Canada issues travel advisories to many tropical destinations including Mexico, Bahamas, Jamaica

People planning a winter getaway to popular, sunny destinations such as the Bahamas, Jamaica or Mexico may want to check out the latest travel advisories.

RELATED: Bahamas responds to the travel advisory issued by Canada

The U.S. Embassy in Nassau, Bahamas issued an alert in January, which states 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024.

“Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets,” the advisory states. “Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders.”

The Government of Canada also warns travellers of safety concerns on its Travel Advice and Advisories page. They analyze trends and incidents affecting international travellers, monitor world events and collect updated reports from different sources.

The advisories help travellers make informed decisions and travel safely outside Canada.

Here are some of the Travel Advice and Advisories this week (Jan. 29 to Feb. 2):

Bahamas

Risks: High rates of crime, especially in Freeport and Nassau.

Reasons: Armed robberies, burglaries, purse snatchings, theft, fraud and sexual assaults are the most common crimes committed against travellers in Freeport and Nassau. Incidents of robbery also take place in cruise ship terminals and in and around popular resort areas, even in daylight hours. Crime increases during the holidays.

The advisory suggests travellers avoid the “over the hill” (south of Shirley Street) and Fish Fry (Arawak Cay) areas, especially at night. People should not walk alone, particularly at night, and stay alert at all times. If you are threatened by robbers, stay calm and don’t resist, the advisory suggests.

Jamaica

Risks: High level of violent crime.

Reasons: Violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay. Tourists are at risk of crimes of opportunity, especially theft and robberies.

The availability of firearms is widespread, and most violent drug- and gang-related crimes, especially murder, involve firearms. There is a risk of becoming the victim of crossfire in these areas. Crimes tend to be concentrated within what the police refer to as “traditional hot spots” or “high-risk communities”, but can take place anywhere and at any time.

Mexico

Risks: High levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

Reasons: Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico. Arrest and detention rates are low and don’t deter criminal activity. Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active. ‎Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common.

The advisory suggests people remain vigilant at all times, stay in tourist areas, and be very cautious on major highways.

People should avoid all travel to Guerrero State.

Maldives

Risks: Threat of terrorism.

Reasons: Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. The advisory suggests the attacks could occur in public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and resorts, and other sites frequented by foreigners.

Costa Rica

Risks: Petty crime

Reasons: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently. Tourists are common targets for theft because they are perceived as being wealthy.

Travellers should be particularly vigilant in popular tourist areas where thieves will work in teams using diversion techniques. In the country’s capital, San José, high-risk areas for theft include the Coca-Cola bus terminal area, the inner downtown area, the Mercado central areas and public parks.

For a complete list of advisories and further information, see the website here.

Lead Photo: Asad Photo Maldives