Tips & Advices
I’m Begging You To Follow These 6 Safety Tips When You Check Into An Airbnb Because The Horror Stories Are Too Real
With the rise of platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, short-term vacation rentals have become an increasingly popular alternative to hotels. In the age of COVID-19, many travelers prefer the option to avoid the person-to-person contact of staying at a busy hotel by booking a single-family home instead.
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But there are safety concerns that arise with the vacation rental experience.
“While many hotels have security guards and someone at a front desk keeping an eye on the property 24/7, Airbnbs do not,” Cheryl Nelson, a travel preparedness expert and founder of Prepare with Cher, told HuffPost. “If you have a concern at an Airbnb, there usually isn’t a manager or employee on-site or another room you may move to. If you’re traveling solo and need help, a hotel will typically have people on staff 24/7 to assist, while Airbnbs may not.”
Over the years, companies like Airbnb and Vrbo have taken steps to improve safety ― from banning parties to providing safety checklists to establishing a Trust & Safety Advisory Coalition.
“Staying at a short-term rental property is generally safe,” said Jeremy Prout, director of security solutions at International SOS. “Like booking any accommodation, the traveler needs to ensure they understand the risk of the neighborhood and take general precautions that they would for staying anywhere. Many of the concerns about safety and privacy issues are driven by viral videos or posts that are not consistent with the overall experience.”
Rare or not, dangerous things can happen during travel, including at vacation rentals. That said, there are ways to diminish the risks.
Below, experts share the safety steps travelers should take when they arrive at a vacation rental. They also offered some advice for keeping safety in mind when booking these accommodations.
1. Check for cameras.
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“Ask the host if there are security cameras so there is full disclosure,” Nelson advised. “Hidden cameras are prohibited, but for your own privacy, you may want to do a scan inside the house to make sure you don’t unwillingly end up on camera.”
Airbnb specifically prohibits hidden cameras or other recording devices and requires hosts to disclose the presence of any such implements. Recording devices are also not permitted in private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms, though they are allowed in common areas.
Vrbo doesn’t allow any sort of surveillance devices inside its properties, though hosts are allowed to place cameras outside the home, so long as their locations are shared with guests. Still, over the years, there have been several news stories about travelers discovering hidden cameras in their vacation rentals.
“They’re typically in areas where you would expect privacy,” said travel safety consultant Kevin Coffey. “Think smoke detectors in bedrooms, light fixtures in bathrooms, even alarm clocks next to beds.”
He emphasized these concealed recording device instances are rare and that many hosts simply install visible cameras in permitted areas due to the countless incidents of guests trashing rental properties during their stays. Still, if you’re concerned about hidden cameras, there are ways to check for them when you arrive.
“You can use a Wi-Fi checker,” Coffey said, noting that network-scanning apps like Fing can inform guests of any unknown devices that are connected to the Wi-Fi.
Keep an eye out for objects that appear to be altered or out of place, and if you have suspicions, consider draping a piece of clothing over them.
“Use a flashlight with the lights off to look for reflections off camera lenses,” Nelson suggested. “Peer into vents covers and other openings in the wall where a small camera could be hidden. Unscrew and inspect smoke alarms and other wall- or ceiling-mounted appliances.”
2. Store your valuables safely.
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“For the safety of your belongings, ask if the property has a safe,” Nelson suggested.
Items like your passport, electronics, jewelry and other valuables should go in the most secure location, and many rentals provide safe storage. Sometimes, you might have to bring your own padlock, which provides extra security as only you know the code.
“There are also portable safes you can travel with,” Coffey said. “They’re usually cloth with wire mesh sandwiched between two layers of canvas, and there’s a braided steel cable, so the only way for a thief to get into the bag would be to have bolt cutters.”
He recommended the brand Pacsafe, which has a variety of anti-theft items, including portable safes.
“If you don’t have a safe, gauge whether you should leave stuff lying around that can be seen through windows,” Coffey advised. “You don’t want important items to be visible.”
If you have a car parked outside, make sure to remove your belongings to avoid vehicle break-ins.
