Barbuda's Safety: A Comprehensive Overview

Antigua and Barbuda is considered a safe destination for tourists, with relatively low crime rates compared to other Caribbean islands. However, it is still important to remain cautious and vigilant, especially when it comes to protecting your belongings. While violent crime is rare, petty theft and opportunistic crimes can occur. It is recommended to keep valuables locked up in a hotel safe and to avoid displaying expensive items like jewellery or electronics.

There have been reports of more serious crimes, such as robberies, but these incidents are infrequent and rarely target tourists. By exercising common sense and taking standard safety precautions, travellers can greatly reduce their risk of encountering any issues.

Crime rates in Barbuda

The crime rate in Barbuda is a concern for anyone considering a trip to the island. While the island is generally considered safe, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a trouble-free vacation.

Firstly, it is important to note that, while violent crime is rare, it does exist in Barbuda. There have been incidents of murder, armed robbery, and sexual assault. To stay safe, it is recommended that you take sensible precautions such as ensuring your accommodation is secure, avoiding isolated areas (including beaches) after dark, and not carrying large amounts of cash or jewellery.

Petty theft and opportunistic crime are more common in Barbuda. To avoid being a victim of these types of crimes, it is important to always be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables locked up in a hotel safe. It is also recommended to avoid displaying expensive items like jewellery or electronics, as this can make you a target.

In addition, there have been occasional reports of more serious crimes such as robberies, but these incidents are infrequent and rarely involve tourists. Basic common sense and caution can go a long way in keeping you safe. For example, it is advised to stay in well-lit areas at night, avoid isolated areas, and not to leave valuables unattended.

When looking at statistics, the crime rate in Barbuda has fluctuated over the years. In 2022, the crime rate was 0.00, a significant decline from the previous year. However, in 2021, the crime rate was 17.16, a 76.72% increase from 2020. While the crime rate seems to vary, it is important to note that the perception of safety may differ depending on individual experiences and precautions taken.

Overall, Barbuda is considered a relatively safe destination, but it is always important to stay vigilant and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Safety precautions for tourists

Antigua and Barbuda is considered a safe destination for tourists, with relatively low crime rates. However, it is always a good idea to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some essential safety tips to follow when visiting Antigua and Barbuda:

• Be cautious with your belongings: While violent crime is rare, petty theft and opportunistic crimes can occur. Always keep your valuables locked up in a hotel safe or secure location, and avoid displaying expensive items like jewellery or electronics.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Be vigilant, especially in crowded areas like tourist spots and beaches. Pickpocketing and purse snatching are common, so keep your belongings secure at all times.
• Avoid isolated areas after dark: It is advisable to stay in well-lit, populated areas, especially when travelling alone or at night. Avoid isolated beaches and streets, as they may pose a higher risk of crime.
• Use licensed taxis: Only use officially marked and licensed taxis. Agree on the fare in advance, as they are not metered, and confirm the driver's identity and license plate before getting in.
• Be cautious with cash and cards: Avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuables. When using ATMs or cards, be extra cautious to prevent card fraud. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN, and check your account statements regularly.
• Follow local advice for beaches: Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe to visit. Most beaches do not have warning flags or lifeguards, so always exercise caution when swimming and follow any safety instructions provided.
• Be mindful of cultural differences: Antigua and Barbuda have conservative societal attitudes. Same-sex relationships are decriminalised, but public displays of affection by LGBTQI+ individuals may attract negative attention. It is also illegal to wear or carry camouflage clothing or items.
• Follow health and hygiene guidelines: Drink bottled water, especially in remote areas, and consider carrying a portable water purifier. Wash fresh produce with bottled water and ensure seafood is properly cooked. Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue. Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen regularly to prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion.
• Be prepared for natural disasters: The hurricane season in the Caribbean typically runs from June to November. Monitor local weather updates and follow the advice of local authorities. Earthquakes are also a risk, so stay informed and follow evacuation orders if necessary.
• Obey local laws: Drug laws are strict, and severe penalties apply for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal substances. Always carry your prescription medications in their original containers, along with a copy of your prescriptions.

Natural disasters and climate

As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) in the Caribbean Sea, Antigua and Barbuda is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The country experiences a tropical maritime climate with minimal seasonal variation outside of the hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November. During this time, the likelihood of at least one hurricane affecting the islands is around 33%, translating to roughly one hurricane every three years.

In 2017, Barbuda was struck by Hurricane Irma, a Category 5 hurricane that wreaked havoc on the island. The storm caused over USD$220 million in damage to homes and infrastructure, ripping off roofs, toppling power poles, and scattering debris. The official estimates indicated that 95% of structures on the island were damaged or destroyed, necessitating the evacuation of the approximately 1,500 inhabitants to Antigua.

