Safety

Bocas is a safe town, but it has acquired a few sidewalk hustlers and drug dealers in recent years, so don't wander its side streets late at night. It's very common to hear a local mumble "weed weed" under their breath as they pass you on the street, a discreet attempt to sell marijuana. The main dangers in the archipelago, however, are sunburn and bug bites. Take a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Drowning is also a real danger, and there are no lifeguards. Don't swim at the beaches if the waves are big, unless you are an experienced surfer, and don't let a boatman take you into rough water in a dugout canoe. No matter where you're staying, don't drink the tap water.