last edited Dec 11, 2019
Health and Safety in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Official Recommendations
In France, both for individuals and professionals, the "travel advice" from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding precautions for each country has legal value. A similar online travel advice system exists in several countries:
Health
As always, it’s best to be up to date with your vaccinations, even if nothing is officially required to enter the country.
Diseases
The destination doesn’t pose major health risks, though dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika—spread by certain mosquitoes—are present. For protection, the best approach is to use a good repellent, cover your arms and legs at dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and bring an impregnated mosquito net if sleeping in a place without air conditioning or airflow.
Hygiene
There are no significant risks here either. Just remember to stay hydrated (tap water is generally potable, though bottled water may be preferred), protect yourself from the sun during the hottest periods, and wash your hands regularly.
Local Healthcare Facilities
The number and quality of local healthcare facilities are average. For serious or complicated cases (including diving accidents), evacuations to Barbados or Martinique may be considered.
Safety
Crime and Delinquency
While not widespread, petty crime has been increasing in recent years. Risks of burglary, theft, and, rarely, personal assault exist, but with basic common sense and precautions (such as avoiding deserted beaches and isolated areas at night), you can stay safe. Sailors should also favor marinas for mooring. Additionally, while the archipelago produces marijuana, its consumption and possession are not legal.
Scams and "Tourist" Harassment
Socio-Political Risks
Nothing particular to report.
Climate, Nature, and Wildlife
Beyond hurricanes, which can occasionally hit the island between August and October, the intense sun is the main concern. The island, like others in the region, also has manchineel trees along some beaches—resembling apple trees—whose fruit and sap are toxic and can cause burns. When swimming, be cautious of strong currents in certain coastal areas.
Foreign Consulates on Site
If you encounter problems while traveling abroad, your country’s consular services can assist you. Note that if you’re an EU citizen and your country isn’t represented, you can contact any other EU member state’s representation.
France
While Saint Vincent and the Grenadines falls under the French embassy in Saint Lucia, there is an honorary consular agency on site: Paul's Ave, P.O Box 560, Kingstown. Tel.: +1 784 456 2136.
Belgium
No office in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; it depends on its representation in Jamaica: Consulate General, 6 St Lucia Avenue, 5 Kingston, Jamaica. Tel.: +1 876 754 7903. In case of emergency: +1 876 382 7850.
Canada
No office in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; it depends on its representation in Barbados: High Commission of Canada in Barbados, Bishop's Court Hill, St. Michael, P.O. Box 404, Bridgetown, Barbados BB11113. Tel.: +1 246 629 3550. In case of emergency: 613 996 8885.
Switzerland
No office in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; it depends on its representation in Caracas, Venezuela: Consulate General: Centro Letonia, Torre Ing-Bank, piso 15, Av. Eugenio Mendoza y San Felipe, La Castellana, Caracas. Tel.: +58 212 267 9585.