Safety
Kingston is a destination which ought not to be missed. With a rich musical history, the coolest of events, and a host of cultural attractions well worth visiting, the capital city should be high on your list of Jamaican must see locations. Many visitors to the capital tell the story of being advised by persons on Jamaica's North Coast to stay away and then are completely amazed when they arrive and their fears are NOT borne out. Others concerned about safety eschew visiting this fascinating town through an overabundance of caution, but really Kingston is like every other city, open to be enjoyed when mixed with the correct dose of common sense. It is true that many years ago due mainly to political tensions Kingston was a hotbed of violence, but thankfully things have changed significantly. In other words the reputation of danger is highly overblown. Below we go through some major concerns that visitors have when contemplating a visit to Kingston and offer tips on how to ensure your personal safety.
Is Kingston dangerous for visitors?
Kingston is much safer than many assume and visitors to Kingston should feel comfortable enjoying what the city has to offer. Businessmen and holidaymakers visit Kingston every year without incident. It is suitable as it is in any major urban centre to exercise common sense. For example displaying cash, expensive jewellery and gadgets is unwise while walking the streets. It is wise to know destinations and be purposeful in exploration, avoiding wandering aimlessly. All that said Jamaicans are generally helpful and friendly and will assist you if you're lost or confused.
How safe is it to walk around Kingston?
With common sense there are many parts of Kingston that can be traversed on foot. As with other major cities there are some "rough" neighbourhoods where it's preferable to have a contact within the community prior to entering. The city has a pretty reliable public transportation system (buses, taxis) as well as tourist focused taxis and buses to help you get around the city. The good news is that all the places of interest recommended are located in areas that are safe to visit.
I want to visit Trench Town but I've heard that there is a lot of violence in that community.
For a long time, initially as a result of politics related violence, Trench Town was rightly considered a dangerous place. Not today. Today Trench Town is safe enough to offer community run tours, including walking tours, taking advantage of the neighbourhood's rich musical heritage. Several tour companies offer tours going to Trench Town and taxis are always available.
Safe transportation
In Jamaica public transportation is regulated and providers are required to pass driving and knowledge tests, ensure their vehicles are road worthy, and have proper insurance. Public passenger vehicles properly authorised will bear red licence plates. The safest form of public transportation available to tourists, outside of tourist specific taxis e.g. JUTA, is a chartered taxi. There are a number of reputable taxi companies which can be telephoned for a cab that can arrive in 15 minutes or less.
Jamaica is a fascinating island and truly if you haven't visited Kingston in many respects you haven't really seen Jamaica. There are many cultural locations in Kingston that make the visit worthwhile and you shouldnt feel too intimidated to make the journey. Once you're sensible about personal safety Kingston's chest of treasures opens up to you.
Is Kingston dangerous for visitors?
Kingston is much safer than many assume and visitors to Kingston should feel comfortable enjoying what the city has to offer. Businessmen and holidaymakers visit Kingston every year without incident. It is suitable as it is in any major urban centre to exercise common sense. For example displaying cash, expensive jewellery and gadgets is unwise while walking the streets. It is wise to know destinations and be purposeful in exploration, avoiding wandering aimlessly. All that said Jamaicans are generally helpful and friendly and will assist you if you're lost or confused.
How safe is it to walk around Kingston?
With common sense there are many parts of Kingston that can be traversed on foot. As with other major cities there are some "rough" neighbourhoods where it's preferable to have a contact within the community prior to entering. The city has a pretty reliable public transportation system (buses, taxis) as well as tourist focused taxis and buses to help you get around the city. The good news is that all the places of interest recommended are located in areas that are safe to visit.
I want to visit Trench Town but I've heard that there is a lot of violence in that community.
For a long time, initially as a result of politics related violence, Trench Town was rightly considered a dangerous place. Not today. Today Trench Town is safe enough to offer community run tours, including walking tours, taking advantage of the neighbourhood's rich musical heritage. Several tour companies offer tours going to Trench Town and taxis are always available.
Safe transportation
In Jamaica public transportation is regulated and providers are required to pass driving and knowledge tests, ensure their vehicles are road worthy, and have proper insurance. Public passenger vehicles properly authorised will bear red licence plates. The safest form of public transportation available to tourists, outside of tourist specific taxis e.g. JUTA, is a chartered taxi. There are a number of reputable taxi companies which can be telephoned for a cab that can arrive in 15 minutes or less.
Jamaica is a fascinating island and truly if you haven't visited Kingston in many respects you haven't really seen Jamaica. There are many cultural locations in Kingston that make the visit worthwhile and you shouldnt feel too intimidated to make the journey. Once you're sensible about personal safety Kingston's chest of treasures opens up to you.
