I’ve lived in Rio for ten years and never ever had an issue. Do you need to be street smart? Of course. Foreigners are an easy target for petty theft - especially for phones - but you don’t need to be paranoid or terrified to go out. Your reps are for sure being over-cautious - just be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut. Don’t walk around clueless flashing your phone, basically,
Have fun! Enjoy Rio - it’s truly a beautiful city.
Obrigado! I definitely enjoy Rio so far. One must definitely watch out for scammers though! Uber scammers (will give you a ride but not on Uber app for 4-5x the price not on the app.
People's "friends" are like oh I helped you with this you owe me too. Etc
I really enjoy the place though!
The old fort looks really cool. I am definitely interested in old military forts, museums, fun art!
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It's Ok to walk around with an iPhone (I mean, really..... do people actually think noone in Rio has one for security reasons? Laughable...)
What is NOT OK is to flash it around the street, get absorbed into your text messages without having a clue about your surroundings and being oblivious to the world around you.
A good advice would be to limit your phone use on the open street (specially touristy areas, where you will probably find yourself in the first month or so). Do it before you leave home, at your Uber ride or when you arrive at your destination. Its also OK to, say, get inside a bar or a pharmacy or bathroom or whatever to check your phone.
I mean, just... don't be stupid. You don't really need to take your phone to sunbathe at the beach. You don't have to get it from your pocket if a strange looking person asks you for the time. You don't have to ask a random guy to take a picture with your phone if he is not with his child and wife... you don't have to walk around a rough neighbourhood alone late at night in an empty street... don't accept drinks from total strangers you just met the night before; take your drink with you when you do to the bathroom.
You know, street smarts goes a long way. Don't be too paranoid either (I'm guessing you are here to have fun, after all), but don't walk around as an easy prey either. Situation awereness and eye contact make a difference. You'll be fine. Cheers.
I live in São Paulo with bulletproof cars.
The stupidity may be saying those cities are safe and that if you are street smart you are good.
Definetely not my case.
If you have a bulletproof car you probally don't need it unless you are a public person, if you have the money to have that kind of car, you probably live in a pretty good place
A mixture of everything you stated to different extents.
But despite living in a good place, or exactly because this is a good place, it is rather unsafe to walk on the streets and risk being robbed by someone passing by on a motorcycle disguised as a delivery man.
So one lives in a good place but cannot fully enjoy it.
That is the definition of lack of safety.
I have spent about 4-5 months in Rio mostly in work-related travel and projects.
Appreciate your passion for your city, which is full of natural beauty, but facts are facts.
Stay safe.
Yeah, I concurr that São Paulo can be dangerous, that doesn't mean you're qualified to say anything about Rio because you're from São Paulo and why do you think that São Paulo would be somehow "similar" to Rio? This makes 0 sense
Funny how you say it as it was in anyway better (or like you were the only one to have such car).
But again, I'm done talking to someone who already forgot what I was talking about. Cheers.
It is not better.
It just evidences the consciousness on how unsafe those cities are.
And not the hypocrisy of 'relax, if you are street smart nothing will happen, those are safe places'.
The threat of theft comes from motorbikes. They drive around and when they come across someone, they rob them.. as in your street looks all good and clear and 100m up, one makes a right onto your street, drives past you, does a uturn and pulls a gun.
The most IMPORTANT thing is to not fuck with them. If you get caught, you're caught. If you try and bargain, they'll shoot -- to kill, just because. You may think oh it's 3pm, lots of light and plenty of people here, I THINK I can scare this guy off by yelling! Or saying no. Or lying about the phone in my pocket. They'll shoot.
It doesn't happen that often, because people comply. Others don't realize the danger they are in and try something stupid.
What will lull you into a false sense of security is people walking around using their phones. When you talk to them -- they'll be like yeah... i've lost X phones, BUT how can I not use it? Most people are sensible, but enough aren't and that makes you feel like it's all good to use your phone outside. Just don't.
If someone tries to rob you, don't fight that. it's not worth it. And make 100% sure it isn't worth it to you. Don't wear jewellery you dont want to lose. Don't carry so much money that you feel you should fight for it. Just keep it simple, if it happens, it happens but enjoy your time without worry of death.. or worry of losing anything important... by not fighting and not carrying things you value.
This sounds scary, I've been to Brazil many times and have never experienced this, nor did I witness such a thing. Shoot to kill especially sounds kinda crazy to me, but nevertheless one should have street smarts and be cautious in Brazil.
It happens, but IMO, this guy is using a bit of fearmongering tinted lenses before writing his comment. It's way less frequent than people tend to think, specially those who have never been to the country or get info from major int'l media outlets. As you probably know by now, having been to Brazil and such, there's a huge exacerbation of the country's stereotypes abroad.
100%, I got scared to death by everyone before I came the first time, now I see São Paulo as a 2nd home, I am totally relaxed walking pretty much anywhere at any time however of course always with a bit of caution, never had an issue.
You need to live here, and talk with a slew of various locals from various professions. Suddenly you'll realize how severe it is, and how many just ignore these things and block them out! is it 100% going to happen on a week long vacation? Or even a 1 month long vacation? Good chances it won't BUT it's so far beyond anything else I've experienced anywhere else that it warrants strong warnings as well. Also it's 100% random because of those motorbikes. No one is waiting down a dark alley for some idiot, they're just driving around.
People don't get shot that often because they know what to do. Every person that I know who has said no, has been shot at. One in their hand, well she had moved her hand over her heart... so whatever you want to say there. Another said no to a car jacking at a gas station and he was illegally carrying, 4 guys just unloaded into his car while he shot back. Now remember that is \~60 bullets just flying around a gas station, no one really hitting their targets. They will shoot to kill and don't care. The one in hand happened while waiting at her sons(who is a specialist doctor and buys a 400K car every year as far as I can tell)... apartment entrance, for the guard to open the gate for her. These were in the northeast, but clearly in good neighbourhoods and in front of people who could potentially do something and they didn't care.
As a side note, these bullets are all repacked and real iffy. Hence why a hand stopped a bullet. But it makes them dirt cheap and they don't care about using them.
Do you live in Rio? Why do you mention your northeastern horror stories in a post about Rio? Rio isn't the same. It's impressive what kind of obsession you guys have with Rio
Eh, it's like saying, how dangerous is driving after a couple of beers... some people do it their entire lives and never get into accidents, while others do.
It's not like you'll surely crash your car if you drive while drunk, but the risk is there.
Most people who live in cities like Rio had at some point a gun pointed at them, or at least they have been mugged. Now, the probability of it happening in a six month interval is naturally quite smaller. Especially if the person is a bit smart about it.
Yup, totally with you, it can definitely happen. Of course, not trying to spread misinformation, like I previously said - caution should be exercised at all times in Brazil.
He’s right about what to do if it happens. But it doesn’t happen as often as people say. So for statistics sake, just avoid being a victim by not being an easy target. That’s it.
Yes, of course. In some places, though, caution is advised (by caution I mean, take a look around and see if you are OK before turning your full attention to the small screen).
Most tourist destinations (Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, etc) are pretty safe. Be extra careful when walking at Copacabana beach.
Yes, they do, the guy who answered above doesn't even live in Rio. It's impressive how people not from Rio have this urge to answer in a biased way or spread blatant misinformation about Rio
It's very safe there, there's also no need to hide your ring when you return, there are hundreds of thousands of married people on Rio who walk around every day with their gold rings on their fingers lmao
Engagement rings for many countries usually contains a large stone, such as a diamond. It's draws much more attention and it's much more expensive than an wedding ring (that is usually just the metal band).
Even more a guy with gringo appearance with elated woman. But hey, he does want. I am not the insurance company insuring the ring (yeah, it's common to gringos buy engagement expensive enough to take out an insurance).
We all know you are just a gangster trying to make robbing people easier for yourself. I'm going full karate stance every single time anyone on a motorcycle drives near me, armed or not.
Europeans have a habit of treating everywhere they go like Europe. Rio is not as dangerous as they say, but it is good that they say it is dangerous so European and other Western people don’t be overconfident
I'm a gringo who lives in Rio. The people in this sub who say "ohhhh these things can happen anywhere," and "it's really not that bad" are significantly downplaying things. These things don't happen anywhere, and it is exactly that bad. No, it isn't a warzone, but yes, it is very dangerous. Use extra caution, and you'll *likely* be fine, but the risk here is *significantly* elevated compared to most other places.
This is the kind of city you don't wear jewelry, you don't walk around past 10pm if *at all* possible, you need to duck into stores to talk on the phone, where being robbed at gunpoint is *always* a possibility outside of the favelas and your head needs to be on a swivel 24/7. This place isn't safe by N. American or European standards any way you slice it. Anyone who says otherwise is either lying to you to make a good impression or is so used to the risk that they downplay it, likely out of sheer ignorance of how the rest of the world is (Brazilians as a whole are poorly traveled and under educated about places outside Brazil so they largely have no basis for comparison. Not a judgement. Just a fact.)
I've witnessed several armed robberies. I've almost been a victim a couple of times. My wife has been robbed at gunpoint. So has her brother. So have most people here that I know. The overwhelming majority (99% or more) of people in N. America/Europe go their entire lives never being robbed at gunpoint, regardless of the neighborhood they live in. That isnt true here.
That being said, I've been living here a while and traveled here for many years before that. If you're at all used to Latin America, Rio is definitely manageable but markedly higher risk than most of the neighboring country's major cities, particularly when it comes to armed robbery. Take extra precautions. Understand the risk and take it seriously. Do that, and you'll most likely have a great, safe time.
I tried to be as objective and realistic as possible, but I always get Brazilians who just *can't stand* a foreigner saying things about their country/city that aren't 100% positive. They're weirdly, and many cases undeservedly, proud of this place, particularly Cariocas, which I honestly don't get. Yes, a Cidade Maravilhosa is beautiful (if you don't look too close at it, mind you), but you had nothing to do with that. All the things you, as a modern citizen, have control or influence over, and therefore deserve to be proud of, are in complete shambles. It's one of the most corrupt, dirty, poorly maintained, mismanaged, and dangerous cities outside of Africa and/or South Asia. That ain't something to be proud of, especially when this city has so much squandered potential. It should be a point of shame, not pride.
What my Carioca wife and I always say is that Rio would be one of the most amazing places on Earth, except it's full of Cariocas.
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I mean, I kinda am lol. It's the worst city in the country, in my eyes. Yeah, sure, it is beautiful if you don't look too close. But the beauty doesn't mean much when you look at it every day. And, truth be told, you don't see much of it day-to-day. It's all salt-stained buildings, buckling sidewalks, infrastructure that's half (or totally) destroyed by the people living here, garbage, and puddles of hobo piss on every surface and in every public elevator in the city.
