Dangerous Cruise Ports To Stay Far, Far Away From (2024)

Рет қаралды 249,867

2 ай бұрын

Experiences on my two last cruises reminded me that just because my cruise ship is calling into a port does not mean that I can assume it's safe for me to get off and explore. In fact, even in the two most popular cruising regions, the Caribbean and Mediterranean, many of the most visited ports are amongst the riskiest.
Welcome aboard, I'm Gary Bembridge and I’m going to tell you what dangerous ports in these two regions to avoid, and how to keep yourself safe if you've got a cruise booked that's going to one of them.
Link mentioned in the video:
Carole Copeland Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/conversations-with-carole/id218435600
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ABOUT TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS: If you want to get cruising right, Tips For Travellers makes it easy to plan and have the incredible cruise experiences you dream of every time. All my Tips For Travellers advice, tips and tricks tips draw on everything that I have learnt on the 101 cruises I have done to date.
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00:00 Start
00:31 Caribbean Dangerous Ports
01:05 Haiti
02:09 Jamaica
03:10 Bahamas
05:00 Cozumel
06:11 Honduras
07:08 Belize
08:08 Mediterranean Dangerous Ports
08:43 Barcelona
09:03 Rome
09:44 Athens
10:06 Livorno / Florence / Pisa
10:17 What To Do in Dangerous Ports

Пікірлер: 665

@debesevening3335 2 ай бұрын

I was almost a victim of pickpocketing in Pisa this past fall. Thank goodness one of the tour guides that was headed out of the tower courtyard area as we were walking into it recognized them and once past started yelling "PICKPOCKET ALERT! 2 GIRLS AND THE GUY WITH THE RED UMBRELLA" AND THEN KEPT YELLING, PICKPOCKET SHAME ON YOU over and over. Everyone in both groups (ours and theirs) started the same and they peeled off quickly down a street and closed up their umbrella once they realized we had been alerted and they were recognized. So very grateful to that guide, she saved me as they were coming up behind us.

@Loralanthalas Ай бұрын

Very nice! As it should be.

@mchapman1928 Ай бұрын

In many places, there’s one pick pocket very obvious…..while you are looking at him/her the one you didn’t notice just picked your pocket. That was common in NYC.

@robbyfre981 28 күн бұрын

and th gypsy children than mob u whle th adult is cleaning out your pockets,Milan

@TKCTSTN 28 күн бұрын

And don't check for your valuables when you hear the warning. That shows everyone else how to more easily make you the next victim.

@rosewood1 24 күн бұрын

I have huge concerns about Italy. Basically a country of thieves. In contrast Indonesia Vietnam China even France never had the slightest problem.

@ljr869 2 ай бұрын

I asked our captain on one cruise why we didn't dock in Kingston and he said, "We could, if we wanted our propellers stolen."

@geraint8989 2 ай бұрын

It’s disgusting that Gary has removed critical posts.

@tipsfortravellers 2 ай бұрын

I never remove any comments even the troll ones. Though the KZfaq system does automatically place some comments into a “for review” section automatically that they seem as offensive, spam etc. I check those every now and then and other than spam release

@HrHaakon 2 ай бұрын

@@tipsfortravellers It should be noted that if you don't sort comments by newest, youtube will filter out some comments. It's weird, and I don't know why.

@misterg1157 2 ай бұрын

7.34 Regarding gang-related crime: “…If going to Belize as a cruise passenger, a lot of it hinges on which cruise line you are going with”. Yes, if going with Carnival, the gangs are scared and run away.

@sjuas690 2 ай бұрын

@@misterg1157didn’t realise that Carnival had such a bad reputation that even the gangs run away!

@andredupreez5705 Ай бұрын

Honestly, I would make this a very short video: No matter where you travel, be street savvy. Anything can happen anywhere in the world.

@kevinpoole1543 Ай бұрын

Exactly. There was a shooting less than a mile a away from me in my generally safe Seattle suburb last night. I've been all throughout Mexico, Lebanon and other "unsafe" countries and have never been close to a shooting.

@betsybarnicle8016 27 күн бұрын

Statistics matter. Go ahead and live in la la land.

@barryhaley7430 27 күн бұрын

Except maybe Japan. I’ve seen women use their purse as placeholders in Starbucks and go buy their coffee.

@kelleyprice3450 Ай бұрын

Labadee Haiti is quite beautiful, but Haiti overall is definitely not safe right now. What's really sad is that by not stopping there, the folks who had jobs, now have no way to earn a living and so are really suffering. It's a terrible situation.

@kt4944 2 ай бұрын

As a young female & mostly solo traveler I virtually always book the excursions with the cruise line. While of course something bad can happen anywhere and with anyone I’d rather take my chances with them, not to mention the convenience. I’d very much rather pay a bit extra and be overtly precautious.

@bibibachmd9995 2 ай бұрын

I do the same especially In places like Jordan but really anywhere.

@dakg8034 2 ай бұрын

Makes perfect sense.

@barryhaley7430 Ай бұрын

If you were my daughter, sister, mother or wife I would think it well spent. And yes, even with a well vetted tour by the cruise line, something could still happen but life is a balance of managing risks.

@hassanalihusseini1717 Ай бұрын

@@bibibachmd9995 But Jordan really save. May be some hustlers who want to sell stuff, but no violence. Don't hesitate to visit!

@mchapman1928 Ай бұрын

Years ago friends, avid cruisers, were in Mexico. They were middle aged, slightly overweight, and well dressed. They took a cab to sight see. The cabbie drove them out to the middle of nowhere, robbed them, stole everything, jewelry, money, credit cards, passports too, and left them stranded. They managed to get back to the ship, but never got their stuff back. They were badly shaken.

@anngratton1855 2 ай бұрын

The number of ladies I saw wearing flashy jewelry and carrying expensive hand bags on my last cruise was shocking to me. I wear no jewelry and carry a slash proof, lockable travel cross body bag which is far from pretty but very secure. Like someone else said, even knock off handbags or costume jewelry can make you a target.

@schwan44 Ай бұрын

In Rome, you look like a target, jewelry or not. With the right precautions, like a crossbody bag, I would still go to Rome, though. You have to be most careful in the subway and the most touristy areas.

@Loralanthalas Ай бұрын

Poor people living above thier means love to be flashy. I've never met somone with wealth who's priorities are showing others they actually have wealth.

@FrankFox-yu1xf Ай бұрын

What is the brand of travel bag you use- or a link?

