Major cruise line cancels travel to this tropical destination | insauga

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The latest travel alerts have led a major U.S. cruise line to extend its suspension of visits to a popular tropical resort due to rising violence. At the same time, the Canadian government has also issued similar travel advisories on its website.

Haiti

Royal Caribbean, which first halted stops at its private resort in Labadee, Haiti, in March (2024), has confirmed that the suspension will now last through at least fall.

According to a spokesperson from the cruise line, the decision was made with the safety and security of guests, crew, and the communities they visit as the top priority.

“Our Global Security and Intel Team is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Haiti. In an abundance of caution, we have suspended all visits to Labadee fleetwide through September 2024,” the statement said.

The cruise line is said to continue to assess the situation and adjust travel plans as needed.

In addition, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 “Do Not Visit” advisory for Haiti, citing severe gang violence and riots.

The situation in Haiti has been described as “unpredictable and dangerous,” and the State Department has warned that the U.S. government cannot guarantee travellers’ safety.

Over 2,500 people were reportedly killed or injured due to gang violence in the first quarter of the year, according to the United Nations.

The recent fatal attack on Dave and Natalie Lloyd, missionaries from Missouri, highlights the grave risks faced by those in the country.

The Canadian government has similarly advised against all travel to Haiti.

Risks: Threats of kidnappings, gang violence, and potential civil unrest.

Reason: In March, the Haitian government declared a state of emergency in the Ouest Department, including Port-au-Prince, in response to the deteriorating security situation. Demonstrations are prohibited, and there are frequent clashes between gangs and security forces.

Travellers in Haiti are advised to follow local authorities’ instructions, carry valid ID, and monitor local news. A nightly curfew is in effect from 10 pm to 5 am.

The Canadian government strongly recommends considering leaving the country commercially if it can be done safely, noting that the security situation remains extremely volatile.

Two international airports in Haiti, Toussaint Louverture International Airport and Cap Haitian International Airport are operational, but access can be challenging because of the security situation.

The Dominican Republic has also closed its air border with Haiti earlier this year, and land and sea borders remain closed to travellers.

Armed gangs control many main highways and set up roadblocks to commit robberies. Travellers are advised to avoid public transport, limit movements, and stay indoors after dark.

Canadian citizens in Haiti are urged to register with Global Affairs Canada and contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre if they require consular assistance. The Canadian Embassy in Port-au-Prince cannot assist with entering the Dominican Republic from Haiti.

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