“You can also bring a camera to monitor your valuables as long as you remember to remove it by the time you check out,” said Cathy Pedrayes, a safety expert and author of The Mom Friend Guide to Everyday Safety and Security.
3. Confirm the presence of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
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Fire safety is always a concern, but after three American tourists died from carbon monoxide poisoning at a resort in the Bahamas in May, travelers are on extra high alert for that silent killer as well.
“Check to ensure each floor of the rental has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors,” Nelson advised.
Rental booking platforms like Airbnb allow hosts to note whether or not they have a smoke or CO detector on the property, but it’s worth checking that they’re on when you arrive.
“You can also purchase portable smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and take them with you when you travel,” Coffey added.
4. Get the lay of the land.
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“After I set my bags down at a rental, I just walk around the space and get the lay of the land,” Coffey said. “Try to see where all the doors are and test them out. So many people see a door but might not realize it’s bolted shut, so that’s not a way out in case of a fire.”
During your inspection, create a mental escape plan for emergencies. Look for the first aid kit and fire extinguisher. Coffey said he inspects the fire extinguisher to make sure it’s charged and functioning.
“Remember that when you’re in a house, there are a lot of points of entry that could be used to break in when you’re not around ― whereas a hotel room usually only has the one door,” he added. “Check your door and window locks to see how secure things are from a break-in standpoint.”
Consider the safety needs of your fellow travelers in mind as you scan the property. “If traveling with children, survey the area and look for glass or sharp objects, ensure that the TV is secure, if it is within reach,” Prout said.
Scope out the general area where you’re staying as well by walking around and looking at the map on your phone.
“You should be aware of local emergency resources ― police station, fire station, hospitals, pharmacies ― should there be an emergency during your stay,” Prout said.
5. Set up your own alarms.
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“If you’re staying in a street-level apartment or a place with lots of windows, consider if it makes sense for you to bring in additional door and window security devices,” Coffey said.
Ask your host or look for yourself to see if there are already alarms and outdoor sensor lights. Even if there are, you may still want extra protection.
Coffey noted that portable motion detectors are not particularly expensive and can alert you if someone is trying to break into a door or window. Similarly, portable locks can help keep your rental extra secure.
“Bring a small, portable door stop alarm,” Nelson echoed. “This one from Damsel in Defense is one of my favorites.”
6. Turn on tracking.
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When you’re traveling, it’s always a good idea to let loved ones know where you’ll be. You can text them the address of your rental when you check in and share your reservation confirmation.
Coffey suggested even going a step further.
“Turn on tracking for your loved ones so that they can see where exactly you are and know what’s going on,” he said, pointing to apps like Find My Friends. “You should do this especially if you’re a solo traveler.”
Pedrayes recommended having designated people you can call in case of an emergency.
“Before you arrive at a location, know your emergency numbers,” she said. “Is there Wi-Fi or cell service? Who can you call back home to help? Do you speak the language, if not, do you have a way to communicate in case of an emergency?”
Keep vacation rental safety in mind even before your trip.
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“I’ve never felt unsafe while staying at an Airbnb, but I always do my research prior to booking,” Nelson said, adding that she tries to choose properties from Airbnb “Superhosts” when possible due to their experience and top ratings. “Familiarize yourself with the local area and always read the Airbnb guests’ reviews, so there aren’t any surprises.”
She also recommended resources like CrimeMapping.com to “understand the vulnerabilities” of a particular area. Google Street View can help you see what the street and entrance look like as well.
“A short-term rental property may look great in photos, but be sure to research the neighborhood ― you will be interacting with it, including coming and going with luggage,” Prout noted. “A simple search can provide you with an overview of the risks. If you’re not sure, ask the host. If you’re still not sure, find another accommodation.”
In addition to crime concerns, Coffey said some travelers like to consider if an area is good fit from a cultural perspective.
“A person of color, someone who’s LGBTQ, a woman traveler ― they might want to take a deeper dive and look at safety scores from different apps and websites,” he explained. “GeoSure offers helpful ratings.”
He also suggested parents traveling with children check the sex offender registry for the neighborhood. Meanwhile, Prout urged travelers to think about the types of accommodation they’re searching.
