With the summer months approaching and travelers looking to visit their vacation destinations, most are unaware of the dangers facing them.
One family learned the hard way as they encountered an unimaginable nightmare in St. Johns, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Cockayne family of New Hope, Pa. once called the islands home., but they say they decided to leave after a string of burglaries and an assault. The family no longer felt safe and returned to the states.
After staying away for several years, the family began vacationing in the USVI again, doing most tourists do during a relaxing, tropical vacation. Their son, Jamie — an energetic free spirit — discovered a passion for sailing.
The 21-year-old had landed a job as a sailing instructor at a yacht club on the island. His family says Jamie exuded confidence and excitement about the future before him, and eagerly anticipated whatever life had in store, but the paradise soon turned into hell when an altercation with island natives at a local bar ended with his brutal stabbing and murder.
Thus began the fight for answers and justice for Jamie’s family and friends. As the Cockayne family quickly learned, the justice system in the Virgin Islands was full of roadblocks, and working with law enforcement outside of the continental U.S. is challenging, as the procedures are different. As a grieving family searches for justice, they wonder how Jamie’s tragic murder could have been prevented.
The U.S. State Department has an extensive list of information you should keep in mind as you plan your trip abroad. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you plan your trip overseas:
- Safety begins before you go. Travel light, and carry a minimum number of valuables. Avoid becoming a target by not dressing like an affluent tourist.
- Learn about security warnings for the areas you plan to visit. Be aware of any travel alerts that could give you information about potential security risks.
- Remember when you leave the U.S., you are subject to the laws and customs of the country you are visiting. Learn as much as you can in advance, and keep in mind that navigating their legal system may be more difficult than at home.
- Take necessary precautions on the street, as you would at home. Don’t take narrow alleys or poorly lit streets, try not to travel alone at night. Be wary of strangers.
- Make a note of emergency numbers you may need, including the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Keep your hotel doors locked at all times. Never leave valuables in your room while you are out.
You can never be too careful whether at home or abroad, and taking a few extra precautions can go along way in helping to ensure your safety. Check out the State Department’s site for more information about travel safety while abroad.
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