@anngratton1855 Ай бұрын

@@FrankFox-yu1xf it is a PacSafe brand bag. They also make backpacks. I am very happy with it! It even washes well

@a.leehilliard4716 Ай бұрын

@@Loralanthalasexactly

@BeautifulKittenOfLove Ай бұрын

Once on a cruise to Chile I was "snatched" by a Peruvian flute band and held captive! Thank God I had gotten to know my cabin steward Alejandro VERY well onboard. He rescued me by trading me for a chicken and a Celine Dion CD. Bless you my little Filipino angel!

@robbyfre981 28 күн бұрын

I know it's not funny,but a chicken and CD,Celine would be so proud,it's th chicken,it shows how desperate these poor folks are,good outcome,he was your angel,thanks

@BeautifulKittenOfLove 27 күн бұрын

@@robbyfre981 You are too adorable...people like you are so rare, we need to wrap you in bubble wrap and protect you at all costs!

@BeautifulKittenOfLove 22 күн бұрын

Please stop flirting with me....Alejandro and I are very happy together.

@markreynolds9135 17 күн бұрын

I can only imagine what they did to you with their flutes.

@danielintheantipodes6741 2 ай бұрын

Great tips! A group of men tried to scam/rob me in Paris near the Eiffel Tower. I was rescued by two lovely plain clothes policemen. It could have got nasty because I realised what was happening and started to run! They saw and recognised the police and disappeared! Thank you for the video!

@markreynolds9135 17 күн бұрын

You started running. 😂😂 That wasn’t because you were under attack, it was because of your diarrhea.

@granthurlburt4062 8 күн бұрын

@@markreynolds9135 WHAT are you talking about? have you ever been to Europe or outside your home town?

@margiewinslow872 Ай бұрын

I'm travel savvy but last time I was in Florence, an elderly lady fainted dead away right in our path. As soon as my husband and I bent down to see if we could help her up. A swarm of teens surrounded us and turned every pocket and tried to grab anything they could. The whole fainting bit was a scam. Until then I was wondering why locals merely stepped over the " poor little ladies."

@Sashazur 22 күн бұрын

Another ruse they use to distract you is to shove some kind of fake survey in your face. Just keep walking and don’t even talk to them except to say NO!

@granthurlburt4062 8 күн бұрын

That is the biggest worry in Europe. Pickpocketing. Not physical violence or anything more. Just use a money belt or a pouch hanging inside your clothes. Hang on careflly to your phone and camera. Much of the US is far more dangerous.

@wakeywarrior Ай бұрын

People think the RCI area in Haiti is miles from anywhere. It isn’t, Labadee is only a few miles from a major city with cathedral, and a road runs straight from the city to the Labadee beach area, just a few miles away. I think though the video is a little alarmist. Cozumel is pretty safe really. As is Nassau and the European resorts. If a shooting of some local/ gang member stops you going, you wouldn’t go to any U.S. city.

@kentfrederick8929 Ай бұрын

A friend is a pilot with a major U.S. airline. In the 1990s and 2000s, it was common for flight crews to have overnight layovers in Mexican and other Central American cities. But, for more than 10 years, flights to Central America are now all turns, i.e., fly to the city, the turn and fly back to the U.S. hub airport. Management and the unions agree that it's no longer safe for pilots and flight attendants to have overnight stays.

@atcdude067 Ай бұрын

Ever consider it’s a money saving for the airline to not pay for their staff to overnight at expensive resorts?

@kentfrederick8929 Ай бұрын

@atcdude067 They still get overnight stays on islands in the Caribbean. Further one of the secrets of the hotel industry is that hotels booked for flight crews get some pretty steep discounts, because the owner/operator knows there will be X number of rooms booked every night, and crews tend to eat in hotel restaurants. When I was a practicing lawyer, I represented an airport hotel that was the crew hotel for the original Midway Airlines. The hotel was an upscale brand, and rooms were going for 60% off rack rates. From what friends of mine who work for airlines, it's not that much different today.

@granthurlburt4062 8 күн бұрын

Very sad.

@RussClarkRocks 2 ай бұрын

I'm a musician working on ships all over the Caribbean. Heartbreaking to see Cozumel make this list. Always a crew favorite.

@AnnaBanana-rq9vh Ай бұрын

I think it’s ridiculous to put Cozumel on there

@rockymntdan1 Ай бұрын

@@AnnaBanana-rq9vh Someone forgot to send the check to the State Dept. politician.

@jahnacarlson3528 Ай бұрын

My husband and I were on Cozumel Island Feb 2024 during Carnavale. Walked everywhere and felt safe, even at night walking home from the Carnavale parade.

@fluffytail6355 Ай бұрын

Cozumel is fine and shouldn’t be on this list at all

@brucefrytz8611 2 ай бұрын

If the US Dept of State had ratings for Galveston, New Orleans, and Miami cruise ports they would also be Level 3 or 4...

@cdtheque Ай бұрын

Shh…you are not supposed to say that. 😂

@kathybrem880 Ай бұрын

No kidding

@janinegreer4771 Ай бұрын

😅😅😂😂

@ronv6637 Ай бұрын

Rate Chiraq(Chicago) more dangerous than any he mentioned

@ericabaliotis6973 Ай бұрын

This is exactly what I tell people when they wince at some of our destinations in Mexico. Dude, we visit New Orleans every year, and our last domestic trip was to Philadelphia. Everyone is wonderful and welcoming. Don’t look for trouble and you likely won’t find it.

@donaldhackler5242 Ай бұрын

I once represented a pickpocket and he told me he always looks for the easiest targets. Jewelry, fancy watches and expensive clothes also make you a target. Also make it difficult to get to your wallet and travel documents. I usually carry the necessary documents in a cloth holster under my shirt and I usually wear a jacket on top of that.

@AlistairKiwi Ай бұрын

I remember, as a child, having holidays in Russell New Zealand where once every other week a c Luise ship carrying Americans would arrive. This was the 70s. All shops doubled their prices but had store window painters "paint half off sale" on the doubled prices every day that the cruise ship was there. So New Zealand.

@lorenwillis425 2 ай бұрын

30 years ago, my wife and I felt unsafe in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Our excursion stopped in a local marketplace. We and others on the tour returned to the bus early because of how uncomfortable it was.

@kathybrem880 Ай бұрын

I’ve been there--loved it

@fluffytail6355 Ай бұрын

30 years ago, there was much civil unrest in the country

@patty109109 Ай бұрын

We were in Jamaica 15 years ago on a cruise stop, same area, visiting dunns falls. I felt virtually accosted walking out by the vendors. Negative experience. Street vendors there are hyper aggressive.