“When it comes to safety, booking individual room rentals instead of an entire property can put a traveler at risk as the guest may find themselves sharing a home or an apartment with other people, which can increase the likelihood of a security incident ― assault, harassment, etc.,” he said.
Still, Prout added, there’s no simple solution for avoiding all risk.
“The reality is that emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time,” he emphasized. “Therefore, there is no one answer when it comes to ensuring your safety when booking lodging accommodations. The best thing a traveler can do to protect themselves is to do research ahead of booking accommodations to determine the level of risk associated with the location and plan accordingly.”This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
When planning a trip, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of booking flights, accommodations, and excursions. But some travelers may overlook the financial side of pre-trip preparations.
Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or relaxing at a beach resort, the last thing you want on vacation is to lose your money. Traveling can make you an easy target for scams, theft, or financial mishaps, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the local customs, currency, and language. But a few smart precautions can go a long way in keeping your money safe.
So before you jet off, learn how to protect yourself and your finances while traveling.
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According to a report from the Mastercard Economics Institute, the travel industry is one of the sectors most susceptible to fraud. The study found that fraud in popular tourist destinations spikes up to 28% during peak seasons.
When you’ve put time and money into planning a trip, the last thing you want is for a financial mishap to spoil your vacation. If you want to keep your money safe, here are a few best practices to keep in mind.
Before you leave, take the time to inform your bank, credit union, and/or credit card companies that you’ll be traveling. For one, this will ensure legitimate transactions aren’t flagged for fraud, which can be a major hassle to clear up while traveling.
Additionally, notifying your financial institutions of your travel details (including where you’re going and the dates of your trip) can also help detect fraudulent activity that may occur once you’re back home. For instance, if your debit or credit card information is stolen while you’re traveling, the scammer may not try to use it until weeks later. However, your bank will know that you’re back in the U.S. and can stop suspicious transactions from going through.
Read more: 6 important security features to look for in a bank
Though many banks have fraud detection services in place, they’re not foolproof. You can add another layer of security by setting up bank alerts that help you spot suspicious activity right away.
For example, you can enable text or email alerts for transactions over a certain dollar amount or when your account balance falls below a certain threshold.
When you need cash in a pinch, you may be tempted to use the first ATM you can find. However, pulling money out of a privately owned ATM, especially a standalone machine in a dark or low-traffic area, puts you at higher risk of ATM skimming.
Instead, plan ahead and withdraw cash from ATMs located inside reputable banks, airports, and other well-lit, high-traffic areas. You can also consider purchasing foreign currency before you set off for your trip (but don’t carry the full amount on you once you reach your destination).
Read more: Guide to ATM safety: Tips for protecting yourself and your money
If you’re out and about, keep your wallet close to you and secured at all times. Don’t walk around with your wallet in your back pocket or in an unzipped purse, especially if you’ll be walking through crowded areas or tourist attractions.
You should also avoid carrying around large amounts of cash. Consider keeping enough cash in your wallet to cover your expenses for that day and storing the rest in your hotel safe.
Read more: Lost your wallet? Here’s what to do.
Public Wi-Fi networks may be unsecured, allowing hackers to intercept unencrypted data between your device and the Wi-Fi router. Plus, scammers can set up a rogue Wi-Fi network with a name similar to a legitimate one (like “Hotel_WiFi_Free” vs. “Hotel_WiFi”) so that when you connect, they can monitor everything you do.
So, when you use a public network to log into online banking platforms, you’re putting your sensitive information at risk of falling into the wrong hands. If you absolutely need to log on to your account while abroad, it’s best to rely on your mobile data or a VPN to keep your information secure.
Read more: Is mobile banking safe? How to keep your personal data secure.
If your primary payment method is compromised while traveling, carrying a second credit card or extra cash can ensure you always have access to your money. If possible, carry your backup card or cash in a separate, hidden area from your primary payment method.
AAA urges drivers to be alert and turn around whenever facing flooded roadways and harsh weather conditions. Continuous waves of fast-moving storms, loaded with tremendous amounts of soaking rain, have caused flash flood warnings to surge in communities across Virginia. Ditches and creeks are also swelling as their banks overflow with water onto roadways and low-lying areas.
