North and Central America and Caribbean

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism.  But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. 

 

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

The vast majority of visits are trouble-free.  St Vincent and the Grenadines is a friendly and welcoming country and overall crime rates are relatively low.  Despite the relaxed atmosphere, however, there have been incidents of violent crime including murder.  These tend to occur within the local community but can sometimes affect tourists.  Crimes including muggings and thefts from hotels, holiday homes and, in particular yachts do occur. A tourist couple were assaulted and robbed in Bequia in November 2008.

You should therefore maintain at least the same level of security awareness as you would in the UK and ensure that your living accommodation is secure.  Apply the same measures if you are staying on a yacht.  Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, including beaches after dark.  Do not carry large amounts of cash or jewellery.  Valuables and travel documents should, where possible, be left in safety deposit boxes and hotel safes.

 

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

St Vincent and the Grenadines Country Profile.

Road Travel

All drivers are required to hold a local driving licence.  Car Hire companies sell temporary licences at the time of hiring a vehicle.  A valid UK driving licence is required in order to obtain a local one.

Motorists drive on the left in St Vincent and the Grenadines.  Most roads are narrow by UK standards and many are in need of repair.  In mountainous areas the roads can be extremely steep and have sharp hairpin bends, many of which are not clearly marked.  Automatic four-wheel drive vehicles are popular, and in some areas essential.   Given local conditions, you should drive slowly and remain vigilant.

Driving standards differ from those of the UK and Vincentians have a more relaxed attitude to the rules of the road.  You should be tolerant of this.

 

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

You will have to pay a departure tax of EC$40 (or US$15) per person when leaving St Vincent and the Grenadines.