Jamaica tourists warned after murder

Since the murder of three people in Jamaica recently, visitors to the island have been warned to take only organized and tours and use taxis, rather than hiring self-drive cars.

The recent deaths occurred in the resort area of Montego Bay, bringing the number of people killed in the country this year to 700. The total number of murders on the island nation was 1,574 for 2007, an 18 per cent increase over the previous year.

The capital city, Kingston, sees the majority of the killings, well away from the resort areas where most tourists spend their time. Despite the increase in the number of violent deaths, the number of UK holidaymakers to Jamaica rose to 185,000 last year, six per cent.

“There is no violence directed towards tourists,” Jamaican High Commissioner to Britain, Burchell Whiteman commented. “Crime is localised and is all connected with gangs, guns and drugs.”

Most tourists who choose Jamaica as a holiday destination stay at all-inclusive resort compounds and are now advised to be vigilant if they choose to venture out.

A spokeswoman for travel operator TUI reported that all but one of its holiday destinations in Jamaica are all-inclusive resorts. TUI operates in Jamaica under its First Choice and Thomson brands. It is encouraging clients that wish to explore the island to take advantage of organized tours and to avoid hiring cars.

www.tui-group.com