Harsh weather has pushed AAA to urge drivers to remain off roadways or alter their routes as a safety precaution. In Petersburg, overnight crews were pulling people from flooded cars and blocking off water-flooded roads. The Tri-Cities area of Richmond is also at risk of flooding and other bouts of heavy rain. More rain will be expected, and AAA wants drivers and pedestrians alike to remain vigilant.
Turn around, don’t drown: As little as six inches of water can cause drivers to lose control of vehicles and potentially stall engines. Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads. Turn around, find another way, or find a safe location.
Standing water may be hiding hazards: Standing water can be deceiving, and motorists should avoid it. No matter how shallow it may appear, water may be concealing downed power lines or storm debris, potholes, or a washed-out roadway that can disable your vehicle and put you in a life-threatening situation.
Slow down: Drivers are more likely to lose control of the vehicle when roads are wet. Drivers should reduce their speed to correspond to the amount of water on the roadway. At speeds as low as 35 mph, new tires can still lose some contact with the roadway.
Increase following distance: This is even more important when driving near vans, recreational vehicles, and cars pulling trailers that may be adversely affected by the wind.
Avoid cruise control: This feature works great in dry conditions, but when used in wet conditions, the chance of losing control of the vehicle can increase. To prevent loss of traction, the driver may need to reduce the car’s speed by lifting off the accelerator, which cannot be accomplished when cruise control is engaged. Avoiding cruise control will also allow the driver more options to choose from when responding to a potential loss-of-traction situation, thus maximizing your safety. Cruise control can also cause hydroplaning.
Watch for hydroplaning: No car is immune from hydroplaning on wet surfaces, including four-wheel-drive vehicles. With as little as 1/12 inch of water on the road, tires have to displace a gallon of water per second to keep the rubber meeting the road.
Brake early: Braking early, but not hard, will allow the time needed to slow the car. Even if brakes work under normal conditions, that doesn’t mean they will react the same on slippery roads where tires roll with less traction. To reduce chances of hydroplaning, drivers should slow down, avoid hard braking or turning sharply, and drive in the tracks of the vehicle ahead of you.
Drive with greater caution and alertness: The key to driving safely in rainy weather is to concentrate on every aspect of driving. Avoiding distractions is essential.
Check your wipers: Before leaving the house, make sure your windshield wipers are working properly.
Make yourself visible: If you are forced to stop due to poor visibility, turn on emergency flashers immediately.
Slow down, move over: A reminder, drivers need to slow down and move over for roadside workers, including emergency roadside service crews, first responders, and law enforcement officers displaying red, blue, or amber emergency lights. As of July 2023, Virginia’s Move Over law now also includes all stationary vehicles on the side of the road, displaying hazard lights, flares, or warning signs. Give them the space to be safe.
Seek higher ground: If the vehicle stalls or is suddenly caught in rising water, leave it immediately.
Take the nearest exit: If conditions worsen to the point where there are any safety concerns, exit the roadway. Don’t just stop on the shoulder or under a bridge unless it is unsafe to proceed otherwise. If your visibility is compromised, other drivers may be struggling too.
AAA also advises that drivers create a warm emergency kit that they can keep in their car in case of weather emergencies. The kit should include nonperishable food/snacks and water, tool kit, flashlight, hand-crank or battery-powered radio, extra batteries, cell phone and charger, first-aid supplies, flares or reflectors, raincoat or poncho, a towel or blanket and rain boots or an extra pair of shoes.
Tips & Advices
US and Canada Issue Urgent Caribbean Travel Advisories for Cuba, Jamaica, Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago with Key Safety Tips for Tourists Visiting Havana, Montego Bay, Nassau
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
US and Canada Issue Urgent Caribbean Travel Advisories for Cuba, Jamaica, Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago with Key Safety Tips for Tourists Visiting Havana, Montego Bay, Nassau as both governments warn travelers of rising crime, safety threats, and infrastructure issues across some of the most visited destinations in the region for 2025. From petty theft in Havana to armed robberies in Montego Bay and daylight assaults in Nassau, the new advisories urge heightened vigilance in light of worsening conditions. The alerts highlight risks ranging from violent gang activity and firearm-related crimes to prolonged power outages, restricted emergency services, and strict local laws that could trap unsuspecting visitors. With millions planning Caribbean holidays, these government updates are a critical wake-up call for travelers headed to the region’s most iconic cities and islands.
