Rio - Is it safe?
 

My husband and I are contemplating a trip to Rio, staying on Ipanema beach. I have read such a variety of accounts on the safety of Rio. Some say it is fine as long as you are sensible - others say it is more dangerous than is widely known and it is not worth putting yourself at risk. What is the real story? We will only be there for a few days and want to enjoy the beach and do some sightseeing.

Just be careful - it's best to stay in Copacabana as it's touristy and crowded. But Rio is beautiful - definitely worth it.

Personal Security is a very personal issue. There is no doubt that Rio is a very dangerous city. However, every day thousands of tourists are visiting Rio without any problems. I think it is fine, but of course if I had been robbed my perspective might be different. I would recommend some security basics: Stay is a safe area - Ipanema and Leblon are very safe, Barra even more so, only go out at night to areas that well known and lit (the locals have no perspective on this), take taxis at night instead of walking, watch for groups of 10-16 year olds traveling together and stay away from them, don't carry expensive items (cameras, Video, Razr phones) in obvious sight - use a backpack, dress down.

So go and have a good time, it is a beautiful place.

I agree with Skeeter, it's definitely perspective. I wandered about by myself quite a bit in Rio and Sao Paulo and never had a problem; however, I was dressed SUPER casual. I'm from Hawaii so I've already got the attire down pat!

Don't wear jewelry, try not to flaunt your digital gear (iPod, camera, etc.), and I went so far as to wear cheap throwaway sunglasses.

Don't be overly paranoid to the point where it inhibits your enjoyment, however.

Here are some other threads on safety:
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34601972

http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34654999

http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34552385

My younger son lived and worked in Brazil for 3.5 years. He lived a block off the beach at Ipanema and was always more concerned about safety in Rio. Even after "The City of God".
M (SMdA, Gto. MX)

Lo siento, the more dangerous Sao Paulo, not Rio.
My head is in our trip to BA, Mendoza, Bariloche, Salta, Iguazu, Santiago, etc.
M

I have been to Rio and had a great time. We stayed in Leblon, walked at night and never had an issue. I found the people in Rio to be among the nicest anywhere in the world. In addition, it is one of the 2 or 3 most spectacular cities and if you are from the U.S. you can enjoy world class amenities at 1/2 the price you would pay in the US because of the exchange rate. Go, use common sense, and enjoy!