U.S. State Department Lowers Travel Warning for Jamaica
by Daniel McCarthy
New Kingston, Jamaica. Photo: Shutterstock.com
On Thursday, the U.S. State Department, as part of a series of changes to its travel advisories for many countries, officially lowered Jamaica to a Level 2 advisory.
The U.S. had previously warned against travel to Jamaica since July 2024 due to concerns about crime and health care, stating in its Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory:
“Violent crime occurs throughout Jamaica. 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.”
During a diplomatic visit to Kingston in March, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Jamaican government officials that the U.S. would reevaluate the advisory—a promise that was fulfilled on Thursday.
Jamaica is now at the same advisory level as countries like France, the U.K., Italy, Belgium, and others—a welcome move for a country that relies heavily on U.S. tourism.
Perhaps the biggest travel player in Jamaica, Sandals Resorts, reacted positively to the news on Thursday. Sandals EVP of Sales and Industry Relations, Gary C. Sandler, wrote in a message to travel advisors:
“This update brings clarity, confidence, and an undeniable sense of excitement. It reaffirms what we’ve always known to be true: Jamaica is not only one of the world’s most beautiful destinations—it is also one of the safest and most welcoming,” he said.
“We know this news means more than just an update. For the people of Jamaica, whose lives and livelihoods are intertwined with tourism, this is a moment of celebration. Of looking forward. Every visitor you send supports families, fuels communities, and strengthens the heartbeat of this nation,” he continued.
