A state of emergency was declared for the country’s St James Parish on January 19, allowing the military to support the police in security operations in response to violence among locals.
The FCO guidance initially advised tourists to stay in their resorts and limit travel beyond their respective security perimeters except for travel to the airport and excursions, but this was removed in an update on February 2. It now advises visitors to “exercise caution” if in the area, particularly at night, and follow the advice of the local authorities. However, the state of emergency has been extended until May 2.
Elizabeth Fox, Jamaica Tourist Board’s UK and Northern Europe regional director, confirmed that tourists would be unlikely to “see anything out of the ordinary” – except perhaps security checks – as the focus of the clampdown is away from tourist areas.
She said: “This [relaxation] in advice for visitors is welcome. It’s pretty much the same as the advice before this state of emergency was declared – and I don’t think that phrase really reflects what’s happening.”
She continued: “I think we’ll see a small dent [in demand] for the past couple of weeks, but people seem far less unnerved now.”
Fox added that at the Caribbean Travel Marketplace last week operators reported a strong January for the island.
A spokesperson for Sandals agreed: “We have seen a limited impact on demand for our Jamaica resorts. Most customers and agents are aware that the situation in Jamaica is under control and that the state of emergency will not affect their customer’s experience.”
Stuart Wilson, chief executive of Blue Bay Travel, added that the agency had received a small number of enquiries from holidaymakers, but they were reassured. “There has been very little impact, with bookings being taken at the expected rate,” he said.
