Dangerous Cruise Ports To Stay Far, Far Away From (2024)

Experiences on my two last cruises reminded me that just because my cruise ship is calling into a port does not mean that I can assume it's safe for me to get off and explore. In fact, even in the two most popular cruising regions, the Caribbean and Mediterranean, many of the most visited ports are amongst the riskiest.
Welcome aboard, I'm Gary Bembridge and I’m going to tell you what dangerous ports in these two regions to avoid, and how to keep yourself safe if you've got a cruise booked that's going to one of them.
Link mentioned in the video:
Carole Copeland Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast...
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ABOUT TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS: If you want to get cruising right, Tips For Travellers makes it easy to plan and have the incredible cruise experiences you dream of every time. All my Tips For Travellers advice, tips and tricks tips draw on everything that I have learnt on the 101 cruises I have done to date.
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00:00 Start
00:31 Caribbean Dangerous Ports
01:05 Haiti
02:09 Jamaica
03:10 Bahamas
05:00 Cozumel
06:11 Honduras
07:08 Belize
08:08 Mediterranean Dangerous Ports
08:43 Barcelona
09:03 Rome
09:44 Athens
10:06 Livorno / Florence / Pisa
10:17 What To Do in Dangerous Ports

[@debesevening3335]

I was almost a victim of pickpocketing in Pisa this past fall. Thank goodness one of the tour guides that was headed out of the tower courtyard area as we were walking into it recognized them and once past started yelling "PICKPOCKET ALERT! 2 GIRLS AND THE GUY WITH THE RED UMBRELLA" AND THEN KEPT YELLING, PICKPOCKET SHAME ON YOU over and over. Everyone in both groups (ours and theirs) started the same and they peeled off quickly down a street and closed up their umbrella once they realized we had been alerted and they were recognized. So very grateful to that guide, she saved me as they were coming up behind us.

[@Loralanthalas]

Very nice! As it should be.

[@mchapman1928]

In many places, there’s one pick pocket very obvious…..while you are looking at him/her the one you didn’t notice just picked your pocket. That was common in NYC.

[@ljr869]

I asked our captain on one cruise why we didn't dock in Kingston and he said, "We could, if we wanted our propellers stolen."

[@geraint8989]

It’s disgusting that Gary has removed critical posts.

[@tipsfortravellers]

I never remove any comments even the troll ones. Though the KZbin system does automatically place some comments into a “for review” section automatically that they seem as offensive, spam etc. I check those every now and then and other than spam release

[@HrHaakon]

@@tipsfortravellers It should be noted that if you don't sort comments by newest, youtube will filter out some comments. It's weird, and I don't know why.

[@misterg1157]

7.34 Regarding gang-related crime: “…If going to Belize as a cruise passenger, a lot of it hinges on which cruise line you are going with”. Yes, if going with Carnival, the gangs are scared and run away.

[@sjuas690]

@@misterg1157didn’t realise that Carnival had such a bad reputation that even the gangs run away!

[@andredupreez5705]

Honestly, I would make this a very short video: No matter where you travel, be street savvy. Anything can happen anywhere in the world.

[@kt4944]

As a young female & mostly solo traveler I virtually always book the excursions with the cruise line. While of course something bad can happen anywhere and with anyone I’d rather take my chances with them, not to mention the convenience. I’d very much rather pay a bit extra and be overtly precautious.

[@bibibachmd9995]

I do the same especially In places like Jordan but really anywhere.

[@dakg8034]

Makes perfect sense.

[@barryhaley7430]

If you were my daughter, sister, mother or wife I would think it well spent. And yes, even with a well vetted tour by the cruise line, something could still happen but life is a balance of managing risks.

[@hassanalihusseini1717]

@@bibibachmd9995 But Jordan really save. May be some hustlers who want to sell stuff, but no violence. Don't hesitate to visit!

[@mchapman1928]

Years ago friends, avid cruisers, were in Mexico. They were middle aged, slightly overweight, and well dressed. They took a cab to sight see. The cabbie drove them out to the middle of nowhere, robbed them, stole everything, jewelry, money, credit cards, passports too, and left them stranded. They managed to get back to the ship, but never got their stuff back. They were badly shaken.

[@anngratton1855]

The number of ladies I saw wearing flashy jewelry and carrying expensive hand bags on my last cruise was shocking to me. I wear no jewelry and carry a slash proof, lockable travel cross body bag which is far from pretty but very secure. Like someone else said, even knock off handbags or costume jewelry can make you a target.

[@schwan44]

In Rome, you look like a target, jewelry or not. With the right precautions, like a crossbody bag, I would still go to Rome, though. You have to be most careful in the subway and the most touristy areas.

[@Loralanthalas]

Poor people living above thier means love to be flashy. I've never met somone with wealth who's priorities are showing others they actually have wealth.

[@FrankFox-yu1xf]

What is the brand of travel bag you use- or a link?

[@anngratton1855]

@@FrankFox-yu1xf it is a PacSafe brand bag. They also make backpacks. I am very happy with it! It even washes well

[@a.leehilliard4716]

​@@Loralanthalasexactly

[@BeautifulKittenOfLove]

Once on a cruise to Chile I was "snatched" by a Peruvian flute band and held captive! Thank God I had gotten to know my cabin steward Alejandro VERY well onboard. He rescued me by trading me for a chicken and a Celine Dion CD. Bless you my little Filipino angel!

