In the last few weeks or so, I’ve gotten a lot of inquiries from people traveling to Brazil. I love giving travel advice! Once I’ve traveled to a city, I’ve been there, done that, and eaten everything. So I’m happy to answer pertinent questions.
However, I recently received an e-mail saying, “I’m still a bit nervous about traveling through Brazil. Is it really that bad?”
Questions like this absolutely kill me! UGH! Am I overreacting? Okay, maybe slightly. But hear me out. It’s insulting, at least to me, to hear people say: I’m afraid to visit you, your town, or your neighborhood because I think it’s unsafe. I want to respond, “Well, clearly, I (and about a million other people, have managed just fine). But, if you’re afraid, okay. I respect your feelings.”
I’m sure the media doesn’t help. But maybe this will.
When you do travel, here are the things you need to know in order to minimize your vulnerability and maximize your safety anywhere in the world:
1. When in Rome… Blend! When people know you don’t belong, they may try to take advantage of you. Plain and simple. Don’t wear expensive jewelry. If you’re speaking a language that is not the native one, that’s okay, but everyone will know you’re a foreigner. Don’t try to stand out in any way to make yourself a target.
2. Got a question? Ask. It’s arrogant to assume people speak your language; do your best to ask in the native tongue. Not to mention, you’re always received better when people see you’re trying. People LOVE talking about themselves, their city, and neighborhood. If they don’t know the answer, they will find someone who does. Guaranteed.
3. Stop, Look, and Listen. Always be aware and conscious. Know where you are and who is around you. When you’re walking, glance back every so often. If there aren’t people around, jump in a cab or catch a bus. If you’re lost and want to look at a map, hop inside a store.
4. Money, Money, Money. MONEY! Keep your valuables hidden. When they are showing, do your best to secure them. Carry an extra $50.00 somewhere outside of your wallet in case the worst should happen.
5. If the worst should happen… It sucks, but it can happen anywhere. Being robbed in a foreign city is just as probable as being robbed in your own city (unless you fail to blend. See Tip #1 above). Remember that it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If your attacker is on drugs, he won’t be able to reason. Give them what they want and you’ll walk away with a story.
Boa viagem!
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Great tips