US State Department Issues Level 2 Travel Advisory for St. Lucia.

US Embassy Barbados: Exercise Increased Caution in Saint Lucia due to risk of crime.

Advisory summary

Violent crime can occur anywhere in Saint Lucia. U.S. citizens and other foreigners in Saint Lucia have been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary, and rape. In some cases, U.S. citizens have been killed.

Crime:

• Guests at tourist resorts have been victims of violent crimes.
• Police response times are not as fast as in the United States.
• Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing.
• Tourists should beware of overcharging and scams in tourist areas. You may encounter aggressive vendors. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations.

Hurricanes:

Saint Lucia regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in Saint Lucia.

If you decide to travel to Saint Lucia:

• Review the Country Security Report for the Eastern Caribbean.
• Before you leave the United States for Saint Lucia, carefully check your luggage for any weapons or loose ammunition you may have forgotten and remove them. Review our information on Local Laws and Customs in Saint Lucia.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad  and for Victims of Crime .
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Keep a low profile.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry.
• Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
• Stay alert in tourist spots.
• Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist .
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.