Travel advice for Bahamas

Australia advises a high degree of caution for Bahamas.

Take standard precautions in the Bahamas because petty theft is widespread and gang crime, shootings and violence are increasing. Drug crime and sexual assault mainly affect beaches, Freeport and Nassau, while violent crime occurs mostly in southern Nassau from midnight to 5 a.m. Avoid isolated or unsafe areas at night. Take care around currents, watercraft and sharks, and use extra caution on roads at night.

Exercise a high degree of caution throughout The Bahamas because crime rates are high, particularly in Nassau and Freeport. Petty theft, armed robbery, violence linked to gangs, sexual assault, and card fraud are risks, while shark hazards, poorly regulated water sports, and frequent boating accidents create additional dangers. Power outages and occasional water shortages may disrupt essential services, especially during and after hurricanes.

Travel with caution because high crime involves theft and armed robbery, and hurricane risk rises from June to November. Monitor forecasts and instructions. Use caution near casinos, gaming venues and nighttime bars. Avoid Nassau's Over the hill area south of Shirley Street and Fish Fry at night, and be cautious in New Providence waters, neighboring islands and bays because of shark attacks. Only Nassau and Freeport have adequate medical care.

Exercise caution in the Bahamas because pickpocketing and theft are common, especially in crowded places. In New Providence and less-touristic Nassau, including Over the Hill, avoid secluded streets, neighbourhoods and parks, and do not go out after sunset in unfamiliar areas; tourist areas such as Cable Beach and Paradise Island are relatively safe. Tropical storms may bring heavy rain and storm surges; discrimination and severe drug penalties require attention.

Exercise increased caution because armed robberies target tourists in New Providence and Grand Bahama, and opportunistic crime and sexual attacks increase during regattas and festivals. Remain in larger tourist areas, especially at night, and use caution on night buses outside them. Guard against dengue, Zika and typhoid, postpone travel when hurricane warnings are issued, use insured water-sports operators, and avoid night swimming or baited water because of shark attacks.

Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas because violent crime, including armed robberies, burglaries and sexual assaults, can occur anywhere, with most crime in Nassau and Freeport. Remain alert in Nassau’s “Over the Hill” area and in vacation rentals without private security. Follow boating, beach and hurricane safety guidance, watch for sharks, and note that firearms and ammunition are illegal.

Travel to the Bahamas is generally safe if usual precautions are taken. Obtain travel insurance with international health coverage, including repatriation. From June to November, tropical storms and hurricanes pose an increased risk in the northern Caribbean, greatest around the Bahamas, with heavy rain and strong winds potentially creating dangerous conditions. In Nassau, Freeport, Abaco, the Exuma Sounds and nearby Caribbean islands, follow local crisis authorities' instructions and warning systems.

Exercise normal precautions when travelling to the Bahamas. Follow local authorities’ instructions if a hurricane approaches during the June to November hurricane season. Consular assistance is extremely difficult because Estonia and other EU member states have no representation there. Estonian tourist drivers must carry a valid Estonian licence and an international driving permit.

Germany advises normal precautions for Bahamas.

Hong Kong advises normal precautions for Bahamas.

Take normal precautions in the Bahamas. Irish citizens can stay up to 30 days without a visa but need a valid passport with at least six months' validity. Petty theft and bag snatching occur, and avoid walking after dark outside main hotels, tourist areas, beaches and downtown Nassau. Drive cautiously because many vehicles are left hand drive, and monitor weather during the Caribbean hurricane season.

Japan advises normal precautions for Bahamas.

No advisory is in force for The Bahamas. Be aware of robbery, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing jewellery, do not resist a robber, and use only official taxis and reputable tour operators. Pack your own luggage, carry identification, consult a doctor about travel health advice, and monitor local news during the June-to-November hurricane season.

Take normal precautions when travelling to The Bahamas. Check passport validity, visa stay and extension rules, yellow fever certification when arriving from a listed transmission risk country, and customs declarations. Be aware of Zika, dengue and HIV, and possible health screening, quarantine or isolation after visiting Ebola affected regions within 30 days; also consider insurance and access to needed healthcare.