THE 5 WORST PORTS In The Caribbean According to the Internet

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  • Опубліковано 24 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 202

  • @jasoncameron6501
    @jasoncameron6501 15 днів тому +22

    I had a good experience in Falmouth- after our excursion- my wife and I walked around town looking at the historic structures like churches, forts and colonial buildings

  • @lilbebegirlxx
    @lilbebegirlxx 15 днів тому +53

    Now do the 5 best ports! This was a great video

    • @CincoSnare76
      @CincoSnare76 14 днів тому +6

      Coco Cay and St. Thomas IMO

    • @johnbrandon859
      @johnbrandon859 14 днів тому +8

      Phillipsburg Sint Maarten
      Cleanest & friendliest people

    • @zzizahacallar
      @zzizahacallar 14 днів тому

      Two more

    • @Meg-z4n
      @Meg-z4n 14 днів тому

      Haiti 😂

    • @johnbrandon859
      @johnbrandon859 14 днів тому +3

      @@Meg-z4n I would think that Haiti is probably the safest place in the Caribbean right now … seeing as most their people have crossed our border and no longer live there! 🤣

  • @WmRob
    @WmRob 12 днів тому +11

    Montego Bay, Jamaica. Our tour guide kept stopping at his friends booths and stands, wasting our limited time ashore. Dropped us off at Margaritaville despite being told we’d be dropped off at a resort down the road then, when we went inside of M’ville, we were ignored by staff while they stood around joking and looking at their phones. We left without being waited but told we had to pay $5 each for sitting at a table. They called it a tabletop tax. We paid $20. Next we were accosted by a group of young native women that forced us off the sidewalk repeatedly. We finally flagged down a taxi to take us back to the ship…at $5 each plus the trip fee. Then the customs agents ignored us, chatting amongst themselves until I politely asked if we could go thru the gate. Then female agent yelled that she get to us when she was done. When we got passed the gate, there was a group of men loitering, telling us that we had to pay to take any photos. Any! We finally got onboard after constantly being treated so badly we swore to never set foot in that dump again.

  • @JoeHusosky
    @JoeHusosky 15 днів тому +19

    Last year we had a dozen ladies that commented they were not going to get off in Nassau because they were concerned. Told them I was going off because I taken dive groups there so many times it was nothing new, but told them I would show them around. We didn't have trouble and with me there they felt emboldened to tell off the few people who didn't take a polite no for an answer. It was a nice day.

    • @Ariadne147
      @Ariadne147 14 днів тому +5

      That's nice that you felt safe and had a good time there, however, I think the ladies who were drugged and raped at an all-inclusive in 2024 would disagree with you.

    • @kathybrem880
      @kathybrem880 6 днів тому

      @@Ariadne147they foolishly went off with a couple locals, not too smart

  • @jesseandersen9762
    @jesseandersen9762 14 днів тому +8

    I enjoyed my time in belize... I booked a mayan ruins tour through carnival

  • @tamipaskins4849
    @tamipaskins4849 13 днів тому +6

    I found Falmouth to be very confusing but never really felt unsafe there. Belize City was delightful. We enjoyed our excursion and our shopping experience after with the vendors. Very polite and fun.

    • @gunterklocher6567
      @gunterklocher6567 13 днів тому

      This its a old Video....this no Happen more of jamaica.
      Montegobay douwn town..maby ..

  • @lorrainekluesner7257
    @lorrainekluesner7257 11 днів тому +2

    I agree with all of these. Enjoying an empty cruise instead sounds great to me!

  • @ExploreandExperience1
    @ExploreandExperience1 14 днів тому +8

    I went to Belize and went to the Mayan ruins. It was absolutely fantastic 👏🏾 👌🏾

    • @jed5726
      @jed5726 12 днів тому

      I did the cave tubing. It was fun, but a bit of a drive.

  • @tulaandtherabbittadventure19
    @tulaandtherabbittadventure19 15 днів тому +9

    Agree and had same experience in Jamaica we will never get off the ship there ever again. Avoid cruises that go there when we can.

    • @annamariadenner2518
      @annamariadenner2518 13 днів тому

      I will never get off the ship in Jamaica again. We were harassed to buy things so badly that they actually followed us up into our bus.

  • @jimconnoy6133
    @jimconnoy6133 14 днів тому +5

    I was in Belize in early October. I just stayed in the shopping area and had no problems. Had lunch in D'Bourbon Barrel.

    • @schafschuetze79
      @schafschuetze79 11 днів тому

      If you stay in the shopping area you can also stay at the ship. It makes absolutly no sense to travel to a country half around the world if you dont't visit it, even for a few hours.

  • @seastarbutterfly
    @seastarbutterfly 15 днів тому +9

    My family is from the Caribbean. My uncle worked for a bank, and every few years was sent to a different island. He always said Jamaica has the most aggressive people. While they were there for a long time, they were very happy when they could leave. And this was in the 1970s/80s.