Cuba: Power Outages and Walking Alone in Havana
One of their warnings is directed at travelers thinking about a trip to Cuba, particularly Havana. The Canadian government warns that visitors should be vigilant as food, medicine and fuel “remain in short supply” and are not easily accessible throughout the country. Tourists may be forced to travel with cash, making them more vulnerable to theft.
Advisories from both Canada and the US caution about petty crime such as pickpocketing, bag-snatchings and car break-ins. These attacks are often on busy shopping streets, buses, nightclubs and security checkpoints at popular tourist sites. There are also growing complaints of theft from hotel rooms and private rentals, known as casas particulares.
The US government also notes severe disruptions to Cuba’s electrical grid. Since late 2024, islandwide blackouts—sometimes lasting for more than 12 hours—have been a daily occurrence in cities across the island, including in Havana. Large hotels and institutions mostly depend on backup generators, but fuel shortages often make the systems unreliable in the event of prolonged power failures.
The US also re-affirms that all travel to Cuba for touristy purposes by American citizens continues to be very limited and subject to restrictions defined under the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regulations. Travellers who do not heed the legal guidance face stiff penalties or even prosecution.
Cuba – Where Time Stands Still but Caution Moves Fast
Havana: Vintage Vibes Meet Modern Warnings
Places to Visit: Old Havana (UNESCO site), El Capitolio, Museum of the Revolution, Malecón seawall
Things to Do:
- Cruise the streets in a classic 1950s convertible
- Sip mojitos at La Bodeguita del Medio
- Watch street performers in Plaza Vieja
Travel Tip: Carry cash discreetly; most cards don’t work. Expect long blackouts—choose hotels with generators.
Safety Note: Petty theft is widespread—keep electronics and documents secured at all times.
Trinidad: Colonial Charm in the Caribbean Hills
Places to Visit: Plaza Mayor, Iglesia de la Santísima Trinidad, Valle de los Ingenios
Things to Do:
- Go horseback riding to hidden waterfalls
- Dance to live trova music in cobblestone bars
- Explore sugar plantation ruins and climb the Manaca Iznaga tower
Travel Tip: Lodging in casas particulares is scenic but can lack security—lock valuables.
Safety Note: Don’t wander off into unlit streets at night; stay in well-trafficked areas.
Varadero: Beachfront Paradise with a Watchful Eye
Places to Visit: Varadero Beach, Josone Park, Cueva de Ambrosio, Delfinario
Things to Do:
- Snorkel or scuba dive in turquoise waters
- Stroll through manicured parks and street markets
- Take a catamaran cruise to nearby cays
Travel Tip: Don’t leave bags on beaches unattended. Avoid flashy jewelry in public.
Safety Note: While safer than Havana, hotel theft still happens—use safes and avoid street ATMs.
Jamaica: Police Surge Fails to Halt Violence in Jamaica’s Tourism Mecca
Millions of tourists still flock to Jamaica every year, but advisories from both countries reference persistently high levels of violence — even in tourist Mecca Montego Bay.
Armed robberies and acts of violence provoked by gang activity take place in urban and resort areas in Canada, officials note. Violence is greatest in “high-risk communities,” but opportunistic crimes like theft and assault do occur in touristy areas.
The US warning highlights an especially vexing problem: the ongoing threat of sexual assault, even at resorts and among American citizens. U.S. Embassy employees are also banned from getting on public buses or from driving between cities at night, illustrating the extent of the threats that danger even trained individuals.
There’s been a slight decline in crime stats since 2024 but the murder rate is still among the highest in the Western Hemisphere. In addition, visitors are strongly discouraged to display wealth and should travel with a high degree of caution especially when in the city of Kingston or in Montego Bay.