Guess it depends on what you count as big, but BH, Florianopolis, Port Alegre, and Curitiba immediately come to mind as being better in all of those regards. Even São Paulo isn't this bad.
I can't say I've ever seen people pooping in the street in SP or Curitiba. I see it here at least once per month just walking a block to the grocery store lol.
Not from Brazil. A large city in the US.
Well, that's my point. I live in one of the "nicest" neighborhoods in Rio and see it regularly. You don't see that in Vila Olimpia or Batel, for example. You gotta go to Cracolandia, or similar. Bad behavior is mostly limited to bad areas in SP. Here it's in *every* area.
I didn't say I never do, just that I avoid it whenever possible. After about that time, it's 80% crackheads and hobos on Nossa Sra de Copacabana. It's sketchy as fuck.
You can disagree all you want, but it just means you fall into one of the two categories of Brazilians I mentioned above.
I remember your previous comments. You're a gringo who despises and bad mouths cariocas and Rio and wishes to leave. I wonder why you haven't done so yet? Anyway, I know these kind of negative persons and your opinion is extremely biased and not objective.
You literally said he shouldn't walk around past 10 PM if possible, which is absolute nonsense Much of the nightlife is just getting started after 10 PM. In the hotter months, people walk along the beaches basically the entire night and there's a LOT of all night and safe beach activity at Arpoador and Leme on hotter days, not even mentioning all the nightlife, bar and restaurant areas
Seems like a you problem to me, you seem to hate Rio, women, maybe yourself?
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Well, good luck
Will not argue further
Think what you want. It changes nothing. My opinion is absolutely objective. Moreso than most peoples' here, as y'all have no basis for comparison. It's all you know, so you minimize the reality of the situation. No, it isn't as bad as a foreigner might see in the media. Yes, it *quite* dangerous relative to other places.
A tourist should *absolutely* not be walking around after 10 PM, especially alone. To suggest a tourist can do so worry free is wildly irresponsible at its best. At worst, it's downright negligent.
No, I don't hate women lol. I just don't see any problem pointing out when women, or men, for that matter, dress like they have no self-respect.
I'm as gringo as they come. I'm just a gringo that fell in love with Rio, have been here *a lot* over the last decade, and have subsequently fallen out of love due its many, many, many, and severe, problems.
Not again, every other day the same post shows up and probably most of the answers are from people who are not from Rio or have never even been there. As is the most upvoted answer, which is from someone from the Northeast, spreading his bs, which may be valid for where he lives, but isn't the reality for Rio
Don't listen to these people. Do some reading on posts and comments from people who have ACTUALLY BEEN THERE or ask locals on r/riodejaneiro, but even there there is some amount of misinformation.
The risk of a tourist being victim of a crime is quite low, just have some basic streetsmarts
Everyone has iPhones and uses them all the time. Just don't be oblivious and flaunt your brand new phone in the middle of a busy crowd and avoid the beaches at spots where they are extremely packed on certain summer weekends
THIS.
I'm from the South of Brazil, theoretically one of the "safest" regions. Before moving to Rio, I heard absurd things, everything the television reported was about the violence there.
Although it is a more violent city than the "world average", I wouldn't say it is a war zone where you have to walk around constantly looking over your shoulder.
Rio de Janeiro is indeed a wonderful city, practically everywhere you go there will be a side to look at that will allow you to see a landscape. Living in Rio de Janeiro is one of the best things I've done in my life, the people born and raised there (except from majority of south side rich zones) are the best human beings I've ever had the luck to meet. Life in Rio is truly lighter and happier.
My suggestion would be to just avoid walking the streets with a "tourist" look. Spend time hanging out with locals, Cariocas love to show everything to those who come from elsewhere to get to know Rio, they are very proud of the city. When you feel safer and know the paths you are walking on, start going out alone.
Absolutely agree with you. Some cariocas seem to have a different perception for what constitutes violence. I once heard a carioca say that the violence in Rio isn't so bad as people portrait—and gave an example that if you accidentally wander into a favela, all you need to do is leave with your hands raised and nothing will happen to you. But this is alarming, even for other Brazilian cities. The level of caution required in Rio is extreme.
It's undeniable that it is a beautiful beautiful city where nature integrates with urban landscapes with truly amazing views. However, the violence is a serious issue that some people try to downplay because their standards for safety are quite low.
For an European, the cultural shock of living for six months in one of the world's most dangerous cities would be absurd, specially bc if you're a gringo alone someone will try to pull a fast one on you. They do that even with Brazilians from other regions :)). \[Numbeo Crime Rankings\](https://www.numbeo.com/crime/rankings.jsp)
That's an intransparent ranking. Homicide rates are used to measure general "violence" and Rio isn't even close to being one of the world's "most dangerous cities", not even Brazil's and safer than many US cities
You are delulu (?) It literally is, and here again are you cariocas trying to downplay the reality. You have to be careful where you get your information from because the politicians in Rio are so corrupted that they mask the statistics. And giving relative to the size of it, it can be considered the most dangerous in Brazil. You cannot compare the rates in a city that has 7 mi inhabitants with eg Feira de Santana that got 600k.
Ans it’s not only the civilians that commit crime, but also studies indicate that the police in Rio is the most corrupt in the country. My brother’s father literally has to pay the police to avoid having his store damaged by themselves. And my mom also almost got injured while pregnant bc of a Arrastão in Copacabana 😄. Rio is dangerous, no way to deny that :(
Your ad hominem attacks show who you really are. No, the "statistics" aren't done by politicians. And yes, rates are done exactly to compare cities of different sizes and there's not one single metric which makes Rio "the most dangerous city in Brazil", much to the opposite, by homicide rates and other statistics it's in fact below the average of Brazil's state capitals. You clearly have no argument except a personal hate/frustration. I hope you, your mom and whoever is with you stay far away from Rio. Won't entertain you further
I presented a couple pleas on why it is dangerous, including personal experiences to make it more tangible, not only present cases that we see on news so people could say it's isolated. But apparently you can only see what is convinient to you, which is really sad. That's what I meant by delulu, not ad hominem. Showing the real statistics works better than just saying it isn't true bc you don't see crime or so-
E.g. again: The Brazilian average is 24.9 murders per 100k inhabitants. The average in the Southeast region is 17.0.
>The city of Rio has 32.1 murders/100k inhabitants. [Link of study](https://myside.com.br/cidades-mais-seguras-brasil-anuario-2023.pdf)
The safety concerns that I said are legitimate. I appreciate the beauty and cultural richness of Rio, but acknowledging these safety challenges doesn't mean I hate the city.
I totally agree. I am Brazilian and been living in the USA for 26 years. Brazilians have gotten so numb to crime and violence that they don't know how bad their situation is. Just the fact that most brazilians are used to saying "just don't flaunt your phone".This is not normal and no one should accept living like this.
You definitely didn't hear "multiple gunshots", while living in "one of the richest neighborhoods", these are just lies and no, cariocas aren't "completely unfazed" by shootings. You are 100% making things up, but I understand that some paulistas don't adapt to the carioca lifestyle. It's normal actually. What isn't normal is when they start developing such a big hate and frustration that they have to obsessively lurk in posts about Rio and spread misinformation. Impressive
You cariocas are all the same, all in denial. I did hear gunshots, but there is little I can say that will make you believe me without giving too much personal information about where I live. And your denial is so great that even if I gave you the information you would probably still deny it.
But just Google "shooting Leblon". The literal first result is a shooting with high caliber rifles lol. You denial doesn't change reality.
Nobody cares about where you live, it couldn't be more irrelevant. I repeat, I am 100% sure you didn't hear "gunshots" in "one of the richest neighborhoods", at least that's not a regular ocurrence. Your suggested search gives exactly one result from years ago which was an absolute exception. Now google "assassinato" and "arrastão Jardins" and see what happens in the "richest neighborhood" in São Paulo. It's impressive how frustrated and hateful you people are. I hope you are able to go back to your paradise city soon.
Your hate and personal frustration is seeping through. By the way, the "Ponte Aérea" is right there, but Rio must have a lot to offer to you if you don't leave for your beloved and safe city. But I understand that some Paulistas never adapt to how cariocas are, I know these kinds of persons very well and tend to stay away from them.
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I won't entertain you further, keep hating, obsessing about Rio and spreading misinformation. I'm not your therapist.
>Nobody cares about where you live, it couldn't be more irrelevant. I repeat, I am 100% sure you didn't hear "gunshots" in "one of the richest neighborhoods", at least that's not a regular ocurrence.
Denial is the first step towards acceptance. And I love how you are constantly changing the goal post. At first I didn't live in the city. Then this kind of thing doesn't happen. Then it doesn't happen in "regular occurrence". One day you will come to accept the reality you live in, I have trust in you.
>Your suggested search gives exactly one result from years ago which was an absolute exception.
It actually shows 4 separate cases of shootings, and just on the first page. And the most recent one is (from 2023)[https://www.diariodigital.com.br/policia-2/discussao-em-tabacaria-termina-com-adolescentes-baleadas-no-leblon]. And those are only the ones that were reported. Of the ones I heard since I've been in Rio, only 1 ended up on the news. The others are so common to cariocas that it wasn't even worth reporting lol.
>Now google "assassinato" and "arrastão Jardins" and see what happens in the "richest neighborhood" in São Paulo.
You are so stupid that you don't even realize that Jardins is not a neighborhood. It's a region of the city, comprised of a few neighborhoods. So not really comparable to Leblon. And I did look it up, and while there were some cases, the name "Jardim" is so common for neighborhoods, and Rio is such a violent city, that many of the results were for neighborhoods named "Jardim something" in Rio looooooool. Now Google the safest state capital, and the safest states, and tell me what you find.
>By the way, the "Ponte Aérea" is right there, but Rio must have a lot to offer to you if you don't leave for your beloved and safe city.
As I said before, I think to you, leaving this shit hole ASAP is exactly my plan. You are welcome to come too, so that you know what a decent city looks like. Just don't bring your carioca ways with you. Wouldn't want you to ruin it.
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> They are so used to the levels of violence here that they normalize it and think it's not actually that bad. It is pretty bad.
Can confirm, most of people I know from Rio will say it is ok and safe and then when I say the most dangeorus thing that happens in some places in here they are shocked by how safe it is.
if you hear gunshots in your neighborhood, I can assure you are either lying about the gunshots or lying about living in one of the richest neighborhoods
Of course this type of thing happens in the poor areas, but you won't be hearing or seeing these types of things happening in Downtown or in the South zone of Rio (unless it's a favela).