    • @gunterklocher6567
      @gunterklocher6567 13 днів тому

      No lei

    • @sean367
      @sean367 11 днів тому

      Jamaica was in the middle of a Civil War at the time.

  • @smurphy7266
    @smurphy7266 15 днів тому +2

    We couldn't agree more. I had to lead a group of passengers back to the ship in Ocho Rios because of their safety concerns.

  • @26Monkeys
    @26Monkeys 13 днів тому +8

    The cave tubing in Belize is amazing. It is probably one of my highest recommendations. Give it a try.

    • @tonialajaunie9654
      @tonialajaunie9654 13 днів тому +1

      Best ever!!!

    • @bnefarm
      @bnefarm 8 годин тому

      We did that as well, it was fun, just a bit of a journey getting there

  • @aircamflyer
    @aircamflyer 14 днів тому +10

    I have a friend who has a house in a gated community in Negril.
    He said that they are going to improve the airport there to accept international flights.
    There is also talk about building a cruise terminal there. Negril is like another country compared to the existing ports and so much safer.

  • @markswan2582
    @markswan2582 12 днів тому +2

    Was on a cruise that stopped in Belize City about a year ago. Took the tender into shore and walked around for about 15/minutes. It was seedy as hell. I walked past a Customs kiosk, so I stopped to get my passport stamped. They had a tip jar at the window where they stamp passports! Unbelievable! I took the next tender back to the ship.

  • @lindar.5831
    @lindar.5831 15 днів тому +27

    1. Belize City
    2. La Romana, Dominican Republic
    3. Nassau
    4. Freeport
    5. Falmouth Jamaica

    • @bebe553
      @bebe553 14 днів тому

      Wow, 3 are in Jamaica 😮

    • @catherines7553
      @catherines7553 14 днів тому +4

      I've been to 4 of these 5 and didn't encounter any problems. Sad to see them on this list now.

    • @adkay152
      @adkay152 13 днів тому +1

      Falmouth, port was nice but as soon as we left it, was uncomfortable.

    • @MrsZeeE13
      @MrsZeeE13 10 днів тому +5

      @@bebe553that’s not true. Only one is in Jamaica and it is not true. Millions go to Jamaica via flights ( including myself multiple times a year and never had any issues). Millions also go via cruise ship and no issues. Now, yes the vendors want customers in majority of the Caribbean to buy… but it definitely is NOT horrible as he described. You’re NOT going to Kingston, so you won’t have any issues. Lastly, he said top 5, but then adds Montego Bay and Ochi… that’s 7 not 5. Why didn’t he talk about other parts of Bahamas, or Dominican??? Sounds like bashing of Jamaica to me!!! However again it’s one of the largest Caribbean countries and one of the most traveled via flights. So there’s that! 🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲 love Jamaica

    • @bebe553
      @bebe553 10 днів тому +2

      @Zanetria
      My bad, you are right, Nassau and Freeport are in the Bahamas.
      Talking to people, either they HATE Jamaica or LOVE it;
      I have always wanted to visit Jamaica and hopefully this year I will.

  • @mindibunch5232
    @mindibunch5232 15 днів тому +4

    Thanks for another great video. And you look FANTASTIC!! ❤

  • @CruiseBolero
    @CruiseBolero 20 хвилин тому

    Great video thanks for sharing 🤗😎

  • @fergushanna
    @fergushanna 14 днів тому +4

    I have been to Nassau a couple of times. I found it somewhat disappointing. On my last two trips, I experienced several high pressure sales people trying to sell me things I didn’t want. This includes hair braids and taxi rides. I have never been to Jamaica, but my wife has. According to her, once outside the port, there were people who were trying to lure her further away from the port. When she realized what was happening she quickly returned to the port.

  • @rlwpac96
    @rlwpac96 9 днів тому

    I was in Belize city last Thursday. It was relatively calm day for the tender rod to the port. Had booked a combination, zip line tour, and float through the caves. Our guide was very good and quite chatty on the drive out. Told us lots of interesting information on everything from politics in the country to wildlife. He was also part of the guiding at the caves and the zip line portion of the day. Had a really good time. At almost too long a good time as we really had to scurry to get back to the port for the last ferry to the ship. On the morning, tender from the ship, there was a couple of ladies who were just planning on wandering around Belize city for the day with no particular plans. I didn’t talk to them at the end to see how their day went.

  • @MikeStew07
    @MikeStew07 9 днів тому +1

    Falmouth had a bad vibe from jump. It looked unsafe, and i told my wife to get back on the boat

  • @westonduncan4973
    @westonduncan4973 14 днів тому +1

    I wasn’t on a cruise but I spent a week in San Pedro Belize and had an amazing time

  • @louise3993
    @louise3993 14 днів тому +3

    If these ports are so dangerous why do cruise ships still go there ? Thanks for the warnings and updates. You Both are honest and I for one trust what you are warning us about.
    Safe travels and be safe. ❤😊❤

    • @markswan2582
      @markswan2582 12 днів тому +1

      Too many ships, not enough decent ports, imo. They have to stop somewhere.