Jamaica – Island of Irie Energy and Intense Alerts
Montego Bay: All-Inclusive Dreams, Real-World Risks
Places to Visit: Doctor’s Cave Beach, Rose Hall Great House, Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue)
Things to Do:
- Lounge on sugar-white beaches or book a snorkeling tour
- Tour historic plantations and haunted estates
- Enjoy vibrant nightlife with jerk chicken and live reggae
Travel Tip: Use resort-arranged taxis and excursions. Avoid isolated areas after dark.
Safety Note: Armed robbery and sexual assault reports exist—even in resort zones. Be aware.
Kingston: Cultural Heartbeat with Caution in the Background
Places to Visit: Bob Marley Museum, Devon House, National Gallery of Jamaica
Things to Do:
- Explore reggae history and local street food scenes
- Take guided city tours to see murals and marketplaces
- Visit Emancipation Park for local culture and events
Travel Tip: Kingston has high crime—stay in upscale areas and avoid solo exploration.
Safety Note: Most violent crime happens in “hot spot” zones—always ask locals or hotels where not to go.
Ocho Rios: Adventure and Waterfalls Await
Places to Visit: Dunn’s River Falls, Mystic Mountain, Turtle River Park
Things to Do:
- Climb cascading waterfalls or zipline over rainforest
- Take a bamboo raft ride down the White River
- Visit local craft markets for handmade souvenirs
Travel Tip: Choose organized tours over wandering. Avoid carrying more than one card or large cash.
Safety Note: Less crime than Kingston, but petty theft and scams can occur—remain alert.
Bahamas: Daytime Robberies and Holiday Surges in Nassau
Nassau is one of the Caribbean’s busiest cruise ports and popular among American and Canadian passengers. But both governments still warn to practice safety since crime levels have been increasing in both the Bahamian capitol and Freeport.
Canada notes that daytime is no protection from bag-snatching and other forms of petty crime, which occurs frequently in cruise ports and resort areas. Crime intensifies during holidays, festivals, and special events in your community, and visitors are often targeted.
The US also states that violent crime, including burglaries, sexual assaults, and armed robberies, is mostly committed in areas where tourists are known to frequent. The “Over the Hill” peninsula, south of Shirley Street in Nassau, has been tagged as an area with a high risk of gang violence leading to fatalities. Travellers are warned to stay out of these areas and to use additional caution when renting vacation properties without private security.
The Bahamas – Luxury Meets Local Precaution
Nassau: Cruise Capital with Rising Street Crime
Places to Visit: Queen’s Staircase, Junkanoo Beach, Parliament Square, Atlantis Paradise Island
Things to Do:
- Swim with dolphins or sharks on organized tours
- Take a historical walking tour of downtown
- Shop for conch salad and straw goods in the market
Travel Tip: Stay alert around cruise terminals and avoid the “Over the Hill” zone south of Shirley Street.
Safety Note: Daytime robberies have occurred—don’t let your guard down, even in well-lit areas.
Freeport: Laid-Back Charm with a Cautious Edge
Places to Visit: Lucaya Beach, Port Lucaya Marketplace, Rand Nature Centre
Things to Do:
- Relax on quiet beaches or try reef diving
- Explore mangroves by kayak or take dolphin tours
- Enjoy sunset drinks along the canal waterfront
Travel Tip: Avoid walking alone at night, especially near port or nightlife areas.
Safety Note: While less hectic than Nassau, property crime can still affect tourists—lock everything.
Eleuthera: Pink Sands and Peaceful Retreats
Places to Visit: Pink Sands Beach, Glass Window Bridge, Lighthouse Beach
Things to Do:
- Take scenic drives and snap photos of dramatic cliffs
- Swim in secluded bays and snorkel in coral gardens
- Visit sleepy fishing villages for fresh seafood
Travel Tip: It’s peaceful—but don’t get complacent. Some areas have no police patrols or emergency services.
Safety Note: Remote beaches = minimal security. Travel in groups and tell your hosts your itinerary.
Turks and Caicos: Providenciales on edge as crime wave is not slowed by rigid gun laws
Turks and Caicos, which is often promoted as a luxurious getaway, has also been criticized. Now, both governments are advising tourists to take extra precautions, particularly on the most populated island, Providenciales.
