Federal authorities are warning those traveling for spring break to be mindful of their surroundings, notably in regions where safety could potentially be compromised.
The typical spring break season runs from mid-March to the first week of April. While many American spring breakers stay domestic rather than leave the country, others seek fun and entertainment abroad.
Why It Matters
The annual spring break season has long been an economic boon to multiple cities, regions and industries. Countless people driving or flying to domestic or international destinations can hike revenues for local businesses, lodging, bars and restaurants, while simultaneously helping with seasonal job growth.
But beyond the parties and the making of memories, individuals are still encouraged to be wary of what’s going on at their eventual destinations. The United States and numerous other nations implement and consistently update warnings for travel, potentially due to petty and violent crime, war or other reasons.
Just last week, the U.S. State Department issued “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisories for several countries including Afghanistan, Belarus, North Korea, Russia and Ukraine.
What To Know
The U.S. government has a four-tiered system for countries when it comes to tourism. Level 1: Exercise normal precautions, Level 2: Exercise increased caution; Level 3: Reconsider travel; Level 4: Do not travel.
Some regions are deemed safer to travel to than others. Some, like Israel, the West Bank, Gaza and Mexico, are marked as “other” due to some areas within the countries and territories being safe for travel.
Popular spring break destinations outside the U.S. include Mexico (Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta), Jamaica, the Bahamas, Spain and the Dominican Republic (Punta Cana).
The U.S. State Department recommends travelers to “exercise increased caution” when traveling to Cancun (Quintana Roo state) and Cabo San Lucas (Baja California Sur state) due to crime. Travel to areas like Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco state) are urged to be reconsidered by travelers due to crime and kidnapping.
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Jamaica is listed at a Level 3 advisory by U.S. authorities.
“Violent crime occurs throughout Jamaica,” the department says on its advisory website. “Tourist areas generally see lower rates of violent crime than other parts of the country.”
The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica is among the highest in the Western Hemisphere. Armed robberies and sexual assaults are common.
“The U.S. Embassy routinely receives reports of sexual assaults, including from U.S. citizen tourists at resorts. U.S. citizens report slow or unsatisfactory response to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a final verdict and sentence.”
The Bahamas is a Level 2 due to crime. Most crime reportedly occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands, with the former home to an “Over the Hill” area where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting locals. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas.
Spain is a Level 2 threat due to terrorism and civil unrest. Demonstrations are common, according to officials, and terrorist groups “continue plotting possible attacks” in areas including tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets and shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports and other public areas.
The Dominican Republic is a Level 2 due to crime, notably violent crime including armed robbery, homicides and sexual assault that remain prevalent throughout the nation. Tourist areas have become better policed over the years and include newer emergency systems.
FBI Los Angeles is encouraging travelers who leave the U.S. to have plans in place should things go awry.
Some tips include:
- Establishing points of contact for family in case of an emergency.
- Avoid traveling alone, especially after dark.
- Use only authorized taxis and/or shuttles.
- Avoid actions that are illegal, improper, or indiscreet.
- Avoid offers of sexual companionship; they may lead to a room raid, photography and blackmail.
- Beware of new acquaintances who probe for information.
What People Are Saying
“Whether it’s families looking to escape the final throes of winter or a college student seeking a brief respite from the rigors of academic life, know that the risks are there,” FBI Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis said in a statement. “Maintain vigilance throughout your travels and be prepared to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate should the need arise.”
