AmbergrisCaye.com Home Forums The Cayes Ambergris Caye Is it safe?

I've only been a member of this forum for slightly less than 2 months, so I realize I don't have the benefit of a long time learning curve. However, in that short period of time, it seems as though there have been numerous reports/postings of violent incidents on AC, including murders, homicides, thefts, assults,golf cart accidents, reckless driving, and the reviled dog poisonings. I guess what I'm looking for is reassurances that AC and San Pedro are generally safe for the visitor. Anyone care to comment?

Not to worry.

OK this is a good time to hear from the locals speak up yall

Ahh...the age old question of safety on the island. There are a spectrum of opinions here and I'm sure this thread will get heated before pulled in a few days. My 2 cents worth is that we DO have a crime problem on the island. I have only had minor things stolen from my house, but in January my son was mugged while walking to a restaurant. The thugs robbed him of only about $50 but beat him up pretty good for no reason. If you come to AC be very cautious walking alone and at night, as you should do anywhere you travel.....or at home for that matter.

I live in downstate Illinois and know that almost any area in the US has more violent crime than San Pedro.I have spent over 100 days on the island lately and have seen no crime with my own eyes.The Cubs don't win here very often,but it is big news here when they do,crime on AC is the same,big news when it does happen.Come on down and enjoy what this pristine island has to offer,you will be well pleased.

The only major crime on the island is petty theft. Always lock your golf cart or bike. Lock your doors when you leave or when you go to sleep at night. And don't go counting your roll of $100 bills walking down the deserted street at night. Just use common sense and you will not have any problems whatsoever. I don't remember hearing of any unprovoked violent crimes on the island in a while. I consider Ambergris to be very safe.

You guys don't consider murder, rape and muggings major violent crime? How about the murder of a Fido's security guard about 6 months ago? Is this "unprovoked violent crime?"

Here is the Million dollar question on an island so small why is petty theft the major crime you would think if everybody knows everybody it would be easy to stop this wouldnt it ???

streechie-we have had 17 murders in downstate Illinois since Fido's six months ago,this board is used as info for new travelers,if you are scared to walk the cobblestone streets of San Pedro,then don't..they are FAR SAFER than the streets of the good old USA,that is all we are saying.Tell me, any violent crime in Boston lately ?

I know it's semantics but the Fidos incident took place on 07/25/05. This is still a very safe place to live and visit but common sense should always prevail.

The island population is now somewhere around 15,000 many of who have arrived in the last 3 or 4 years. The only time you know almost everyone you see is when the island is evacuated during hurricane threats and you stay behind.