One of the first things people ask about Brazil is if it’s safe. Most tourists have a trouble-free experience, but to alleviate any concerns here’s a few Brazil safety tips to follow.
By: Jenny Karakaya
It is said that Rio is one of the sexiest cities in the world and I concur whole-heartedly. Having traveled throughout Brazil a few years ago, I couldn’t wait to go back for seconds, especially Rio. The city is blessed with sexy curves (the natural mountainous kinds), stunning beaches, colorful Portuguese designs, eye-popping architecture, and a lush tropical rainforest. The people are friendly and welcoming (not to mention beautiful), their famous caipirinhas drinks are devilishly delicious, and the food delightful. Their energy is infectious and the samba dancing a must! I would highly recommend spending at least one week in Rio, to see the iconic landmarks, sights and beaches. Ipanema, Copacabana and Barra de Tijuca have some of the best beaches in Rio. There’s a reason, that so many have written songs about these places. It is also vital to visit the Sugarloaf mountain, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, which is perched atop the Corcovado mountain as the protector of Rio, the historical neighborhood of Santa Teresa and the famous colorful steps known as Escadaria Selaron in the bohemian district, Lapa.
RELATED: Turkey Travel and Safety Tips for Women
If you have the budget, I highly recommend booking a helicopter tour. It is by far the BEST thing I have experienced in Rio. Tripadvisor has several tour companies for all the above, so my best advice is to do the research and see what fits best for you. However, every resourceful and famous city, has its good and bad side. Rio has a very high percentage of poverty, which keeps their crime rate steadily high. There are several favelas piled up the mountains, which are otherwise known as the slums or ghettos of Brazil. Where there is great poverty and crime. Unfortunately, this is mostly due to their notoriously corrupt government.
For now, it is highly recommended to continue taking precautions and following these Brazil safety tips while traveling in the country.
1 – Never be flashy. Dress like a modest local and wear nothing valuable, especially jewelry.
2 – Always carry a smaller purse or fanny pack. Strap it across your chest. There have been instances where purses have been grabbed or a strap cut off by bikers. So look for anti-theft bags where you can cut the straps off.
3 – Never use your phone openly or wave it around in crowds. If you are on a tour, then it’s usually safer to take pics with your phone, but not when alone. Same goes for professional cameras. If you are there for Carnival, never take your phone out of your pocket in crowds or better yet, leave it at home. There is pick-pocketing open grabbing everywhere.
4 – Never walk through a favela alone or with friends. There are designated tours for this, which are safe as long as the tour guide is a local from the favela you are touring. Be aware that there are armed police everywhere and they can open fire in a favela at any time, if they suspect criminal activity.
5 – Avoid the beaches at night. Period. You will get mugged.
6 – Never get drunk and if you do go out drinking, stick with a trustworthy and reliable group of friends. The men are very forward in wanting to stop and kiss women in the street (especially during Carnival), so all women should have some male friends out with them, just in case. This is also considered a crime now, so you can report any aggressive behavior to a police officer, if necessary.
7 – The Favela drug dealers are always out at night looking to make a sale. Just say no.
8-Upon arrival book a taxi inside the airport from an agency. It will cost a little more, but this is a way to avoid the scam of a shady unregistered drivers robbing you, taking all your luggage and money. There have been reports of both the driver and passenger are held up, but the driver is in on it and takes his cut later.
9–Don’t wear headphones in public. Chances are you won’t be as aware of your surroundings and people around you if you’re listening to music and you open yourself up to a potential attack.
10–Always try to use an ATM located in a secure area such as a bank, airport or government building.
Don’t let any of these Brazil safety tips and guidelines scare you off or prevent you from visiting this mind-blowing place. Rio is worth the journey, as long as you are aware and prepared. Get your Saude (cheers)!