is it safe for us to stay off-resort in jamaica?

Last week, my two friends and I started planning a trip to Jamaica. We’re all in our early twenties, and honestly, the idea of staying at my friend’s family beach apartment in St. Catherine sounds way more exciting than being stuck at a resort with a bunch of tourists. We’ve been daydreaming about local food, quiet beaches, and just soaking up the real Jamaica—not just the postcard version. But here’s the catch: my mom is seriously worried. She keeps sending me news articles and calling every night, saying it’s risky for three young women to stay off-resort. I get where she’s coming from, but I also don’t want to miss out on an adventure just because of fear. I’ve always tried to be careful when I travel—no wandering around late at night, always letting someone know where I am, and sticking together. But now I’m second-guessing myself. Is my mom right to be so anxious, or are we just letting worry ruin a good opportunity? Has anyone actually stayed in a local apartment in Jamaica, especially in St. Catherine? Did you feel safe, or did you run into any trouble? I want to be smart, but I also don’t want to let fear keep me from experiencing something new. It’s tough to balance being adventurous and being safe, especially when family is involved. I’d love to hear about your real experiences, not just the scary headlines. #JamaicaTravel #TravelSafety #OffResort #Travel