@user-ch1ls6sg1y 20 күн бұрын

@@patty109109 "were" hyper aggressive

@jec1ny 2 ай бұрын

The first rule for staying safe is use common sense. Haiti and Mexico are both high crime countries and probably worse than you may realize as most crimes in both go unreported. In either country I wouldn't go anywhere outside a high security port area. When I was in the navy many years ago, I learned some precautions that I continue to practice to the present day when traveling. I keep only a minimal amount of money in my wallet and no credit cards or ID. Wallets are what pick pockets generally go for. If you get mugged just toss your wallet in their general direction and run. Keep your ID and extra cash spread out over other pockets and hard to get places in your clothes. I used to keep a $20 bill in each of my shoes while on liberty, just in case. ($20 went a lot farther back then.) I never take more than one bank card with me and my passport always stays locked up in the hotel/cabin safe. A photocopy of my passport works for going out.

@ronv6637 Ай бұрын

I have some fake movie money in a money clip to use as bait, if they got it they'll get arrested or beaten for trying to pass fake money. Be sure to throw the money to allow a quick open exit.

@patty109109 Ай бұрын

Yep, taking passport around in an easily accessed pocket is begging for trouble.

@lisagardner903 Ай бұрын

I am so angry about the 3 surfers that were murdered for their truck tires that I refuse to go on any cruises that stop there.

@annietiques1803 Ай бұрын

That incident was on the Pacific coast of Mexico in Ensenada, approximately 2800 miles from Cozumel on the East Coast of Mexico in the Caribbean Sea

@toddr2265 Ай бұрын

Just got back from an RC cruise that stopped in Ensenada. Not a great port. The shop people in town are very aggressive and you will be approached every few minutes from someone begging for money for an operation. Catalina made up for it though.

@user-vz8ln7pr7e Ай бұрын

It was so sad and horrible. The parents lost 2 sons for what? Tires? Cruel people

@cherylspencer3662 25 күн бұрын

From San Diego, and no one I know travels to Baja California anymore.

@granthurlburt4062 8 күн бұрын

Millions of people visit Mexico every year. Those guys were off the beaten track. I'm sad it happened but it more rare than being killed by a lightning strike.

@ddebdiva 2 ай бұрын

I noticed a lot of my fellow passengers were advertising their tourist status by carrying a cruise line canvas bag or having their cruise card on a lanyard around their neck. One can't blame the city for not being alert and wise as a traveler.

@anarwally 2 ай бұрын

Just got back from vacation in Jamaica. We stayed at an all inclusive hotel outside Montego Bay. We had arranged several trips while there, snorkeling, a tour to a rum distillery and tubing. We always had arranged for someone drive us to the activity and back. At no time did we feel unsafe. If we just went out wandering around by ourselves it may have been different.

@edgregory1 Ай бұрын

You sound soft.

@katenl8976 Ай бұрын

That sounds awful! Not a vacation for me. I go in vacation to explore the country, not only by organised trips. Otherwise I could just stay in my own country.

@anarwally Ай бұрын

@@katenl8976 We were only there for a couple of days and this was easier and let us do things we would have missed. Also first time in Jamaica so we didn't have to figure out public transportation. We were in Europe a few years ago and did the exact opposite and did our own thing as much as possible.

@daliapeddle7783 29 күн бұрын

Feeling safe doesn't mean you are safe.

@lindajarvis4919 2 ай бұрын

My husband and I bought a bus ferry pass when we docked in Bermuda. We felt safe. Grand cayman we felt safe also but went by tour. The other places he mentioned including Rome we were very cautious. Saw very questionable people around the colosseum including the train station. Just because you are on vacation, other people are not. Protect your valuables and be aware.

@elisaastorino2881 2 ай бұрын

I've been to Bermuda twice on cruises and always felt safe. I've been to Rome several times and the situation around the coliseum and Termini station has always been like that, unfortunately.

@xr6lad 2 ай бұрын

I have walked down back streets at night and spent two weeks in Rome and never felt unsafe. There’s ‘unsafe’ then there’s paranoia.

@paulbunion6233 2 ай бұрын

I wonder if the comparative safety of Bermuda has anything to do with its British colonial ties ? different culture

@alex9621 2 ай бұрын

@@xr6ladExactly, also pickpocketers aren't gonna hurt you. Yes it might be a pain but it's not like they are gonna pull a weapon on you like they might in the US

@dchenkin02 2 ай бұрын

Bermuda is a British protectorate, not an independent country. Bermuda also is wealthy due to population controls giving its residents land.

@stephanledford9792 27 күн бұрын

I have only been on one cruise many years ago, and the cruise line went over their sponsored excursions, cancelling one going to Tulum, Mexico, because a tour bus going to the site had been recently stopped by armed men who robbed everyone, and a rafting event in Jamaica because of a similar incident. I did "sting-ray-city" in the Cayman Islands, did the island tour at Cozumel and rode in a bus across the top of Jamaica to climb the waterfall at Ocho Rios. One of the selling points of the sponsored tours is that they would not leave you if you did not get back to the ship on time. I visited with a couple who did not do the sponsored tour and were late and missed getting on the ship at the Cayman Islands, chartered a private plane to fly ahead to Montego Bay, where they had to spend the night locked in a room at the airport till the cruise office was open the next day and could straighten things out. Their passports were with the ship.

@user-xs9fp3ic9y 2 ай бұрын

It’s up to you if you take notice. Gary is telling you the dangers. It’s not just pickpockets it’s mugging and murders. The foreign office only gives advice if it’s a dangerous place.

@lizcademy4809 2 ай бұрын

@@gracealleman4102 There are light scary people too. And some places are worth visiting, even if there's risk - if you can take actions to lower the risk. I would not skip the Acropolis because the metro is dangerous ... I'd use a different form of transportation.

@xr6lad 2 ай бұрын

@@lizcademy4809if you think the Greek metro it’s dangerous we have reached a new level of paranoia.

@lizcademy4809 2 ай бұрын

@@xr6lad I don't know how dangerous it is; I've never been on it. But Gary called it out as having a lot of pickpockets. Not that it really matters ... anyone who thinks any metro is 100% safe and completely lets their guard down is in danger. And that applies just as much to my home city's metro in the upper midwest, USA (not Chicago).

@sylviekins 2 ай бұрын

@@xr6ladI see the Australian government is warning about Malmö in Sweden, because of the risk of protests. Even places we used to think were safe seem not to be safe anymore.

@RussClarkRocks 2 ай бұрын

@@gracealleman4102 Spoken like someone who's never been out of Sheboygan.

@TheTravelScouts 2 ай бұрын

Hi Gary! Thanks for the mention! We love your show!

@tipsfortravellers 2 ай бұрын

Thanks for watching! Likewise really enjoy all your news and updates !