[@RTD3]

They need to add Miami, New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles to that list. 😂😂

[@maxinef6654]

Differently. The travel list needs to be updated to include our own country. 😂

[@lngvly22]

Miami is very safe - especially in areas south of the Miami River. New York is also pretty safe.

[@brucefrytz8611]

If the US Dept of State had ratings for Galveston, New Orleans, and Miami cruise ports they would also be Level 3 or 4...

[@cdtheque]

Shh…you are not supposed to say that. 😂

[@kathybrem880]

No kidding

[@janinegreer4771]

😅😅😂😂

[@ronv6637]

Rate Chiraq(Chicago) more dangerous than any he mentioned

[@ericabaliotis6973]

This is exactly what I tell people when they wince at some of our destinations in Mexico. Dude, we visit New Orleans every year, and our last domestic trip was to Philadelphia. Everyone is wonderful and welcoming. Don’t look for trouble and you likely won’t find it.

[@lorenwillis425]

30 years ago, my wife and I felt unsafe in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Our excursion stopped in a local marketplace. We and others on the tour returned to the bus early because of how uncomfortable it was.

[@kathybrem880]

I’ve been there--loved it

[@kentfrederick8929]

A friend is a pilot with a major U.S. airline. In the 1990s and 2000s, it was common for flight crews to have overnight layovers in Mexican and other Central American cities. But, for more than 10 years, flights to Central America are now all turns, i.e., fly to the city, the turn and fly back to the U.S. hub airport. Management and the unions agree that it's no longer safe for pilots and flight attendants to have overnight stays.

[@atcdude067]

Ever consider it’s a money saving for the airline to not pay for their staff to overnight at expensive resorts?

[@kentfrederick8929]

@atcdude067 They still get overnight stays on islands in the Caribbean. Further one of the secrets of the hotel industry is that hotels booked for flight crews get some pretty steep discounts, because the owner/operator knows there will be X number of rooms booked every night, and crews tend to eat in hotel restaurants. When I was a practicing lawyer, I represented an airport hotel that was the crew hotel for the original Midway Airlines. The hotel was an upscale brand, and rooms were going for 60% off rack rates. From what friends of mine who work for airlines, it's not that much different today.

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

Great tips! A group of men tried to scam/rob me in Paris near the Eiffel Tower. I was rescued by two lovely plain clothes policemen. It could have got nasty because I realised what was happening and started to run! They saw and recognised the police and disappeared! Thank you for the video!

[@lisagardner903]

I am so angry about the 3 surfers that were murdered for their truck tires that I refuse to go on any cruises that stop there.

[@annietiques1803]

That incident was on the Pacific coast of Mexico in Ensenada, approximately 2800 miles from Cozumel on the East Coast of Mexico in the Caribbean Sea

[@toddr2265]

Just got back from an RC cruise that stopped in Ensenada. Not a great port. The shop people in town are very aggressive and you will be approached every few minutes from someone begging for money for an operation. Catalina made up for it though.

[@user-vz8ln7pr7e]

It was so sad and horrible. The parents lost 2 sons for what? Tires? Cruel people

[@lindajarvis4919]

My husband and I bought a bus ferry pass when we docked in Bermuda. We felt safe. Grand cayman we felt safe also but went by tour. The other places he mentioned including Rome we were very cautious. Saw very questionable people around the colosseum including the train station. Just because you are on vacation, other people are not. Protect your valuables and be aware.

[@elisaastorino2881]

I've been to Bermuda twice on cruises and always felt safe. I've been to Rome several times and the situation around the coliseum and Termini station has always been like that, unfortunately.

[@xr6lad]

I have walked down back streets at night and spent two weeks in Rome and never felt unsafe. There’s ‘unsafe’ then there’s paranoia.

[@paulbunion6233]

I wonder if the comparative safety of Bermuda has anything to do with its British colonial ties ? different culture

[@alex9621]

​@@xr6ladExactly, also pickpocketers aren't gonna hurt you. Yes it might be a pain but it's not like they are gonna pull a weapon on you like they might in the US

[@dchenkin02]

Bermuda is a British protectorate, not an independent country. Bermuda also is wealthy due to population controls giving its residents land.

[@jturie]

We treat Ocho Rios as a sea day. Funny, the ship was empty until about noon and they all came running back to the ship when they saw the neighborhood. No issues with pier runners at that stop!

[@firecat-dy9go]

We did the same at Ocho Rios and Cozumel 👍🏼

[@jillcnc]

As someone with 19 land-based trips to Jamaica under my belt (including 2 at all-inclusives in Ocho Rios) everyone knew to stay away from downtown on cruise ship day. But even when the ships are not in port, the craft market in Ocho Rios can be highly stressful if you aren't prepared for it. The sales tactics are like a sledgehammer and everyone has the same stuff. Remember -- these are people who are just trying to earn a living and this is how they do it, and they're all competing for the same people. Another thing: while in Jamaica, tip EVERYONE. If a guy points you to where the rest room is, tip him. No joke. Not that it's threatening, but it's expected. Honestly? A cruise ship is NOT how to see Jamaica. Book a hotel, get to know your hotel staff and you'll make new friends -- and learn something too.

