so you can get out and explore the right way.

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Jamaican Men

by Jerry from Atlanta

Face reality. Rape is a major problem in Jamaica. I have been in Jamaica on and off for over thirty years. Jamaica men are very macho and are aggressive toward women of all races. Most rapes go unreported and if reported the man is seldom punished and if he is convicted, the sentence is not as severe as in other countries. It is assumed that female tourists are attracted to Jamaican men and that most of the women are on holiday there to meet Jamaican men. I have not in ... [read more]

Jamaica - off the beaten path

by Mikey from NYC

Jamaica is a extremely safe for tourists. Most of the crime is relegated to the ghettos i.e. garrisons. I think the best way to experience JA is to get off the beaten path and go explore the country. Places like treasure beach and St. Elizabeth, Blue Fields and Roaring River are precious oasises filled with beauty and kind people. When you get away from the tourist traps like Ochie, Negril and Montego bay there are not the pushy hustlers trying to sell you something with ... [read more]

Jamaica here we come

by Jennifer from Coolum Queensland Australia

From the minute my daughter Brooke knew there was such a thing as reggae music and that Jamaica was a real place on this earth she has wanted to go. Bob Marley and other Jamaican singers of freedom have hit the number one chart here in our house for the past 20 years..... now on 6th april 08 my daughter now 21 and me now 53 are finally going. Lonely Planet book has been great. I honestly believe that commonsense will prevail just like in any other country in our world.. ... [read more]

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