    • @QuantumLegal
      @QuantumLegal 11 днів тому

      Cheap for the cruise lines, easy from FL.

  • @Sunlover42
    @Sunlover42 13 днів тому +3

    We’ve been on about 20 Caribbean cruises and the only ports that really bother us are the ones that we don’t feel safe even on organized tours. Jamaica is probably the most beautiful island in the Caribbean but probably the most dangerous of the heavily visited Caribbean islands. I made the mistake of getting off the ship once and walking into Ochos Rios and will never do that again.

    • @gunterklocher6567
      @gunterklocher6567 13 днів тому

      I am from port antonio ..jamaica.
      I never gon to ochi touwn..
      Good i now this...i only pass somtime ochi on mainroad..to montegobay airport and back to port antiono.
      We hafe only a port for small boot.
      And i never see this Happen the citicen from port antonio..give a problem to tourist..never

  • @gregheffley1349
    @gregheffley1349 12 днів тому +1

    Your list is spot on from my experience

  • @davecarlson6953
    @davecarlson6953 6 днів тому +1

    i got picked pocket in st. martin. when I noticed, i looked for him and found him in a allay looking at my check book. i was pissed and ran up to him and got all my stuff. in retrospect probably shouldn’t have done it, but I was pist.

  • @JoeSixpack258
    @JoeSixpack258 15 днів тому +2

    i follow your other channel, and at least you're honest with your viewers. I appreciate your videos because they give me a "guest perspective", not a travel agent's view. Thanks for the heads up on La Romana. I had a shore excursion planned, but I cancelled it and will probably stay on the ship and nurse my Embarkation Day hangover. If I wanted a police escort, I sure as hell don't want to pay for it!

  • @baldone60
    @baldone60 13 днів тому +1

    70 years of cruising...never Nassau or Freeport. Nome are exotic any more. Keep up the great vids

  • @ellisonketovore
    @ellisonketovore 14 днів тому +1

    wonderful advice David, many thanks to you!

  • @kidtravelologist8085
    @kidtravelologist8085 12 днів тому

    When in Nassau, find a nice driver to take you to a quiet beach with access to a good beach bar/restaurant with a proper restroom. We’ve enjoyed fabulous beach days away from the crowds. There’s no need to limit yourself to the immediate port area or book a formal excursion.

  • @nikstorm594
    @nikstorm594 14 днів тому +1

    We went to Falmouth last year, and I totally concur. It was awful and very sad. Someone on our ship was accosted with a butcher knife, just right outside the gate.

  • @SHYsArt
    @SHYsArt 14 днів тому +1

    in 2004 I drove from Cancun to PLACENCIA, Belize. Stopped in Belize City for food an a walk about. Had policemen, on 4 different occasions, during the walk ,they said to get in the car and get out of town. Please note the date 2004, 21 years ago and it is only worse now! I love all the other areas of Belize especially the small out islands.

  • @JoeHusosky
    @JoeHusosky 15 днів тому +1

    Last month in Falmouth a fellow cruiser purchased a garment for his daughter and the shop lady cursed him out for not buying something for himself. Then they made the mistake of paying for a taxi round trip up front to the beach when he picked them up he was drunk and almost missed the boat.

  • @edgross9874
    @edgross9874 13 днів тому +2

    Butts Up Cave tubbing is a great excursion out of Belize City

  • @chrisrobertson3189
    @chrisrobertson3189 12 днів тому +2

    We were in Puerto Playa, DR last week on NCL Breakaway and we found it very dirty, garbage in most areas and not much to do in port.

  • @TheCrabbyCouple
    @TheCrabbyCouple 15 днів тому +1

    We went with the cruise line excursion to the Mayan ruins in Belize. An armed police officer rode with us. Had to pass through a couple of checkpoints on the highway, they stopped and checked every car. We were waved through because we had police onboard.
    In Jamaica encountered very aggressive vendors at Dunns River Falls. Belize and Jamaica are 2 places we never have to return to.

    • @lisaadams1249
      @lisaadams1249 15 днів тому

      I concur about Dunns River. They force you through the very aggressive vendors. It was extremely annoying and I never went back

  • @darlenepurcell7541
    @darlenepurcell7541 14 днів тому

    Hair looks great!! The total change has made you appear younger and more vital. Not to mention the confident demeanor!!!

  • @amy4kaseykahne
    @amy4kaseykahne 14 днів тому

    I love Freeport. The fact that many stay on the ship makes it super easy to grab a taxi. And Paradise Beach is amazing and the greatest friendliest staff.

