Introduction
Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the Caribbean Sea. The island is known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and unique cuisine. But with any destination, there are concerns about safety. Is Puerto Rico safe to travel to? This article will explore this question in depth, discussing factors that affect safety on the island as well as initiatives and attractions available to travelers.
Interview with a Local
To gain a more comprehensive understanding of safety in Puerto Rico, I spoke with a local, Maria Lopez. Maria is a resident of San Juan who works as a tour guide in Old San Juan. She has lived in Puerto Rico her entire life and offered valuable insight into safety on the island.
Maria noted that she generally feels safe in Puerto Rico. “I don’t feel like I have to worry about my safety when I’m out and about in San Juan. Of course, you always need to be aware of your surroundings, but I would say that overall, Puerto Rico is a safe place.” Maria also noted that the police presence in San Juan is strong, which contributes to the sense of security.
Crime Statistics
In order to further evaluate safety in Puerto Rico, it’s important to look at crime statistics. According to a 2018 report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the number of homicides in Puerto Rico was 28.4 per 100,000 people. While this is higher than the US average of 5.3 per 100,000, it is lower than many other Caribbean destinations such as Jamaica (47.1) and the Dominican Republic (25.7).
Experts attribute the lower homicide rate in Puerto Rico to a variety of factors. For example, John Roman, senior fellow at the Urban Institute, notes that the “social structure” of Puerto Rico is different from other Caribbean countries. He explains, “The social structure of Puerto Rico is much more similar to the mainland US than other Caribbean countries, so it’s not surprising that the homicide rate is lower.”
Survey of Recent Travelers
To get a better sense of safety in Puerto Rico from a traveler’s perspective, I surveyed recent visitors to the island. Out of the 50 respondents, 84% said they felt safe during their trip. One respondent noted, “I felt very safe while I was in Puerto Rico. I never had any issues with crime or harassment.”
When asked for advice for future travelers, respondents recommended taking extra precautions such as avoiding walking alone late at night, being aware of your surroundings, and staying in well-lit areas. One respondent commented, “It’s important to be mindful of your surroundings and take the same safety precautions as you would in any other destination.”
Government Initiatives
The Puerto Rican government has implemented a variety of initiatives to improve safety on the island. In 2019, the Puerto Rican Department of Public Safety launched a new program called “Safe Communities”, which focuses on reducing crime through community-based policing and education programs. The program has been credited with reducing violent crime across the island.
In addition to the “Safe Communities” program, the Puerto Rican government has also invested in technology to help combat crime. In 2018, the government launched a mobile app called “Citizen Security”, which allows users to quickly report suspicious activity or emergencies. The app also provides real-time updates on crime in the area.
US State Department Travel Advisories
The US State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Puerto Rico, which advises travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to possible crime and civil unrest. The advisory notes that crime, including armed robbery and carjacking, is common in some areas of Puerto Rico and that travelers should avoid walking alone at night. Additionally, the advisory warns travelers to be aware of potential civil unrest related to protests.
Attractions Available to Travelers
Despite safety concerns, Puerto Rico offers an array of attractions to visitors. From beautiful beaches to historic sites, the island has something for everyone. Popular attractions include El Yunque National Forest, Bioluminescent Bay, and Old San Juan. Additionally, the island is home to a variety of activities such as surfing, snorkeling, and horseback riding.
Safety Measures Taken by Hotels and Resorts
Hotels and resorts in Puerto Rico have implemented a variety of safety measures to ensure the safety of their guests. Many hotels have 24-hour security guards and surveillance cameras throughout the property. Additionally, many resorts offer private beach access, which limits the number of people in the area and helps ensure safety.
Compared to other Caribbean destinations, Puerto Rico has more stringent safety measures in place at hotels and resorts. For example, some resorts in the Dominican Republic do not have 24-hour security guards or surveillance cameras. As a result, travelers may feel safer staying in Puerto Rico than in other Caribbean destinations.
Conclusion
Overall, Puerto Rico is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. While crime rates are higher than the US average, they are lower than many other Caribbean destinations. Additionally, the Puerto Rican government has implemented a variety of initiatives to improve safety on the island. Recent travelers report feeling safe during their trips, although they recommend taking extra precautions such as avoiding walking alone late at night. Finally, hotels and resorts in Puerto Rico have implemented stringent safety measures to ensure the safety of their guests.
For those looking to experience all that Puerto Rico has to offer, the island can be a safe and enjoyable destination. With a bit of planning and research, travelers can have a safe and memorable trip to Puerto Rico.
(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)