U.S. State Department Updates Turks and Caicos Travel Advisory to Level 2

The U.S. State Department updated its travel advisory for the Turks and Caicos Islands to Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution” on Tuesday, nypost.com reported. The advisory identifies Providenciales as the site of most crime in the territory.

It notes that police there may have limited resources to investigate incidents. The majority of international visitors arrive through Providenciales International Airport. Reports of sexual assaults appear in the advisory.

Petty crime remains common, especially in popular tourist locations. Aggressive vendors sometimes offer “free” gifts that lead to money demands. Firearms and ammunition are banned on the islands. Laws are strictly enforced.

A U.S. firearm license or permit is not valid there. Travelers who bring single bullets or cartridges by mistake may face arrest, jail time and heavy fines. The State Department stated it cannot get U.S.

Citizens out of detention. It recommends that travelers avoid opening hotel or residence doors to strangers, use caution when walking or driving at night and avoid physically resisting during a robbery. The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Territory known for white-sand beaches and coral reefs.

Grand Turk serves as a cruise port.