The U.S. State Department raised its travel advisory for Grenada to Level 2 on January 5, urging Americans to exercise increased caution when visiting the Caribbean island due to crime concerns. The updated advisory specifically warns that violent crime can occur anywhere in Grenada, with American citizens having been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary, and rape. According to the State Department’s advisory, “In some cases, American citizens have been killed. Police response times are not as fast as one may expect in the United States.”
The advisory shift highlights a notable change for a destination that was recently recognized as one of the Caribbean’s safest islands. Approximately 16.8 million Americans visited the Caribbean in 2024, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization, making the region a popular vacation spot for U.S. travelers.
What The Level 2 Travel Advisory Means For Grenada Visitors
The Level 2 advisory places Grenada in the “exercise increased caution” category, the second tier in the State Department’s four-level system. The State Department advises travelers to keep a low profile, stay alert to their surroundings, and exercise caution when walking or driving at night.
The advisory specifically states, “Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.” Officials also warn travelers to avoid physically resisting any robbery attempt.
The State Department noted that while regional police forces typically cooperate with U.S. counterparts, response times to law enforcement and security requests can be delayed due to inadequate funding, equipment shortages, and staffing limitations. The U.S. Embassy operates in St. George’s, the island’s capital and largest city, approximately 125 miles north of Venezuela in the eastern Caribbean Sea.
Grenada Tourism Authority Responds To Safety Concerns
Grenada Tourism Authority CEO Stacey Liburd told USA TODAY that “Grenada remains open, safe and fully operational for travelers” and emphasized that “Grenada has long been recognized as one of the most peaceful and welcoming destinations in the Caribbean, with a strong record of visitor safety, and we continue to welcome visitors without interruption.” Liburd noted the State Department’s advisory was precautionary and not a response to a specific incident or change in conditions, adding that there have been no disruptions to flights, accommodations, or tourism services.
Following the advisory update, the Grenadian government released a statement on social media emphasizing the country’s “strong record of public safety, social stability, and effective law enforcement.” The government statement noted, “Grenada has long been home to a significant and vibrant population of United States citizens, many of whom live, work, study, and invest in our tri-island state. Additionally, hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to Grenada annually, enjoying our renowned hospitality, rich culture, and world-class tourism offerings.”
The statement added that “Grenada continues to proactively address security concerns and uphold the highest standards of protection for nationals and visitors alike.”
The State Department encourages Americans traveling to Grenada to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive updates from the U.S. Embassy or consulate. The agency also recommends purchasing travel insurance that provides evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