[@janetwinder7651]

❤​@@jillcnc

[@kathybrem880]

I love the place

[@jec1ny]

The first rule for staying safe is use common sense. Haiti and Mexico are both high crime countries and probably worse than you may realize as most crimes in both go unreported. In either country I wouldn't go anywhere outside a high security port area. When I was in the navy many years ago, I learned some precautions that I continue to practice to the present day when traveling. I keep only a minimal amount of money in my wallet and no credit cards or ID. Wallets are what pick pockets generally go for. If you get mugged just toss your wallet in their general direction and run. Keep your ID and extra cash spread out over other pockets and hard to get places in your clothes. I used to keep a $20 bill in each of my shoes while on liberty, just in case. ($20 went a lot farther back then.) I never take more than one bank card with me and my passport always stays locked up in the hotel/cabin safe. A photocopy of my passport works for going out.

[@ronv6637]

I have some fake movie money in a money clip to use as bait, if they got it they'll get arrested or beaten for trying to pass fake money. Be sure to throw the money to allow a quick open exit.

[@reenakemp9132]

I live in the very touristy Gatlinburg TN, right outside the Great Smoky Mountains NP. Pickpocketing and car theft are rampant here. It is to be expected in tourist areas.

[@ddebdiva]

I noticed a lot of my fellow passengers were advertising their tourist status by carrying a cruise line canvas bag or having their cruise card on a lanyard around their neck. One can't blame the city for not being alert and wise as a traveler.

[@user-xs9fp3ic9y]

It’s up to you if you take notice. Gary is telling you the dangers. It’s not just pickpockets it’s mugging and murders. The foreign office only gives advice if it’s a dangerous place.

[@lizcademy4809]

@@gracealleman4102 There are light scary people too. And some places are worth visiting, even if there's risk - if you can take actions to lower the risk. I would not skip the Acropolis because the metro is dangerous ... I'd use a different form of transportation.

[@xr6lad]

@@lizcademy4809if you think the Greek metro it’s dangerous we have reached a new level of paranoia.

[@lizcademy4809]

@@xr6lad I don't know how dangerous it is; I've never been on it. But Gary called it out as having a lot of pickpockets. Not that it really matters ... anyone who thinks any metro is 100% safe and completely lets their guard down is in danger. And that applies just as much to my home city's metro in the upper midwest, USA (not Chicago).

[@sylviekins]

@@xr6ladI see the Australian government is warning about Malmö in Sweden, because of the risk of protests. Even places we used to think were safe seem not to be safe anymore.

[@RussClarkRocks]

@@gracealleman4102 Spoken like someone who's never been out of Sheboygan.

[@kelleyprice3450]

Labadee Haiti is quite beautiful, but Haiti overall is definitely not safe right now. What's really sad is that by not stopping there, the folks who had jobs, now have no way to earn a living and so are really suffering. It's a terrible situation.

[@RussClarkRocks]

I'm a musician working on ships all over the Caribbean. Heartbreaking to see Cozumel make this list. Always a crew favorite.

[@AnnaBanana-rq9vh]

I think it’s ridiculous to put Cozumel on there

[@rockymntdan1]

@@AnnaBanana-rq9vh Someone forgot to send the check to the State Dept. politician.

[@jahnacarlson3528]

My husband and I were on Cozumel Island Feb 2024 during Carnavale. Walked everywhere and felt safe, even at night walking home from the Carnavale parade.

[@cdtheque]

The world is a dangerous place. You should always be aware and only take what you need when you are out and about. Also if you are that scared stay home. You will have more control over your surroundings and much less risk. Travel and experiencing new things involves risk.

[@37Raffaella]

There is a difference between uSA “danger” and EU danger…

[@user-vz8ln7pr7e]

I will avoid any places I get a bad feeling about. Common sense.

[@julieDJTFP]

My opinion is that it doesn't matter where you go, you need to be careful. But three things I learned from living in a city with crime... Don't flaunt wealth... Any wealth.. The Kate Spade purse may look super cute but they are more likely to steal that than my $40 purse. Have a plan. I've seen confused people in completely safe ports get targeted and ripped off by locals who 'want to help'. An extra one is don't pull your whole wallet out to buy something. When you do this, you put it's contents on display. Have a little purse with maybe a card and a few bills and pull that out instead. If you absolutely have to then put it away immediately. Most people step away from the cash register and then put it away... Don't do that.. You just created an opportunity. And opportunities are what people need to commit crimes.

[@MatthewL1973]

It’s a shame to have ports of call where the safER option is stay on board or stay within the secure port area filled with less than authentic cultural experience. That is a failed destination/port in my opinion. Not what I paid for or wanted. It’s a disappointment

[@barryhaley7430]

Unfortunately it’s the real world.

[@katcalico9142]

Seriously though. Last week I had a friend witness a broad daylight shooting from his Capitol Hill apartment and one of my coworkers got mugged on the way to work. I live in Washington DC. Be safe, be smart, be alert.

[@CCB249]

It is a shame about DC. It is one of my favorite places. We live in Maryland.

[@dwillbecancelledsoon4086]

Around bIax, never reIax

[@sjuas690]

Luck not many cruises stop in Washington DC.

[@power4things]

I wonder if these countries have travel warnings for visiting the US.