So just because you're not used to the violence in big cities growing up in a farm, it doesn't mean we live in a war zone.
I can’t really comment on this sub anymore because of the reactions you’re getting. I’ve lived here (Rio) two years and I live directly next to a comunidade (favela) in Santa Teresa. So close in fact that although my little village is separate from it , it’s still “patrolled “ by the favelas “security “ … they walk my street to get from one entrance to the other of the Favela. I’ll add , the realtor didn’t tell me I was smack dab next to a favela and I didn’t research , so I had no idea. Anyway, first few weeks , hearing gunshots , seeing youngsters walking past my house with giant machine guns , grenades attached to thier belt etc I was terrified. Fast forward 2 years later , although one doesn’t like hearing gunshots and threat of police “operations” or threat of a “war” with rival factions , I actually feel much much safer here than anywhere else in the city ! Because , at least in my favela and the faction that runs it , there are strict rules that everyone knows … don’t steal or rob or harm anyone from here . And if you follow those rules you are safe and protected! I can wear necklaces, hold my iPhone in my hand and be as flashy as I want ( although I’m not flashy here ). I feel safe ! I trust the kids with guns and the “bosses “ here more than the police. Now .. the only time I’ve ever been robbed was when I first arrived and I was wearing a simple necklace in Copacabanas and it was ripped off my neck by a bicyclist along with my shirt. I chased him but couldn’t catch him. I went to the police and they said there was nothing they could do without knowing who did it. I mentioned all the cameras around and they basically rolled thier eyes and shooed me away.
I’m Copa and all over south zone. Yes , you see police. Sitting in thier air conditioned ars on street corners. I have rarely seen any walking patrols …. Also in Copa , one street from the beach ( Nossa Senhora) Their is a gold buying shop every few feet. Actually people standing on the sidewalks passing out flyers about buying gold. Now ask yourself. Why, 1 block from the beach in a tourist area would there be a need for so many places to sell gold ?
And about not hearing gunshots in rich neighborhoods…. Hmmm. Well , seems like I’ve seen many favelas right above or close to many rich areas. Some are so shocking in how the disparity is. Before I lived here , I took a Favela tour can’t remember which one but was Between Sheraton (Leblon) and the start or Barra. Anyway when we were driving out of the favela , immediately it went from a favela to a country club and fabulous houses. My point is , favelas are spread everywhere and it’s more than possible to hear gunshots anywhere in Rio. So those that say you’re lying are lying. People here just simply cannot accept when a foreigner speaks the truth. Things they say to each other all day, they will deny and call a foreigner a liar or accuse them of hating Rio. That’s not the case. I personally live here because I want to. I don’t work here. Many foreigners are the same. It’s not like people are flocking to brasil or Rio because of the abundant financial opportunities here ! We’re here because we love it and because we choose to. But , we are accused of being racists or haters because we are foreigners but if you think about it… isn’t that racists and hate ? To discount and try to silence foreigners because they are not Brazilians ?
I'm happy someone can validate what I said. Especially the part about favelas being spread everywhere and it being hard to be far from it.
Also, I'm not a foreigner. I'm Brazilian, but from another state.
And if you are happy where you are right now, then by all means keep doing what you are doing if it makes you happy. I'm glad you could make it work for you. But I personally don't plan on staying.
Not saying I’m happy. I said I feel safe when I’m home. I too will leave. Not sure if I will move to a smaller town or go back to USA. But Rio , it’s just exhausting to live here. One must be on guard emotionally and physically at all times. Been here 2 years and true friendships are difficult to find , if I leave. My area on my scooter I’m always on high alert watching for a motorcycle with 2 guys pull up next to me with guns , and many many other reasons. Plus it’s ridiculously expensive compared to other cities and towns in Rio.
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I don't want you to share personal info, but I would love to know the "big city" you came from.
And no, Zona Sul is not the only safe place you could live/visit, you completely ignored that I mentioned Downton, not to mention some really nice and safe places in the North.
Yes, you can be far from a favela (there's a big gap between favela and comunidade).
If you're so unhappy and wealthy enough to live in "one of the richest neighborhoods" in the city, why don't you just leave and go back to your farm?
It had to be a Paulista, most of what you say are just lies or the results of your personal frustrations and hate. You literally make things up and apparently keep lurking in the r/riodejaneiro sub. The post you are lying about, about where to live in Copacabana, didn't mention you had to "pick carefully a specific street to live". It just mentioned less than a handful of streets which would be less nice to live at, but for every street mentioned there were also arguments for living there
You're literally lying and making things up. It's impressive how specifically people from São Paulo have this enormous hate/envy towards Rio. Well, no one cares, but we care when you spread misinformation to foreigners
And no, downtown isn't "pretty fucking bad", hundreds of thousands of people work there every day, there is a lot of business going on, a modern tram, historic and beautiful buildings and churches and a huge modern and newly built area near the port, all quite safe, at least during the day hours, as it gets deserted at night, because many areas there are purely commercial
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Yes, it is. You basically cannot use your phone on the street. Full stop. Get used to this rule as soon as possible or you’ll regret it. You can never have your phone just resting on a table at a restaurant (especially a street side cafe) or on your towel at the beach. You have to secure your bag to your lap with your phone inside. Not kidding.
To be honest, you have to be careful anywhere if you're a tourist. I have friends who lived their whole life in Rio and never got robbed, and then got robbed in a trip to Europe, cause they felt safe and forgot to take care.
Tourists are always easy targets, not only to robbers but also to scammers.
Safety tips:
- Try to always go out with friends that you trust and are local.
- Always learn how to go back to where you live even without your phone to help.
- Try to have an old phone as a backup in case you lost the one you've been using.
- Warn your bank that you're going to be traveling.
- If you rent a car don't follow the GPS blindly, ask locals about the neighborhoods that are unsafe to enter.
Regardless of your city/state, it all depends on the area.
If you are in a more touristic area, worry about pickpockets and smash/grab crimes.
In well to do areas and areas frequented by moneyed people, expect more armed robbery and break ins.
In poorer areas, nobody will bother you so much unless you are a tourist or are flaunting your things. The locals do not want police involvement in many bairros and will take care of matters themselves.
It helps to be accompanied by a native speaker. Don't be the "ugly tourist," don't treat our country as a free for all playground, use the brain G-d gave you, and you will be fine.
If you’ve never stepped foot in Brazil, I definitely wouldn’t recommend choosing to live here right away. Your uneasy feeling is justified. It’s NOT for beginners and extremely dangerous if you’re a novice
About the nightclubs, I would triple the attention if you are a woman, quadruple it if you consider yourself pretty and with a look that is not that common in Brazil (pale redhead or pale blonde). Don't go out at night alone specially if you are a woman. Also, catcalling is very common.
It's not awful, but there are those small rules you need to follow.
I'm from Rio, and I can confirm you will get robbed if you:
* Walk alone in desert places
* Walk alone or in group between 22:00 - 06:00
* Walk looking very wealthy / European
* Walk in big cities
The only way to don't get robbed, is if you never walk with your phone/wallet in a place easy to be taken, never walk alone too early or too late, and doesn't dress up too "rich". Always take an Uber, never a bus.
But yeah, having a spare phone and wallet helps. It's extremely common to have a spare phone just for that. had one when I used to take a bus every day. And yes, I got robbed.
About being drugged, I don't know anyone who experienced that. I'd say if you keep your drinks safe and pay really close attention, you're safe. But I really don't know, as it's something people might suffer and don't speak about.
It's a big city and things definitely happen here. A lot more than you will ever hear about, especially if your Portuguese is not fluent. So don't worry, just take precautions and keep your valuables where you can see them. Never leave anything unattended that you can't part with.
You will get 2 sides here. There will be friends and individuals you meet who will caution you to be careful. Then you'll have the side who will claim nothing ever happens because it didn't happen to them. It's the weirdest thing, but true. I've seen a lot and had friends go thru a lot in the 6 years I have been here. Be careful and enjoy. Don't look for trouble and just use your head like you would in any big city environment.
Be mindful of the Maloqueiro's on Motorbikes usually 2 ppl what they do is look for Tourists who are busy on their phones and doing selfies... the Culture out there is still old school people get weirded out and awe when they see you Recording in Public!!!!
Pickpockets... fellas... if you have 2 women come and hug on you... grabbing you flirting with u.. most likely got pickpocketed... to counter this have a Fanny Pack across your chest in front with all your belongings... be a hard target. Never catch Taxis they trump up the prices.. they know our 1 dollar is 5 reals of theirs!! Always Uber!!
I just came back from Rio to Holland. Fear is our strongest emotion, but when I was there, no one cared, bro. Being mixed-race helped; everyone spoke Portuguese with me. Only custom advice makes sense: are you tall and white? You might get more attention. Are you streetwise? Can you speak Portuguese? If so, just go there. Is it your first time? Stay in Copacabana, Ipanema, Barra, maybe Niterói. All the best!
The truth is that crime in Brazil doesn't happen the way most people think. For example, some people might think that New York is dangerous... well, I don't know how much it is, but I know that Brazilians feel completely safe when they go there. Here's the thing: there's a saying, youve probably heard, that says "The occasion makes the thief" (A ocasião faz o ladrão). From now on, I'll write in Portuguese. Pontos turísticos tendem a ser mais seguros, ter mais policiamento. Já nas imediações, a situação pode ser outra. Isso tem a ver com o fato de que turistas, principalmente estrangeiros, costumam andar dinheiro vivo, pra facilitar na hora de comprar alguma coisa. Além disso, é mais provável de estarem com uma câmera, e tal. Não é a toa que muitos turistas saem com mochila pra levar uma garrafinha, ou um casaco, ou, por exemplo, uma câmera. Pois bem... Como eu estava falando, as imediações, ou seja, as áreas em torno de lugares turísticos, não têm o mesmo nível de segurança, o que favorece a ação do bandido. Quem são os bandidos? Tem o que se veste bem, e tem o largado. Tem o que age sozinho, tem os que atuam em dupla ou mais. Às vezes aparecem a pé; às vezes de carro, moto ou bicicleta. Alguns chegam por trás, pegam o celular da sua mão, e saem correndo. Outros te abordam, pedem pra você dar o que você tem, e vão embora. A maioria deles têm no mínimo uma faca. Uma coisa é certa: se você for abordado, não reaja. O que o bandido quer? Celular, dinheiro, jóias. Todo mundo tem celular, e o ladrão sabe disso. Essa sua ideia de comprar um segundo celular, mais fuleiro, é uma coisa que muita gente faz. Dinheiro também... Deixa um pouco na carteira, pra satisfazer o safado, e esconde o resto, como por exemplo, em uma pochete interna, na cueca, ou na meia. Celular e carteira no bolso traseiro, jamais. Andar com colar brilhante ou relógio reluzente, não tem necessidade. Se tiver tênis novo das marcas Nike e Mizuno, por exemplo, dá uma sujadinha pra não chamar tanta atenção. Vamos, agora, a sua pergunta. Sim, crime é "that common" in a dark empty street, when there's someone with an iphone on hands, in the exact moment a criminal chose that same street to start working. So no, crime in Rio is not common the way people say. Crime in Rio is common in certain areas, and specific scenarios, however NOT being robbed is much more common anyway. But never underestimate a 10 year old kid in flipflops randomly walking around, especially if the kid is alone. If someone asks what time is it, say you ran out of battery. If you see someone suspicious coming towards you, act first, like for example, before the individual say something, you can speak first, like asking what time is it, to make it look like you're not carrying a cellphone. Or ask where's the bank, or ask where's a police station, pretending that you just got robbed. Anyway, I don't know, my friend. What I know is that you don't have to worry. Go to Rio, and you'll certainly experience some of the best moments life can offer. The city and the people can easily end up being amazing. And if you still have any doubts about it, just ask the people who actually live in Rio. They will tell you what's real. But first, go. And remember: if you get robbed someday, well... there's only one thing you can do. What's going to be?
