Is Freeport Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Freeport is a city in Grand Bahama.

Freeport may not have the same number of attractions or tourists as Nassau; there are many activities and places to see for those that are willing to explore.

For example, Lucayan National Park – the spectacular park was the filming site of Pirates of the Caribbean II and III.
Port Lucaya – Port Lucaya is the tourist ‘hub’ of the island and is the location of many restaurants and shops.

Garden of the Groves – Former private garden of city founder now it is tropical paradise well worth your time.

The beaches are stunning, and you can book water bikes or diving lessons there.

Warnings & Dangers in Freeport

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Freeport can only be safe for travelers if you carefully follow safety rules. Do not leave things unattended, keep the car closed and park in secure parking lots. Always be mindful of your surroundings.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

It is preferable to use taxi services or your car. Call only licensed taxi services and make sure that the driver has turned on the taximeter. If you are traveling in a rented car, be careful on the road - often, it can be in poor condition with potholes, and traffic can be aggressive.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpockets are often found on the streets of Freeport. Usually, their goal is the pockets and bags of gape tourists. Also, be careful if an outsider asks for your help or offers help. Most likely, it will be a pickpocket.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

The Bahamas are highly prone to natural disasters, especially hurricanes. Over the past 50 years, 18 hurricanes have hit its territory. Before you travel to Freeport, you should study the weather conditions and tourist recommendations.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

Armed robbery is perhaps one of the biggest problems in Freeport. As in all of the Bahamas. Attackers can attack you in parking lots at your hotel or home. If you were attacked, give everything that you are asked to save your life. Then contact the police immediately.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Although the recent history of terrorism in the Bahamas does not exist, the possibility of attacks cannot be ruled out. Avoid political demonstrations and large gatherings of people. Explore the island’s political environment before you travel here.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

The main types of fraud in Freeport are nonexistent excursions when they take money from you in advance, but they don’t have anywhere to go. Overpriced prices for souvenirs, magnets, jewels, and other garbage. Do not buy it. Unlicensed taxi services can also cheat on the cost of the trip. Also, sometimes scammers may demand money from you for entering the beach, which is free. Be careful with these types of scams.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Freeport is not the safest place for single travelers. If you walk alone late at night, local men may annoy you. If you travel alone, use only licensed taxi services and always sit behind the driver.

So... How Safe Is Freeport Really?

Meanwhile, Freeport cannot be called a safe city for travel.

Most likely, you can quickly get into trouble here, especially if you do not follow safety measures.

The crime rate in the city is quite high.

The main crimes are theft of things, car theft, and hacking, drug trafficking, vandalism, armed robberies.

Also, in Freeport, there is a high level of bribery and corruption in government and private business.

Walking around the city at night is entirely unsafe, and tourists should avoid walking around Freeport after sunset.

Freeport also has very high air temperatures for almost the whole year, and the sun burns mercilessly.

Tourists need to wear hats and panes, protect their skin from burning, and have clean drinking water with them to avoid heatstroke.

Don’t keep your valuables all in one place.

Snatch-and-grab crimes involving travelers’ bags, jewelry, smartphones, or cash are some of the most popular petty crimes that happen to visitors in The Bahamas.

If anyone tries to rob you, hand over whatever it is they are asking for.

It is not worth getting hurt.

Pay attention to your drink.

Do not leave your glass unattended and make sure you watch closely when your drink is being opened or poured out for you.

Spiking drinks with drugs is sometimes done to unsuspecting visitors.

How Does Freeport Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Visitors to The Bahamas must obtain a visa from one of the Bahamian diplomatic missions or British diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. A valid passport is a must.

Currency

The Bahamian dollar is the official currency of The Bahamas. It has a sign: $ and a code: BSD. It is usually abbreviated with the dollar sign $, or B$, to distinguish it from other dollar-denominated currencies. It is divided into 100 cents.

Weather

The best times to visit Freeport for ideal weather are November to April. Average temperatures in Freeport vary somewhat, and the weather feels hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year.

Airports

Grand Bahama International Airport is a privately owned international airport in Freeport, Bahamas. The airport is located 7 km from the city center. The airport handles international and domestic flights.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Freeport Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

The Bahamas - Safety by City