Sunday, October 29, 2006

In interviews, U.S. security officials, rental managers and Caribbean police listed precautions that travelers staying in hotels or villas in the Caribbean can take to mitigate dangers. Here are their recommendations:

· Before booking your lodging, check out sources on the Internet that discuss and evaluate crime at your destination. Start with the State Department's consular information sheets at http://travel.state.gov, which may indicate specific neighborhoods where crimes have occurred. Then do an Internet search on crime and the island, including the neighborhood where the property is located. Read online versions of island newspapers, which frequently cover local crimes thoroughly. And don't ignore locals' blogs, which can offer open discussions about crime-related issues.

· Ask the hotel or rental agency about crime at the property.

· Make sure the property is equipped with a security system: an alarm, guards or, at minimum, a fence. All windows and doors should have locks.

· Inquire at the police station nearest the property about criminal activity in the area.

· Place all valuables in a safe or lockbox.

· Keep the numbers of local police and a contact in charge of the property within easy reach.

· Introduce yourself to neighbors; they often function well as lookouts.

· If you become a victim of crime, follow up right away. Contact the local police and file a report. Have on hand contact information for the nearest U.S. consular office, and call the office immediately.

-- Gary Lee