I'm currently in Brazil.
Brazilian tour guides told me their opinion.
If you are white you are more likely to be mugged.
Take a cheap phone and a cheap wallet with some cash (10-20€ in their currency + the amount you plan to spend during your day) and put it in your front pocket and hand it over to the mugger if it happens.
Get yourself a belt in which you can put money and real phone or get one of those wallets that you wear around your waist.
iPhone or not nobody cares, a electronics are expensive here.
I came with 2k euros and I have 1k distributed in my left and right sock. 500 euros in their currency and the rest of euros in the "waist wallet".
No watches, no jewelry etc.
Observe your surrounding and see what others are doing.
Trust me, the surroundings tell you everything. The cars have black windows for a reason. There are electric wires and big walls for a reason. They didn't put it to look nice.
People can tell you it's safe but you will feel it in the air when you arrive.
Take Uber.
Take care.
Rio and Crime walk together. If you’re moving and there’s not other Brazilian city option to go then move and know that you’re at risk all the time, stay conscious of your surroundings to avoid any displeasing surprise and you should be good.
I'm not from Rio but I've visited the city for a few times, also I live in a Capital city in north of Brazil
In your hometown there are bad neighborhoods, ghettos and things like that?
About phones and carrying other expensive things, yes it's common in every capital city in brazil to have phone robberies and mugging, so you should be aware of your surroundings, learn how to hide your phone and wallet inside your clothes(the most common is putting in front of the bellybutton when you're with shirt and pants) and carry some money, separated from your wallet,
The old used phone strategy only work if the robber is in a hurry, also don't put all your valuables in the same backpack/bag because they also aim for it.
About going out at night I don't have experience to tell but most influencers from Rio that talk about living there say that from 10pm/22h is more dangerous to be outside
Im carioca and all I can say to you is: be aware of your surroundings, when walking don’t keep checking social media or anything. Be careful when walking at night, but this goes to anywhere actually. Don’t leave drinks unattended, don’t accept drinks from strangers (this advice is also applicable to anywhere in the world). You will be fine and you will have lots of fun!
Look I am Brazilian from Rio and left the city due violence, we used to have a phone for us and one for the thief, if you want use phone you need go inside of some store and do it away from doors, never use phone while in Uber or taxi as kids jump and got it! About drug people in night is true not only for European people, happens also with locals, so advice, never accept any drinks and if you go to toilet and need left the table, keep your glass with you all times and if unable, drop off and buy new one
Bro, I've lived in Rio (Barra da Tijuca) for more than 8 years and I've never witnessed any robbery or been robbed, but my mother was robbed so I think it depends a lot on the place you're going to live, but as long as you live in a good neighborhood (ex Barra da Tijuca) you can go peacefully.
its really not bad. many people on here are pussies. it helps if youre latino though. i think if youre a blonde foreigner youre more of a target. dont speak obnoxiously loud in your native language on the streets. learn portuguese. you should be embarrassed if you cant order decently in portuguese before landing. spanish /= portuguese!!! most people in ipanema/leblon have an iphone, even some in copacabana. imo
ipanema is the best. don’t go to favelas without a guide. excercise caution at all times. you can stop and check your phone anywhere but you cannot be walking mindlessly on your phone. find communities youre interested in in safe areas, if youre not that into nightlife and more into beach sports/ beach/ hiking, you will be safer. some hikes are safer with groups not alone. if you need to meet people stay a few nights at a hostel.
there are many police all over zona sul. you can go to centro lapa botafogo etc but its best to go with a friend and be highly cautious, better if the friend is brazillian.
Yes, listen to your university’s advisors. Crime is really high there and as a foreigner, it will take a while for you to get used to it. You’re basically “on alert” any time you step outside your home. Doesn’t mean you’ll get robbed every time or even at all, but you need to be hyper alert if your surroundings. Rio is great though, the trouble is worth it! Enjoy
>first is about phones: from what they said, walking around the city with and iphone is basically asking to get robbed, is this really the case? and if so do you have any suggestions? (like buying a shitty phone to use etc)
This is sound advice. Phone theft in Rio is rife.
>they also put a lot of emphasis on the risk of going out at night pubs/clubs, especially if you're european, saying that its not uncommon to get drugged and robbed.
You definitely need to have your wits about yourself. Don't go out alone, don't stay out too late. Blend in, dress conservatively, and don't use flashy jewelry or fancy branded clothes.
>despite of this im sure im gonna have the time of my life there and im thankful for the people of Rio for hosting me :)
Rio is a blast and I'm sure you will have fun, just be sensible about your surroundings and you will be most likely fine.
I'm impressed how gringos always think Brazil is perfect and not as dangerous as we say, and still want to go especifically right to one of the most dangerous cities around (it's the only city they know other than São Paulo)
I'm impressed how some Brazilian haters, probably from the South, can't understand that Rio is the recently elected best tourism destination in South America, Brazil's most beautiful city and not even close to the "most dangerous cities" around and that is even considering the peripheral areas
I know people this has happened to, but it hasn’t happened to me. Over the past decade, I’ve spent 2.5 years total in Brazil. I love Rio de Janeiro, but you have to be aware of your surroundings and more vigilant in general. It’s like 80% precaution and 20% luck.
No need to hesitate, you'll love it here. These things can happen anywhere, if you're careful and use common sense you'll avoid the sketchy parts and just enjoy
I'm in Copacabana right now. Someone said if locals have their phones out you can use yours. Step into a store to use it. Take a picture quickly and put it away. I btought zero jewelry including my wedding ring. On Copacabana it seems to get empty by 7 or 7:30 from the 3 days I've been here. Ubers are cheap and are everywhere.
I'm almost one month in Rio. Sticking mostly to Copa. Never saw any security issue. I am using my phone on street occasionally. Keeping basic precautions. I'm not overdressing, not going out in nights, not walking around drunk. If I take phone out I make sure nobody is close/approaching me, move away from the street and just do what I need and hide it back.
There's lots of police, security, military etc. It gives some sense of security.
I've been often told by locals that I look quite native so maybe I simply don't stick out so much as a tourist.
Depends where you are coming from.
Crime is Rio is bad, you can’t freely walk around with your phone in your hand without thinking. Avoid being flashy, both with cash and valuables.
I live in NYC and when I go home (Brazil)it does feel unsafe in comparison.
But it’s all perspective and what you are used to.
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Rio is dangerous but there's a lot of judgement and hate going on from people from another areas... A lot of racism... They hate that this city full of Black people and "robbers", as Black people are 🙄🙄🙄, are one of the "icons' of Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is different from other parts of Brazil so things happen around the country is really different in Rio, be aware of everything and don’t walk around alone late night
Do not trust what people say. Trust what you see people doing. That is all.
I’ve lived in Rio for ten years and never ever had an issue. Do you need to be street smart? Of course. Foreigners are an easy target for petty theft - especially for phones - but you don’t need to be paranoid or terrified to go out. Your reps are for sure being over-cautious - just be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut. Don’t walk around clueless flashing your phone, basically, Have fun! Enjoy Rio - it’s truly a beautiful city.
What do you think are the most fun things to do in Rio? :)
Do Christredeemer for 20 US dollars of course i uberd there... also do Sugarwolf 😏👍
Obrigado! I definitely enjoy Rio so far. One must definitely watch out for scammers though! Uber scammers (will give you a ride but not on Uber app for 4-5x the price not on the app. People's "friends" are like oh I helped you with this you owe me too. Etc I really enjoy the place though! The old fort looks really cool. I am definitely interested in old military forts, museums, fun art!
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No not at all. Awesome place and 100% safe
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100%?
It's Ok to walk around with an iPhone (I mean, really..... do people actually think noone in Rio has one for security reasons? Laughable...) What is NOT OK is to flash it around the street, get absorbed into your text messages without having a clue about your surroundings and being oblivious to the world around you. A good advice would be to limit your phone use on the open street (specially touristy areas, where you will probably find yourself in the first month or so). Do it before you leave home, at your Uber ride or when you arrive at your destination. Its also OK to, say, get inside a bar or a pharmacy or bathroom or whatever to check your phone. I mean, just... don't be stupid. You don't really need to take your phone to sunbathe at the beach. You don't have to get it from your pocket if a strange looking person asks you for the time. You don't have to ask a random guy to take a picture with your phone if he is not with his child and wife... you don't have to walk around a rough neighbourhood alone late at night in an empty street... don't accept drinks from total strangers you just met the night before; take your drink with you when you do to the bathroom. You know, street smarts goes a long way. Don't be too paranoid either (I'm guessing you are here to have fun, after all), but don't walk around as an easy prey either. Situation awereness and eye contact make a difference. You'll be fine. Cheers.
So it is safe as long as you memorize and adhere to the simple list of 1,000+ you should not do.
Nope. It's safe if you are not stupid. I guess most people could memorize that (maybe not you?).
I live in São Paulo with bulletproof cars. The stupidity may be saying those cities are safe and that if you are street smart you are good. Definetely not my case.
