Robberies and assaults by humans always get big news, and it is wise to be on guard wherever you are, but a growing problem throughout the
Caribbean that has not gotten much attention in the news is assaults by mosquitos. One strain of mosquito has been transmitting a disease called chikungunya which came over from tropical
Africa. I have first hand experience with it having contracted it in April in
BVI. The initial sickness only lasts a few days but pain or stiffness in the joints can last for weeks, months, or even years. Protection is not difficult. You must use an insect repellent with at least 15% DEET in it. Don't worry about every mosquito bite you get. Most of them don't carry the disease. But don't be careless or indifferent about using the repellent.
Here is a link to information about chikungunya:
Stealthy, Debilitating Disease Is Poised to Sweep the U.S. — NOVA Next | PBS.
I'm not afraid to return to the Caribbean, in fact I'm sailing
BVI again in January. But DEET is on my "must have" list.