This Caribbean Nation Has Recorded Over 320 Murders This Year

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News Americas, New York, NY, Tues. July 16, 2024: In just 198 days into 2024, the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago has already recorded over 320 murders. The oil-rich nation surpassed this grim milestone following a violent weekend that left at least 18 people dead. Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley expressed serious concerns about the escalating violent crime and the use of illegal high-powered assault weapons in the CARICOM nation.

T&T sees rise in crime.

Following a meeting of the National Security Council on Monday, July 15th, chaired by Dr. Rowley, there was agreement among the security services to deploy sustained joint operations in areas with high concentrations of criminal activity. The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s support for the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) in carrying out its duties within legal parameters.

Opposition Leader Kamla Persad Bissessar and the United National Congress (UNC) have called for the resignation of National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds. Persad Bissessar urged citizens to remain strong and promised that a new UNC government would provide legal firearms and legislation to combat criminals effectively.

Private sector groups have expressed dissatisfaction with the measures taken by the Ministry of National Security (MNS) and the Police Commissioner to curb crime. Baldath Maharaj, President of the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CCIC), stated that businesses had lost faith in the current measures, seeing them as public relations maneuvers rather than actionable solutions.

The United States has issued a Level Three travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago, urging nationals to reconsider travel due to escalating crime rates. The advisory highlights the risks of terrorism and kidnapping in areas like Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah in Port of Spain. Similarly, Canada has advised its nationals to exercise a high degree of caution due to violent crime, particularly in Port of Spain, where tourists have been targeted.

Jamaica

Jamaica reported 24 murders over the seven-day period ending July 13th, four more than the previous week. This brings the total number of murders this year to 626, an increase of 20 compared to July 6th. However, overall crime has declined by 14 percent year-on-year, with 103 fewer murders committed compared to the same period in 2023.

Barbados

Barbados has also seen an increase in murders, with authorities reporting approximately 30 killings so far this year, more than double the total for last year.

As the Caribbean grapples with rising crime rates, urgent measures and international advisories highlight the pressing need for effective security solutions.

Two Caribbean Destinations Named Among Top 10 Family Beach Vacation Ideas

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. July 16, 2024: San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Turks & Caicos have secured spots in the latest TripAdvisor Top 10 beach vacation ideas for families. San Juan claimed the number 2 position, while Turks & Caicos landed in 7th place. Leading the list is Hilton Head, South Carolina, USA. Crete, Greece, ranked third, with O’ahu, Hawaii, in fourth place. Zanzibar, Tanzania, took fifth, and San Diego, CA, came in sixth. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, secured 8th place, Cancun, Mexico, 9th, and Pensacola, Florida, rounded out the list in 10th place.

Here’s what you need to know about choosing either Puerto Rico or Turks & Caicos for your next family vacation:

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Beautiful beach views of Puerto Rico’s pristine turquoise waters.

Who should go: Families seeking a tropical vacation with a rich cultural experience.

The beach scene: Condado and Isla Verde beaches offer calm, clear waters and bustling stretches of sand, each with a unique vibe. Condado, located in the city center, is surrounded by high-rise hotels and trendy restaurants, with colorful loungers and umbrellas for rent. Isla Verde Beach, near the airport, offers a more relaxed atmosphere with large palm trees providing ample shade.

Don’t miss: Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro, where kids under 15 enter free. This ancient fortress is steeped in history, best explored with a ranger-led tour.

Restaurant report: Enjoy street food at the kiosks at Piñones, a scenic boardwalk and bike trail near Playa Torrecillas. Try the alcapurrias at Kiosko El Boricua, and savor mofongo at Pannes. For seafood lovers, El Nuevo Acuario is a must-visit.

Where to stay: Stay at the 352 Guest House Hotel Boutique in Old San Juan for a mix of beach time and city sights. For a blend of pool and beach time, La Concha Renaissance Resort offers three pools and access to Condado Beach.

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands

Who should go: Those seeking relaxed tropical beaches and abundant snorkeling opportunities.

The beach scene: Grace Bay Beach, with its 12 miles of calm waves and sugar-white sand, frequently tops “best beaches” lists. Families also enjoy other island beaches like Little Water Cay (Iguana Island), Pine Cay, Parrot Cay, and West Caicos, known for their low tides.

Don’t miss: Strong swimmers should snorkel through Bight Reef to see turtles, rays, and coral. Alternatively, take a catamaran tour to explore more remote reefs.

Restaurant report: Enjoy fried conch at Da Conch Shack, where you can pick your own conch from the nearby sandbar. For a Caribbean-Italian dining experience, visit Vita Restaurant, perched atop jagged rocks with ocean views.

Where to stay: Windsong on The Reef offers complimentary water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. Alternatively, the all-inclusive Beaches Turks and Caicos features an on-site waterpark and bunk rooms for kids, plus 19 restaurants for parents to enjoy without added costs.

Plan your next family vacation to these Caribbean paradises for an unforgettable beach experience.