Belize Or Barbados: Which Island Paradise Is Safer?

Belize and Barbados are two Caribbean destinations that attract well over a million visitors each year. But which is safer?

Barbados is generally considered the safer of the two. According to a 2018 crime report per 100,000 citizens, Barbados had 10 murders and 1 kidnapping. In contrast, Belize has a high crime rate and serious problems with violent crimes and gang activity. Most of the crime in Belize is concentrated in certain areas of Belize City. However, it's important to exercise caution and prudence when visiting either country.

Crime rates in Belize and Barbados

Belize and Barbados are two Caribbean nations that attract a lot of tourists every year. However, they differ when it comes to safety. While Barbados is considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean, Belize has a high crime rate and is deemed unsafe by many governments.

Crime in Belize

Belize has a high crime rate and serious problems with violent crimes. The presence of gangs is a significant issue, with around 40 active gangs operating in the country, most of them concentrated in Belize City, the country's major crime centre. The US State Department categorises Belize as a level 2 country and advises citizens to exercise increased caution due to the high prevalence of crime. The advisory states that most crimes reported in Belize are either unresolved or unprosecuted and are gang-related. The Southside of Belize City, in particular, is noted as an area to avoid as it is a frequent site of inter-gang conflict. The border areas with Honduras and Guatemala also see increased criminal activity.

The crime rate in Belize is moderate to high, with a rating of 59.05 according to Numbeo. The country also has a high homicide rate, often ranking in the top 10 countries worldwide. However, tourists are rarely the target of violent crimes, and the majority of crimes involving tourists are petty theft and pickpocketing. To stay safe in Belize, it is recommended to travel in groups, avoid deserted areas, stay out of sketchy neighbourhoods, and refrain from going out at night.

Crime in Barbados

In contrast, Barbados is considered a relatively safe destination, including for solo female travellers. According to the US Department State's 2018 crime report per 100,000 citizens, Barbados had 10 murders and 1 kidnapping. While there was an increase in the homicide rate from 2019 to 2020, it remains low compared to other countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Royal Barbados Police Force has over 1,000 members, including unarmed officers who patrol high-incident areas to ensure the safety of tourists.

However, it is important to note that crime rates have fluctuated in Barbados in recent years, with a worrying spike in the murder rate in 2019, which is believed to be gang-related. There has also been a rise in gang-related crimes involving guns, and tourists are warned about petty crimes and scams in the capital, Bridgetown. Pickpocketing is common in certain areas like Crab Hill, and the crime rate in Bridgetown is the highest in the country. To stay safe in Barbados, it is recommended to avoid dark and secluded areas, especially at night, and to be vigilant in popular tourist spots.

Safety for solo female travellers

Both Barbados and Belize are relatively safe destinations for solo female travellers, but it is important to take reasonable precautions.

Barbados

• Barbados is ranked #42 as the safest country for solo female travellers.
• The local people are generally friendly and helpful, especially towards tourists.
• Public transportation is safe. Both public buses and licensed minibuses operate on regular schedules and routes, while private taxis are also reliable and affordable. However, remain vigilant about your personal belongings, especially during peak hours when vehicles can become crowded.
• Street harassment is low. Instances may occur, but this can depend on the area and time of day. During the daytime and in tourist areas, you should feel quite comfortable.
• Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or small thefts can occur but are not common. Take standard precautions like keeping an eye on your belongings and not flashing valuable items.
• Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark, and be aware of your surroundings.

Belize

• Belize presents a moderate safety environment for solo female travellers.
• While locals are usually amicable and willing to help, it is best to remain cautious, respectful and aware of your surroundings.
• It is recommended that solo female travellers avoid walking alone at night due to safety concerns. In larger cities like Belize City and certain parts of San Pedro, there have been instances of petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse-snatching.
• Public transportation is generally safe. Buses are widely used by both locals and tourists and are affordable, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Stay vigilant, especially with personal belongings. Taxis are another option, but make sure to use licensed taxi services.
• Street harassment is not a widespread issue. While occasional catcalling or comments from local men may occur, these are rare and largely non-threatening.
• Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and other opportunistic thefts are fairly common, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. It is advisable to be alert and take reasonable precautions to safeguard your belongings.
• Tap water in Belize may not be consistently safe to drink. It is recommended to stick to bottled or purified water to avoid potential health issues.

