It’s a question I’m asked most frequently about Brazil.
Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question. Brazil can be safe, and Brazil can be unsafe. However, if you take the proper precautions, you can have a pleasant trip to beautiful Brazil.
Despite what many people think, Brazil is not an inherently dangerous place to live or visit. And since I have lived and visited Brazil many times with family, I decided to put together some tips that will be helpful on a trip to Brazil or any country you are unfamiliar with visiting.
Here are some tips to make your trip to Brazil as safe as possible:
1. Don’t Show Off Your Valuable Possessions
If you are on vacation, you don’t need to bring your valuable possessions. You don’t need to take your iPad, laptop, or any other type of electronics you have. Just take your cell phone. Put your cell phone, money, and credit cards in a bag in front of you. Not in your pants, back pocket, or backpack. I recommend that you use a belt bag/fanny pack. Take the minimum cash necessary for your day trip or bring a credit card. They are easier to replace in case something happens.
The same goes for jewelry, watches, and more. Bring the minimum necessary or leave it at home. Be as simple as possible. The idea is to enjoy the area, have a wonderful experience, and not show off your valuable possessions. So, here are a few things you should not take on your trip:
- Don’t bring your fancy cameras.
- Don’t bring expensive jewelry, smartwatches, or tablets.
- Unless you are traveling for business, there is no need to take your laptop.
- Bring a few credit cards. Maximum of two and keep one in the hotel safe.
- There is no need to carry substantial amounts of cash. Most places will take Debit/Credit Card.
In the airport, check your bags ASAP and keep the minimum necessary items in your bag belt or a small bag that you can carry in front of you. And don’t leave your bag on the table while you get a tray or food.
Once in town, be aware of street vendors. The majority are honest, hardworking, and good people. But be mindful that you may encounter some that can take your values if you leave them unattended.
Brazil has stunning beaches, and it’s one of the best places to enjoy your stay in this beautiful country; however, if you are going to the beach (And you should!), bring a towel, sandals, and enough cash for ice cream, coconut water or something similar. And, of course, you will be okay with just these items! But if you decide to bring more things, be aware that you shouldn’t leave your documents, wallet, or essential things unattended on the sand while swimming. A good practice is to alternate with your companion on going swimming.
Most restaurants are safe, and many have employees watching out for unwanted people targeting tourists.
2. Blend With the Locals You Trust and Know
Brazilians are friendly, easy-going, and willing to help tourists. Therefore, your first stop should be the concierge/the receptionist in a hotel. These people are native speakers and trained to provide you with all the necessary information. In addition, they are more than happy to help you have a safe trip. Next, you can also ask the waiters, the doorman, and other friendly and trustworthy employees.
If you are not in a hotel, ask someone you can see is trusted locally—for instance, the host of the Airbnb or the landlord that rented you the apartment. As a rule, they aren’t there to misguide you. Quite the contrary. They’re happy to see you and will do their best to give you as much information as possible.
The Brazilian people are friendly and always willing to assist tourists. But be thoughtful about who you can trust.
3. Start By Visiting Small Cities
The road less traveled should be your goal. My family and I have visited many cities in Brazil, and we always prefer small towns. If you choose the right ones, they have plenty of entertainment, cozy hotels, and delicious food.
Many small cities in Brazil are located right on the beach, and they have plenty of activities for you to enjoy. In another post, I have mentioned some of these cities. And I have also advocated for you to visit the Northeast of Brazil first.
4. Dress As a Local
The first time I brought my husband to Brazil, my mother-in-law gave him a very bright and colorful shirt. I knew that shirt was not the best outfit for a tourist place. We thanked her, and soon I explained to my husband that he should only use it in our home and not outside. Our daily outfits are very similar to the California style. Jeans, shorts, T-shirts, and tennis shoes go a long way in Brazil. The idea is to dress like a local as much as you can. Then, keep a low profile and watch out for pickpockets. But if you are not sure what you should wear in Brazil, check out my post with tips about what you should pack for your Brazilian trip.
5. Be Selective About Tourist Places
You don’t have to visit all the tourist, famous places in Brazil at once. I feel this way about any country! Instead, choose a few sites with more affinity to your interests and lifestyle and reserve the rest for your next trip. You’ll enjoy your visit more if you limit your stay in the popular tourist zones as a first-time visitor or hire a tourist guide to make your trip more pleasant. Then next time you visit Brazil, you will have a clever idea of what you should expect, and you can go around with more confidence.
Don’t go to tourist places too early or late in the evening. You’re better off during business hours when locals are all around. And if you can, go in a group or on a hotel tour.
Tourist places are not perfect. It can be crowded and overwhelming, but what is the point of visiting another country if your goal is only to be in a fancy hotel and isolated from the local culture? Traveling is about the experience, the knowledge, and human interaction with someone who is quite different from you but has a lot to add to your life.
CONCLUSION:
Unfortunately, it is hard to say where it is safe today. One can be in a tough situation in many parts of the world. But it shouldn’t stop you from traveling. International Travel can be more challenging as one is heading into unknown territory. But it is still worth it.
Brazil is one of the most beautiful places you will visit. And it would be best if you plan to visit Brazil many times and on various occasions. There is a wide range of options for whatever lifestyle one can have. So, visit often, learn about the culture, and with time, you will discover your way around it and the best way to have a safe and pleasant trip.
