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With spring and summer travel just around the corner, the U.S. State Department warns travelers about increased risk in one of the most popular Caribbean destinations: the Bahamas. Â
The State Department has a four-level system for advising U.S. citizens about international travel. Level 1 signifies “exercise normal precautions,” and Level 4 means “do not travel.”  Â
The latest advisory maintains the Bahamas at Level 2 and recommends visitors “exercise increased caution. ” It was also updated to “reflect crime, swimming-related risks, and information on traveling with firearms and ammunition.” Â
 Is it still safe to visit the Bahamas? In general, yes. The State Department is not advising against travel to the Bahamas. Still, it does want travelers to be aware that “violent crime—like armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults—can occur anywhere in The Bahamas. “Certain places like Freeport and the “Over the Hill” area in Nassau should be avoided or visited with extra precautions.Â
The alert also concerns three other main risks that travelers should consider.Â
Jet skis and boating Â
According to the State Department, injuries and deaths have occurred due to a lack of regulation in boating in the Bahamas. The advisory warns that “watercraft may not be safe, and some operators are not licensed or insured.” Operators sometimes ignore local weather forecasts, going out even when it’s risky. Sexual assaults by jet ski operators have also been reported.  Â
Beach safetyÂ
The State Department advises travelers to pay close attention to jet skis and other watercraft operating close to shore and never swim alone. They also recommend keeping track of local weather forecasts and staying alert for sharks, although attacks are rare. Â
Travelers are more likely to run into trouble because they do not understand the risks of snorkeling and swimming, especially for extended periods or for those with less experience. “Swimmers and snorkelers have died after overestimating their physical fitness or health,” the advisory reads.Â
For those headed to the beaches on or near downtown Nassau, the State Department also warns that travelers should “be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in public restrooms,” as sexual assaults have been reported in the area.Â
Weapons and ammunitionÂ
Firearms and ammunition are illegal in the Bahamas. This rule is strictly enforced, and some travelers have recently run into issues because of the small quantities of ammunition they inadvertently brought into their suitcases. You can face arrest, fines, and even jail time.Â
 No matter where you travel, enrolling in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is recommended. This free service allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll in their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, you will receive any local safety alerts from the U.S. Embassy, making it easier to locate you in an emergency.Â
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.