  • @roberttedford8054
    @roberttedford8054 15 днів тому

    I do agree with Falmouth, Jamaica. Was there in 2016 and the tour guides went "rouge" on the excursion through the ship took us to multiple shops that were unplanned and a mom and pop restaurant for a wildly extra charge barely made it back to the ship in time

  • @blastkohl
    @blastkohl 12 днів тому

    I went to Belize and snorkeled the Mesoamerican reef. It was amazing.

  • @kathybrem880
    @kathybrem880 6 днів тому +1

    I only use the cruise company to book side trips

  • @leethornton864
    @leethornton864 10 днів тому +1

    Clearly alot of people never visited Progresso. I have been to every port listed here and many more and no where was more terrifying that Progresso.. Power lines on the ground, building looked like they had been shot by tanks, constant bagering for sales, and just overall terrifying.

  • @tamalaedmonds1371
    @tamalaedmonds1371 10 днів тому

    We love Nassau. We walk a few blocks, catch a bus lined up on side street. For $1.25 we got off at a beach area near BahaMar. Rented two beach chairs and umbrella for $40. Clean bathrooms and drinks. The water and beach gorgeous! Isn’t that what you are there for? We waved a bus back for $1.25. Such nice locals on bus and at the beach stands.

  • @floridaactor
    @floridaactor 11 днів тому

    Great Video! We stay on the ship in Nassau. As to Jamaica, I had a knife pulled on me in Montego Bay. Belize and Freeport were boring. I have not visited the Dominican Republic.

  • @lakesailor123
    @lakesailor123 15 днів тому +8

    Also, the comments about Jamaica, are just cultural norms and regarding the weed, as a religious experience. If you head 30 minutes outside of the port you will realize that the government has basically given up on its people, leaving them in poverty. The healthcare system is one of the most corrupt, leading to malpractice. In patios, they have the word "Babylon" meaning the corrupt government and police system. I however will not tolerate and defend the hate towards the lgbtq+ community that is prevalent on the island. However, it is not a cultural norm for the people of the island we should approach this situation with open minds and acceptance because love is love and that's all that matters. I thank both ben and David for sharing the truth as it is, and would not like this comment to feel like an attack on anyone.

    • @theswampfox3821
      @theswampfox3821 12 днів тому +2

      Ocho Rios is my favorite. Also love enjoy taking in the local smoke. Last time we went we smoked and hung out with fellow cruisers from our ship and others and had a bug smoke session. Blue hole is always great too.

  • @FraserAtSea
    @FraserAtSea 10 днів тому +2

    I visited Nassau on my first ever cruise, and I couldn’t believe how odd it felt in port. It really amazed me that the cruise lines are pushing an island like that - if I ever go back, I reckon I’d just stay onboard!

    • @malcomfloydstevenson1979
      @malcomfloydstevenson1979 10 днів тому +1

      My 1st 2 times 2024 I got off in Nassau. My 3rd cruise I didn’t bothered. It’s not just Nassau, I think all the cruise ports in DR is horrible and don’t care for that country. That’s one country I wouldn’t visit flying there. San Juan another port I don’t care for either.

  • @RAGordy
    @RAGordy 10 днів тому

    Nassau was fine for me, we did an excursion to Blue Lagoon and spent all of our time there (NCL). The port itself seemed fine.

  • @joannharrington2279
    @joannharrington2279 8 днів тому

    I lived in the Bahamas. When we would go to Nassau, we would be approached all the time. I would say, "Get away from me, or I will scream." Worked every time and they would disappear.

  • @jacobkrause4094
    @jacobkrause4094 15 днів тому +1

    If I ever cruise again on a Bahamas stop I'm not waisting my time getting of the cruise, its boring and you can quickly find yourself in the seedy parts of town.

  • @yuckyool
    @yuckyool 12 днів тому

    We heard the same thing about Belize City (although my wife went on an excursion to a zoo). Nassau . . . docked there so many times, I don't even get off the ship.

  • @jturie
    @jturie 14 днів тому +1

    We stayed on the ship when docked at Ocho Rios....heard a number of bad stories...mostly aggressive sales tactics, but some people said they were followed by small groups of men for a few blocks, who then walked in another direction when the people found a police officer. No thank you. Cozumel is becoming the next Nassau (if it isn't already there....)

  • @jlawrence0181
    @jlawrence0181 9 днів тому +1

    Two comments:
    1) We were assaulted two blocks south of the port in Belize City. We wanted to go to a store about four blocks away. We were able to finally shove the guy away and get back to the cruise port. He tried to report it to the local authorities but they did not care. I might go back there is I am on an excursion.
    2) I am not going to address the crime in Falmouth as it is pretty common. I took a van tour and the way people drive - passing on double yellows and the like - made me fear for my life.

  • @Tee55118
    @Tee55118 12 днів тому

    I loved Belize City!!!!! Old Caribbean! Loved it!!!!!!

