1 day in Rio
 

We have a day there----I am hearing mixed messages about safety. Any tips?

No mixed messages whatsoever. Just one. Most tourist crime is opportunistic, grab and run or pick pocketing. If you give thieves the opportunity, by calling attention to yourself and showing valuables (any item a person supporting a family on a few hundred dollars equivalent per month would think of value) or wandering into deserted areas (no matter if upscale or slum) you could be making yourself a victim. The percentages statistically are tiny. Victims complain of conditions, sometimes online, often loudly. Those who have a peaceful time usually do not. Also, much online information is outdated, and conditions change. Have a lovely trip.

Whew! Thanks so much as I really want to enjoy the city during the day

wordsmith...how are you?
A few years ago Roz and I spent a about four days in Rio, enroute to the Amazon on our own. I'll include my pics to give you an idea of Rio and a glimpse of the Amazon. Rio, we approached very carefully and had no problems. During the day, we played it sort of loose...but at night we stayed in the vicinity of our hotel on Ipanema. One day, our hotel found us a taxi driver to take us into the vicinity of the favielas...and he watched over us paternally!

Follow Sambas instructions above and enjoy your day in colorful Rio.

I'm not sure I told you that Roz passed on last year.

Stu

https://picasaweb.google.com/stuartt...oBrazilAmazon#

One of our most exciting trips, into the Amazon.

Note: Wherever you are in Rio, you are "in the vicinity of the favelas", even in Ipanema. That doesn't necessarily equate to being in danger; the people who live there are likely those same hard workers who are making up your bed every day, serving your breakfast, etc. And IMO, the only non-offensive way to visit one of those neighborhoods is with a resident of that particular community, not to drive by and peer in as if at animals in a zoo. Also, it's a shame to miss out on the vibrant nightlife and unique culture of the city if you have the opportunity, for example, in a Lapa live samba music club, out of fear of leaving a neighborhood/situation that may simply appear more familiar.

wordsmith1, enjoy your day in Rio.

Tower: you apparently know the OP.

He seems to make it a habit not to acknowledge the replies to his questions.

So be it.....

Hola Rooster:

Yes, you're right. I do know them. Unfortunately, many posters fit in the same category. I've seen so many changes (mostly bad) since coming on board in 2005. I could never think of NOT answering someone who has been trying to help me with my travel plans.

Hope you're well. My overseas travel days are all but over, but "don't cry for me Argentina!"

stu

I will NOT take your "My overseas travel days are all but over" lying down!

What do I have to do to convince you to come to Argentina?

Thank you for your kind words, Rooster. But losing my eldest daughter and then my wife in the same year I've decided to stay domestic (USA, Canada) if I should travel again. I live for my writing/speaking now with my latest historic novel coming out last year.

stu (Have you ever been to USA, AV?)

Yes, quite a few times, most recently last June, first to NY and then staying at Marnie's http://www.fodors.com/community/profile/marniewdc/ home in DC.

Stu: why don't you write to me to albertovgalloATyahoo.com

I have a feeling I MAY be able to get you invited to speak here, in case you are interested.

My main customer is a leading member of the local Sephardic community.

What's the title of your "latest historic novel"?

Google answers for you: "The Wayfarers"????

see email for my response