@markreynolds9135 17 күн бұрын

I also gave you a shout out to the person in the stall next to me. Unfortunately, due to the significant flatulence noises emanating from them, they may not have heard me.

@evelynhillier2877 Ай бұрын

Thanks, Gary. Great advice, as ever! When we cruise into Nassau, my brother, who lives there, picks us up, and we spend the day with him. It's great!

@RTD3 Ай бұрын

They need to add Miami, New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles to that list. 😂😂

@maxinef6654 Ай бұрын

Differently. The travel list needs to be updated to include our own country. 😂

@lngvly22 Ай бұрын

Miami is very safe - especially in areas south of the Miami River. New York is also pretty safe.

@TOhara-eb2lp 8 күн бұрын

The good part is that when you are a native of NY, you’re to experienced and smart to get your pocket picked.

@exploreconmigo9090 2 ай бұрын

Excellent information! Thanks for the update!

@katcalico9142 2 ай бұрын

Seriously though. Last week I had a friend witness a broad daylight shooting from his Capitol Hill apartment and one of my coworkers got mugged on the way to work. I live in Washington DC. Be safe, be smart, be alert.

@CCB249 2 ай бұрын

It is a shame about DC. It is one of my favorite places. We live in Maryland.

@dwillbecancelledsoon4086 2 ай бұрын

Around bIax, never reIax

@sjuas690 2 ай бұрын

Luck not many cruises stop in Washington DC.

@power4things 2 ай бұрын

I wonder if these countries have travel warnings for visiting the US.

@marcd6897 Ай бұрын

@@power4thingssome actually do. And wait until November timeframe to see what the yellow clown and his cult may have up their sleeves….

@kathleenhudson8429 2 ай бұрын

Thanks for the information. I am traveling to Europe next year, so the warning is appreciated. I am sorry to hear about Cozumel. I haven’t been there since 2018, and it was wonderful then. When I am in areas that might have pickpockets, I take extra precautions. All the zippers on my cross-body purse can be secured. And that purse has wires woven in the body and straps, so it can’t be cut easily. I keep most of my money and cards in a belt pouch. And I keep my passport in a pocketed scarf around my neck. I know this won’t help with a violent theft, but it does deter pickpockets.

@happycook6737 Ай бұрын

Your neck is your airway. Don't put anything around your neck because it gives bad players a lot of control! They can grab and easily strangle.

@barbaralazier8352 2 ай бұрын

As a solo traveller I do pay attention to the alerts which ports are dangerous 🇨🇦

@jturie 2 ай бұрын

We treat Ocho Rios as a sea day. Funny, the ship was empty until about noon and they all came running back to the ship when they saw the neighborhood. No issues with pier runners at that stop!

@firecat-dy9go 2 ай бұрын

We did the same at Ocho Rios and Cozumel 👍🏼

@jillcnc 2 ай бұрын

As someone with 19 land-based trips to Jamaica under my belt (including 2 at all-inclusives in Ocho Rios) everyone knew to stay away from downtown on cruise ship day. But even when the ships are not in port, the craft market in Ocho Rios can be highly stressful if you aren't prepared for it. The sales tactics are like a sledgehammer and everyone has the same stuff. Remember -- these are people who are just trying to earn a living and this is how they do it, and they're all competing for the same people. Another thing: while in Jamaica, tip EVERYONE. If a guy points you to where the rest room is, tip him. No joke. Not that it's threatening, but it's expected. Honestly? A cruise ship is NOT how to see Jamaica. Book a hotel, get to know your hotel staff and you'll make new friends -- and learn something too.

@janetwinder7651 Ай бұрын

❤@@jillcnc

@kathybrem880 Ай бұрын

I love the place

@fluffytail6355 Ай бұрын

Ugh pleeeez. Ocho Rios is as safe as you can get.

@philipk917 2 ай бұрын

WOW, thank you so much for the "Heads Up" information. Good to know. Well Wishes for you and yours. ❤🧡❤

@howardosden3112 2 ай бұрын

Thanks for the shout-out to Cruise Scouts, my favorite cruise news channel. 👍

@pauldickerson3686 2 ай бұрын

Thanks for mentioning Travel Scouts. We enjoy them as well.

@cdtheque Ай бұрын

The world is a dangerous place. You should always be aware and only take what you need when you are out and about. Also if you are that scared stay home. You will have more control over your surroundings and much less risk. Travel and experiencing new things involves risk.

@37Raffaella Ай бұрын

There is a difference between uSA “danger” and EU danger…

@user-vz8ln7pr7e Ай бұрын

I will avoid any places I get a bad feeling about. Common sense.

@akeolsson8020 2 ай бұрын

In Roatan we chose an excursion to the private island of Maya Key. Not too expensive. Well maintained and we felt totally safe

@MatthewL1973 2 ай бұрын

It’s a shame to have ports of call where the safER option is stay on board or stay within the secure port area filled with less than authentic cultural experience. That is a failed destination/port in my opinion. Not what I paid for or wanted. It’s a disappointment

@barryhaley7430 Ай бұрын

Unfortunately it’s the real world.

@betsybarnicle8016 27 күн бұрын

Right. I think the generic sandy beach, palm trees and tshirt shops aren't what I'm looking for when I travel to another country. I want to see their nature, cultural restaurants, local-made items, art, and historical areas. (to each their own) But I don't need to take a cruise to see beaches and gift shops, since I can see those in many southern USA coasts within a few hours drive.

@barryhaley7430 27 күн бұрын

I haven’t booked Caribbean cruises for the ports in decades. I book for the weather. Much more pleasant than Canada in the winter. When I was healthy enough to scuba dive I would get off at Cayman and Cozumel for two tank dives, then back on the ship. Another was Saint Martin where we have a favorite restaurant for lunch. Other than that, I enjoy the balcony and having the ship to myself.

@granthurlburt4062 8 күн бұрын

At least for Europe, that's alarmist advice. Just keep your cards and money in a travel pouch hanging inside your clothes. I've spent total of 2 months or more travelling in Europe, usually as a solo traveller, with several days in each of Istanbul, Barcelona (two visits, 1 failed pickpocketing-I caught the guy and got my wallet back); madrid, Valencia, Vienna, Paris (lost cash but not cards in my only pickpocketing experience), London (8 times), Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat. In 1994, travelled mostly solo in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. 1988, 5 weeks in Greece (scammed once-my own fault). I always took local transport and went to tourist attractions, always careful, and wandered in markets, ate in local restaurants.