  • @ydduar5932
    @ydduar5932 15 днів тому +1

    Great info.

  • @Hoya2112
    @Hoya2112 13 днів тому +9

    Surprised not to see Costa Maya on this list. The port area is fake, tacky, crowded and full of aggressive shop keepers. I felt a more authentic experience at the Mexico pavilion at Disney World.

    • @jed5726
      @jed5726 12 днів тому +3

      Yes, there were men that made me and my 20 year old daughter feel very uncomfortable.

  • @theonetruevoiceoftheonetrueGod
    @theonetruevoiceoftheonetrueGod 12 днів тому +1

    Colon, Panama should replace Falmouth on this list because Colon is just like Mogadishu

  • @landlockedcruiser
    @landlockedcruiser 14 днів тому +1

    La Romana was interesting for sure! We had two open air buses on our excursion and we had 3 police or what they called police, and everywhere we went was sketchy as hell it seemed like everyone that was sitting on cars or motorbikes were just waiting for an opertunity to rob us as we drove by and I'd say I'd probably stay on the ship next time and watch the baseball fields that are next to the port!a💯✌🏽

  • @nascarmadman
    @nascarmadman 14 днів тому +3

    Cozumel is THE worst I have EVER visited. Walking down the street we slowed our pace by about a millimeter per hour and were practically tackled and dragged into the store.

    • @markswan2582
      @markswan2582 12 днів тому

      Had a similar experience there as well. Went ashore for about half an hour and headed right back to the ship

    • @QuantumLegal
      @QuantumLegal 11 днів тому

      We just had our first experience with Coz on NCL, and absolutely hated it. Endless pestering, we stayed within the shopping area, had lunch at Hooters (no kidding, it was actually ok) and went back to the ship.

  • @brianm2129
    @brianm2129 13 днів тому +2

    Nassau and Freeport are dumps. They're popular with the cruise ship companies NOT the passengers. They're just a short hop from eastern Fl ports so it costs the cruise line nearly nothing to get you there.

  • @blackdishes
    @blackdishes 15 днів тому

    Thank you. Good to know about Freeport

  • @GrnXnham
    @GrnXnham 14 днів тому +1

    Of the five I've only been to Nassau.
    Had ZERO problems and I even LOOK like a victim!😂

  • @jmw9874
    @jmw9874 15 днів тому

    I have only been to Nassau, we did an organized excursion and we enjoyed it, but it is very much a stick to the port area or take an excursion port. There are some amazing places to see on the island but they are either very pricey or they are a long way away. The area just outside the gated port area is run down and does not feel safe to walk through. There is an upscale area that if you are in a larger group you could make it too toward the Margaritaville resort, but that area is not authentic at all. I would suggest taking a guided tour if you really want to see things and not have to worry too much. But most tours all go to a lot of the same places so you can price compare and usually come out OK. We went to John Watling's Distillery which is a historical site with a large shop and tasting room attached, a local tea shop that had a garden in the back where they had most of the plants that were in their teas, and then we visited a smaller straw market that was near the Baha Mar resort, this was nearly abandoned on the day we were there so while there were not many vendors we did not feel overwhelmed at all and basically had the entire market for our van full to explore, the tour included a lunch at a tourist spot which was OK, but we also drove around and saw many sites and the nicer areas on the island away from the port area. Our tour guide was great and took great care of us. There is also often music and performers busking in the port area and there is a museum at the port on Junkanoo which is a Bahamian carnival/mardi gras tradition. So there are some things there worth seeing and you can easily just get back on your ship whenever you are ready.

  • @waynejenkins1061
    @waynejenkins1061 14 днів тому

    Oh yay. I'm going to 3 of them in March.

  • @2468-n2q
    @2468-n2q 10 днів тому +3

    I refuse to visit ANYWHERE the answer of NO isn't RESPECTED!
    IE: DOMINICAN REPUBLIC turned ME OFF!

  • @JoeHusosky
    @JoeHusosky 15 днів тому +3

    30 years ago in Belize City was the only time I have been robbed on a shore walk about. Also at that time they had open sewers. Also while docked over night the ship had crew with automatic weapons stationed on the deck all night long.

  • @pagrant
    @pagrant 14 днів тому +1

    We been to La Romana , it was pretty scary, we took the tourist train on the way back to port and had a police escort , got told politely not to go down certain roads , also montego bay me and my parents did not like it , I got hit on by a female which i did not like in Jamaica , for most Caribbean ports we just stayed around the port shops

  • @lakesailor123
    @lakesailor123 15 днів тому +8

    Went to Belize for this Thanksgiving, many of the things he mentioned are universal in the Caribbean, and shouldn't take away from the beauty of the culture, land, and people in Belize.