[@marcd6897]

@@power4thingssome actually do. And wait until November timeframe to see what the yellow clown and his cult may have up their sleeves….

[@anarwally]

Just got back from vacation in Jamaica. We stayed at an all inclusive hotel outside Montego Bay. We had arranged several trips while there, snorkeling, a tour to a rum distillery and tubing. We always had arranged for someone drive us to the activity and back. At no time did we feel unsafe. If we just went out wandering around by ourselves it may have been different.

[@edgregory1]

You sound soft.

[@katenl8976]

That sounds awful! Not a vacation for me. I go in vacation to explore the country, not only by organised trips. Otherwise I could just stay in my own country.

[@anarwally]

@@katenl8976 We were only there for a couple of days and this was easier and let us do things we would have missed. Also first time in Jamaica so we didn't have to figure out public transportation. We were in Europe a few years ago and did the exact opposite and did our own thing as much as possible.

[@grahamford4870]

Pickpockets are common in most crowded places and particularly on public transport and at tourist attractions. Just be a bit extra vigilant and don’t flaunt any wealth and it’s fine in Barcelona, Rome, Athens, Paris, London and Western Europe generally etc. Additionally, if going out at night, don’t wander down dark alleyways on your own. Just common sense. Also remember that if you are elderly, as many cruise passengers are, you may be perceived as an easier target than more middle aged people so just take a bit of extra care.

[@TOhara-eb2lp]

The Gypsies in Montenegro are the worst.

[@barbaralazier8352]

As a solo traveller I do pay attention to the alerts which ports are dangerous 🇨🇦

[@kathleenhudson8429]

Thanks for the information. I am traveling to Europe next year, so the warning is appreciated. I am sorry to hear about Cozumel. I haven’t been there since 2018, and it was wonderful then. When I am in areas that might have pickpockets, I take extra precautions. All the zippers on my cross-body purse can be secured. And that purse has wires woven in the body and straps, so it can’t be cut easily. I keep most of my money and cards in a belt pouch. And I keep my passport in a pocketed scarf around my neck. I know this won’t help with a violent theft, but it does deter pickpockets.

[@happycook6737]

Your neck is your airway. Don't put anything around your neck because it gives bad players a lot of control! They can grab and easily strangle.

[@exploreconmigo9090]

Excellent information! Thanks for the update!

[@TheTravelScouts]

Hi Gary! Thanks for the mention! We love your show!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching! Likewise really enjoy all your news and updates !

[@Verpal]

I have conflicting feeling about port call on Labadee, on one hand it is indeed in an extreme dangerous country, all it take is one particularly aggressive gang to overrun the security. On the other hand, that means local Haitian lost one of the last safe job in a relatively secured location.

[@evelynhillier2877]

Thanks, Gary. Great advice, as ever! When we cruise into Nassau, my brother, who lives there, picks us up, and we spend the day with him. It's great!

[@philipk917]

WOW, thank you so much for the "Heads Up" information. Good to know. Well Wishes for you and yours. ❤🧡❤

[@pauldickerson3686]

Thanks for mentioning Travel Scouts. We enjoy them as well.

[@Jsfrog]

For pickpocket defense I like the Clothing Arts (online) brand, with multiple security features, plus they're comfortable for travel. And no, I don't work for them, I just like them. I have two of their pants and one shirt, and am thinking of getting shorts.

[@akeolsson8020]

In Roatan we chose an excursion to the private island of Maya Key. Not too expensive. Well maintained and we felt totally safe

[@well-blazeredman6187]

Good video. Surprised to learn that Haiti is a cruise destination. In Venice at the end of March. Warm and uncrowded, it cried out to be visited in low-season.

[@howardosden3112]

Thanks for the shout-out to Cruise Scouts, my favorite cruise news channel. 👍

[@tonynavarro2531]

I have my pockets inside out while walking in Rome. People pointed at my pockets and were smiling.

[@mykofreder1682]

I where a vest with deep pockets and zippers, nothing of importance in other pockets.

[@barryhaley7430]

Well here’s an interesting first hand experience in Rome. My wife and I hop into a taxi. She jumps into the back seat to find an high end camera left behind. We know it’s high end because my wife was a professional photographer. The driver says OMG, I remember where I dropped those people off. Do you mind if we go there first? We, of course, say sure. He takes off like a bat out of hell as Rome taxi drivers do and we arrive at a hotel and he runs in to the hotel and finds the previous passengers who are totally grateful. He refuses a tip. Then drives back to the stand where we jumped in and turns on the meter before driving us to our destination. There are still some good people!

[@hassanalihusseini1717]

That is great, may be I try that one day, too.

[@Loralanthalas]

...ok

[@sarahj.5970]

Wonderful help and discussion as usual.

[@jeffstoeger2974]

Gary, great video and great advice. Thanks for giving some great travel advice.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Lifeinbelize]

Great info as always. Thank you

[@hollybirge4087]

Knowing pick pockets were a problem in Italy before I went last year, I bought a bag for carrying my wallet, phone, etc that had all zipper closures. I never let it out of my sight either when I sat down. Had no problems and an amazing time in Italy.

