I live in Kingston, I love Kingston, but like most capital cities, Kingston has its gritty underbelly. However, that does not stop it from being one of the most vibrant cities on the planet.

The culture of Jamaica flows through the streets of Kingston, alive and pulsating, and it is a treat for Jamaicans and visitors alike. You can enjoy the bounty of Kingston and be safe just by being aware of and avoiding Kingston 10′s deadliest neighborhoods.

1. August Town
Often at war within itself or with neighboring communities like Hermitage and Goldsmith Villa (Angola).

2. Denham Town
Reputedly the home base of the miscreants who started the battle in Hannah town recently. A few years back the local police station in Denham town was laid to siege for days by Gunmen.

3. Grants Pen
Somewhat calm in recent times, Grants Pen is never to be taken as a tourist destination and should be avoided if possible.

4. Hannah Town
Most recently the staging area of a three hour gun battle between law enforcement personnel and Gunmen.

5. Jungle
This PNP Garrison has been fairly stable in recent times, but with entrenched political and gang warfare, anything is possible.

6. Maxfield
Had some unrest a few weeks ago, but has since settled into a tense calm. Should be avoided if at all possible as one can never quite predict when it may explode.

7. Mountain View
Recent venue for one of the largest guns and ammunition find in recent history. It is fairly calm now but goes off periodically without warning.

8. Rockfort
Currently facing unrest; gang fighting has residents spending long hours on the floor.

9. Tivoli Gardens
Home base of Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke, JLP strongman and the extradition bone over which the USA and Jamaica are currently fighting. It is usually peaceful under “The President’s” iron fist, but if the extradition happens, the power vacuum created could launch world war three.

10. Waterhouse
Gang warfare keeps this community in constant turmoil. Even when at peace, I would not venture into this community. Seriously unless you live there…keep out.

And here you have it Kingston’s 10 deadliest neighborhoods. Now there are other rough areas in and outside of Kingston, so dishonorable mentions goes to:

Angola
Hermitage
Rema
Seaview
Tavern
Waltham

Spanish Town (City)
Flankers (Montego Bay)
Naggos Head (Portmore)

If I have missed a community worth mentioning or you feel like challenging the inclusion of a particular one, please feel free to key it into the comments section.