@betsybarnicle8016 8 күн бұрын

@@granthurlburt4062 It's not just pickpocketing and theft - it's some ports where kidnappings, rapes, and violence have been significant enough to raise a red flag. And remember that these tourist-income places are reluctant to report all their anti-tourist crime, so the stats you see are just the tip of the iceberg. (For example, I used to work at the Key West Chamber of Commerce, and news was definately filtered and suppressed.)

@well-blazeredman6187 2 ай бұрын

Good video. Surprised to learn that Haiti is a cruise destination. In Venice at the end of March. Warm and uncrowded, it cried out to be visited in low-season.

@julieDJTFP 2 ай бұрын

My opinion is that it doesn't matter where you go, you need to be careful. But three things I learned from living in a city with crime... Don't flaunt wealth... Any wealth.. The Kate Spade purse may look super cute but they are more likely to steal that than my $40 purse. Have a plan. I've seen confused people in completely safe ports get targeted and ripped off by locals who 'want to help'. An extra one is don't pull your whole wallet out to buy something. When you do this, you put it's contents on display. Have a little purse with maybe a card and a few bills and pull that out instead. If you absolutely have to then put it away immediately. Most people step away from the cash register and then put it away... Don't do that.. You just created an opportunity. And opportunities are what people need to commit crimes.

@Jsfrog 2 ай бұрын

For pickpocket defense I like the Clothing Arts (online) brand, with multiple security features, plus they're comfortable for travel. And no, I don't work for them, I just like them. I have two of their pants and one shirt, and am thinking of getting shorts.

@sarahj.5970 2 ай бұрын

Wonderful help and discussion as usual.

@grahamford4870 2 ай бұрын

Pickpockets are common in most crowded places and particularly on public transport and at tourist attractions. Just be a bit extra vigilant and don’t flaunt any wealth and it’s fine in Barcelona, Rome, Athens, Paris, London and Western Europe generally etc. Additionally, if going out at night, don’t wander down dark alleyways on your own. Just common sense. Also remember that if you are elderly, as many cruise passengers are, you may be perceived as an easier target than more middle aged people so just take a bit of extra care.

@TOhara-eb2lp Ай бұрын

The Gypsies in Montenegro are the worst.

@granthurlburt4062 8 күн бұрын

Quite right. I travelled on public transport in London and other parts of England, Paris (5 days), Vienna (6 days), Berlin (4 days), Barcelona (2 separate occasions, stayed several days each time), Istanbul (1 week, local transport daily), Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Madrid (1 night), Bordeaux in the past 10 years. Cleverly pickpocketed on the Paris Metro.They took my cash & I got my wallet with credit cards back. Kept my wallet inside my pants after a 2nd failed pickpocketing in Barcelona (I caught the guy). No problems or threats otherwise. 20 yrs ago, a week in Athens (no problems), couple of days in Iraklion. 2 weeks travelling up and down the Nile-trains and buses and local transport in Aswan, and Luxor & a week in Cairo (took subway several times, and also taxis). I've never been on a cruise

@hollybirge4087 2 ай бұрын

Knowing pick pockets were a problem in Italy before I went last year, I bought a bag for carrying my wallet, phone, etc that had all zipper closures. I never let it out of my sight either when I sat down. Had no problems and an amazing time in Italy.

@markcollins2666 2 ай бұрын

Where I live, in a port city in SE Asia, everyone carries sling bags, and carry absolutely nothing in their pockets. What freedom! It's easy to spot the difference between natives and tourists, because tourists don't have them. It's the first thing I look for. Sling bags can be protected by both hands. My 7 year old wallet still looks brand new, because it has never been in a pocket.

@Lifeinbelize Ай бұрын

Great info as always. Thank you

@Verpal 2 ай бұрын

I have conflicting feeling about port call on Labadee, on one hand it is indeed in an extreme dangerous country, all it take is one particularly aggressive gang to overrun the security. On the other hand, that means local Haitian lost one of the last safe job in a relatively secured location.

@jeffstoeger2974 2 ай бұрын

Gary, great video and great advice. Thanks for giving some great travel advice.

@tipsfortravellers 2 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

@katiesjoyfullife 2 ай бұрын

We just got back from a Western Caribbean cruise 2 weeks ago. Hubby & I decided that was a one & done itinerary for us. It’s nowhere near as beautiful as the Eastern & Southern Caribbean ports, plus, we only ventured out in Roatán & Belize because we purchased excursions through Princess. We felt safe on those, but wouldn’t have gone exploring on our own like we did in St. Maarten or Antigua.

@kathybrem880 Ай бұрын

I rather agree-eastern and southern are definitely better

@Joanv314 Ай бұрын

So r you saying that St Maarten n Antigua were not safe ? Thanks

@katiesjoyfullife Ай бұрын

@@Joanv314 no, I’m saying that we did feel safe getting off the ship & exploring St. Maarten & Antigua when we were there. We didn’t feel safe doing that in the ports on our Western itinerary, mainly because two of them were in Mexico. My brother in law is of Mexican descent (his parents were born there), but he’s also in law enforcement, and he says there is NO way he would go there. He knows too much about how the cartels operate there…

@Joanv314 Ай бұрын

@@katiesjoyfullife thanks Katie

@sheilaathay2034 Ай бұрын

Thank you Sir. You're a dear for sharing this with everyone❤🎉

@reenakemp9132 2 ай бұрын

I live in the very touristy Gatlinburg TN, right outside the Great Smoky Mountains NP. Pickpocketing and car theft are rampant here. It is to be expected in tourist areas.

@patwilkinson2182 2 ай бұрын

Great tips

@LMays-cu2hp Ай бұрын

Thank you for sharing the industry.😊

@eastcoast4233 2 ай бұрын

I really like your tips and know you do cover some excursion highlights where relevant, I’d be interested to see you do some reviews of ports of call to help people decide their itinerary rather than the ship or region. 😊👍

@janethunt4037 2 ай бұрын

Thank you Gary!

@Bill_N_ATX 2 ай бұрын

I remember going to Nassau in the 80s and as long as you stayed in the city proper, you were as safe as any good city in the US and a lot better than many in the US. In fact, most people were very friendly, and the local community would not tolerate crime against the tourists since that’s how they made their living. In Mexico and Central America, it’s a similar story. Being from Texas we used to go to Mexico to party and have a good time often. Other than the usual tourist scams, it was very safe. Again, they knew where the money came from. Now days, I’m not going to Mexico without a Seal Team for protection. As for Europe, the only place I got pick pocketed was in Paris on the Metro. I didn’t really care, all they got was a wallet with scrap paper in it. My real wallet and credit cards were under a couple layers of clothes. They’d have had to undress me to get to those. Give them an easy wallet and they don’t go looking.

