U.S. government updates travel warning for Caribbean cruise port
Americans need to know what they can't bring into the country under the risk of imprisonment,
Americans often make mistakes when traveling because they don't know local customs.
Some countries in the Caribbean, for example, ban camoflauge clothing. It's seen as military wear and you can be fined or arrested for wearing it.
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There are other countries that are popular cruise destinations where your captain will share warnings before you dock. It's a bad idea, for example, to bring vapes into Mexico. The country passed an expansive ban on vaping in 2024.
"This isn’t just a ban on vapes for personal use, it’s a comprehensive policy that stretches into broader legal territory. The legislation ties in with Mexico’s ongoing fight against synthetic drugs, which officials warn could find their way into unregulated vaping products," MexLaw.com shared.
Basically, if you're caught with a vape you run the risk of being arrested and imprisoned. That could involves paying a hefty fine or actually being held long enough to miss your ship.
It's very important to know what the laws are in each country you plan to visit. Your cruise line will likely share any needed information, but it's also importsnt to be vigilant.
You do not want an item you forgot you had in your bag to land you in a foreign jail.
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Turks and Caicos travel warning revised
Turks and Caicos has been under a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution travel warning from the U.S. State Department for months. The government agency recently revised that warning.
"Updated to reflect information on traveling with firearms and ammunition. Exercise increased caution in the Turks and Caicos Islands due to crime," the State Department shared.
The actual new language makes it clear that Americans have to be very careful with what they bring into the Caribbean island nation.
"Firearms and ammunition, including single bullets brought by mistake in carry-on bags or luggage, are illegal. Police strictly enforce these laws, even at the airport when travelers are leaving," the agency posted.
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Penalties can be very severe for Americans violating the law.
"Travelers face arrest, jail time, and heavy fines. Some U.S. citizens have been detained and unable to depart for several weeks or more after being found with bullets in their luggage. Offenders can face 12 years or more in prison. Though the law allows for some exceptions and discretion, the Department of State cannot guarantee your release," it added.
Be careful in Turks and Caicos broadly
While Turks and Caicos offers some spectacular beaches, it's also a place where tourists need to be vigilant.
"Most crime occurs in Providenciales. Police may have limited investigatory resources. U.S. Embassy Nassau, located in The Bahamas, provides consular services (including assistance to victims of crime) for U.S. citizens in the Turks and Caicos Islands," the U.S. State Department shared.
Royal Caribbean has multiple cruises that call on Turks and Caicos.
"The first thing you notice on a cruise to Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands is that it is surrounded on all sides by tropical, aquamarine waters brimming with life — making for world-class dive sites. As a British overseas territory, the island nation draws upon Bermudian architecture, blending English stone with Caribbean-inspired pastel hues," the cruise line shared.
The U.S. State Department also shared some tips for Americans visiting Turks and Caicos:
- Check your luggage and hand baggage carefully for bullets or firearms before leaving the United States. Do not bring these items to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
- Avoid walking alone and at night.
- Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Cruise passengers should generally stick to cruise-line sponsored excursions or other vetted, credible tour operators.
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Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me's Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@postcardtravelplanning.com or call or text her at 386-383-2472.
