Thread: Playing it Safe in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is considered by some as a war zone and by others as a very interesting place to see. Some tips to bear in mind when you are in Rio and visiting the suburbs are:

1. Don't go by yourself if you are going for the first time
2. If you need directions try to ask someone that has a newspaper stand or a business owner for help
3. Do not walk with a lot of cash
4. Do not dress like a rich tourist
5. Avoid late night visits in areas that are known to be "barra pesada".

Whats so specific for Rio here?

1, A lone gringo is probably more easier taken for Brazilian than a group of gringos.

2, If asking directions and not speaking Portuguese you would have better luck asking in a hotel.

3, Obviously not a good idea anywhere.

4, If going out to a nightclub in Rio, Jeans and a nice shirt makes you blend in way more than a pair of shorts and a tanktop. Brazilians like to look good and dress up.

5, Why would a tourist with good intentions go slumming?

Where in Rio do you live?

My advice would be

1, Skip metal watches, jewellery on the streets. Dont walk around with a laptop bag after dark.

2, Try to look like you know where your going. Dont walk around with your eyes in the sky. Being aware of your surroundings is something cariocas learn quickly.

3, If going to less controlled nightlife areas like Lapa go with some friends.

4, Avoid the underbelly of society, dealers and prostitutes ( Like you would anywhere else ).

5, Be cool and easy going.

6, Treat people with respect regardless of social standing.

I would state that most Brazilians actually like to good in a funny sort of way. Most Cariocas like to feel like the good guy/girl, nurture this and you will really bring out the best of your hosts.

Also investing in learning some Portuguese before you come here will do way more for you than any guidebook.

Hello Acelier,

I think that instead of posting posts to criticize posts that you should write something constructive in the forum. Now, "Barra Pesada" in Portuguese means "Dangerous Areas" so your question-- why would a "tourist with good intentions go slumming" is a bit strange to me. Some tourists like the thrill of entering dangerous areas-- more like bungee jumping. Soo... summing up.

what are you trying to get across by addressing the points I highlighted that have already not been adressed?

Thanks for the information

Originally Posted by Brazilianbraniac

Rio de Janeiro is considered by some as a war zone and by others as a very interesting place to see. Some tips to bear in mind when you are in Rio and visiting the suburbs are:

1. Don't go by yourself if you are going for the first time
2. If you need directions try to ask someone that has a newspaper stand or a business owner for help
3. Do not walk with a lot of cash
4. Do not dress like a rich tourist
5. Avoid late night visits in areas that are known to be "barra pesada".

Oh hi.. Thanks for your tips.. I remember that all the time... and by the way what is "barra pesada"?