Safety in Anguilla, a British Island in the Caribbean – Deteriorating Over the Past Decade

Anguilla is a British territory in the West Indies, located in the Caribbean Sea. Saint Martin is very close by, and it takes only about 30 minutes to get there by ferry. Like Saint Martin, the island is proud of its beautiful sea. With its small land area, Anguilla is considered a hidden gem in the Caribbean! Due to its remote access, it’s rare to see Asians visitors. Naturally, this raises the question of safety in Anguilla. This article will share information about safety conditions in Anguilla and tips for staying safe.

It Was the Safest Resort in the Caribbean 10 Years Ago

With a population of just 15,000 and a land area of only 91 square kilometers, Anguilla was once known as the safest resort in the Caribbean. Unfortunately, in recent years, safety has declined. As tourism is the main industry in Anguilla, deteriorating safety has led to a drop in tourist numbers, which in turn causes job losses, creating a vicious cycle that worsens the situation.

A decade ago, locking your door would make your neighbors laugh. These days, residents lock even their windows before going to bed. That said, crimes involving tourists are still rare. Let’s take a look at the crimes that occur in Anguilla.

Burglaries Targeting Villas

One of the most commonly reported crimes in Anguilla is burglary. The island, known as a luxury resort destination, attracts overseas celebrities who build vacation villas here and visit during the holiday season. These villas have become prime targets for criminals. There are even cases where the same property was broken into twice. Even strong deadbolt locks installed for security have been broken, and iron window bars have been bent.

While tourists might not be directly affected, those staying in villas should be cautious. Always lock the doors properly. If safety concerns persist, staying in a hotel can be a safer alternative.

Beware of Vehicle Robberies

Many visitors to Anguilla choose to rent cars during their stay. Since the island’s public transport relies on cars, and driving conditions aren’t dangerous, it’s easy to see why car rentals are popular. However, vehicle robberies have occurred, contributing to the island’s worsening safety situation. In some cases, renters have even been told, “You can leave the rental car anywhere, just leave the keys inside!”

Remember the basics: don’t leave valuables in the car and avoid carrying unnecessary jewelry or expensive items. While Anguilla’s relaxed and beautiful scenery may lower your guard, always keep a minimum level of vigilance.

Don’t Rely Too Much on the Police

Unfortunately, in the current safety climate, the local police in Anguilla do not have a great reputation. According to some who have experienced incidents on the island, “The police did absolutely nothing to help.” Although Anguilla is a British territory, its safety and law enforcement cannot be compared directly to that of the UK mainland.

Moreover, it’s important to have a mindset of taking responsibility for your own safety. With proper safety measures, you can still enjoy your stay in Anguilla.

“Take Anguilla Back” – Efforts to Improve Safety

Compared to 10 years ago, Anguilla’s safety has declined, but the island is working hard to restore it. Although Anguilla exports products like cotton and lobster, its economy largely depends on tourism, making the recent decline in public safety a serious issue.

The “Take Anguilla Back” project is one such initiative aimed at restoring the island’s safety. This effort isn’t limited to tourist spots but covers the whole island, with the goal of making it a safe place for everyone. While some may be surprised by the unexpected safety concerns, Anguilla is incorporating political efforts to improve the situation. In 10 years, it may once again become an undisputed prime tourist destination.

◎ Summary

Although crime rates have risen over the past decade, it’s still rare for tourists to be victimized. Nevertheless, in an unfamiliar travel destination, it’s better to be overly cautious. Use the safety information and tips above to help ensure your visit to Anguilla is full of wonderful memories. Its beautiful sea and white sandy beaches are waiting for you!