Federal Government Warning Women Not to Travel to these Vacation Destinations

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Published December 10, 2018 at 4:25 am

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It’s December and when the weather outside starts to get cold, there’s only one thing to do: pack your things and head down to someplace hot, sunny and warm.

Popular tourist destinations like Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and Mexico are often the go-to spots for Canadians looking to avoid the blistering cold and snow in December. But now there is a warning for those of you looking to vacation from the Canadian government.

According to this story, Global Affairs Canada have updated their advisory for a list of countries where a rash of sexual assaults have taken place, usually by members of resort staff.

As of this past week, several countries have been issued with a variety of warnings, such as:

Assault

Foreigners have been physically and sexually assaulted. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel at popular tourist destinations were involved. Ensure your accommodations have adequate security features (such as cameras and security guards with radios), as not all resorts offer the same level of security.

Avoid walking after dark, especially alone, and avoid deserted or under-populated areas. Only go to bars and nightclubs in a group and avoid separating from the group. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, and do not accept invitations or rides from strangers or recent acquaintances, as these can make you a more vulnerable target for criminals. In cases of sexual assault, police authorities will order a medical examination.

Crime

Sexual assault occurs frequently, particularly near hotels, in hotel rooms, in casinos, on cruise ships and on the beach. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, do not consume any drugs and don’t accept rides from strangers or from unlicensed taxi drivers. Due to incidents of sexual assault, it is recommended to be wary when embarking on jet-ski rides with licensed or unlicensed operators.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Women’s safety

Sexual assaults occur. Women travelling alone may also be subject to certain forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Incidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression against foreigners have occurred, including at beach resorts. In some cases, hotel employees have been implicated.

  • Exercise caution when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances.

  • Be wary of rides or other invitations.

  • Avoid taking public transportation or walking alone at night.

The list of countries that have a high susceptibility for these incidents include:

  • Anguilla

  • Antigua and Barbuda

  • Bahamas

  • Barbados

  • Belize

  • Bonaire

  • British and US Virgin Islands

  • Cayman Islands

  • Cuba

  • Costa Rica

  • Dominican Republic

  • Dominica

  • Grenada

  • Jamaica

  • Mexico

  • St. Kitts and Nevis

  • Trinidad and Tobago

  • Turks and Caicos

For more information on the Travel Advisory to various countries, click here.

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