Is it safe for a single, white Amerian female to travel alone in Jamaica?

Question

Ok, so I've asked a similar question, but mostly on what to do there near Negril.

Since I've announced my plans to friends and family, I'v heard nothing but negativity about it. One friend of my mother's, who travels frequently, went so far as to say "you couldn't PAY me to go back to that country", saying they were assaulted when they refused to buy drugs. She practically begged me not to go by myself, saying she'd worry for my life. I mean, geez, I know there's crime in the world, and I know it's in Jamaica. ...But, is it really THAT bad? I just want a quiet, relaxing, beach getaway, to think, write, and enjoy the beauty that is there.

I was told not to go out after dark as well. Is that good advice? I mean, not go out at all after dark? Even to sit on the beach?

It's disheartening to think that one of the most beautiful places in the world could be thought of so poorly.

So...is it safe? Should I do it alone, or wait til someone can join me? What about walking around the country roads..can I do it? Can I walk to a restaurant or something 5 or so miles away alone and not have a problem?

I'm not completely naive, but I do like to find the best in people. My mother worries I will befriend just about anyone, which is mostly true, but she says I shouldn't trust anyone if I even go at all. How paranoid is that, or is there some truth to it?

Answer 1

I would advise you not to travel outside of the tourist area and only stay in crowded areas like plazas and restaurants. A friend of mine and his brother who visited Jamaica was jumped when he tried to go into town where the locals frequent. A couple I know said they were repeatedly approached and ask if they wanted to buy pot when they got off the cruise ship.  

NO, do not go on the beach at night. We were advised of this by the Bahamian police when we were on Grand Bahama island and I'm sure Jamaica is no better. It's a great place to be mugged. It's dark and it's hard to yell for help.  

Answer 2

Usually vacations are more fun when you have company. Having company could prevent you from doing something foolish like hooking up with a strange man... Jamaicans do not go around pursuing tourists. You can come alone and have fun... but company would be good for the experience. You are not at any direct risk just because you are a tourist who is traveling alone.

Take common sense with you, and the name of Jesus.

boooooooooolt!

Look at taking a vacation in Portland or Treasure Beach. Nice serene places

Answer 3

Listen theres so many white jamaicans no body will even look at you

but i warn don't go into the bad parts of jamaica

just like any other country

there are parts of jamaica that no person

exceptionally female should go

But of course you can have ur beach getaway peacefully

go to negril or montego bay

you can go by yourself of course just be cautious

of where you are

Answer 4

I have been to JA 4 times this year by myself...  my first time, I got the same reaction from people I told.  My trips have been great!  I do have friends that live down there and spend a lot of time with them but there were times I went to the beach or in town by myself and had no problems.  As in anywhere you are - be aware of your surroundings.  There are plenty of places any where you go that can be dangerous,  I got a JA cell phone number through Digicel and had my cell phone unlocked through TMobile so I could use my phone while I was down there.  Everyone had my number and could call and check on me when ever they wanted and I could do the same.  Enjoy your trip - just keep reassuring everyone and things will be fine.  Good luck.

Answer 5

I agree with the previous post.  Jamaica is a wonderful place to travel, but just like any other city in the world, you have to be mindful of your surroundings.  

As for a quiet place to reax and write, I would definitely recommend Montego Bay.  I've never been to Negril, so I am not sure what you can expect there.  However, I have been to Montego Bay and found it really relaxing and peaceful at night.   Granted, depending on what day of the week you travel there may be more people out in the street than usual due to parties and stuff, but overall, I found it really relaxing.

You may want to check out the Gloucestshire Inn.  It's located directly across the street from Dr. Cove's beach, and the rates are pretty decent.  The rooms are nice and the service is also decent.  The hotel features a really nice outdoor balcony that I enjoyed sitting on and watching the sun rise and set over the ocean.

Just remember: Make sure you're aware of your surroundings at all times, just like you would be in your hometown, and enjoy yourself!

Safe travels!

Answer 6

I've been to Jamaica 6 times (Ochos Rios, Mobay, Negril and Falmouth) and felt safe each trip. Although I never travelled alone I have left the resorts by myself and no problems.

As with anywhere you go be sure to be aware of your surroundings and keep your guard up. You will be asked to purchase things as well as ganja but a simple no thank you will let them know you're not interested.

I think Jamaica gets a bad rap, it isn't fair. Every state, city, country has a good part and a bad part.  

Answer 7

haha.. now a days its not safe for a woman to walk alone ANYWHERE  

Answer 8

I have been to Jamaica 4 times. Will be 5th trip in Dec. I would go to Jamaica by myself. Jamaica has some bad areas just as the USA does. The bad areas that come to mind are parts of MoBay and some areas in Kingston. That is becuase these are big cities just like New York or LA. Of course there are other areas where you might not be safe but you wouldn't go walking down a alley at night by yourself in your hometown would you? It comes down to common sense. The hustlers in JA can be aggressive but I have always said no thank you and never had a problem. The first poster said Portland or Treasure Beach. I have been to both an find these areas to be the most laid back and friendly. You can check out www.treasurebeach.net. Go and have fun and use your common sense.