[@markcollins2666]

Where I live, in a port city in SE Asia, everyone carries sling bags, and carry absolutely nothing in their pockets. What freedom! It's easy to spot the difference between natives and tourists, because tourists don't have them. It's the first thing I look for. Sling bags can be protected by both hands. My 7 year old wallet still looks brand new, because it has never been in a pocket.

[@sheilaathay2034]

Thank you Sir. You're a dear for sharing this with everyone❤🎉

[@LMays-cu2hp]

Thank you for sharing the industry.😊

[@Xquisitiv]

Pretty sure you’re “family”. I always appreciate your perspective and opinions. Thank you for looking out for us!

[@a.leehilliard4716]

No one cares

[@eastcoast4233]

I really like your tips and know you do cover some excursion highlights where relevant, I’d be interested to see you do some reviews of ports of call to help people decide their itinerary rather than the ship or region. 😊👍

[@shaggyofwv]

We never felt unsafe when we visited Belize City. Of course we didn’t wander around on our own, we took a cruise ship sponsored excursion to the Mayan ruins of Lamanai (highly recommended). As far as Jamaica, we didn’t go far into Ocho Rios as we didn’t feel very safe. Nassau can be dangerous, but we never had any issues. We have always loved Cozumel. We typically take a ferry to the mainland, but may not be doing that anymore due to all the issues in Mexico.

[@patwilkinson2182]

Great tips

[@Bill_N_ATX]

I remember going to Nassau in the 80s and as long as you stayed in the city proper, you were as safe as any good city in the US and a lot better than many in the US. In fact, most people were very friendly, and the local community would not tolerate crime against the tourists since that’s how they made their living. In Mexico and Central America, it’s a similar story. Being from Texas we used to go to Mexico to party and have a good time often. Other than the usual tourist scams, it was very safe. Again, they knew where the money came from. Now days, I’m not going to Mexico without a Seal Team for protection. As for Europe, the only place I got pick pocketed was in Paris on the Metro. I didn’t really care, all they got was a wallet with scrap paper in it. My real wallet and credit cards were under a couple layers of clothes. They’d have had to undress me to get to those. Give them an easy wallet and they don’t go looking.

[@katiesjoyfullife]

We just got back from a Western Caribbean cruise 2 weeks ago. Hubby & I decided that was a one & done itinerary for us. It’s nowhere near as beautiful as the Eastern & Southern Caribbean ports, plus, we only ventured out in Roatán & Belize because we purchased excursions through Princess. We felt safe on those, but wouldn’t have gone exploring on our own like we did in St. Maarten or Antigua.

[@kathybrem880]

I rather agree-eastern and southern are definitely better

[@Joanv314]

So r you saying that St Maarten n Antigua were not safe ? Thanks

[@katiesjoyfullife]

@@Joanv314 no, I’m saying that we did feel safe getting off the ship & exploring St. Maarten & Antigua when we were there. We didn’t feel safe doing that in the ports on our Western itinerary, mainly because two of them were in Mexico. My brother in law is of Mexican descent (his parents were born there), but he’s also in law enforcement, and he says there is NO way he would go there. He knows too much about how the cartels operate there…

[@Joanv314]

@@katiesjoyfullife thanks Katie

[@ladysmum7819]

Thanks Gary. As usual great advice. We went to Cozumel & Honduras at New Year and someone was shot - not from our cruise but a cruise passenger I think in Roatan. In those countries is well worth paying the extra to book a planned excursion either with the cruise company or with a reputable company.

[@randikristensen4784]

Why does all cruise lines go to the same ports? And if there are millions of visitors to the ports and the people who lives there are not benefiting from it you can of course expect problems. Barcelona and Venice haw problem with over crowded and people who work there cant find somewhere to live.I think there have too be a discussion abaut how much tourism a place can sustain so it will be a win win for both parties 😊

[@janethunt4037]

Thank you Gary!

[@barryhaley7430]

I long ago decided not to get off the ship in Jamaica or Nassau. My daughter lived on Roatan for a year. Highly dangerous. Also a stay on the ship. My daughter renamed Coxswain Hole to Toxin Hole. When I went to the bank you enter a lobby where an armed guard, armed with an M16, requires you to check your gun before they let you into the bank.

[@meengla]

Yeah, the bank security! We were in Punta Arenas just a few weeks ago and wife and I went to a bank near the port to break a $100 bill; I was allowed in by the armed guard while wife wasn't and she waited in the sweltering heat outside. They did a metal scan on me as well checked my carryon. That's Costa Rica--one of the supposedly safest and prosperous countries south of the border. Also, there was widespread poverty and broken infrastructure right around the port. PS. The bank was one of the VERY few places with AC to escape the heat/humidity.

[@barryhaley7430]

@@meengla We loved Costa Rica when there but that was 20 years ago. We felt perfectly safe there. Traveled all over. It has a good economy with a highly literate population. It’s only had one military coup attempt in 1946, it failed and they banned the army. We were in Guanacaste, the northwestern province. Beautiful weather, beautiful people. I hope it hasn’t changed. The source of crime then was from Nicaragua. We also experienced their universal healthcare system. My wife split her elbow and need a couple of stitches. They were free! But they recommended a tetanus shot and profusely apologized for the $10 fee!

[@meengla]

@@barryhaley7430 I am sure your experience was great. Costa Rica has been constantly sold as a bright spot south of the border. What I narrated was our very limited exposure to the port area of Punta Arenas. Maybe busy cruise ports attract some 'attention'. Looking at the people around the port, it was easy to see a lot of poverty and there was a general sense of being in an unsafe place. I gave you the bank example.

