We were in Jamaica last year and hired a private car/body guard for a day trip. We got to talking, I was curious if I could set up shop there. He said there were only three body guard companies approved by the government to operate there. He was born there, went to NY to college and moved back to stay. The most interesting part of our conversation was he said;
The islands are no different than NY or Boston. You walk around during the day in the shopping areas or early evening in the entertainment districts and you're going to be fine. You go messing around in shady areas after midnight, you're looking for trouble and will probably find it. He said the all inclusive resorts start rumors that the island/s aren't safe to keep the tourists and their money on site where the prices are jacked up 300%. I found that true. Blue Mountain coffee and Appleton Estate rum were STUPID prices on the resort. The wife decided she wanted a cigarette and paid ten bucks for a pack and gave most of them away. :fie: Shop where the locals shop!
He was a really cool guy and we bought him lunch at Rick's Cafe. He found a nice little humidor where we got some good Cuban's for $5.00 and up. (stogies). Pretty sure I can find his card if anyone needs the guy PM me.
I'd like to explore Puerto Rico more, I've only seen the road between the airport and ship dock a few times. I'd ask the locals where to get a driver body guard and not worry about bringing a gun. I don't remember but it was a pretty fair price for a half day.