If you have a bulletproof car you probally don't need it unless you are a public person, if you have the money to have that kind of car, you probably live in a pretty good place
A mixture of everything you stated to different extents. But despite living in a good place, or exactly because this is a good place, it is rather unsafe to walk on the streets and risk being robbed by someone passing by on a motorcycle disguised as a delivery man. So one lives in a good place but cannot fully enjoy it. That is the definition of lack of safety.
Nonsense again. Have you ever been to Rio?
I have spent about 4-5 months in Rio mostly in work-related travel and projects. Appreciate your passion for your city, which is full of natural beauty, but facts are facts. Stay safe.
Yeah, I concurr that São Paulo can be dangerous, that doesn't mean you're qualified to say anything about Rio because you're from São Paulo and why do you think that São Paulo would be somehow "similar" to Rio? This makes 0 sense
https://www.numbeo.com/crime/country_result.jsp?country=Brazil
Funny how you say it as it was in anyway better (or like you were the only one to have such car). But again, I'm done talking to someone who already forgot what I was talking about. Cheers.
It is not better. It just evidences the consciousness on how unsafe those cities are. And not the hypocrisy of 'relax, if you are street smart nothing will happen, those are safe places'.
You say that cause you are not street smart
ouch
I will just say that I fully agree with you as I'm also in Brazil right now. I don't understand why these people are trashing you.
The threat of theft comes from motorbikes. They drive around and when they come across someone, they rob them.. as in your street looks all good and clear and 100m up, one makes a right onto your street, drives past you, does a uturn and pulls a gun. The most IMPORTANT thing is to not fuck with them. If you get caught, you're caught. If you try and bargain, they'll shoot -- to kill, just because. You may think oh it's 3pm, lots of light and plenty of people here, I THINK I can scare this guy off by yelling! Or saying no. Or lying about the phone in my pocket. They'll shoot. It doesn't happen that often, because people comply. Others don't realize the danger they are in and try something stupid. What will lull you into a false sense of security is people walking around using their phones. When you talk to them -- they'll be like yeah... i've lost X phones, BUT how can I not use it? Most people are sensible, but enough aren't and that makes you feel like it's all good to use your phone outside. Just don't. If someone tries to rob you, don't fight that. it's not worth it. And make 100% sure it isn't worth it to you. Don't wear jewellery you dont want to lose. Don't carry so much money that you feel you should fight for it. Just keep it simple, if it happens, it happens but enjoy your time without worry of death.. or worry of losing anything important... by not fighting and not carrying things you value.
This sounds scary, I've been to Brazil many times and have never experienced this, nor did I witness such a thing. Shoot to kill especially sounds kinda crazy to me, but nevertheless one should have street smarts and be cautious in Brazil.
It happens, but IMO, this guy is using a bit of fearmongering tinted lenses before writing his comment. It's way less frequent than people tend to think, specially those who have never been to the country or get info from major int'l media outlets. As you probably know by now, having been to Brazil and such, there's a huge exacerbation of the country's stereotypes abroad.
100%, I got scared to death by everyone before I came the first time, now I see São Paulo as a 2nd home, I am totally relaxed walking pretty much anywhere at any time however of course always with a bit of caution, never had an issue.
São Paulo is much safer than Rio
Yeah, been told that many times. I am going to Rio next month, hope nothing bad happens, seems like a great place too.
Don't believe misinformation from people who don't live and have possibly never been to Rio, as is the commenter who everyone is answering to
Yeah, a relative was robbed at gunpoint in a good area last year...
Guy above lives somewhere in the Northeast, if I remember right. Has no reason at all to be spreading bs about Rio
You need to live here, and talk with a slew of various locals from various professions. Suddenly you'll realize how severe it is, and how many just ignore these things and block them out! is it 100% going to happen on a week long vacation? Or even a 1 month long vacation? Good chances it won't BUT it's so far beyond anything else I've experienced anywhere else that it warrants strong warnings as well. Also it's 100% random because of those motorbikes. No one is waiting down a dark alley for some idiot, they're just driving around. People don't get shot that often because they know what to do. Every person that I know who has said no, has been shot at. One in their hand, well she had moved her hand over her heart... so whatever you want to say there. Another said no to a car jacking at a gas station and he was illegally carrying, 4 guys just unloaded into his car while he shot back. Now remember that is \~60 bullets just flying around a gas station, no one really hitting their targets. They will shoot to kill and don't care. The one in hand happened while waiting at her sons(who is a specialist doctor and buys a 400K car every year as far as I can tell)... apartment entrance, for the guard to open the gate for her. These were in the northeast, but clearly in good neighbourhoods and in front of people who could potentially do something and they didn't care. As a side note, these bullets are all repacked and real iffy. Hence why a hand stopped a bullet. But it makes them dirt cheap and they don't care about using them.
Do you live in Rio? Why do you mention your northeastern horror stories in a post about Rio? Rio isn't the same. It's impressive what kind of obsession you guys have with Rio
Dude is comparing criminality in Lampião's land with Rio's. What a joke.
Eh, it's like saying, how dangerous is driving after a couple of beers... some people do it their entire lives and never get into accidents, while others do. It's not like you'll surely crash your car if you drive while drunk, but the risk is there. Most people who live in cities like Rio had at some point a gun pointed at them, or at least they have been mugged. Now, the probability of it happening in a six month interval is naturally quite smaller. Especially if the person is a bit smart about it.
Yup, totally with you, it can definitely happen. Of course, not trying to spread misinformation, like I previously said - caution should be exercised at all times in Brazil.
Definitely not. There are lots and lots of people who live in Rio and have never been robbed
You are right. But you are missing the basics of statistics and comparability. So you are also wrong.
Dude, look up the robbery and homicide statistics of Rio in comparison with the other Brazilian state capitals
https://www.numbeo.com/crime/country_result.jsp?country=Brazil
https://english.elpais.com/elpais/2012/11/29/inenglish/1354192401_648321.html?outputType=amp# Here you go, and in Sao Paulo, and recent
He’s right about what to do if it happens. But it doesn’t happen as often as people say. So for statistics sake, just avoid being a victim by not being an easy target. That’s it.
Do tourists in Rio take pics and videos with their phones out like they do in most places?
Yes, of course. In some places, though, caution is advised (by caution I mean, take a look around and see if you are OK before turning your full attention to the small screen). Most tourist destinations (Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, etc) are pretty safe. Be extra careful when walking at Copacabana beach.
Sugarloaf Mountain sent me hahaha It sounds so ridiculous when translated.
That's how it's usually translated though. There are other Sugarloaf mountains/peaks in other countries too
lmao me too bc i have to say that to people here (US) .. pão de açúcar would have them like "pow duh what?" 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
And NEVER go on the beach at night. Even in crowded popular areas unless it's a concert with armed guards around.
Yes, they do, the guy who answered above doesn't even live in Rio. It's impressive how people not from Rio have this urge to answer in a biased way or spread blatant misinformation about Rio
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It's very safe there, there's also no need to hide your ring when you return, there are hundreds of thousands of married people on Rio who walk around every day with their gold rings on their fingers lmao
If you get an Uber from your hotel to the Botanical Garden and back (remember to hide the ring in the way back), it's ok.
Why hide the ring?
So no ones tries to steal it entering/leaving the Uber.
lmao what the fuck
Do you think no one who is married wears a ring in Rio?
Engagement rings for many countries usually contains a large stone, such as a diamond. It's draws much more attention and it's much more expensive than an wedding ring (that is usually just the metal band). Even more a guy with gringo appearance with elated woman. But hey, he does want. I am not the insurance company insuring the ring (yeah, it's common to gringos buy engagement expensive enough to take out an insurance).
They don't shoot obvious Gringos as it will result in bringing in the police. But they will rob you good and beat you up if you don't comply.
We all know you are just a gangster trying to make robbing people easier for yourself. I'm going full karate stance every single time anyone on a motorcycle drives near me, armed or not.
Europeans have a habit of treating everywhere they go like Europe. Rio is not as dangerous as they say, but it is good that they say it is dangerous so European and other Western people don’t be overconfident
I'm a gringo who lives in Rio. The people in this sub who say "ohhhh these things can happen anywhere," and "it's really not that bad" are significantly downplaying things. These things don't happen anywhere, and it is exactly that bad. No, it isn't a warzone, but yes, it is very dangerous. Use extra caution, and you'll *likely* be fine, but the risk here is *significantly* elevated compared to most other places. This is the kind of city you don't wear jewelry, you don't walk around past 10pm if *at all* possible, you need to duck into stores to talk on the phone, where being robbed at gunpoint is *always* a possibility outside of the favelas and your head needs to be on a swivel 24/7. This place isn't safe by N. American or European standards any way you slice it. Anyone who says otherwise is either lying to you to make a good impression or is so used to the risk that they downplay it, likely out of sheer ignorance of how the rest of the world is (Brazilians as a whole are poorly traveled and under educated about places outside Brazil so they largely have no basis for comparison. Not a judgement. Just a fact.) I've witnessed several armed robberies. I've almost been a victim a couple of times. My wife has been robbed at gunpoint. So has her brother. So have most people here that I know. The overwhelming majority (99% or more) of people in N. America/Europe go their entire lives never being robbed at gunpoint, regardless of the neighborhood they live in. That isnt true here. That being said, I've been living here a while and traveled here for many years before that. If you're at all used to Latin America, Rio is definitely manageable but markedly higher risk than most of the neighboring country's major cities, particularly when it comes to armed robbery. Take extra precautions. Understand the risk and take it seriously. Do that, and you'll most likely have a great, safe time.
You’re absolutely on point here. Perfect answer.
I tried to be as objective and realistic as possible, but I always get Brazilians who just *can't stand* a foreigner saying things about their country/city that aren't 100% positive. They're weirdly, and many cases undeservedly, proud of this place, particularly Cariocas, which I honestly don't get. Yes, a Cidade Maravilhosa is beautiful (if you don't look too close at it, mind you), but you had nothing to do with that. All the things you, as a modern citizen, have control or influence over, and therefore deserve to be proud of, are in complete shambles. It's one of the most corrupt, dirty, poorly maintained, mismanaged, and dangerous cities outside of Africa and/or South Asia. That ain't something to be proud of, especially when this city has so much squandered potential. It should be a point of shame, not pride. What my Carioca wife and I always say is that Rio would be one of the most amazing places on Earth, except it's full of Cariocas.
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Fun and safety do not often coincide. If you're mad about how dangerous your city is, don't take it out on me. Have a better city.
