The U.S Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs has issued a warning for anyone visiting the Bahamas.
The Bahamas, a country in the Caribbean, has a Level Two rating, meaning that visitors should “exercise increased caution”.
The U.S Department of State told holidaymakers: “Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime.”
The travel advisory offered some information about the country and the potential risks of visiting.
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The U.S Department of State urged tourists to The Bahamas to 'exercise increased caution'
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The advice read: “The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands.
”In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the 'Over the Hill' area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population.
”Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.
”Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications. Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities.
”Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred.
”Due to these safety concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.
”Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills. Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities.
”Be mindful of sharks when swimming and engaging in water activities, as there have been recent fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks. Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed local warnings. “
Tourists planning on visiting The Bahamas have been advised to consult the country information page for additional information.
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'The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands'
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The U.S. Department of State urged travellers to exercise extra caution. They told holidaymakers to avoid answering the door of their accommodation unless they know the person. If robbed, travellers should not physically resist any attempt.
Visitors to The Bahamas were encouraged to become familiar with key resources. They should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts. This will make it easier to locate visitors in an emergency.
Tourists should follow the Department of State on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and review the Country Security Report for The Bahamas.
Tourists should visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to their travel. Finally, they should prepare a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations, reviewing the Traveller's Checklist.