Do I need travel insurance when travelling to the Caribbean?

The Caribbean is a collection of islands owned by 28 nations. Mexico, the Dominican Republic, the USA and even France all have ownership throughout the Caribbean, helping create a unique culture. Known for being exotic and paradisiacal, the Caribbean is a popular destination for sun worshippers. However, there are precautions that must be taken.

Travel insurance is a necessity, regardless of where you're going and travelling to, the Caribbean should be no different, especially due to extreme sports and hurricane seasons. Travel insurance for cruises can cover you for the following issues:

  • Missed port departure - if you miss the departure of the ship becuase of unforeseen circumstances like cancelled flights or delayed public transport.
  • Cabin confinement - if you fall ill during your trip and are confined to your cabin on docter's advice.
  • Unused shore excursion - if you are unable to use any shore excursions you had pre-booked, due to unforeseen circumstances (for example, the ship cancelling a port of call)

Do I need vaccinations when travelling to the Caribbean?

Without vaccinations, you'll still be let into the Caribbean. That does not mean you shouldn't seek the proper and recommended vaccinations, though. You should, at the very least, get the following:

  • Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccination
  • Hepatitis B, Rabies, and Yellow Fever vaccination

Each island will have its own specific recommendations. You won't need the Yellow Fever vaccination, for example, unless you travel to areas like Trinidad and Tobago, which is close to a hot spot in South America.

Are there any areas to avoid in the Caribbean?

Yes, there are some islands that are more dangerous than others. If you visit them, you should stick predominantely to the resorts, as they have the highest amount of security.

The most dangerous places in the Caribbean are:

  • Jamaica
  • St. Kitts and Nevis
  • Haiti
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • The Dominican Republic

Is it safe to travel alone in the Caribbean?

Absolutely. Even if you travel to one of the more at-risk areas in the Caribbean so long as you stay with the resorts or go out with recognised tours you should be perfectly safe.

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