October 14, 2008
How safe is Antigua and what warnings should governments give travelers?
Back in August I wrote about Antigua's marketing problem after British honeymooners were shot and killed. Some of the victims' family members thought the British government was doing too much to help Antigua through the crisis.
This article makes it sound like the government's website was misleading people:
The travel advice for Antigua & Barbuda previously read: “There has been an overall increase in crime in Antigua over recent months, including gun crime. Two British nationals were shot near Valley Church in the south west on July 27, 2008.The problem is that it made it seem like the murdered couple were not being street smart or something. In fact, they were in a resort where safety is and certainly should be expected. Apparently the advice has been changed to the families' satisfaction. Posted by James Trotta at October 14, 2008 9:57 PM | TrackBack“You should take sensible precautions and be vigilant at all times. Avoid isolated areas, including beaches, after dark.
“Do not carry large amounts of cash or jewellery. Valuables and travel documents should be left, where possible, in safety deposit boxes and hotel safes.”
Reading this article, I did not get the impression that this couple were not street savy.... just the opposite. It gave me the impression that crime is everywhere and when you travel, make sure to use common sense. I think this family is in mourning and taking it as a direct hit, against them and their late loved ones...... someone who is outside the box, is not. Other then mentioning something terrible had happened the focus of the article was that stuff like this is happening....and if your traveling, please use extra precautions to assure your safety and prosessions. Basically, be aware.
I hope this family can heal.... it was nice of the government to issue a different statement to help ease their pain.
Hopefully the other one was read by some as well....and they heed the advise.
Posted by: Roni Peterson at October 14, 2008 11:01 PMFor whatever reason the British government deliberately avoided the facts of this incident and tried to "soft soap" it. Reporting the couple was shot "near Valley Church in the south west" completely distorts actual facts, unless, of course, the couple were sleepwalkers. I guess the British government considers luxury resort bedrooms on the list of "isolated, dark areas" that are to be avoided at all costs. Sleep tight!
Posted by: RJ at October 17, 2008 1:31 PM