Hey Jools,
I am an american female who has traveled alone. I was on cc in March with my brother and his wife. My brother has been there many times but it was my first visit. I did my homework BEFORE i went. Learned all I could about the people, customs, and expectations of the island. You hold some responsability for what happened to you. Yes you were taken advantage of but at the end of the day you made the chioces for you. We all know that these kind of thugs are all over the world. Please don't let this keep you from going back the the most peacful place on earth. They awre not all bad there. As a matter of fact I was treated with respect and felt very safe there. Maybe I just had a "don't screw with me look" but give it another go. and don't go alone. I'll be going back in 07 and can't wait.