Is Kingston Jamaica Safe?

Is Kingston Jamaica Safe?

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

Kingston, Jamaica, may not be on the top of your bucket list for places to visit, nor is it a premiere tourist spot on the island. However, the capital city is the island’s business hub and for many of us, it serves as the hub for entertainment, culture and history as well. So, if you are into having less of a beach vacation and one more rooted in culture, shopping, trying many restaurants and enjoying the nightlife, Kingston is the place for you. However, one question you may ask is, Is Kingston Jamaica safe? 

Over the years, Kingston has been painted in a bad light. However, like any other major city, Kingston has both safe and unsafe areas. While some locations experience higher levels of crime, the city also has many safe neighbourhoods and tourist destinations.

In certain parts of the capital, where gang violence and shootings are frequent, there is a reputation for high levels of crime. In Kingston, there were about 169 murders per 100,000 people in 2018. The most serious of these crimes included muggings, robberies, assaults, armed robberies, and more.

It is most important to note that these crimes usually take place in inner-city communities and quite frankly, areas that most visitors would never visit for any reason. Many locals never visit these areas either.

Here are some of the places you should avoid in Kingston, Jamaica:

• Waltham
• Water House
• Cassava Piece
• Downtown Kingston, is defined as between Mountain View Avenue and Hagley Park Road, and south of Half Way Tree and Old Hope Roads. Downtown Kingston includes Arnett Gardens, Cockburn Gardens, Denham Town, Olympic Gardens, Seaview Gardens, Trench Town, and Tivoli Gardens.
• Duhaney Park
• Grants Pen
• Standpipe
• Swallowfield
• Elleston Flats
• August Town

If you are visiting Kingston you will most likely be staying in the more uptown areas of New Kingston and Constant Spring, this is where the majority of the hotels, high-end restaurants and museums, parks and other tourist-friendly attractions are located.

Now, I am in no way suggesting that you go to these areas and throw caution out the window. A certain level of caution and necessary safety precautions apply anywhere you go. While the chances of you running into any danger is slim, the possibility of being a victim of low-end crimes such as petty theft still exists.

Here are some general tips to keep in mind when planning your visit to Kingston:

1. Research the areas you plan to visit: Some neighbourhoods in Kingston have higher crime rates than others. Prioritize visiting areas that are known to be safer and more frequented by tourists.
   
   
2. Stay in well-established accommodations: Choose reputable hotels or guesthouses in safer parts of the city. They often have security measures in place to ensure the safety of their guests.
   
   
3. Avoid walking alone at night: It's generally recommended to avoid walking alone after dark, especially in unfamiliar or isolated areas. Instead, consider using reliable transportation options or travelling with a group.
   
   
4. Be cautious with your belongings: Keep an eye on your personal belongings and avoid displaying expensive items or large amounts of cash in public. Use secure bags or wallets to minimise the risk of theft.
   
   
5. Stay informed about local news and events: Keep yourself updated on any security concerns or events that may impact safety in the city. This can be done through local news sources or consulting with locals or hotel staff.
   
   
6. Seek local advice: Locals or hotel staff can provide valuable insights on which areas to avoid and how to stay safe in the city. They may have specific recommendations based on current conditions.
   
   
7. Avoid city walking at night and try to do all of your sightseeing in the morning or afternoon. Stay away from isolated regions, especially at night. Don't let cab drivers divert you in any way.
   
   
8. Leave your expensive jewellery and clothing at home and limit the number of valuables you have and always keep an eye on them.

So, is Kingston, Jamaica, safe? Yes, yes it is. Unsure of how to start planning your vacation in Kingston? Here are some amazing places to stay, some of the best restaurants and amazing things you can do while you are there.

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Return to Is Kingston Jamaica Worth Visiting from Is Kingston Jamaica Safe
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References & Sources For Is Kingston Jamaica Safe?

1. James, D. (2022, September 2). Is Kingston, Jamaica Safe? How to Avoid Danger (2023). Layer Culture. https://www.layerculture.com/blog/is-kingston-safe/
2. Jamaica Travel Advisory. (n.d.). Jamaica Travel Advisory. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/jamaica-travel-advisory.html

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