@nicholashall4625 2 ай бұрын

I found Nassau more tacky than unsafe. I was onshore for 30 minutes and had enough

@user-vz8ln7pr7e Ай бұрын

If you book a hotel room near the Atlantis , they will give you wrist bands to get into the Atlantis pool.

@kathyoliva6966 2 ай бұрын

Thank you Gary ❤️

@billyholly 2 ай бұрын

At the 11:30 mark, an actor friend of mine is playing a fake cab driver, LOL!!! Go, Carlos!

@elisaastorino2881 2 ай бұрын

It's called stock footage

@billyholly 2 ай бұрын

@@elisaastorino2881 Yes, I know. I just was suprised, thinking of the low odds of this happening, seeing an actor I had worked with. It was really fun, considering he might still be based in Ukraine and the war is still going on.

@Xquisitiv 2 ай бұрын

Pretty sure you’re “family”. I always appreciate your perspective and opinions. Thank you for looking out for us!

@a.leehilliard4716 Ай бұрын

No one cares

@bridgetlyons876 25 күн бұрын

I’ve never cruised, nor do I plan to. But I love your videos. Interesting and you have a nice relaxing voice. Thank you. 😊

@user-vi6ii7qf7m 2 ай бұрын

Thank you for talking about this. When I go ashore I lower the risk of being pick-pocketed, as a man, by wearing pants that make it hard for them to target you. If they see that it would be difficult to pick-pocket you, they will look for an easier victim. Also, I do not take anything in my wallet (or person) I don't think I'll need when going ashore. People need to use common sense when cruising. I call it applying CLR (no, not the cleaner, lol) Common Sense, Logic & Reason. Have you done a video about things to do to lesson your chances of being pick-pocketed and harmed? Happy Cruising!

@philstanton231 2 ай бұрын

How did you get on with travel insurance with those warnings Gary?

@randikristensen4784 2 ай бұрын

Why does all cruise lines go to the same ports? And if there are millions of visitors to the ports and the people who lives there are not benefiting from it you can of course expect problems. Barcelona and Venice haw problem with over crowded and people who work there cant find somewhere to live.I think there have too be a discussion abaut how much tourism a place can sustain so it will be a win win for both parties 😊

@sheismymom 21 күн бұрын

I stayed at a resort in Montego Bay back in 2014 we stayed on the resort most of the time and only went out with trips booked through the resort. We were right by the cruise ship port had a lovely view from our balcony.

@barryhaley7430 2 ай бұрын

I long ago decided not to get off the ship in Jamaica or Nassau. My daughter lived on Roatan for a year. Highly dangerous. Also a stay on the ship. My daughter renamed Coxswain Hole to Toxin Hole. When I went to the bank you enter a lobby where an armed guard, armed with an M16, requires you to check your gun before they let you into the bank.

@meengla Ай бұрын

Yeah, the bank security! We were in Punta Arenas just a few weeks ago and wife and I went to a bank near the port to break a $100 bill; I was allowed in by the armed guard while wife wasn't and she waited in the sweltering heat outside. They did a metal scan on me as well checked my carryon. That's Costa Rica--one of the supposedly safest and prosperous countries south of the border. Also, there was widespread poverty and broken infrastructure right around the port. PS. The bank was one of the VERY few places with AC to escape the heat/humidity.

@barryhaley7430 Ай бұрын

@@meengla We loved Costa Rica when there but that was 20 years ago. We felt perfectly safe there. Traveled all over. It has a good economy with a highly literate population. It’s only had one military coup attempt in 1946, it failed and they banned the army. We were in Guanacaste, the northwestern province. Beautiful weather, beautiful people. I hope it hasn’t changed. The source of crime then was from Nicaragua. We also experienced their universal healthcare system. My wife split her elbow and need a couple of stitches. They were free! But they recommended a tetanus shot and profusely apologized for the $10 fee!

@meengla Ай бұрын

@@barryhaley7430 I am sure your experience was great. Costa Rica has been constantly sold as a bright spot south of the border. What I narrated was our very limited exposure to the port area of Punta Arenas. Maybe busy cruise ports attract some 'attention'. Looking at the people around the port, it was easy to see a lot of poverty and there was a general sense of being in an unsafe place. I gave you the bank example.

@barryhaley7430 Ай бұрын

@@meengla Oh, I wasn’t criticizing your comments. I was just hoping it hasn’t become the norm. Costa Rica was one of the few bright spots.

@meengla Ай бұрын

@@barryhaley7430 Oh, no worries. I understood you fine. We had different experiences and in different eras. I think Costa Rica is probably still a rare 'bright spot' south of the border and I shouldn't let the Punta Arena port area experience cloud my judgments. Thank you for a civil discourse!

@Billsgirlify 2 ай бұрын

We are taking the Mediterranean cruise from msc in August / September. We don’t get off in Barcelona but we do get of in Rome on a group tour. I always have a bag with me that’s in front of my body and I can hold

@deejayk5939 2 ай бұрын

We were always careful in the Bahamas and in Grenada, you have to use common sense wherever you go, don’t wander into unsafe areas. Holds true in the U.S. as well as in the rest of the world.

@debbieboswell5785 2 ай бұрын

We were in Rome, Athens, Olympia etc last year and we were fine. Just exercise caution keep the bare minimum of things with you. Use a pouch to keep them in so they are not visible.

@meatpockets 2 ай бұрын

How are you supposed to know if you’re in what’s unsafe area or not? For example when I was on a Royal Caribbean cruise to Rotan, Honduras, it seemed like a distressed area even in the port.

@dwillbecancelledsoon4086 2 ай бұрын

Basically wherever there is “diversity” 👨🏿‍🦱, keep your guard up.

@Tolpuddle581 2 ай бұрын

Our friends lived on their boat for four years in the Florida Bahamas area they often remarked how the Bahamas has a sinister underbelly where crime is covered up to protect that exotic location identity they treasure so much.

@stevebarlow3154 2 ай бұрын

@@Tolpuddle581 The Bahamas is part of a major smuggling route of narcotics into the US.

@LingaeroFCL055 2 ай бұрын

"Cox in hole" is my new favourite cruise destination.

@tonynavarro2531 2 ай бұрын

I have my pockets inside out while walking in Rome. People pointed at my pockets and were smiling.

@mykofreder1682 Ай бұрын

I where a vest with deep pockets and zippers, nothing of importance in other pockets.

