The cities of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are one of the most dangerous cities in South America in terms of mugging, petty theft, etc. I would never walk alone, in the daytime or at night, and would not wear any type of jewelry. In no case should you leave your items unattended anywhere, whether on the beach or anywhere else. If you are spending several months there, hopefully it's at someone's home. They should give you guidance on what you should or should not do while there. If you don't speak Portugese, that's another roadblock. I hope this helps.

Lilliam Larsen
www.monarchtours.net

sorry about the double post...computer problems..

:(

Millions of people travel to brazil and thousands from all over the world for carnaval.

Although crime exists everywhere, it is good to be aware and SMART but not paranoid..

As somebody who grew up in Rio, I never had a problem. Being that I grew up in a favela, I have a little more fears of places like Copacabana because the criminals will look for victims there. They are going to go to tourist areas first because that is where the money is.

But many people have been to Rio and had a wonderful time..so, be aware and smart, but please do not be paranoid...Rio has lots to offer..