Was lookning at passport guidlines & came across this...

[hydro1570]

CRIME: Organized crime above the street gang level is primarly connected to drug trafficking or trafficking in persons. The incidence of crime, including violent crimes such as armed robbery, shooting, stabbing, murder, and rape, remains high. Although Americans are not specifically targeted because of their nationality, in recent years the Embassy has noted an increase in crimes against tourists at resorts and on the roads and river ways. The incidence of crimes such as theft, burglary, purse-snatching, and pick-pocketing increases around the winter holidays and during spring break. Several victims who resisted when confronted by criminals have received serious injuries, including gunshot wounds. Although the majority of reported incidents occur in Belize City, crime may occur anywhere including tourist destinations such as San Pedro Town (Ambergris Caye), Caye Caulker, and Placencia.

While increased police patrols, coordinated tours among resort security managers, and the arrest of perpetrators may reduce the frequency of crimes, these measures do not guarantee safety. Armed robberies of tourists remain a possibility at archeological sites, national parks, and other areas frequented by visitors. On February10, 2009, four American and two Canadian tourists accompanied by two Belizean tour guides were the victims of a robbery outside Rio Frio Cave in the Mountain Pine Ridge area. On September 15, 2009, two tourists at the Blue Hole National Park were robbed by two men wearing masks and carrying knives. In both instances, there is no information suggesting the perpetrators were targeting tourists of any specific nationality; rather, the victims appear to have been targets of opportunity.

American citizens are encouraged to exercise caution and good situational awareness in all their travel activities. Visitors to tourist attractions should travel in groups and stick to the main plazas at Maya ruins and the central areas. Although there are armed guards stationed at many of the archeological sites, armed criminals have been known to prey on persons walking alone or in small groups from one site to another. While many theft victims are unharmed and only robbed of personal belongings and cash, victims who resist assailants have suffered injury. U.S. citizens who become victims of a robbery should report it immediately at the nearest police station as well as notifying the Embassy.

The Embassy recommends that visitors travel in groups and only during daylight hours. Avoid wearing jewelry or carrying valuable or expensive items. As a general rule, valuables should not be left unattended, including in hotel rooms and on the beach. Care should be taken when carrying high value items such as cameras, or when wearing expensive jewelry on the street. Women’s handbags should be zipped and held close to the body. Men should carry wallets in their front pants pocket. Large amounts of cash should always be handled descreetly.

Sexual harrassmant and/or assault of persons traveling alone or in small groups have occurred in recent years. One rape occurred after the victim accepted a ride from an acquaintance, while others have occurred during armed robberies in resort areas or after an evening of nightclubbing. One of these assaults resulted in the death of the victim.

Specific groups such as the elderly, women, or gays are not singled out for victimization, however neither are they immune from being targeted for robbery or assault. Homosexuality is not widely accepted in Belize culture and homosexual behavior may be subject to prosecution as an “Unnatural crime” under Section 53 of the Belize Criminal Code.

A lack of resources and training impedes the ability of the police to effectively investigate crime and apprehend serious offenders. As a result, a number of crimes against Americans in Belize remain unresolved.

The Embassy has also become aware of “confidence scams” occurring in Belize, especially in resort areas. While there no indication U.S. citizens are specifically singled out because of their nationality, tourists in general are particularly vulnerable to these crimes, resulting in visitors being pick-pocketed or robbed. More serious crimes have included armed robbery, physical assault, and being swindled out of large sums of money from fake real estate and other business deals.

With regard to business investments and contractual relationships, U.S. citizens should always conduct their own due diligence before entering into business ventures or other commercial arrangements. Local business and trade associations, including the American Chamber of Commerce and British chamber of commerce,as well as government offices, may be able to provide information regarding Belize commercial requirements, validity of businesses, and reputable vendors and business agents. There have also been recent cases where investors have disputed commercial agreements with the Government of Belize through formal commercial dispute resolution procedures and the Government of Belize has failed to honor its agreements.

Drug use is common in some tourist areas. American citizens should not buy, sell, hold, or take illegal drugs under any circumstances. Penalties for possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia are generally more severe than in the U.S. Visitors are cautioned that Belize classifies marijuana or ganja (i.e., cannabis) as an illegal drug for which a conviction of possession of even small amounts could result in heavy fines or imprisonment.

In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products may be illegal under local law. In addition, bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines.

 

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1055.html

[wadethegringo]

It is wise to be aware in all places outside of your home. Belize City is a place I would not ever go at night. I do spend time there during the day. Other towns like San Pedro and Caye Caulker are fine, If you keep aware you will have no problems. I have been here three years and have walked home late after one to many Belikins.

 

http://wikitravel.org/en/Miami#Stay_safe

 

"Miami, frequently heralded in the news as a center of crime and drug smuggling, is only relatively dangerous for the passing tourist in certain areas. Keep in mind that most of Miami is fairly dangerous. Miami is also known for car accidents. Overtown (next to Liberty City) has the highest violent crime rate in the city and is best if avoided all together. If you are in this neighborhood, or any other high crime neighborhood, take the same precautions as you would in other high crime neighborhoods around the country. Such as minding one's business, getting to your destination quickly, and avoid wearing flashy jewelry and electronics. Remember that most common sense rules such as being aware of your surroundings at night and traveling in high-traffic areas at night apply in Miami as it does in all other urban areas around the United States. "