No Reason to Panic, but this should be addressed...

[Bnewb]

I think you need to read all of the article again, carefully. All of that info can easily be gleaned from what has been published, and pretty clearly at that. I'm offended on behalf of those girls for your responses here. Seriously. I think you need to step back and rethink your stance here.

Tah...while you're choosing to shame only Livinin for her opinions and questioning of (I also think) a poorly written article...there are a few others that have shared her opinion and questioning in this thread.

If we didn't question the actions of both the victims and perpetrators...we wouldn't be able to learn from and help each other avoid the same and similar horrific crimes.
If a story is sensationalized or includes questionable information...it detracts from lessons and advice that could be used to prevent such crimes in the future.

[Irine]

It's a good exercise all around to try really see someone else's point of view and understand it. Doesn't mean you have to agree. This is a very sensitive topic, but I still think we should celebrate the courage of everyone who has chosen to comment, and respect that freedom we have been given to speak our minds.

[LivinInThe603]

Tah...while you're choosing to shame only Livinin for her opinions and questioning of (I also think) a poorly written article...there are a few others that have shared her opinion and questioning in this thread.

If we didn't question the actions of both the victims and perpetrators...we wouldn't be able to learn from and help each other avoid the same and similar horrific crimes.
If a story is sensationalized or includes questionable information...it detracts from lessons and advice that could be used to prevent such crimes in the future.

Thank you for acknowledging my point of view, bnewb. My perspective is a collection of this horribly written article, my personal experiences in Jamaica, my personal experiences in life (and sex), and my personal travel philosophy. I'm not sorry if I offended anyone. I have my own point of view, as do you all. What really makes me angry is that people no longer feel that they need to own their choices. Our lives are a series of choices. Sometimes things happen out of our own control... but I challenge you to think of something bad that happened to you, no matter how small... and I wonder, what could you have done to prevent this event from happening- what choice did you make to end you up in that bad situation? Can anyone truly say that they had no part in the event?

[LivinInThe603]

I think you need to read all of the article again, carefully. All of that info can easily be gleaned from what has been published, and pretty clearly at that. I'm offended on behalf of those girls for your responses here. Seriously. I think you need to step back and rethink your stance here.

good thing your opinion is your own, and mine is mine...

I have no need, nor a desire to step back and rethink my stance. And if you are offended, I'm not sorry. I'd be glad to discuss this with you further. Text rarely expresses the true emotion and sentiment of a conversation. I believe there is more to the story, and USA today or whatever it was, isn't in the business of telling the whole story.

[LivinInThe603]

No matter the age or situation, there is abosolutly NO EXCUSE FOR RAPE!!! Yes the girls could’ve made better decisions to help keep themselves safe, but they thought they were inside the walls of the resort. No fault at all should fall on the victims. It’s appalling that anyone would even put partial blame on them.

There is a response to rape... or a preventative... DON'T GO INTO THE WEIRD, OUT OF PLACE, LAUNDRY ROOM WITH A STRANGER. No matter how many times he calls you princess.

[LivinInThe603]

Completely agree 603!
Troubles easy to find if you look for it....
And as easily avoided!
Make wise choices and use your smarts.

Thanks, Weeboy

[LivinInThe603]

It's hard to read about how bad a trip can go. I've been paranoid about personal safety as long as I can remember starting with "Don't take candy from a stranger." Thanks, Mom! I try to stay on top of my game no matter where I am when I travel or even at home. That said, who doesn't have a few edgy encounters after 34 years of traveling to Jamaica.

I've had edgy encounters... could have been prevented by my own choices. Don't see me blaming others for it.

[LivinInThe603]

probably many other comments, but you've all got my point of view, I'm sure. Probably with backlash. Sorry, not sorry. If anyone goes anywhere and thinks they aren't susceptible to danger, they are not a savvy traveler. Get with it, people.

mic drop.
mi out.
April, if you want to chat.

[Bruce]

Mic drop? Lol

[Accompong]

There is a response to rape... or a preventative... DON'T GO INTO THE WEIRD, OUT OF PLACE, LAUNDRY ROOM WITH A STRANGER. No matter how many times he calls you princess.

But... if he drags you there kicking and screaming... well, shame on you (I guess)