In the same year, two more hurricanes, Jose and Maria, affected the islands. The total damage from these hurricanes was estimated at EC$367.5 million (USD$136.1 million), while losses reached approximately EC$51.2 million (USD$18.9 million). The recovery needs for Barbuda alone amounted to US$222.2 million.

In addition to hurricanes, earthquakes pose a risk in Antigua and Barbuda, with tremors occasionally felt across the Caribbean region.

Climate change poses a significant threat to Antigua and Barbuda, with rising sea levels, increasing temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events all expected to impact the islands. The country's economy, heavily reliant on tourism and natural resources, is particularly vulnerable to these changes. The water sector has been identified as a priority for adaptation due to the risks of decreasing freshwater supply and saltwater intrusion into aquifers.

The government of Antigua and Barbuda has recognised these threats and is working to adapt to the impacts of climate change. They have committed to protecting all waterways and reducing flood risk by 2030 to safeguard human health and the tourism sector.

Local laws and customs

Antigua and Barbuda is a relatively safe destination for travellers, with low crime rates compared to other nations in the Caribbean. However, it is important to be aware of local laws and customs to ensure a safe trip. Here are some key points to consider:

• Drugs: It is illegal to possess or use drugs, and there are severe penalties for all drug-related offences, including hefty fines and imprisonment.
• Camouflage Clothing: It is illegal for anyone, including children, to wear, carry, or import items made of camouflage material. Offenders can expect confiscation of items, fines, or even jail time.
• LGBTQ+ Rights: While Antigua and Barbuda has decriminalised same-sex sexual acts, societal attitudes remain conservative. Public displays of affection by LGBTQ+ couples, as well as opposite-sex couples, are uncommon and may attract negative attention.
• Road Safety: Driving can be dangerous due to poorly maintained roads, insufficient lighting, pedestrians, and stray livestock. Drivers often stop unexpectedly in the middle of the road. It is recommended to always drive defensively and be familiar with your itinerary.
• Outdoor Activities: When participating in outdoor activities such as diving, kayaking, or snorkelling, ensure you are properly prepared. Share your itinerary with someone, obtain detailed information about the activity and environment, and purchase travel insurance that covers these activities.
• Health and Hygiene: Take precautions to protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and stay in accommodations with screens or air conditioning.
• Medical Services: Medical treatment can be expensive, and clinics may expect immediate cash payment. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.
• Credit Card and ATM Fraud: Credit and debit card fraud, as well as ATM fraud, occasionally occur. Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN, pay attention when others handle your cards, and use ATMs located in public areas or inside banks.
• Beach Safety: Beaches are generally unsupervised and may not have warning flags to indicate unsafe conditions. Always respect warning flags when they are present, and keep a safe distance from areas reserved for boating.

Health and hygiene

Health in Barbuda is the responsibility of the Barbuda Public Health Department. The island has the highest rates of allergies, heart disease, and mental illness in the nation. 56.25% of the population is covered by a health insurance scheme, the highest in the nation.

• Water safety: While tap water is generally safe, it is recommended to stick to bottled water, especially in remote areas. Consider carrying a portable water purifier if you're exploring less-visited spots.
• Food safety: Opt for freshly cooked food and avoid raw meats or seafood. Wash fresh produce with bottled water, and ensure seafood is properly cooked.
• Mosquito protection: Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and stay in accommodations with screens or air conditioning to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue.
• Sun protection: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), wear a hat and sunglasses, and stay hydrated to prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion.
• Vaccinations: Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date, and speak to your doctor before you travel. Having adequate travel insurance is advisable for emergencies.
• Medical facilities: Bring enough prescription medications for your trip, and consider a basic first-aid kit for remote areas.
• Beach safety: Enjoy the secluded beauty of Barbuda's less-visited beaches, but remember to visit these spots in groups for added security.
• Water safety: Tap water is generally safe, but stick to bottled water, especially in remote areas. Consider carrying a portable water purifier if you're exploring less-visited spots.
• Food safety: Opt for freshly cooked food and avoid raw meats or seafood. Wash fresh produce with bottled water, and ensure seafood is properly cooked.
• Mosquito protection: Use insect repellent with 20% or more DEET, wear long sleeves, and stay in screened rooms or rooms with air conditioning to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue.
• Sun protection: Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Vaccinations: Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date, and speak to your doctor before you travel. All eligible travellers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
• Medical facilities: Antigua has good healthcare, but bring enough prescription medications for your trip, and consider a basic first-aid kit for remote areas.
• Solo travel: Antigua is safe for solo travellers, but it's always smart to avoid isolated areas at night. Stay in well-lit areas, especially if walking alone.

Frequently asked questions