[@barryhaley7430]

@@meengla Oh, I wasn’t criticizing your comments. I was just hoping it hasn’t become the norm. Costa Rica was one of the few bright spots.

[@meengla]

@@barryhaley7430 Oh, no worries. I understood you fine. We had different experiences and in different eras. I think Costa Rica is probably still a rare 'bright spot' south of the border and I shouldn't let the Punta Arena port area experience cloud my judgments. Thank you for a civil discourse!

[@nicholashall4625]

I found Nassau more tacky than unsafe. I was onshore for 30 minutes and had enough

[@user-vz8ln7pr7e]

If you book a hotel room near the Atlantis , they will give you wrist bands to get into the Atlantis pool.

[@FraserAtSea]

I’m really not a huge fan of docking in Jamaica. I’ve been there a few times - have docked in 3 of their ports - and never felt safe… Great video, Gary!

[@kathyoliva6966]

Thank you Gary ❤️

[@user-vi6ii7qf7m]

Thank you for talking about this. When I go ashore I lower the risk of being pick-pocketed, as a man, by wearing pants that make it hard for them to target you. If they see that it would be difficult to pick-pocket you, they will look for an easier victim. Also, I do not take anything in my wallet (or person) I don't think I'll need when going ashore. People need to use common sense when cruising. I call it applying CLR (no, not the cleaner, lol) Common Sense, Logic & Reason. Have you done a video about things to do to lesson your chances of being pick-pocketed and harmed? Happy Cruising!

[@valeriepark9444]

I have to wonder: if the State Department was given a list of unnamed cities and their crime stats, how many American cities would be given the same level of "travel advisory warnings"

[@einezcrespo2107]

I wasn't pickpocketed in Rome, Barcelona or Athens but I agree it's best to be aware that it can happen. In Barcelona one guy touched my backpack at a train station but I jumped out of the way and kept walking. I wasn't going to entertain any requests from someone for asking directions or chit chat from total strangers in a train station.

[@bibibachmd9995]

I wonder what rating the State Department would give cities like Chicago, NYC, and SF to name a few. Many of the Caribbean islands are not safe nor desirable. I usually stay on the ship. The ship tours include a lot of wasted time and there is not much to see. The best is Saint Bart's. Grenada, St. Thomas, St. Lucia and many others are dicey. Pickpockets all over. A woman passenger had her wallet stolen in Rhodes. I've witnessed one in the Paris Metro.

[@user-vz8ln7pr7e]

Magan's bay in st Thomas is beautiful!! But always go with people

[@FredrikCoulterMusic]

Before panicking about State Department Level 2 Travel Advisories, take a look at the world in general according to those same advisories. For example, most of Western Europe is under a Level 2 advisory (Increased Caution), as opposed to most of Eastern Europe which is under a Level 1 advisory. The State Department does not give contextual information about those advisories. Just how dangerous is the United States? Is it more dangerous to stay home than to travel to the United Kingdom (Level 2)? You can't tell from the State Department Travel Advisories. Personally, I'm avoiding Level 4 countries and mainly limiting myself to tours in Level 3 countries. But if I'm willing to go on my own in the United States, I'll explore on my own in Level 1 and Level 2 countries.

[@elisaastorino2881]

If you want to ignore the warnings, that's your problem. And I've heard a lot of people like you going on about the safety here at home, usually adding how the US has no business issuing warnings about other countries. Any government, not just ours, has a duty to help its citizens abroad. It's as simple as that and has nothing to do with the situation at home, good or bad.

[@deekang6244]

@@elisaastorino2881I think he’s just saying to be as careful as you are in the USA. No more, no less. Frankly, I watch my purse in my neighborhood. It’s safe, but let’s not be stupid.

[@stevebarlow3154]

The answer to your question is that most American cities are far more dangerous than London and the big cities in the UK. The main danger to tourists is pickpocketing and mobile phone theft.

[@taemyr]

@@deekang6244 Almost anywhere you go you are more at risk as an outsider than as a local.

[@billyholly]

At the 11:30 mark, an actor friend of mine is playing a fake cab driver, LOL!!! Go, Carlos!

[@elisaastorino2881]

It's called stock footage

[@billyholly]

@@elisaastorino2881 Yes, I know. I just was suprised, thinking of the low odds of this happening, seeing an actor I had worked with. It was really fun, considering he might still be based in Ukraine and the war is still going on.

[@michaelbruchas6663]

A friend retired at 60 to Belize and has had no problems…

[@Billsgirlify]

We are taking the Mediterranean cruise from msc in August / September. We don’t get off in Barcelona but we do get of in Rome on a group tour. I always have a bag with me that’s in front of my body and I can hold

[@MyGrandfathersGranddaughter]

I was in Rome and Venice in 2023 and Athens in 2024 and had a great time in all three. I had a secure cross body travel bag that I always kept in front of me (with my hands securely on the bag when in a crowded area). You can easily protect yourself so please don’t avoid those 3 great cities because you fear being pick-pocketed. They are amazing cities.

