Barbados peeved at UK travel advisory
The Barbados government has taken offence at the decision by the United Kingdom to issue a travel advisory this week, warning British travellers of terrorist attacks on the Caribbean island.For the first nine months of this year, Barbados welcomed 160,749 stayover visitors from the UK, a slight decrease from the previous year, with the United States becoming the new top market, though UK visitors still represent a significant portion of tourism.In its travel advisory, the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) cautioned that “although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Barbados, attacks cannot be ruled out.
The British government is also urging its nationals to be aware that in Barbados, “there have been incidents of violent crime, including armed robbery, sexual assault, gang-related shootings and carjackings.“There has been an increase in gang-related murders involving guns. Some incidents have taken place in populated and public areas. Take sensible precautions to protect your personal safety,” the FCDO further advised.The FCDO also posted a special message to LGBT+ travellers saying that “in the Caribbean, attitudes towards the LGBT+ community are mostly conservative.“It is uncommon for opposite or same-sex couples to show affection in public, for example, holding hands or kissing. Doing this may attract unwanted and negative attention”.
UK travellers have also been advised to make sure their accommodation is secure, to be careful when walking alone off busy main roads and taking money from ATMs, avoid isolated areas, including beaches, particularly after dark, and to only use licensed taxis.“Take particular care around large gatherings, including street and beach parties, especially after dark or during the festival season. Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive-looking jewellery. Leave valuables and travel documents in a safety deposit box or secure hotel safe.