@barryhaley7430 Ай бұрын

Well here’s an interesting first hand experience in Rome. My wife and I hop into a taxi. She jumps into the back seat to find an high end camera left behind. We know it’s high end because my wife was a professional photographer. The driver says OMG, I remember where I dropped those people off. Do you mind if we go there first? We, of course, say sure. He takes off like a bat out of hell as Rome taxi drivers do and we arrive at a hotel and he runs in to the hotel and finds the previous passengers who are totally grateful. He refuses a tip. Then drives back to the stand where we jumped in and turns on the meter before driving us to our destination. There are still some good people!

@hassanalihusseini1717 Ай бұрын

That is great, may be I try that one day, too.

@Loralanthalas Ай бұрын

...ok

@TP-om8of 22 күн бұрын

I out a mousetrap in my pocket.

@SeaTravelr123 2 ай бұрын

Gary, did you ever work for Ocean Village cruises? After listening to you for so long the thought just crossed my mind. Anyway, great video. Sad that it needed to be said. One you left off the list is Naples. 💔

@shaggyofwv 2 ай бұрын

We never felt unsafe when we visited Belize City. Of course we didn’t wander around on our own, we took a cruise ship sponsored excursion to the Mayan ruins of Lamanai (highly recommended). As far as Jamaica, we didn’t go far into Ocho Rios as we didn’t feel very safe. Nassau can be dangerous, but we never had any issues. We have always loved Cozumel. We typically take a ferry to the mainland, but may not be doing that anymore due to all the issues in Mexico.

@fluffytail6355 Ай бұрын

You don’t need to go “far” into Ocho Rios. You’re only shopping for souvenirs anyway. Everything else you have on board.

@shaggyofwv Ай бұрын

@@fluffytail6355 Ocho Rios sucks.

@ladysmum7819 Ай бұрын

Thanks Gary. As usual great advice. We went to Cozumel & Honduras at New Year and someone was shot - not from our cruise but a cruise passenger I think in Roatan. In those countries is well worth paying the extra to book a planned excursion either with the cruise company or with a reputable company.

@fluffytail6355 Ай бұрын

Roatan has been dangerous for years outside the cruise port

@vikker8274 26 күн бұрын

So sad to hear that about Cozumel. Such an incredibly beautiful place.

@desertpinevintage162 2 ай бұрын

I stayed onboard in Bahamas. Nassau is a one and done and it’s also getting bad there.

@FredrikCoulterMusic 2 ай бұрын

Before panicking about State Department Level 2 Travel Advisories, take a look at the world in general according to those same advisories. For example, most of Western Europe is under a Level 2 advisory (Increased Caution), as opposed to most of Eastern Europe which is under a Level 1 advisory. The State Department does not give contextual information about those advisories. Just how dangerous is the United States? Is it more dangerous to stay home than to travel to the United Kingdom (Level 2)? You can't tell from the State Department Travel Advisories. Personally, I'm avoiding Level 4 countries and mainly limiting myself to tours in Level 3 countries. But if I'm willing to go on my own in the United States, I'll explore on my own in Level 1 and Level 2 countries.

@elisaastorino2881 2 ай бұрын

If you want to ignore the warnings, that's your problem. And I've heard a lot of people like you going on about the safety here at home, usually adding how the US has no business issuing warnings about other countries. Any government, not just ours, has a duty to help its citizens abroad. It's as simple as that and has nothing to do with the situation at home, good or bad.

@deekang6244 2 ай бұрын

@@elisaastorino2881I think he’s just saying to be as careful as you are in the USA. No more, no less. Frankly, I watch my purse in my neighborhood. It’s safe, but let’s not be stupid.

@stevebarlow3154 2 ай бұрын

The answer to your question is that most American cities are far more dangerous than London and the big cities in the UK. The main danger to tourists is pickpocketing and mobile phone theft.

@taemyr Ай бұрын

@@deekang6244 Almost anywhere you go you are more at risk as an outsider than as a local.

@bibibachmd9995 2 ай бұрын

I wonder what rating the State Department would give cities like Chicago, NYC, and SF to name a few. Many of the Caribbean islands are not safe nor desirable. I usually stay on the ship. The ship tours include a lot of wasted time and there is not much to see. The best is Saint Bart's. Grenada, St. Thomas, St. Lucia and many others are dicey. Pickpockets all over. A woman passenger had her wallet stolen in Rhodes. I've witnessed one in the Paris Metro.

@user-vz8ln7pr7e Ай бұрын

Magan's bay in st Thomas is beautiful!! But always go with people

@SpookyEng1 7 күн бұрын

I don’t visit those cities either😂😂

@einezcrespo2107 Ай бұрын

I wasn't pickpocketed in Rome, Barcelona or Athens but I agree it's best to be aware that it can happen. In Barcelona one guy touched my backpack at a train station but I jumped out of the way and kept walking. I wasn't going to entertain any requests from someone for asking directions or chit chat from total strangers in a train station.

@Rosenburge 2 ай бұрын

The amount of times that cruises get cancelled from going to Rabaul due to civil unrest surely it's got to be high on the list for safety concern.

@tinawozniak374 Ай бұрын

Having just returned from a week in Belize I agree its the larger areas. We were in the mountain region and felt safe during the day. Belize City and Belmopan both have issues eith gang violence but a whole lot less than pther locations.

@rick-be Ай бұрын

We docked at some strange area of Ocho Rios,me being a big guy walked until I found a local restaurant and souvenir shop, where I was asked for money and vaguely threatened but then headed back to the ship.

@MyGrandfathersGranddaughter Ай бұрын

I was in Rome and Venice in 2023 and Athens in 2024 and had a great time in all three. I had a secure cross body travel bag that I always kept in front of me (with my hands securely on the bag when in a crowded area). You can easily protect yourself so please don’t avoid those 3 great cities because you fear being pick-pocketed. They are amazing cities.

@mikedemopoulos7096 2 ай бұрын

We have a Disney cruise to Nassau this summer, do you think the official tours from Disney are safe or safer?

@redhatbear1135 2 ай бұрын

The port itself is pretty safe but geared to tourists. I don’t recall too many good tours but there usually several to chose from. Depending on your travel preference I’d do a cruise tour because they know the places and were there to be road blocks from accidents whatever you’d still be able to return to your ship! In general we do about half and half private tours and sometimes our choice is due to time constraints. For what it is worth, we had a cruise ship tour bus breakdown in ST Kitts! Kinda surprising, we agreed to condense the end of the tour, leaving off the walking around and returned to the ship at sail time!

@PeriMedic1 2 ай бұрын

You should be fine on a cruise-organized excursion. I'd say the same for the ports he mentioned that are level 2. I have had friends rushed back to the port on cruise excursions due to harassment and threats, but they were in the level 3 countries.

