Rio de Janeiro is in itself a place that catches the eye on every level – its natural beauty, its culture, street markets, music concerts, gardens and buildings that date from the colonial times and modern too.
Here are some tips on traveling safely in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Something you should know about Rio is that traveling there over the New Year’s celebration and spending time on Copacabana is a safe thing to do.
As you know, Rio de Janeiro is a city that has plenty of favelas (shanty towns) all over it. Yes, you will see a nice neighbourhood and all of a sudden there is a favela next to it. Living and traveling through Rio means you will have the open mindness of meeting the rich and the rags in the same place!
If you are a foreigner, we suggest that you always take the taxis that are in front of the hotel you are staying – these taxis will be registered with the hotel, so they are known fellows who work regularly at that spot. Make sure you find a taxi driver who is willing to give you a good price for the time you will be in Rio. It’s a good idea to make a list of the places you want to visit and that you ask for the price before you actually board on the taxi. If you see that they are not willing to make a better price, just say that you had a better offer and they will immediately lower the price. Write the price down and make sure they understand the agreement.
Using a cab is not extremely expensive and it is much more comfortable than the bus sightseeing. Especially because you can stop wherever you like and make photos and enjoy the relaxing trip to the tourist places. Only pay for your taxi after the journey is done and the taxi arrive in front of the hotel.
List of places to visit in Rio de Janeiro:
- Corcovado (Christ the Redeemer)
- Pao de Acucar (Sugar Loaf)
- Floresta da Tijuca (Tijuca Forest)
- Morro Dois Irmaos (The Two Brother’s Mountains)
- Barra da Tijuca (Barra Long beach)
- Jardim Botanico (Botanic Garden)
- Copacabana Beach
- Leblon Beach and Ipanema Beach
- Lapa by night (an interesting place to go and enjoy the nightlife)
You can visit the biggest favelas of Rio named Morro do Alemao. It is safe to visit with their special tour guides.
If you are traveling on a budget, you might consider buying food from supermarket or bakeries. In bakeries, you will also find the best freshly pressed juices, and if you want to have a popular brazilian sandwich, ask for a Misto Quente – crusty bread with cheese and ham pressed and hot. If you prefer it cold, ask for a Misto Frio instead.