Petty thefts, including muggings, pick-pocketing, and theft from homes and vehicles, are increasing. Visitors are cautioned not to leave valuables in cars, even in the trunk, and to keep personal items secure on beaches.
The US also highlights the fact that the country has a zero-tolerance approach to weapons. Tourists who inadvertently bring even a single bullet into their luggage have been punished with prison time, heavy fines, and lengthy detention. Under the law, some US citizens have been immediately arrested, while others have not been able to return home for weeks.
With constrained investigative resources, local law enforcement could find it challenging to help foreign victims effectively. In an emergency, U.S. citizens in the Turks and Caicos Islands may contact the U.S. Embassy in Nassau, Bahamas which has consular responsibility for Turks and Caicos.
Turks and Caicos – Luxury Escape with Legal Traps
Providenciales: Glamour with Guardrails
Places to Visit: Grace Bay Beach, Chalk Sound National Park, Sapodilla Bay
Things to Do:
- Relax on award-winning white sand beaches
- Kayak through glowing turquoise lagoons
- Snorkel vibrant reefs teeming with marine life
Travel Tip: Never carry ammunition or even spent bullets—strict gun laws apply.
Safety Note: Petty crimes like bag snatching happen even in upscale areas—don’t leave items unattended.
Grand Turk: Cruise Hub with Colonial Flair
Places to Visit: Grand Turk Lighthouse, Cockburn Town, Governor’s Beach
Things to Do:
- Tour the island by bike or golf cart
- Visit the National Museum and shipwreck exhibits
- Snorkel right off the shore at Coral Gardens
Travel Tip: Crime is lower here but services are limited. Be cautious after dark in cruise port areas.
Safety Note: Some neighborhoods lack visible policing—travel with companions and avoid walking alone.
South Caicos: Quiet Beauty off the Beaten Path
Places to Visit: Bell Sound Nature Reserve, East Bay Beach, Highland House Ruins
Things to Do:
- Dive into vibrant coral walls and marine sanctuaries
- Go bonefishing with local guides
- Experience untouched landscapes with minimal crowds
Travel Tip: South Caicos is remote—have backup plans and supplies.
Safety Note: Emergencies may require transport to Providenciales—keep embassy contacts handy.
Dominican Republic: Crime Spreads Beyond Beach Resorts as Tensions Build on Haitian Border
The Dominican Republic is still a prime destination for sun, but both countries have raised safety red flags, especially for those who stray outside of resort zones. Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is widespread in urban areas such as Santo Domingo and Punta Cana.
Canada specifically points to the border area with Haiti — and Dajabón, in particular — as particularly unstable. Because of political and other unstable conditions, overland and seaways from Haiti into the Dominican Republic are now completely closed. Emergency services are severely restricted close to the border, and travellers are recommended to not enter this region altogether.
The US advises people not to visit isolated areas, including when they are getting together with people they have met on the internet. Common-Sense Travelers are advised to avoid ostentatious displays of wealth and to be extra cautious while in all cities and on all forms of public transportation.
Dominican Republic – Tropical Allure with a Sharp Edge
Punta Cana: Resort Royalty with Reality Checks
Places to Visit: Bávaro Beach, Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, Hoyo Azul
Things to Do:
- Relax in an all-inclusive beachfront resort
- Take a catamaran to Isla Saona for snorkeling
- Zipline through lush jungle canopies
Travel Tip: Resort zones are safest—limit solo walks beyond perimeter gates.
Safety Note: Violent crimes have occurred outside resort grounds—avoid nighttime outings in remote areas.
Santo Domingo: Colonial Grandeur Meets Modern Grit
Places to Visit: Zona Colonial, Alcázar de Colón, Catedral Primada de América
Things to Do:
- Walk the historic first city of the New World
- Enjoy rooftop dining and live merengue music
- Shop at local boutiques and artisan markets
Travel Tip: Use taxis arranged by your hotel; public transport can be risky.
Safety Note: Pickpocketing and robbery are frequent—stay alert in busy plazas and side streets.