@redhatbear1135 2 ай бұрын

@@PeriMedic1 The straw market can be annoying, it’s been a while, but it hasn’t been the market that is unsafe, but on occasion the streets around it. To me it’s lost its real appeal and become tourist junk from China.

@cydneystephen2814 2 ай бұрын

Well. Whether on vacation or your own state/city/town you live in; crime unfortunately is everywhere. We must be careful in general in life.

@BTScriviner 2 ай бұрын

If these cruise lines are creating their own private islands, doesn't that eliminate any positive economic benefit to the tourism industry of these countries?

@fluffytail6355 Ай бұрын

When people are on these threads and crying they feel “unsafe” in many ports and stay on the ship then what big economy boost are they bringing to any country anyway?

@Shawn152 Ай бұрын

I took a cruise sanctioned tour of Nassau back in 2018. Some of the areas they took us in made me feel really unsafe. It was a beautiful island overall but I was very glad to get back on the ship tbh.

@anthonywilliammitchell509 Ай бұрын

I've been to those EU ports and honestly I didn't feel any less safe there. You get pick pockets at all tourist destinations, keep your hands in your pockets and avoid distractions.

@brandtbecker1810 18 күн бұрын

I've travelled enough in my life. Toto and I are just going to explore around our home state of Kansas from now on...!

Ай бұрын

you have done a great job of convincing me to forgo all the cruising pleasures (note sarcasm) you have enumerated in this video

@SamWhite-ru6oq 2 ай бұрын

Are you still covered by travel insurance if you visit a place with a high risk? Best to check before you go.

@Sushi2735 6 күн бұрын

So very thankful you are a wise wise traveler. The poverty in the island has got ton even worse! When I traveled to the islands 50 yrs ago it was a lovely place to visit. Never ever put a toe off the ship in Jamaica ,Hattie , The Bahamas, Saint Croix. Actually DONT GO,! If the citizens don’t get you the Sharks will. Anywhere in Mexico, anywhere!.,., the poverty is so horrible, don’t risk it.. Just don’t go ! Stay safe!

@paulsparrow6981 2 ай бұрын

Is Monserrat still a common port of call?

@ESowder24 Ай бұрын

Will be doing Caribbean in Nov st Thomas ,St John’s Antigua and Barbuda, Road Town BVI , San Juan ,and Grand Turks and Caicos . All of them good ? Also hopefully no hurricanes

@papasquat355 2 ай бұрын

We just returned from the Leeward Antilles. I would prefer to ONLY visit those three islands from now on. Clean, safe, and beautiful.

@englishworldkitchen Ай бұрын

Found Roatan very safe when we went with RCCI and went to explore on our own. Sad about Labadee and I’ve know even before all the unrest once it got on the UK “do not travel list”most insurers voided policies. Knew of one chap who’s policy was void from leaving the UK to returning as the ship was docking in Labadee. As the stop in Haiti was planned, many UK insurance companies voided policies for the whole holiday even if you stayed on board. I’ve cruised all over the place and the few times in the Caribbean I’ve felt a little uncomfortable I’ve just kept to the main drag and headed back to the port area. Wherever I travel, some areas of the UK I work, especially London, are just a dangerous as cruise destination.

@harksta229 2 ай бұрын

Similar to comments by Verpal on this thread, in addition to the loss of crucial income for locals at manufactured on- land fenced off port stops like Labadee in Haiti; a big part the very reason for travel for many is to experience local cultures in their own environment. While I wholly concur with pragmatics and safety first, it will be a huge shame for many reasons if the Carribean becomes just a series of on-land sterilised extensions of the cruise ship, which was my experience of Labadee.

@GunRights4US 2 ай бұрын

I lived in Kingston Jamaica in 1980 & 81, married a Jamaican girl, and have regularly traveled to Jamaica for the last 44 years. Practice common sense WHEREVER you go and you’ll be no more in danger in Jamaica than you would be anywhere. Given there was a murder near my Jacksonville Florida home just last week, the concept of “safety” everywhere is a bit ridiculous. Live your life in a padded room if that’s what you want.

@tommyedodson2412 Ай бұрын

Always good advice. I'd add one big one to your list, The United States (all ports). Given the criteria of murders, muggings, theft and just about every other category, our country has it all in spades.

@gogreen7794 Ай бұрын

That's weird. I know lots of people in lots of US citues, including myself, and if we act really paranoid, we make it through every day without getting mugged or murdered.

@ejret Ай бұрын

i was in cozumel earlier this year.i was walking back to the ship when a big guy talked to me and offered bodyguard service among other things.i meet these guys everywhere i go but that was the first time i was offered a bodyguard....

@kellyr4479 21 күн бұрын

My sister and I went to Barcelona, Florence, Rome and Venice last summer. We didn’t have any problems with pick pocketers at all. It might have been because we dumped everything in our hotel room after a couple hours shopping/exploring

@luvtravel6207 2 ай бұрын

I just booked a HAL cruise for November, I only plan on getting off on their private Island. I’ve. Been to the other ports I’d rather enjoy the ship 🙃🛳️🛳️

@blucolife Ай бұрын

I did a cruise ship walking tour of Nassau and nothing happened to me. Our guide was amazing, she warned us about potholes, sidewalks that disappear, obstacles, etc. Also showed us amazing sights.

@jakefromstatefarm5204 Ай бұрын

Oh wow! I guess it's all good then! Bon voyage!! 👍

@jnew5274 9 күн бұрын

Thank you for writing this. People like to jump on a band wagon.

@blucolife 9 күн бұрын

@@jnew5274 It's crazy how close-minded cruisers can be. I see so many cruisers saying that Nassau and Freeport are "stay on the ship" ports. Where's their sense of adventure? I saw an amazing jungle walk with an incredible statue, a huge lighthouse, a governor's mansion, etc. I paid $40 and got entertained for 90 minutes.

@jnew5274 8 күн бұрын

@@blucolife I've heard people ask questions like do the people on these islands live in thatch houses? 🤦 I've heard that the only in Freeport is what you see at the harbour. It's based on what they are looking to do and are still closed minded about the effects that category 5 Dorian and then C-VID played. Still a long ways to go, in catching up, but it looks way better than it did back then. Take a tour with Mr Forbes who has a charter company.

@blucolife 8 күн бұрын

@@jnew5274 The Bahamas has problems, but it's not Ethiopia or Somalia. People do have running water, flushing toilets, cars, Internet, etc. Nassau was gorgeous, I loved those colorful houses. The streets were a little trashy, but you know what? So is my local Home Depot. American customers throw garbage all over the place, they have no respect for private property.