US: Grenada has safety issues

Americans visiting Grenada are being warned by the United States Department travel advisory to beware.

It has raised its safety category from Level 1 to 2 because of concerns that the island’s crime level is now dangerous. 

The advisory was issued on January 5, urging Americans to exercise increased caution when visiting the island over its increased crime. The updated advisory warns that violent crime can occur anywhere on the Spice Island, with American citizens having been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary, and rape. According to the State Department’s advisory: “In some cases, American citizens have been killed. Police response times are not as fast as one may expect in the United States. Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.” Officials also warn travellers to avoid physically resisting any robbery attempt.

This is despite Grenada recently being recognised as one of the Caribbean’s safest destinations. The capital, St George’s is particularly popular. Around 16.8 million Americans visited the Caribbean in 2024.

The Level 2 advisory places Grenada in the “exercise increased caution” category, the second tier in the State Department’s four-level system. The State Department advises travellers to keep a low profile, stay alert to their surroundings, and be cautious when walking or driving at night.

Grenada Tourism Authority CEO Stacey Liburd told USA TODAY: “Grenada remains open, safe and fully operational for travellers. Grenada has long been recognised as one of the most peaceful and welcoming destinations in the Caribbean, with a strong record of visitor safety, and we continue to welcome visitors without interruption.” Liburd noted the State Department’s advisory was precautionary and not a response to a specific incident or change in conditions.

The Grenadian government released a statement on social media emphasising the country’s “strong record of public safety, social stability, and effective law enforcement”, adding: “Grenada has long been home to a significant and vibrant population of United States citizens, many of whom live, work, study, and invest in our tri-island state. Additionally, hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to Grenada annually, enjoying our renowned hospitality, rich culture, and world-class tourism offerings.”