Puerto Plata: Coastal Escape with Caribbean Color
Places to Visit: Mount Isabel de Torres, Fortaleza San Felipe, Ocean World Adventure Park
Things to Do:
- Ride the cable car to scenic mountain views
- Visit rum distilleries and cacao farms
- Lounge at Playa Dorada or surf in Cabarete
Travel Tip: Avoid walking beaches alone at dusk.
Safety Note: Crime is less intense here than Santo Domingo but still present—lock hotel doors and avoid isolated roads.
Trinidad and Tobago – Rising Gang Violence and Terror Risks in Port of Spain
In also comes Trinidad and Tobago, as warnings from both nations about violent crime, including gang violence and the potential of a terror attack, are raising red flags. In Port of Spain around Beetham Estate Gardens, Laventille and Cocorite have full blown murder, robbery and rape attacks on a daily basis.
Canada in particular warns against non-essential travel in parts of the capital and several other high-crime neighborhoods. Meanwhile, the U.S. is advising travelers to think twice about visiting at all, citing the increased threats of kidnapping, terrorism and home break-ins. US Embassy personnel are subject to severe restrictions on where and when they can travel in the country, particularly at night.
Travelers to the twin-island country are urged to hunker down in securely protected lodgings, to shun out-of-the-way beaches after nightfall and to remain vigilant at all times, particularly in Port of Spain.
Trinidad and Tobago – Dual-Island Adventure with Heightened Vigilance
Port of Spain: Urban Energy Amid Gang Warnings
Places to Visit: Queen’s Park Savannah, National Museum, Royal Botanic Gardens
Things to Do:
- Experience Carnival and steelpan performances
- Walk among historic mansions and street art
- Sample doubles, bake and shark, and Trini street food
Travel Tip: Avoid areas like Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, and Cocorite—even in daylight.
Safety Note: Gang violence and home invasions are real risks—stay in high-end hotels with 24/7 security.
Tobago: Natural Serenity with Safer Shores
Places to Visit: Pigeon Point Heritage Park, Nylon Pool, Fort King George
Things to Do:
- Snorkel among coral reefs in Buccoo Marine Park
- Take a glass-bottom boat over turquoise lagoons
- Visit laid-back fishing villages and serene forest reserves
Travel Tip: Tobago is generally safer, but still avoid isolated beaches after dark.
Safety Note: Petty theft happens—don’t leave belongings out of sight, even in quiet areas.
San Fernando: Industrial Heart with Local Color
Places to Visit: San Fernando Hill, Gulf City Mall, Palmiste Park
Things to Do:
- Hike to panoramic views over the Gulf of Paria
- Shop at local markets for crafts and spices
- Visit temples and churches reflecting the island’s diversity
Travel Tip: Avoid driving at night and steer clear of poorly lit zones.
Safety Note: While quieter than Port of Spain, it’s still best to stay alert and travel with others.
Top Travel Safety Tips for Travelers in 2025
For those still looking to take Caribbean trips in 2025, US and Canadian officials hammer home the need for vigilance. Here are the essential safety recommendations that all six advisories have in common:
- Refrain from displaying large amounts of cash, or wearing valuable jewellery in public.
- Opt for hotels or vacation rental properties where security is robust
- Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark.
- Avoid public transportation if not absolutely required
- Carry photocopies or digital copies of passports and travel documents
- Stay alert to local news and follow the instructions of local officials
- If in doubt, consult embassies or consulates for updates ahead of travel between islands or border areas
US and Canada issued urgent Caribbean travel advisories for Cuba, Jamaica, Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Dominican Republic, and Trinidad and Tobago due to rising violent crime, infrastructure failures, and increasing risks in top tourist spots like Havana, Montego Bay, and Nassau. The alerts include key safety tips for 2025 travelers amid growing concerns over robberies, blackouts, gang activity, and legal enforcement issues.
Millions of tourists are still flocking to the Caribbean and determining the changing security situation is essential. Though the sprawling beaches and electric cultures can still be tempting, safety should be the top priority for anyone planning a visit to Havana, Montego Bay, Nassau and beyond.
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