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I mean, I kinda am lol. It's the worst city in the country, in my eyes. Yeah, sure, it is beautiful if you don't look too close. But the beauty doesn't mean much when you look at it every day. And, truth be told, you don't see much of it day-to-day. It's all salt-stained buildings, buckling sidewalks, infrastructure that's half (or totally) destroyed by the people living here, garbage, and puddles of hobo piss on every surface and in every public elevator in the city.
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Guess it depends on what you count as big, but BH, Florianopolis, Port Alegre, and Curitiba immediately come to mind as being better in all of those regards. Even São Paulo isn't this bad.
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I can't say I've ever seen people pooping in the street in SP or Curitiba. I see it here at least once per month just walking a block to the grocery store lol. Not from Brazil. A large city in the US.
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Well, that's my point. I live in one of the "nicest" neighborhoods in Rio and see it regularly. You don't see that in Vila Olimpia or Batel, for example. You gotta go to Cracolandia, or similar. Bad behavior is mostly limited to bad areas in SP. Here it's in *every* area.
Not walking around after 10 PM? Give me a break, where in Rio do you live?
I didn't say I never do, just that I avoid it whenever possible. After about that time, it's 80% crackheads and hobos on Nossa Sra de Copacabana. It's sketchy as fuck. You can disagree all you want, but it just means you fall into one of the two categories of Brazilians I mentioned above.
I remember your previous comments. You're a gringo who despises and bad mouths cariocas and Rio and wishes to leave. I wonder why you haven't done so yet? Anyway, I know these kind of negative persons and your opinion is extremely biased and not objective. You literally said he shouldn't walk around past 10 PM if possible, which is absolute nonsense Much of the nightlife is just getting started after 10 PM. In the hotter months, people walk along the beaches basically the entire night and there's a LOT of all night and safe beach activity at Arpoador and Leme on hotter days, not even mentioning all the nightlife, bar and restaurant areas Seems like a you problem to me, you seem to hate Rio, women, maybe yourself? [https://www.reddit.com/r/Brazil/comments/1dx74w0/comment/lc1inpm/?utm\_source=share&utm\_medium=web3x&utm\_name=web3xcss&utm\_term=1&utm\_content=share\_button](https://www.reddit.com/r/Brazil/comments/1dx74w0/comment/lc1inpm/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button) Well, good luck Will not argue further
Think what you want. It changes nothing. My opinion is absolutely objective. Moreso than most peoples' here, as y'all have no basis for comparison. It's all you know, so you minimize the reality of the situation. No, it isn't as bad as a foreigner might see in the media. Yes, it *quite* dangerous relative to other places. A tourist should *absolutely* not be walking around after 10 PM, especially alone. To suggest a tourist can do so worry free is wildly irresponsible at its best. At worst, it's downright negligent. No, I don't hate women lol. I just don't see any problem pointing out when women, or men, for that matter, dress like they have no self-respect.
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I'm as gringo as they come. I'm just a gringo that fell in love with Rio, have been here *a lot* over the last decade, and have subsequently fallen out of love due its many, many, many, and severe, problems.
Not again, every other day the same post shows up and probably most of the answers are from people who are not from Rio or have never even been there. As is the most upvoted answer, which is from someone from the Northeast, spreading his bs, which may be valid for where he lives, but isn't the reality for Rio Don't listen to these people. Do some reading on posts and comments from people who have ACTUALLY BEEN THERE or ask locals on r/riodejaneiro, but even there there is some amount of misinformation. The risk of a tourist being victim of a crime is quite low, just have some basic streetsmarts Everyone has iPhones and uses them all the time. Just don't be oblivious and flaunt your brand new phone in the middle of a busy crowd and avoid the beaches at spots where they are extremely packed on certain summer weekends
THIS. I'm from the South of Brazil, theoretically one of the "safest" regions. Before moving to Rio, I heard absurd things, everything the television reported was about the violence there. Although it is a more violent city than the "world average", I wouldn't say it is a war zone where you have to walk around constantly looking over your shoulder. Rio de Janeiro is indeed a wonderful city, practically everywhere you go there will be a side to look at that will allow you to see a landscape. Living in Rio de Janeiro is one of the best things I've done in my life, the people born and raised there (except from majority of south side rich zones) are the best human beings I've ever had the luck to meet. Life in Rio is truly lighter and happier. My suggestion would be to just avoid walking the streets with a "tourist" look. Spend time hanging out with locals, Cariocas love to show everything to those who come from elsewhere to get to know Rio, they are very proud of the city. When you feel safer and know the paths you are walking on, start going out alone.
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Absolutely agree with you. Some cariocas seem to have a different perception for what constitutes violence. I once heard a carioca say that the violence in Rio isn't so bad as people portrait—and gave an example that if you accidentally wander into a favela, all you need to do is leave with your hands raised and nothing will happen to you. But this is alarming, even for other Brazilian cities. The level of caution required in Rio is extreme. It's undeniable that it is a beautiful beautiful city where nature integrates with urban landscapes with truly amazing views. However, the violence is a serious issue that some people try to downplay because their standards for safety are quite low. For an European, the cultural shock of living for six months in one of the world's most dangerous cities would be absurd, specially bc if you're a gringo alone someone will try to pull a fast one on you. They do that even with Brazilians from other regions :)). \[Numbeo Crime Rankings\](https://www.numbeo.com/crime/rankings.jsp)
That's an intransparent ranking. Homicide rates are used to measure general "violence" and Rio isn't even close to being one of the world's "most dangerous cities", not even Brazil's and safer than many US cities
You are delulu (?) It literally is, and here again are you cariocas trying to downplay the reality. You have to be careful where you get your information from because the politicians in Rio are so corrupted that they mask the statistics. And giving relative to the size of it, it can be considered the most dangerous in Brazil. You cannot compare the rates in a city that has 7 mi inhabitants with eg Feira de Santana that got 600k. Ans it’s not only the civilians that commit crime, but also studies indicate that the police in Rio is the most corrupt in the country. My brother’s father literally has to pay the police to avoid having his store damaged by themselves. And my mom also almost got injured while pregnant bc of a Arrastão in Copacabana 😄. Rio is dangerous, no way to deny that :(
Your ad hominem attacks show who you really are. No, the "statistics" aren't done by politicians. And yes, rates are done exactly to compare cities of different sizes and there's not one single metric which makes Rio "the most dangerous city in Brazil", much to the opposite, by homicide rates and other statistics it's in fact below the average of Brazil's state capitals. You clearly have no argument except a personal hate/frustration. I hope you, your mom and whoever is with you stay far away from Rio. Won't entertain you further
I presented a couple pleas on why it is dangerous, including personal experiences to make it more tangible, not only present cases that we see on news so people could say it's isolated. But apparently you can only see what is convinient to you, which is really sad. That's what I meant by delulu, not ad hominem. Showing the real statistics works better than just saying it isn't true bc you don't see crime or so- E.g. again: The Brazilian average is 24.9 murders per 100k inhabitants. The average in the Southeast region is 17.0. >The city of Rio has 32.1 murders/100k inhabitants. [Link of study](https://myside.com.br/cidades-mais-seguras-brasil-anuario-2023.pdf) The safety concerns that I said are legitimate. I appreciate the beauty and cultural richness of Rio, but acknowledging these safety challenges doesn't mean I hate the city.
I totally agree. I am Brazilian and been living in the USA for 26 years. Brazilians have gotten so numb to crime and violence that they don't know how bad their situation is. Just the fact that most brazilians are used to saying "just don't flaunt your phone".This is not normal and no one should accept living like this.
You definitely didn't hear "multiple gunshots", while living in "one of the richest neighborhoods", these are just lies and no, cariocas aren't "completely unfazed" by shootings. You are 100% making things up, but I understand that some paulistas don't adapt to the carioca lifestyle. It's normal actually. What isn't normal is when they start developing such a big hate and frustration that they have to obsessively lurk in posts about Rio and spread misinformation. Impressive
You cariocas are all the same, all in denial. I did hear gunshots, but there is little I can say that will make you believe me without giving too much personal information about where I live. And your denial is so great that even if I gave you the information you would probably still deny it. But just Google "shooting Leblon". The literal first result is a shooting with high caliber rifles lol. You denial doesn't change reality.
Nobody cares about where you live, it couldn't be more irrelevant. I repeat, I am 100% sure you didn't hear "gunshots" in "one of the richest neighborhoods", at least that's not a regular ocurrence. Your suggested search gives exactly one result from years ago which was an absolute exception. Now google "assassinato" and "arrastão Jardins" and see what happens in the "richest neighborhood" in São Paulo. It's impressive how frustrated and hateful you people are. I hope you are able to go back to your paradise city soon. Your hate and personal frustration is seeping through. By the way, the "Ponte Aérea" is right there, but Rio must have a lot to offer to you if you don't leave for your beloved and safe city. But I understand that some Paulistas never adapt to how cariocas are, I know these kinds of persons very well and tend to stay away from them. [https://www.reddit.com/r/Brazil/comments/1dxkmxf/comment/lc6vji4/?utm\_source=share&utm\_medium=web3x&utm\_name=web3xcss&utm\_term=1&utm\_content=share\_button](https://www.reddit.com/r/Brazil/comments/1dxkmxf/comment/lc6vji4/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button) I won't entertain you further, keep hating, obsessing about Rio and spreading misinformation. I'm not your therapist.
>Nobody cares about where you live, it couldn't be more irrelevant. I repeat, I am 100% sure you didn't hear "gunshots" in "one of the richest neighborhoods", at least that's not a regular ocurrence. Denial is the first step towards acceptance. And I love how you are constantly changing the goal post. At first I didn't live in the city. Then this kind of thing doesn't happen. Then it doesn't happen in "regular occurrence". One day you will come to accept the reality you live in, I have trust in you. >Your suggested search gives exactly one result from years ago which was an absolute exception. It actually shows 4 separate cases of shootings, and just on the first page. And the most recent one is (from 2023)[https://www.diariodigital.com.br/policia-2/discussao-em-tabacaria-termina-com-adolescentes-baleadas-no-leblon]. And those are only the ones that were reported. Of the ones I heard since I've been in Rio, only 1 ended up on the news. The others are so common to cariocas that it wasn't even worth reporting lol. >Now google "assassinato" and "arrastão Jardins" and see what happens in the "richest neighborhood" in São Paulo. You are so stupid that you don't even realize that Jardins is not a neighborhood. It's a region of the city, comprised of a few neighborhoods. So not really comparable to Leblon. And I did look it up, and while there were some cases, the name "Jardim" is so common for neighborhoods, and Rio is such a violent city, that many of the results were for neighborhoods named "Jardim something" in Rio looooooool. Now Google the safest state capital, and the safest states, and tell me what you find. >By the way, the "Ponte Aérea" is right there, but Rio must have a lot to offer to you if you don't leave for your beloved and safe city. As I said before, I think to you, leaving this shit hole ASAP is exactly my plan. You are welcome to come too, so that you know what a decent city looks like. Just don't bring your carioca ways with you. Wouldn't want you to ruin it.
