Bahamas Joins Mexico, Jamaica, Cuba, Belize, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic in Canada’s New Travel Safety Advisories, What 2026 Travelers Should Know

As travelers prepare for their 2026 getaways, Canada has updated its travel safety advisories, adding popular vacation destinations like The Bahamas, Mexico, Jamaica, Cuba, Belize, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic to the list. These new advisories highlight key risks and safety concerns that travelers should be aware of before booking their trips. Whether it’s rising crime rates, infrastructure issues, or natural disasters, these updates are essential for ensuring a smooth and safe vacation. Here’s what Canadian travelers need to know about these updated advisories and how they can stay safe while traveling to these beloved destinations.

The Bahamas: Crime Poses a Growing Concern

Advisory: Exercise a high degree of caution

Known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, The Bahamas has long been a dream destination for travelers. However, recent updates from the Canadian government warn travelers to be cautious, especially in Nassau and Freeport. High crime rates, including armed robberies, break-ins, and violent assaults, have raised alarms, with incidents occurring even in well-frequented areas near hotels and cruise ports.

Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, remains prevalent, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Though the country is still a popular destination, Canadian travelers are urged to stay vigilant and avoid isolated areas, particularly after dark. The safety advisory also emphasizes the risks of encountering strangers offering unsolicited help, as reports have surfaced about drugged items leading to theft or assault. Solo travelers, especially women, are strongly encouraged to exercise heightened caution.

Mexico: Safety Concerns Amid Rising Criminal Activity

Advisory: Exercise a high degree of caution

Mexico continues to be one of the most visited destinations for Canadians seeking a mix of culture, adventure, and beautiful beaches. However, Mexico is grappling with significant safety concerns, largely due to organized crime and violence. Areas such as Chiapas, Guerrero, and Sinaloa are particularly risky, and even popular tourist cities like Cancún, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta have seen incidents of violence, including armed robberies and express kidnappings.

Canadian officials strongly advise travelers to avoid certain regions where gang activity is rampant, and where violent clashes are frequent. Kidnappings, particularly express kidnappings where tourists are forced to withdraw money from ATMs, are a serious concern. As a safety precaution, visitors should stay within resort areas, use approved excursion services, avoid traveling after dark, and refrain from displaying valuables while in public. Staying alert and choosing secure transportation options can go a long way in ensuring a safer trip.

Cuba: Shortages Impact Travel Experience

Advisory: Exercise a high degree of caution

Cuba, renowned for its colorful culture and beautiful beaches, remains a favorite for Canadian travelers. However, Cuba is facing ongoing shortages of essential goods, including food, fuel, and medicine, which has impacted its ability to serve tourists effectively. The Canadian government has issued an advisory urging travelers to exercise caution, as these shortages have caused disruptions to essential services, such as electricity and water supply.

The government of Cuba has implemented scheduled power cuts to alleviate strain on the electrical grid, but these outages can sometimes last more than 24 hours. While most large hotels and resorts use backup generators, fuel shortages have led to interruptions in hotel services, including food delivery, hot water, and electricity. Travelers planning to visit Cuba are advised to bring extra supplies, such as medications, toiletries, and bottled water, to ensure they can weather potential shortages. These disruptions may also cause flight delays, so travelers should maintain flexibility in their plans.

Jamaica: Crime Risks Outside Resort Areas

Advisory: Exercise a high degree of caution

Jamaica’s beaches and vibrant culture make it an attractive destination for Canadian vacationers, but safety concerns in certain areas remain an issue. Violent crime, including armed robberies, shootings, and other forms of violence, continues to occur in Kingston, Montego Bay, and other urban centers. While these incidents mainly affect locals, tourists can be caught in the crossfire, especially in areas away from tourist hubs.

The Canadian government recommends that visitors avoid walking alone after dark and stay in well-lit, populated areas. Even within resorts, there have been reports of sexual assault, some involving staff or individuals met through online platforms. To mitigate the risks, solo travelers—particularly women and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals—are advised to stay with trusted companions and refrain from venturing into unknown or isolated areas. The presence of police in tourist areas may offer some reassurance, but travelers should remain vigilant at all times.