[@deejayk5939]

We were always careful in the Bahamas and in Grenada, you have to use common sense wherever you go, don’t wander into unsafe areas. Holds true in the U.S. as well as in the rest of the world.

[@debbieboswell5785]

We were in Rome, Athens, Olympia etc last year and we were fine. Just exercise caution keep the bare minimum of things with you. Use a pouch to keep them in so they are not visible.

[@meatpockets]

How are you supposed to know if you’re in what’s unsafe area or not? For example when I was on a Royal Caribbean cruise to Rotan, Honduras, it seemed like a distressed area even in the port.

[@dwillbecancelledsoon4086]

Basically wherever there is “diversity” 👨🏿‍🦱, keep your guard up.

[@Tolpuddle581]

Our friends lived on their boat for four years in the Florida Bahamas area they often remarked how the Bahamas has a sinister underbelly where crime is covered up to protect that exotic location identity they treasure so much.

[@stevebarlow3154]

@@Tolpuddle581 The Bahamas is part of a major smuggling route of narcotics into the US.

[@SeaTravelr123]

Gary, did you ever work for Ocean Village cruises? After listening to you for so long the thought just crossed my mind. Anyway, great video. Sad that it needed to be said. One you left off the list is Naples. 💔

[@davephillips2029]

I had some guy in Rome try and rob me. He stood all of 5'5. I'm 6'4 235 lbs. He may be out of the hospital by now assuming he survived surgery. One of life lessons. For him.

[@AlistairKiwi]

I remember, as a child, having holidays in Russell New Zealand where once every other week a c Luise ship carrying Americans would arrive. This was the 70s. All shops doubled their prices but had store window painters "paint half off sale" on the doubled prices every day that the cruise ship was there. So New Zealand.

[@nerd1949]

When I traveled in Europe in the nineties, I had a cloth "wallet" on a string that you could hang around your neck and wear inside your shirt. You could keep your passport and most cash in it.

[@dalecushing3797]

Ocho Rios, Jamaica, we were there in March on NCL Escape. NEVER again, we tried to walk downtown and were hassled so much we returned to the ship. Vacations should not be about being worried about walking to Starbucks within sight of the ship.

[@edgregory1]

Surprised by that?

[@cydneystephen2814]

Well. Whether on vacation or your own state/city/town you live in; crime unfortunately is everywhere. We must be careful in general in life.

[@davidc5191]

In addition to crime, there's also infectious disease. Not mentioned, for example, is the outbreak of Dengue fever throughout the Caribbean and Central America resulting in thousands of cases and even some deaths.

[@LingaeroFCL055]

"Cox in hole" is my new favourite cruise destination.

[@harksta229]

Similar to comments by Verpal on this thread, in addition to the loss of crucial income for locals at manufactured on- land fenced off port stops like Labadee in Haiti; a big part the very reason for travel for many is to experience local cultures in their own environment. While I wholly concur with pragmatics and safety first, it will be a huge shame for many reasons if the Carribean becomes just a series of on-land sterilised extensions of the cruise ship, which was my experience of Labadee.

[@tinawozniak374]

Having just returned from a week in Belize I agree its the larger areas. We were in the mountain region and felt safe during the day. Belize City and Belmopan both have issues eith gang violence but a whole lot less than pther locations.

[@user-sn6fe7qn6w]

As the divide gets wider between the have and the have nots everywhere in the world, the risks are increasing eveywhere. However I will not travel to places that have been built only for tourists and all look the same. What's the point of travelling? they all offer only meeting the same people and shopping....

[@chadcrotts870]

It’s been a very long time since I’ve taken a western Caribbean cruise. To be fair I am a more cruise to be cruising kinda person so dang the ports let’s keep sailing!

[@philstanton231]

How did you get on with travel insurance with those warnings Gary?

[@BlinkyB23]

My partner knew a firefighter who was visiting a resort in Mexico in Cancun and he was, very sadly, found dead at the resort...The "investigation" was inconclusive and the authorities there were very dodgy about releasing the body. Now his family is suing the resort. Please keep your wits about you when traveling. Any place in the world can be dangerous, and it doesn't mean you shouldn't leave your home...But exercise caution and be careful.

[@Shawn152]

I took a cruise sanctioned tour of Nassau back in 2018. Some of the areas they took us in made me feel really unsafe. It was a beautiful island overall but I was very glad to get back on the ship tbh.

[@babyboy770]

Thank you for the information. Just a correction: the two women who were allegedly raped turned out to be a false report. Evidence came out that they willingly slept with the guys. There is video evidence of them spending time with the guys before and after the "incident". They were offered by the County and the cruise line for medical assistance, but continuously refused. The guys were fired because you cannot do anything with guests. Again, no evidence of a crime. My personal opinion is they either got pregnant or got an STI and then have to explain to their husbands (yes, they both were married) why.

[@kathybrem880]

Yep, I saw that!

[@Rosenburge]

The amount of times that cruises get cancelled from going to Rabaul due to civil unrest surely it's got to be high on the list for safety concern.

[@blucolife]

I did a cruise ship walking tour of Nassau and nothing happened to me. Our guide was amazing, she warned us about potholes, sidewalks that disappear, obstacles, etc. Also showed us amazing sights.