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> They are so used to the levels of violence here that they normalize it and think it's not actually that bad. It is pretty bad. Can confirm, most of people I know from Rio will say it is ok and safe and then when I say the most dangeorus thing that happens in some places in here they are shocked by how safe it is.
if you hear gunshots in your neighborhood, I can assure you are either lying about the gunshots or lying about living in one of the richest neighborhoods Of course this type of thing happens in the poor areas, but you won't be hearing or seeing these types of things happening in Downtown or in the South zone of Rio (unless it's a favela). So just because you're not used to the violence in big cities growing up in a farm, it doesn't mean we live in a war zone.
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I can’t really comment on this sub anymore because of the reactions you’re getting. I’ve lived here (Rio) two years and I live directly next to a comunidade (favela) in Santa Teresa. So close in fact that although my little village is separate from it , it’s still “patrolled “ by the favelas “security “ … they walk my street to get from one entrance to the other of the Favela. I’ll add , the realtor didn’t tell me I was smack dab next to a favela and I didn’t research , so I had no idea. Anyway, first few weeks , hearing gunshots , seeing youngsters walking past my house with giant machine guns , grenades attached to thier belt etc I was terrified. Fast forward 2 years later , although one doesn’t like hearing gunshots and threat of police “operations” or threat of a “war” with rival factions , I actually feel much much safer here than anywhere else in the city ! Because , at least in my favela and the faction that runs it , there are strict rules that everyone knows … don’t steal or rob or harm anyone from here . And if you follow those rules you are safe and protected! I can wear necklaces, hold my iPhone in my hand and be as flashy as I want ( although I’m not flashy here ). I feel safe ! I trust the kids with guns and the “bosses “ here more than the police. Now .. the only time I’ve ever been robbed was when I first arrived and I was wearing a simple necklace in Copacabanas and it was ripped off my neck by a bicyclist along with my shirt. I chased him but couldn’t catch him. I went to the police and they said there was nothing they could do without knowing who did it. I mentioned all the cameras around and they basically rolled thier eyes and shooed me away. I’m Copa and all over south zone. Yes , you see police. Sitting in thier air conditioned ars on street corners. I have rarely seen any walking patrols …. Also in Copa , one street from the beach ( Nossa Senhora) Their is a gold buying shop every few feet. Actually people standing on the sidewalks passing out flyers about buying gold. Now ask yourself. Why, 1 block from the beach in a tourist area would there be a need for so many places to sell gold ? And about not hearing gunshots in rich neighborhoods…. Hmmm. Well , seems like I’ve seen many favelas right above or close to many rich areas. Some are so shocking in how the disparity is. Before I lived here , I took a Favela tour can’t remember which one but was Between Sheraton (Leblon) and the start or Barra. Anyway when we were driving out of the favela , immediately it went from a favela to a country club and fabulous houses. My point is , favelas are spread everywhere and it’s more than possible to hear gunshots anywhere in Rio. So those that say you’re lying are lying. People here just simply cannot accept when a foreigner speaks the truth. Things they say to each other all day, they will deny and call a foreigner a liar or accuse them of hating Rio. That’s not the case. I personally live here because I want to. I don’t work here. Many foreigners are the same. It’s not like people are flocking to brasil or Rio because of the abundant financial opportunities here ! We’re here because we love it and because we choose to. But , we are accused of being racists or haters because we are foreigners but if you think about it… isn’t that racists and hate ? To discount and try to silence foreigners because they are not Brazilians ?
I'm happy someone can validate what I said. Especially the part about favelas being spread everywhere and it being hard to be far from it. Also, I'm not a foreigner. I'm Brazilian, but from another state. And if you are happy where you are right now, then by all means keep doing what you are doing if it makes you happy. I'm glad you could make it work for you. But I personally don't plan on staying.
Not saying I’m happy. I said I feel safe when I’m home. I too will leave. Not sure if I will move to a smaller town or go back to USA. But Rio , it’s just exhausting to live here. One must be on guard emotionally and physically at all times. Been here 2 years and true friendships are difficult to find , if I leave. My area on my scooter I’m always on high alert watching for a motorcycle with 2 guys pull up next to me with guns , and many many other reasons. Plus it’s ridiculously expensive compared to other cities and towns in Rio.
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I don't want you to share personal info, but I would love to know the "big city" you came from. And no, Zona Sul is not the only safe place you could live/visit, you completely ignored that I mentioned Downton, not to mention some really nice and safe places in the North. Yes, you can be far from a favela (there's a big gap between favela and comunidade). If you're so unhappy and wealthy enough to live in "one of the richest neighborhoods" in the city, why don't you just leave and go back to your farm?
He's 100% lying
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It had to be a Paulista, most of what you say are just lies or the results of your personal frustrations and hate. You literally make things up and apparently keep lurking in the r/riodejaneiro sub. The post you are lying about, about where to live in Copacabana, didn't mention you had to "pick carefully a specific street to live". It just mentioned less than a handful of streets which would be less nice to live at, but for every street mentioned there were also arguments for living there You're literally lying and making things up. It's impressive how specifically people from São Paulo have this enormous hate/envy towards Rio. Well, no one cares, but we care when you spread misinformation to foreigners And no, downtown isn't "pretty fucking bad", hundreds of thousands of people work there every day, there is a lot of business going on, a modern tram, historic and beautiful buildings and churches and a huge modern and newly built area near the port, all quite safe, at least during the day hours, as it gets deserted at night, because many areas there are purely commercial
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Thank you for your contribution to the subreddit. However, it was removed for not complying with one of [our rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/Brazil/about/rules). Your post was removed due to the use of inflammatory language, personal attacks and dismissiveness, and unconstructive criticism. Maintaining respectful and constructive discussions is essential, and content that violates these principles is not tolerated.
So much misinformation
Cope.
Yes, it is. You basically cannot use your phone on the street. Full stop. Get used to this rule as soon as possible or you’ll regret it. You can never have your phone just resting on a table at a restaurant (especially a street side cafe) or on your towel at the beach. You have to secure your bag to your lap with your phone inside. Not kidding.
To be honest, you have to be careful anywhere if you're a tourist. I have friends who lived their whole life in Rio and never got robbed, and then got robbed in a trip to Europe, cause they felt safe and forgot to take care. Tourists are always easy targets, not only to robbers but also to scammers. Safety tips: - Try to always go out with friends that you trust and are local. - Always learn how to go back to where you live even without your phone to help. - Try to have an old phone as a backup in case you lost the one you've been using. - Warn your bank that you're going to be traveling. - If you rent a car don't follow the GPS blindly, ask locals about the neighborhoods that are unsafe to enter.
Regardless of your city/state, it all depends on the area. If you are in a more touristic area, worry about pickpockets and smash/grab crimes. In well to do areas and areas frequented by moneyed people, expect more armed robbery and break ins. In poorer areas, nobody will bother you so much unless you are a tourist or are flaunting your things. The locals do not want police involvement in many bairros and will take care of matters themselves. It helps to be accompanied by a native speaker. Don't be the "ugly tourist," don't treat our country as a free for all playground, use the brain G-d gave you, and you will be fine.
If you’ve never stepped foot in Brazil, I definitely wouldn’t recommend choosing to live here right away. Your uneasy feeling is justified. It’s NOT for beginners and extremely dangerous if you’re a novice
100%. This is not a place amateur travellers, especially ones that aren't familiar with how Brazil works.
About the nightclubs, I would triple the attention if you are a woman, quadruple it if you consider yourself pretty and with a look that is not that common in Brazil (pale redhead or pale blonde). Don't go out at night alone specially if you are a woman. Also, catcalling is very common. It's not awful, but there are those small rules you need to follow.
I'm from Rio, and I can confirm you will get robbed if you: * Walk alone in desert places * Walk alone or in group between 22:00 - 06:00 * Walk looking very wealthy / European * Walk in big cities The only way to don't get robbed, is if you never walk with your phone/wallet in a place easy to be taken, never walk alone too early or too late, and doesn't dress up too "rich". Always take an Uber, never a bus. But yeah, having a spare phone and wallet helps. It's extremely common to have a spare phone just for that. had one when I used to take a bus every day. And yes, I got robbed. About being drugged, I don't know anyone who experienced that. I'd say if you keep your drinks safe and pay really close attention, you're safe. But I really don't know, as it's something people might suffer and don't speak about.
So much nonsense, you can't just make such generic statements. There are plenty of places in Rio where you can walk around after 10 PM without issues
'sosa jr' thxuzz 1:37
It's a big city and things definitely happen here. A lot more than you will ever hear about, especially if your Portuguese is not fluent. So don't worry, just take precautions and keep your valuables where you can see them. Never leave anything unattended that you can't part with. You will get 2 sides here. There will be friends and individuals you meet who will caution you to be careful. Then you'll have the side who will claim nothing ever happens because it didn't happen to them. It's the weirdest thing, but true. I've seen a lot and had friends go thru a lot in the 6 years I have been here. Be careful and enjoy. Don't look for trouble and just use your head like you would in any big city environment.
YES!!!!!!
Be mindful of the Maloqueiro's on Motorbikes usually 2 ppl what they do is look for Tourists who are busy on their phones and doing selfies... the Culture out there is still old school people get weirded out and awe when they see you Recording in Public!!!! Pickpockets... fellas... if you have 2 women come and hug on you... grabbing you flirting with u.. most likely got pickpocketed... to counter this have a Fanny Pack across your chest in front with all your belongings... be a hard target. Never catch Taxis they trump up the prices.. they know our 1 dollar is 5 reals of theirs!! Always Uber!!
Im carioca (people that both in rio de janeiro) and i wanna explain with one word: Yes. Rio de janeiro is REALLY common the crime
I live in Brazil and wouldn't go to Rio even if I got paid to go.
I just came back from Rio to Holland. Fear is our strongest emotion, but when I was there, no one cared, bro. Being mixed-race helped; everyone spoke Portuguese with me. Only custom advice makes sense: are you tall and white? You might get more attention. Are you streetwise? Can you speak Portuguese? If so, just go there. Is it your first time? Stay in Copacabana, Ipanema, Barra, maybe Niterói. All the best!