Dominican Republic: Safety Challenges Amid Rising Crime Rates

Advisory: Exercise a high degree of caution

The Dominican Republic is a well-known hotspot for all-inclusive resorts, but rising crime rates have raised concerns for both locals and tourists. Petty theft, including pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and hotel room theft, is widespread. Robbery incidents, including drive-by shootings, have occurred in busy tourist spots, and travelers should be mindful of their surroundings, particularly in urban areas.

Serious crimes, such as armed robberies and sexual assaults, have also been reported, especially after dark. There is particular concern around the Haitian border, where instability has led to violence and unrest. The Canadian government advises avoiding the northern border areas and staying clear of less secure regions. Tourists should stick to well-known areas, avoid isolated beaches, and always opt for secure transportation.

Costa Rica: Theft and Crime in Tourist Areas

Advisory: Exercise a high degree of caution

Costa Rica is famous for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking coastlines. While it remains a top destination for Canadians seeking adventure, the country has been grappling with an increase in petty crime. Theft, including pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and car break-ins, is common in popular tourist areas such as beaches, restaurants, and transportation hubs.

More serious crimes, such as armed robberies and assaults, have also been reported in urban centers like San José, as well as in rural areas along the coast. Criminals often target rental vehicles, and there have been incidents where electronic “key jammers” were used to unlock cars, making them vulnerable to theft. To avoid falling victim to crime, Canadian travelers should secure their belongings, refrain from leaving valuables in rental cars, and avoid venturing out alone after dark.

Belize: Violent Crime and Gang Activity in Certain Areas

Advisory: Exercise a high degree of caution

Belize’s natural beauty, with its barrier reef and laid-back atmosphere, makes it an attractive destination for many Canadian travelers. However, safety concerns, especially related to gang violence, have increased in recent years. While tourists are rarely the direct target of gang-related violence, areas such as Southside Belize City and parts of Belmopan and San Pedro are considered high-risk zones due to frequent clashes between rival gangs.

Crime in these areas includes armed robberies, assaults, and sexual assaults. Belize’s per capita murder rate is one of the highest in the world, and while tourists are not usually directly involved in violence, the risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time remains. Travelers are advised to stay in secure accommodations, avoid traveling after dark, and exercise caution when visiting areas outside the main tourist zones.

Tips for Staying Safe While Traveling

Staying informed and vigilant is key to ensuring a smooth, enjoyable vacation. Here are some general tips to stay safe while traveling to destinations that carry safety risks:

1. Stay Informed: Before booking your trip, always check the Government of Canada’s travel advisories for the latest updates. This will help you make informed decisions about your destination and whether additional precautions are necessary.
2. Stay Within Resort Areas: For many destinations with higher crime rates, staying within resort areas or using resort-approved excursions can provide a safer and more controlled environment.
3. Avoid Traveling After Dark: Whether in cities or rural areas, it’s generally best to avoid traveling after dark. This is particularly important in regions with higher crime rates or unstable political conditions.
4. Use Reputable Transportation: Always opt for reputable taxi services, private transfers, or public transportation recommended by your resort or trusted sources. Avoid accepting rides from unlicensed taxi drivers.
5. Keep Valuables Secure: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or electronics in public. Use hotel safes to store valuables and carry only what you need for the day.
6. Emergency Contact Information: Have emergency contact details of your embassy or consulate, local authorities, and health services readily available.

Conclusion

While many popular vacation spots remain safe for Canadian travelers, it’s crucial to stay informed about the risks that may arise in certain destinations. Whether it’s rising crime, infrastructure shortages, or safety concerns related to political instability, understanding the latest travel advisories can help you make smarter decisions and ensure your safety while abroad.

Before embarking on your next holiday, be sure to review the latest advisories from the Government of Canada. With the right preparations and precautions, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to stay safe.

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