Is Rio de Janerio Dangerous

Answer 1

I spent three months in Rio, mostly in Ipanema (Zona Sul) and also two more in Angras dos Reis. I have never been treated better in my life, never had the slightest negative experience. I will return. Brazilians are personally very friendly if you show the right attitude and especially if you try your hand at Portuguese. I even had a waiter chase after me at my regular restaurant as I forgot my change. The street begging is about on par with most large US cities, and much of what passes for begging are informal "businesses" like selling candy and gum.

I do have the advantage of being 6'1' and muscular (Brazilians are small), but I'm also in my 50s, and I think there is a psychological deference to both factors. You need to size yourself up though, because if you can't project certain things, it might be a different experience than mine was. One evening I came across 7 kids alone, and thought oh-oh, but they acted more afraid of me than I of them.

Although there is no way I can blend in as a Brasilero, my Portuguese is decent which doesn't hurt. I also love the country and act in a friendly, confident, respectful way towards everybody. Never, NEVER act snobby, because there is an understandable undertone of resentment there. Also avoid speaking English aloud if you have any doubts.

My general advice is have Brazilian friends as they are very protective, will tend to cover your back, and have good street sense. Stay in Zona Sul and know where the favelas are. In hindsight I did take public buses around too much, but actually think it's Ok if crowded. Same with being out later at night, stay in crowds. Dress casually, because the climate was warm I'd typically wear non-designer, non-pretentious shorts (light seersucker pants in the evening) and light shirts, and walking/running shoes (not sandals).

You can carry your wallet (or just a plastic sandwich bag) but with only one credit card (have a back up) and maybe 200 reis ($120). Have loose money in your front pocket for easy access. Walk with confidence and at a faster pace than most people. Pay attention to the people around you, look up the street. If you sit, face towards bypassers and not with back turned. Back turned, purse or bag on beach or table is an open snatch and run invitation. If someone acts a little dicey, make a little non-threating "I see you" eye contact, calm your nerves and broaden your shoulders much like a animal would. If I were threatened and robbed I would produce my wallet quickly, and do an assumptive close.

Do your money business (ATM,etc) and shopping in the morning, as the bad guys sleep then, as many Brazilians like to be up all night. You should be sleeping at night. Finally, the most dangerous part of Brazil is driving. I'd think twice about renting cars. but Rio de Janerio State has a good executive bus system. The drivers are rude, aggressive and non-defensive. Be very caution crossing streets.