[@jakefromstatefarm5204]

Oh wow! I guess it's all good then! Bon voyage!! 👍

[@PeriMedic1]

Thanks for the update. Nassau has deteriorated over the last few years. We no longer get off the ship there. I stopped going anywhere in Mexico 20 years ago. The prime reason the cruise resorts there have been safe is because they are owned by the cartels; so patronize them, give money to the cartels. There's so many islands in the Caribbean that are beautiful and safer, making them much more enjoyable and relaxing. We choose cruises that go to those and have a blast.

[@dvandkq]

"The prime reason the cruise resorts there have been safe is because they are owned by the cartels" If only there was evidence to support your contention. Pulling stuff out of your butt isn't "evidence".

[@PeriMedic1]

@@dvandkq Have a nice day!

[@sillysailor5932]

Are any of the cruise lines private islands actually private islands? Seems like they are all just fenced off parts of other islands

[@rick-be]

We docked at some strange area of Ocho Rios,me being a big guy walked until I found a local restaurant and souvenir shop, where I was asked for money and vaguely threatened but then headed back to the ship.

[@papasquat355]

We just returned from the Leeward Antilles. I would prefer to ONLY visit those three islands from now on. Clean, safe, and beautiful.

[@michaelalan1270]

we go to Jamaica every winter for several weeks. It's not a place I would cruise to, mainly because there's not much to see there except the tourist trap places and parks. Like all islands, exploring on your own can be dangerous. We never had any problems

[@CarolStJohn-ev9ry]

Civilized society is rapidly breaking down and that includes the USA and London. Places I would have liked to have visited a couple of decades ago like Mexico and the Caribbean are no go countries and I never would have considered visiting anywhere in Central America or most of South America. I have enjoyed my trips to Canada where you really do feel safe, at least for now. I'd like to visit Japan and Austria.

[@chapman1569]

The inequalities between the have's and have not's are growing. People are getting desperate and loose their morals. Why should they care about rich tourist when nobody cares for them? Communities are neglecting the people in need. It is everybody for themselves. Illicit drugs push many to steal to afford their vice. We live in an era where values are shifting. It is sad.

you have done a great job of convincing me to forgo all the cruising pleasures (note sarcasm) you have enumerated in this video

[@englishworldkitchen]

Found Roatan very safe when we went with RCCI and went to explore on our own. Sad about Labadee and I’ve know even before all the unrest once it got on the UK “do not travel list”most insurers voided policies. Knew of one chap who’s policy was void from leaving the UK to returning as the ship was docking in Labadee. As the stop in Haiti was planned, many UK insurance companies voided policies for the whole holiday even if you stayed on board. I’ve cruised all over the place and the few times in the Caribbean I’ve felt a little uncomfortable I’ve just kept to the main drag and headed back to the port area. Wherever I travel, some areas of the UK I work, especially London, are just a dangerous as cruise destination.

[@anthonywilliammitchell509]

I've been to those EU ports and honestly I didn't feel any less safe there. You get pick pockets at all tourist destinations, keep your hands in your pockets and avoid distractions.

[@richardmcquade8669]

Gary.Love your channel, I'm reading some of the comments about,You can die of a heart attack, fall off the ship and all of this other type of nonsense. Every day of your life is a risk.Blah blah no kidding. But what you are saying Gary is absolutely correct. I have family in most of these ports. And I am born and raised in New York and when I get off a cruise and see half, the passengers wandering around in fluorescent, orange and green clothing. With skin white as a ghost and some goofy. Disney backpack on you are a target and you are a 100% right about what you are saying. And what these people don't realize is that you are not in America or wherever else you come from. You don't have lawyers, attorneys and policemen and government on your side. And that is what gary is saying.

[@alex9621]

You obviously didn't watch the whole video because he tries to say that many cities in developed european countries are unsafe to travellers because of the risk of being pickpocketed, and that is just absurd. Any big touristy city in the US is just as dangerous (actually even more considering the rates of gun violence) but you wouldn't think twice about visiting those... It's a very skewed and there I say racist view of the world. Especially coming from somebody that comes from the country that hosts 3 of the top 5 crime riddled cities in Europe

[@richardmcquade8669]

@alex9621 Why would you reply to a comment?You obviously didn't read have a great day.Stay safe.

[@Stanf954]

After our last cruise to the Mexican Riviera we decided that would be our last trip to Mexico by cruise or all inclusive trip. I'm very disappointed about the Italian and Athens situation. We were in pre Covid Rome for our pre cruise stay and never felt vulnerable staying in any of the tourist areas. What a shame. We want to go back.

[@gardengirl6636]

Thank you Gary, ignorance is not bliss. I no longer debark in Jamaican ports. I’ve been to Jamaica around 7 times and have only had one positive experience. The tour guides can be rude if the think tips fall short and then there are the inevitable gauntlets of aggressive salespeople. Jamaica is best enjoyed from the ship’s balcony.

[@curlintrenchfield13]

Pickpockets is all over the world not only in the Caribbean. I have been to France and Italy and I heard the tour guide speaking to some people in her language after they left she told us they are pickpockets.

[@russelldominique1343]

On our Mediterranean cruise bad weather cause us to make an unscheduled stop at Genoa. With no excursions booked we just walked and wandered the city and took the funicular to the high city. The people and shops were friendly and we never felt unsafe. It wasn't crowded. It was very interesting. Hint: don't ask for Genoa salami.