The way stories spread on the internet, any crime gets entirely too much coverage. I am not saying that it should be trivialized, but neither should it make you afraid to open the door to your hotel, timeshare or rental property. What it should do is make you aware of your surroundings, just like you should be in any City or Town.

We have been going to SXM since 1993. We have never had a bad experience. Doesn't mean it's not there. I also traveled to Manhattan, where I worked, for 43 years. Never had a bad experience there either, and we all know what can happen there.

Eyes wide open. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. And for first time travelers anywhere, find out neighborhoods and areas that you should stay away from.