  • @traddtv
    @traddtv 11 днів тому +1

    I believe all these cruise ports are actually good location/destinations. You just need to leave the port or go on a tour to see better parts of the island/country. It’s all what you make it.

  • @janjerryfoster9177
    @janjerryfoster9177 12 днів тому +1

    Did Belize and it was the worst experience we have ever had on a cruise. Terrible tender in. Soaking wet and cold when we arrived. The security was insane. Armed guards to get us on a bus for a tour of the city. Not fun at all. Everyone looking at you as a mark. Not very welcoming and will never go back.

  • @Minaish11
    @Minaish11 11 днів тому

    I was JUST in Belize City before Christmas 2024. It was charming, the people were so friendly and i experienced NONE of the hounding you were talking about. Maybe they've taken note of these videos and cleaned it up? We went to the rum factory, which i think is a MUST for people who enjoy trying different kinds of alcohol. The Cream Rum ( like Bailey's but with rum) was DELICIOUS, as was theircashew wine. Beware of the latter, it packs a punch after about 10 minutes!!!! Please check the weather before you embark on your cruise.

  • @atlkathy
    @atlkathy 15 днів тому +14

    I completely agree about Belize City. Curious to explore more, I left the center but was immediately surrounded by men aggressively pushing tours and sketchy offers within seconds. I felt unsafe and tense as a solo female traveler. I ended up loudly repeating 'No Thanks!' as I hustled back to the shopping center. They followed me and only stopped once I was back inside the shopping center. This was the most unsafe I have ever felt in any port. Advice to all: There is no reason to walk around in Belize City. It's run down, shabby and unsafe.

    • @atlkathy
      @atlkathy 15 днів тому +2

      Add Roatan -- Coxen Hole Port. If you have the misfortune of docking in Coxen Hole and not Mahogany Bay, do not choose to go from a walk on Main Street. We made that mistake. We found a run-down, dirty town with narrow streets. We stopped to sit down in a very small park and a small child approached us trying to sell cigarettes. We got the strong impression that we were about to be set up by someone lurking in the shadows. We left as quickly as we could. We immediately went back to the ship.

    • @atlkathy
      @atlkathy 13 днів тому +1

      On my next cruise visiting the Belize City port, I was determined to explore beyond the shopping center. I made it to North Front Street on my own, a desolate area with few businesses. I walked as far as the Swing Bridge without being accosted or approached by any locals. On my way back from the Swing Bridge, I entered a store near the tourism village. The store was guarded by police, where I had to leave my purse in an open locker. It saddened me that the shop's low-value souvenirs required police presence due to the severity of the crime in Belize City. Advice: Belize excurions outside of Belize City are generally good. Skip visiting the city.

  • @martinmcc.6237
    @martinmcc.6237 14 днів тому

    It 's funny how many Caribbean cruises include these destinations.... There's a good chance you'll get at least one on your itinerary. Places like Ochos Rios usually ends up a 'ship day' for us, because just about every excursion has Dunn's River Falls in it. Been there, done that... I prefer a foofie rum drink poolside on the ship. Although pricey, the cruise excursions seem to be the best option at 'iffy' ports of call.

  • @anne-marievr5710
    @anne-marievr5710 15 днів тому +2

    Honestly these days I would not venture off the beaten path at any Caribbean port. We will only sail the southern Caribbean for the beauty of those islands and their beaches. No Western Caribbean…any Mexico port, Bahamas, Jamaica, Dominican, Trinidad---gang violence there recently as well as Haiti…not sure why Royal Caribbean stops there still, San Juan….I just won’t sail there. Too many other destinations in the world.

  • @j.soledispa1882
    @j.soledispa1882 13 днів тому +1

    Agree!.. me and 2 sisters went to Nassau a couple years ago snd regretted forever. We were taken to visit places close by - but was nothing to enjoy or see. A tourist guide took us and a few others to small park that had a cage we don’t know what exactly was inside. Next we were shown supposedly some medicinal plants. Since we didn’t know them it could’ve being anything.
    The beach was desolated - no people.. and nothing to eat - there was a kind of a Bar/restaurant but nothing appealing. Sorry.. I wish I can go back on time and stayed home.

  • @edeter2260
    @edeter2260 14 днів тому

    I have been to only one cruise port on your list, Nassau, I thought it was ok, nothing to be fearful of nor did I experience aggressive merchants; even walking around the Straw Market no vendor approached me to buy something. No organized tour is needed. Walking to the Queen's Stair Case and Fort Fincastle is safe even with the questionable side walks that need repair and no need to book an excursion. Inside the port area is pretty nice and clean also I experienced no aggressive vendors. This might have to do with me traveling solo and not being interested in what is being offered. I consider Nassau a port that I would not go out of my way to visit but if it is on the itinerary a few hour walk around visit is fine.
    I have not been to the other four ports you listed and will most likely avoid them due to what you mentioned. I did experience aggressive for hire tour guides while Puerto Plata DR and did cave in to have one take me around the area for 3 hours which was I later reflect on was a good idea since the guide had an umbrella and it was raining on and off that day. I did tip that guide what it would cost me if I had gone on an NCL town walk excursion with 15 to 20 other cruisers. Having a guide to myself was not that expensive and pretty great experience.