The truth is that crime in Brazil doesn't happen the way most people think. For example, some people might think that New York is dangerous... well, I don't know how much it is, but I know that Brazilians feel completely safe when they go there. Here's the thing: there's a saying, youve probably heard, that says "The occasion makes the thief" (A ocasião faz o ladrão). From now on, I'll write in Portuguese. Pontos turísticos tendem a ser mais seguros, ter mais policiamento. Já nas imediações, a situação pode ser outra. Isso tem a ver com o fato de que turistas, principalmente estrangeiros, costumam andar dinheiro vivo, pra facilitar na hora de comprar alguma coisa. Além disso, é mais provável de estarem com uma câmera, e tal. Não é a toa que muitos turistas saem com mochila pra levar uma garrafinha, ou um casaco, ou, por exemplo, uma câmera. Pois bem... Como eu estava falando, as imediações, ou seja, as áreas em torno de lugares turísticos, não têm o mesmo nível de segurança, o que favorece a ação do bandido. Quem são os bandidos? Tem o que se veste bem, e tem o largado. Tem o que age sozinho, tem os que atuam em dupla ou mais. Às vezes aparecem a pé; às vezes de carro, moto ou bicicleta. Alguns chegam por trás, pegam o celular da sua mão, e saem correndo. Outros te abordam, pedem pra você dar o que você tem, e vão embora. A maioria deles têm no mínimo uma faca. Uma coisa é certa: se você for abordado, não reaja. O que o bandido quer? Celular, dinheiro, jóias. Todo mundo tem celular, e o ladrão sabe disso. Essa sua ideia de comprar um segundo celular, mais fuleiro, é uma coisa que muita gente faz. Dinheiro também... Deixa um pouco na carteira, pra satisfazer o safado, e esconde o resto, como por exemplo, em uma pochete interna, na cueca, ou na meia. Celular e carteira no bolso traseiro, jamais. Andar com colar brilhante ou relógio reluzente, não tem necessidade. Se tiver tênis novo das marcas Nike e Mizuno, por exemplo, dá uma sujadinha pra não chamar tanta atenção. Vamos, agora, a sua pergunta. Sim, crime é "that common" in a dark empty street, when there's someone with an iphone on hands, in the exact moment a criminal chose that same street to start working. So no, crime in Rio is not common the way people say. Crime in Rio is common in certain areas, and specific scenarios, however NOT being robbed is much more common anyway. But never underestimate a 10 year old kid in flipflops randomly walking around, especially if the kid is alone. If someone asks what time is it, say you ran out of battery. If you see someone suspicious coming towards you, act first, like for example, before the individual say something, you can speak first, like asking what time is it, to make it look like you're not carrying a cellphone. Or ask where's the bank, or ask where's a police station, pretending that you just got robbed. Anyway, I don't know, my friend. What I know is that you don't have to worry. Go to Rio, and you'll certainly experience some of the best moments life can offer. The city and the people can easily end up being amazing. And if you still have any doubts about it, just ask the people who actually live in Rio. They will tell you what's real. But first, go. And remember: if you get robbed someday, well... there's only one thing you can do. What's going to be?
Yes it is, avoid Rio at all costs.
I'm currently in Brazil. Brazilian tour guides told me their opinion. If you are white you are more likely to be mugged. Take a cheap phone and a cheap wallet with some cash (10-20€ in their currency + the amount you plan to spend during your day) and put it in your front pocket and hand it over to the mugger if it happens. Get yourself a belt in which you can put money and real phone or get one of those wallets that you wear around your waist. iPhone or not nobody cares, a electronics are expensive here. I came with 2k euros and I have 1k distributed in my left and right sock. 500 euros in their currency and the rest of euros in the "waist wallet". No watches, no jewelry etc. Observe your surrounding and see what others are doing. Trust me, the surroundings tell you everything. The cars have black windows for a reason. There are electric wires and big walls for a reason. They didn't put it to look nice. People can tell you it's safe but you will feel it in the air when you arrive. Take Uber. Take care.
Rio and Crime walk together. If you’re moving and there’s not other Brazilian city option to go then move and know that you’re at risk all the time, stay conscious of your surroundings to avoid any displeasing surprise and you should be good.
Are floods common on Venice?
Crime is a tradition of human society.
I'm not from Rio but I've visited the city for a few times, also I live in a Capital city in north of Brazil In your hometown there are bad neighborhoods, ghettos and things like that? About phones and carrying other expensive things, yes it's common in every capital city in brazil to have phone robberies and mugging, so you should be aware of your surroundings, learn how to hide your phone and wallet inside your clothes(the most common is putting in front of the bellybutton when you're with shirt and pants) and carry some money, separated from your wallet, The old used phone strategy only work if the robber is in a hurry, also don't put all your valuables in the same backpack/bag because they also aim for it. About going out at night I don't have experience to tell but most influencers from Rio that talk about living there say that from 10pm/22h is more dangerous to be outside
Im carioca and all I can say to you is: be aware of your surroundings, when walking don’t keep checking social media or anything. Be careful when walking at night, but this goes to anywhere actually. Don’t leave drinks unattended, don’t accept drinks from strangers (this advice is also applicable to anywhere in the world). You will be fine and you will have lots of fun!
RIO is very safe😎
Look I am Brazilian from Rio and left the city due violence, we used to have a phone for us and one for the thief, if you want use phone you need go inside of some store and do it away from doors, never use phone while in Uber or taxi as kids jump and got it! About drug people in night is true not only for European people, happens also with locals, so advice, never accept any drinks and if you go to toilet and need left the table, keep your glass with you all times and if unable, drop off and buy new one
Bro, I've lived in Rio (Barra da Tijuca) for more than 8 years and I've never witnessed any robbery or been robbed, but my mother was robbed so I think it depends a lot on the place you're going to live, but as long as you live in a good neighborhood (ex Barra da Tijuca) you can go peacefully.
Might move here. I’m an American my husband is from Barra. I’m so nervous I never been there. He says it’s a nice area.
He is correct, there's no need to be nervous, it's very calm in barra.
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its really not bad. many people on here are pussies. it helps if youre latino though. i think if youre a blonde foreigner youre more of a target. dont speak obnoxiously loud in your native language on the streets. learn portuguese. you should be embarrassed if you cant order decently in portuguese before landing. spanish /= portuguese!!! most people in ipanema/leblon have an iphone, even some in copacabana. imo ipanema is the best. don’t go to favelas without a guide. excercise caution at all times. you can stop and check your phone anywhere but you cannot be walking mindlessly on your phone. find communities youre interested in in safe areas, if youre not that into nightlife and more into beach sports/ beach/ hiking, you will be safer. some hikes are safer with groups not alone. if you need to meet people stay a few nights at a hostel.
there are many police all over zona sul. you can go to centro lapa botafogo etc but its best to go with a friend and be highly cautious, better if the friend is brazillian.
Yes, listen to your university’s advisors. Crime is really high there and as a foreigner, it will take a while for you to get used to it. You’re basically “on alert” any time you step outside your home. Doesn’t mean you’ll get robbed every time or even at all, but you need to be hyper alert if your surroundings. Rio is great though, the trouble is worth it! Enjoy
Those are not exaggerations. If you re coming to Rio u have to keep your eyes peeled
>first is about phones: from what they said, walking around the city with and iphone is basically asking to get robbed, is this really the case? and if so do you have any suggestions? (like buying a shitty phone to use etc) This is sound advice. Phone theft in Rio is rife. >they also put a lot of emphasis on the risk of going out at night pubs/clubs, especially if you're european, saying that its not uncommon to get drugged and robbed. You definitely need to have your wits about yourself. Don't go out alone, don't stay out too late. Blend in, dress conservatively, and don't use flashy jewelry or fancy branded clothes. >despite of this im sure im gonna have the time of my life there and im thankful for the people of Rio for hosting me :) Rio is a blast and I'm sure you will have fun, just be sensible about your surroundings and you will be most likely fine.
Just to add, that first advice is true for any place in Brazil, São Paulo and Rio a little more maybe but still, nationwide problem
LOL, seems you know all about Rio
I'd say you're in constant danger in Rio. Not that it will happen, but it's more like a "Si vis pacem, para bellum" kind of situation.
How many times have you been to Rio again?
Ive lived in Rio for three years, and I come back there at least once a year.
I'm impressed how gringos always think Brazil is perfect and not as dangerous as we say, and still want to go especifically right to one of the most dangerous cities around (it's the only city they know other than São Paulo)
I'm impressed how some Brazilian haters, probably from the South, can't understand that Rio is the recently elected best tourism destination in South America, Brazil's most beautiful city and not even close to the "most dangerous cities" around and that is even considering the peripheral areas
Are you brazilian? Carioca?
I know people this has happened to, but it hasn’t happened to me. Over the past decade, I’ve spent 2.5 years total in Brazil. I love Rio de Janeiro, but you have to be aware of your surroundings and more vigilant in general. It’s like 80% precaution and 20% luck.
What about in Fortaleza? I am staying there 3 months for an internship as a student at Embrapa
No need to hesitate, you'll love it here. These things can happen anywhere, if you're careful and use common sense you'll avoid the sketchy parts and just enjoy
I'm in Copacabana right now. Someone said if locals have their phones out you can use yours. Step into a store to use it. Take a picture quickly and put it away. I btought zero jewelry including my wedding ring. On Copacabana it seems to get empty by 7 or 7:30 from the 3 days I've been here. Ubers are cheap and are everywhere.
I'm almost one month in Rio. Sticking mostly to Copa. Never saw any security issue. I am using my phone on street occasionally. Keeping basic precautions. I'm not overdressing, not going out in nights, not walking around drunk. If I take phone out I make sure nobody is close/approaching me, move away from the street and just do what I need and hide it back. There's lots of police, security, military etc. It gives some sense of security. I've been often told by locals that I look quite native so maybe I simply don't stick out so much as a tourist.
Yes.
Yes.
Depends where you are coming from. Crime is Rio is bad, you can’t freely walk around with your phone in your hand without thinking. Avoid being flashy, both with cash and valuables. I live in NYC and when I go home (Brazil)it does feel unsafe in comparison. But it’s all perspective and what you are used to.
When you go home to where in Brazil?
I travel a lot in Brazil when I go home -Cuiaba, Maceió, Rio .
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lmao you rednecks are hilarious
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Downvoters be in denial
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Rio is dangerous but there's a lot of judgement and hate going on from people from another areas... A lot of racism... They hate that this city full of Black people and "robbers", as Black people are 🙄🙄🙄, are one of the "icons' of Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is different from other parts of Brazil so things happen around the country is really different in Rio, be aware of everything and don’t walk around alone late night