Listeners interested in traveling to Jamaica in September 2025 should be aware of some important updates and current travel precautions. There has been a significant reduction in crime throughout Jamaica during 2025, leading the United States to lower its travel advisory for the country from Level 3, meaning "Reconsider Travel," to Level 2, "Exercise Increased Caution." This marks the safest Jamaica has been in the past twenty years and reflects tangible improvements in security across the island, especially in major tourist areas. According to Jamaica With Irie and the latest U.S. Department of State advisory, the change in level means travelers can now feel more confident in planning visits to the island’s popular destinations.

Even with these improvements, travelers are urged to remain vigilant. Violent crime, including armed robbery and sexual assault, is still reported, especially in certain neighborhoods of Kingston, Montego Bay, and Spanish Town. Most incidents of violent crime occur outside of tourist resorts, while the likelihood of violent crime in resorts and with organized tours is considerably lower. According to Island Dream Tour, the most common risk for tourists continues to be petty theft or pickpocketing, so listeners should keep belongings secure, avoid displaying expensive jewelry, and refrain from walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Transportation safety is another important consideration. The Canadian government advises against using public buses in Jamaica due to high rates of crime and crowded conditions. Instead, travelers are recommended to use official taxis that are ordered through hotels and authorized operators, or recognized ridesharing services. Official taxis with red-and-white “PP” license plates and a green JUTA sticker are considered safe options.

When considering health and medical preparedness, listeners should understand that healthcare facilities in Jamaica may not meet the standards of those in North America or Europe, and urgent care can be limited outside major urban centers. Bringing a travel health kit and arranging travel health insurance are strongly advised.

While Ocho Rios, Negril, and Montego Bay’s hotel zones remain regarded as safe for tourists—especially when visitors stick to reputable tours and regulated transportation—the U.S. Embassy notes that armed robberies and sexual assaults have been reported even at some resorts. The embassy also restricts its own personnel from using public buses and from intercity travel after dark.

To sum up, Jamaica welcomes travelers in 2025 with improved conditions and reduced risks compared to recent years, but increased caution is still recommended. Using common-sense safety measures—such as staying in resort areas, using reputable tour operators, and securing personal belongings—will help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Adventure and relaxation await on Jamaica’s famous beaches and at attractions like Dunn’s River Falls and Seven Mile Beach, as long as precautions are taken so the experience is memorable for all the right reasons.