  • @dangerzone24
    @dangerzone24 14 днів тому

    The Belize port isn't bad at all as long as you stay in the cruise area, which is secured, and the merchants are pretty respectful. Just sit in the lower deck of the tender to ensure you stay out of the sun.

  • @traceynewdeck8526
    @traceynewdeck8526 14 днів тому

    Great video. Do you guys prefer Eastern, Western or Southern Carribean areas?

    • @markswan2582
      @markswan2582 12 днів тому +1

      Southern, although some of the Eastern is ok. Don’t waste your time/money on Western.

  • @shawnryan8345
    @shawnryan8345 15 днів тому +3

    Right on, depending on ur’ tolerance of course.
    Next cruise in the Caribbean with 90 years young mum 😀. We are staying aboard on all ports of call. We’re going in order to enjoy the all experiences on the ship -👍

  • @mayamayaofficial9120
    @mayamayaofficial9120 12 днів тому +1

    Nassau is a "Pirate town" where the prices are four times more expensive than the most famous Caribbean islands and Nassau is very poor and ugly

  • @RaymondMullen-t9j
    @RaymondMullen-t9j 10 днів тому +1

    you are SPOT on all those Ports and We DO NOT get off and
    Use it as a Ship Day , Enjoy Pool, LEDO and an EMPTY SHIP
    almost ... And Cruise ON !!!

  • @cydneystephen2814
    @cydneystephen2814 14 днів тому

    Hey Ben. Looking fabulous you are. I’ve been to all these ports through the years and never felt unsafe. Why do ppl use ATM’s on ships and islands? Withdraw your money at home no fee. I only use cash in ports. Will have my card with me for emergency but am not pulling out that card.
    The best shops are the ones associated with the ships and you pay with your keycard and they deliver the items to the ship.
    Sorry you were verbally abused in Jamaica 😢.
    I understand everyone is trying to make a living and sell their merch but one I say no thank you , don’t keep asking or following me or become verbally disrespectful. Thank goodness I have not experienced that but I have seen it happen to others. Thanks Ben 🤗

  • @PhillipConleyJr.
    @PhillipConleyJr. 10 днів тому

    I enjoyed Belize City. It wasn’t super pretty, but the VIBE of the people was fun!! It sort of reminded me of New Orleans people… poor, but cheerful, fun, and good food

  • @gourp
    @gourp 6 днів тому

    I like to walk and that is a very bad idea in Jamaica. Don't wander off the tourist zones! I've been to many 3rd world countries and nothing was quite as scary as going off the tourist reservation area in Jamaica. That was a couple decades ago but I don't think it is any better now.

  • @TravelCEOTribe
    @TravelCEOTribe 13 днів тому +2

    Jamaica is BEAUTIFUL but I think we forget that some of them like us who are SMALL busineses have to drive business the best way they know how WITHOUT social media. Don't be that person. At least take a look and try to support that SMALL biz

    • @gunterklocher6567
      @gunterklocher6567 13 днів тому +1

      Raigth..i am from longbay ..portland.
      Ina port antonio we get them smal tousistship..and i never see..a tourist get a problem with sombady ..its a very safe litle nice touwn..with smal buisnissplace..and the no troblen nobady

  • @dougtube9870
    @dougtube9870 13 днів тому

    Belize is a great port to visit. Maybe not if you’re just going to wander around the city, but they have some of the best excursions.
    La Romana was the only place I’ve ever had the city tour escorted by the military.
    Nassau isn’t near as bad as I expected. All we did was take a walk to the Greycliff Hotel. That was a nice place to check out and there chocolatier had one of the best brownies I’ve ever eaten.
    Freeport is the worst I’ve been to. Really pointless. If I ever go back it’ll be a ship day for me.
    My least favorite that wasn’t mentioned is Costa Maya. Just nothing much to do. The only thing that sort of saved it was the swim up bar. I just chilled in there.

  • @waynecuffley3451
    @waynecuffley3451 14 днів тому +1

    Martinique should be on this list

    • @lindaclark9096
      @lindaclark9096 13 днів тому

      I agree. We had a scary shop lady try to put a curse on my husband

  • @kevwwong
    @kevwwong 15 днів тому

    Would agree that Belize City itself is nothing much to write home about. Alten Ha is definitely worth a look though.
    Completely agree about Nassau. It's not a bad place. Just very commercial and a very frequent stop.
    Falmouth is what it is. I don't think the port authority really wants you to leave the terminal to be honest. At least there is something there, unlike at Montego Bay.

