Turks and Caicos Islands regularly draw Americans with their white-sand beaches — but U.S.officials are renewing safety warnings for travelers.The U.S.
State Department on Tuesday updated its Level 2 "Exercise Increased Caution" advisory for the British Overseas Territory.The islands are best known for their turquoise waters, coral reefs and luxury resorts, while Grand Turk serves as a popular Caribbean cruise port.BRAZEN PICKPOCKETS PREY ON VULNERABLE TOURISTS AS VACATION ISLAND IS SWARMED BY MILLIONSThe advisory notes that Providenciales, the Turks and Caicos Islands' main tourist destination and home to Grace Bay Beach, is where most crime in the territory occurs.The majority of international visitors arrive through Providenciales International Airport (PLS), and State Department officials said that police on the island "may have limited resources to investigate crimes."The U.S.State Department updated its Level 2 "Exercise Increased Caution" advisory for the Turks and Caicos Islands amid summer travel.
(iStock)"There have been reports of sexual assaults in the Turks and Caicos Islands," the advisory states."Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTERThe State Department also warned Americans about specific scams that involve overcharging tourists in heavily traveled areas."You may encounter aggressive vendors," the advisory noted."Some will offer 'free' gifts that lead to money demands.
Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations."Tourist police are available at many popular sites to assist visitors who experience uncomfortable situations with vendors.(iStock)The advisory also said that firearms and ammunition are banned on the Turks and Caicos Islands, and those laws are strictly enforced by police."This includes single bullets and cartridges brought by mistake in carry-on bags or luggage," the advisory said.CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE NEWS"A firearm ...