Safety for families

Barbados is a brilliant place for a family holiday. There is a huge selection of family-friendly accommodation on offer across the island, from resorts and villas to condos and mid-range hotels. While it is true that it is not always the cheapest place to travel, especially if you have children with you, Barbados is nevertheless a family-friendly destination.

However, it is important to note that not all accommodation is set up with children in mind; some resorts and hotels will be adult-only and won't accept children.

For beach days, most beaches around the island are safe for playing on. However, not all are safe for swimming. Only swim where there are lifeguards around. The east coast is not a good idea for novice swimmers and children, as the offshore currents are strong.

The nature of Barbados can be something of a menace when you plan on visiting with children. First of all, mosquitoes can be more than just a bother, but can be dangerous for children; avoid you and your family getting bitten by covering up and using repellent.

Exposure to the sun can be brutal as well, especially to small children. Limit your time in the sun – this goes doubly for when the sun’s at its hottest after around midday – and definitely apply sunscreen, cover up with T-shirts and wear sun-hats.

When it comes to weather, when you visit Barbados is something to consider. November, for example, is known as shoulder season; it’s not hurricane season, it’s still warm, and prices will be cheaper.

Belize

Belize is a small country with a very low population density. There are places in Belize that are comfortable and feel safe for the vast majority of people, and other places that are better for more experienced travellers.

Belize is known as a very non-materialistic, nature-based place. "Fancy" items, from cars to personal items, are not the norm here and it is encouraged to leave your expensive items at home.

In Belize, everyone hangs out together. There aren’t many all-inclusive areas, as the experience is hanging out in the villages and towns. By avoiding flashing cash, you fit in better and make yourself less noticeable, and you avoid attracting unwanted attention.

Most people actually need a reminder about watching their things and locking their doors, because Belize is so warm and friendly, it can be easy to let your guard down and forget to keep up vigilance to watch your personal items, as you would anywhere new you are travelling.

By avoiding being out late at night, alone, drug use, or public drunkenness, you can avoid unnecessary risks. If you don’t know the country well, it is not recommended to stay in isolated areas or travel alone late at night. The statistical chance of being involved in a serious crime is low, but can be reduced further by taking these steps to reduce any chances.

Most people avoid southern Belize City, which has a rough neighbourhood where gang activities do occur. Most tourists and expats never go to the dangerous areas and there is no reason to go there.

The vast majority of tourists and expats live near or in a village or town, where there is a police presence, lighted roads, other people, and there is no need to travel alone late at night.

Both Belize and Barbados are safe for families, but it is important to take the necessary precautions and remain vigilant.

Safety on beaches

Safety on the beaches

Belize

Belize is considered a relatively safe place to visit, but it's important to take some precautions. While violent crime is on the rise, tourists are usually not the target. However, petty theft and pickpocketing are common, so it's important to keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas like beaches. When visiting the beach in Belize, it's recommended to stay in well-known tourist areas like Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, or Placencia. These areas offer beautiful beaches, snorkelling, and a lively atmosphere. Additionally, it's advised to avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and to use licensed and registered transportation.

Barbados

Barbados is also considered a safe destination, but it's important to take reasonable precautions. Petty crime and scams can occur, especially in the capital city of Bridgetown, so it's important to be vigilant and keep your valuables secure. When visiting the beach in Barbados, it's recommended to stay in well-lit areas and avoid going to the beach at night. Strong currents and hazardous conditions can also be a concern, so it's important to check for any warnings and only swim at beaches with lifeguards if you're not a strong swimmer. Additionally, some beaches may have manchineel trees, which can cause skin irritation, so it's important to look out for these and avoid them.

Safety in urban areas

Urban areas in Belize, such as Belize City, are considered unsafe due to gang and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings. Tourists are not usually targeted, but they could find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Violent crime is also a concern in Belmopan, and Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. To avoid becoming a victim of crime, it is recommended to remain aware of your surroundings, avoid travelling after dark, and keep your money and valuables secure.

In Barbados, the capital city of Bridgetown and the nightlife hub of St. Lawrence Gap are areas where tourists should exercise caution. Visitors have reported encounters with hustlers, drug dealers, and aggressive taxi drivers in these areas. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to be vigilant when withdrawing money from ATMs. Overall, Barbados has a lower crime rate than many of its Caribbean neighbours, but there has been a recent increase in gang-related gun crime, including robberies, shootings, and sexual assaults. The US Department of State advises citizens to avoid areas such as Crab Hill and Nelson and Wellington Streets in Bridgetown at night.

Frequently asked questions