  • @adkay152
    @adkay152 13 днів тому

    I dislike Nassau so much, we ended up getting off this round 1/4/24, but typically do not. I’ve gone about eight times. The port area that’s fenced in right at the port is alright but if you go to straw market it’s too much. Watch the people trying to give you bracelets, and yes the young men being told no will snarl…yes snarl…at you and try to pick pocket you…they are maybe 11 too! After that I was done. This was down by Señor Frogs and straw market. We stayed maybe an hour off the ship. I will say Baha Mar is a lovely excursion and great for kids. We enjoyed it years ago.

  • @marcelvanhemert8126
    @marcelvanhemert8126 11 днів тому

    One of my least favorite ports was Roseau, Dominica. Dominica as an island is gorgeous and I would 100% go back, but I didn't enjoy wandering around Roseau as much as I liked St. John's (Antigua), Basseterre (St. Kitts), or even Castries (St. Lucia). It just didn't feel as safe. That said, definitely book an excursion to see the beauty of Dominica. It's worth your time.

  • @WiredForFlight
    @WiredForFlight 15 днів тому

    I am on a cruise that subbed Labadie Haiti for Falmouth. I had second thoughts about keeping it and now that I am past final payment kinda stuck. Oh well.

    • @desertpinevintage
      @desertpinevintage 15 днів тому +3

      Just enjoy the time on the ship and stay onboard 😊

    • @markswan2582
      @markswan2582 12 днів тому +1

      Do NOT go to the market place if you get off the ship. Vendors are more aggressive than a used car salesman at the end of the month!

    • @JM-ev8wt
      @JM-ev8wt 5 днів тому +2

      I went to Labadee with my two teenage girls last year, and we had a blast. The vendors were very polite, and they did take no for an answer without being rude or aggressive.

  • @robertb7864
    @robertb7864 15 днів тому +4

    Progresso, Mexico is another one. Definitely a 3rd World Country. We walked around one block and returned to the ship quick. Nothing for us. Vendors pushing their stuff, won't leave you alone. Definitely won't be getting off the ship again.

  • @charliedurham4248
    @charliedurham4248 13 днів тому

    Looking trim!😊

  • @kmclendon100
    @kmclendon100 5 днів тому

    I’m sure the video content is accurate, but my wife and I have visited Falmouth, Mo Bay and Nassau for us being Floridian beach people we get along well with the islanders in general
    we don’t do tours we just cab to the nearest beach and deal with the people
    Nassau can be rough but we had no issues but I can’t say we loved it we hired a ‘boss’ to look after us on the beach and he did but it was just OK, kinda crowded
    Mo Bay is inundated with dealers and rip offs but again we were aware and moved straightway to Negril where we made friends with a popular local who took us everywhere and watched out for us twice for a week each time no issues at all
    Falmouth we went out of the terminal into a cab and to the nearest beach there were some tourists there but mostly locals we hired a ‘boss’ who looked after us, got us chairs, food (lobster we saw as it was caught just offshore on the reef) and kept all the other locals from bugging us he cost like $30 and we did pay for the food the chairs but we had a great time, when time to go we loaded up in another cab and went back to the terminal
    So, while our way wouldn’t be too cool for most cruiser touristas for us these ports worked out fine, but again the video is true for the most part

  • @stefanieroberts6796
    @stefanieroberts6796 6 днів тому +1

    Progreso was the worst port i've been to

  • @neilcharles2520
    @neilcharles2520 12 днів тому +1

    I guess these cruise critics has never been to Port of Spain,Trinidad !! It's worst than the five ...

  • @JosephD985
    @JosephD985 13 днів тому

    So the objection to the Nassau straw market is that is inauthentic to the culture and that the haggling is too vigorous. FYI, the haggling and salesmanship is authentic to the culture, and a lot of other cultures. I have had no issues in Nassau and I like it. To each his own.

  • @barryhaley7430
    @barryhaley7430 14 днів тому

    I don’t bother to get off at any of these ports. I would throw in Roatan and Casta Maya as well.
    I don’t get off at any Jamaican ports.

  • @SUBSTANCEVIDEOZ
    @SUBSTANCEVIDEOZ 12 днів тому +1

    As a proud Jamaican. You are right about the homophobia. You’re completely wrong about the violence. Jamaicans do not harm tourists. Jamaicans kill Jamaicans. Incidence of violence towards tourist is very rare

  • @FraserAtSea
    @FraserAtSea 10 днів тому +2

    I visited Nassau on my first ever cruise, and I couldn’t believe how odd it felt in port. It really amazed me that the cruise lines are pushing an island like that - if I ever go back, I reckon I’d just stay onboard!

  • @vectorboy7
    @vectorboy7 11 днів тому

    Can't stand Jamaica or the Bahamas (especially Nassau) I just stay on the ship. The weather is the same and the bathrooms are a tad cleaner.