Safety in Rio
Quite understandably, most first-time visitors to Rio have concerns about their personal safety in the city. Stories about stray bullets, robberies, drug cartels and ruthless, gun-toting nine year olds on every corner have combined to create an image of a lawless society where one half of the city is constantly at war with the other.
Certainly, the statistics are alarming, with a murder rate that is comparable to cities in the war-torn middle east. But before you start to wonder what you've let yourself in for, bear in mind that this violence is largely restricted to the favelas (slums) where shootouts between drug gangs and the police occur on a daily basis.
Take a few precautions, act sensibly, and your stay in Rio should be trouble-free. Violence against foreigners is unusual, but unfortunately petty theft is not. The first thing to bear in mind is that this is a city with an almost unimaginable gulf between the rich and the poor, the haves and the have-nots. Don't try to flaunt your wealth here, you will just be making yourself a target for theives. There's no need to avoid wearing branded clothes or trainers - they're commonly worn over here - but don't wear an expensive watch or jewelry. Don't stroll around with your camera around your neck - snap pictures quickly and then put your camera in a pocket or bag.
When it comes to bags, handbags and shoulder bags should be held onto tightly - if possible opt for something with a chest strap so that it can't be whipped quickly from your hand or shoulder. If you're carrying a small rucksack, wear it on your front while using public transport - you might feel a bit silly but it's a fairly common practice in Rio.
Watch your pockets in crowded places; keeping money, wallets and documents in front rather than back pockets is a good idea. When visiting the beach, take just enough money to cover transport, snacks and drinks - don't take credit cards, Ipods etc. Above all, don't fall asleep and leave your belongings beside you - they won't be there when you wake up! Likewise, never leave your possessions unatttended while you take a dip - ask a friend to guard them if you need to cool off in the water.
Care should also be taken with taxis - where possible, pre-book from your hotel or hostel. If that's not an option, find an official rank. If you really must hail a cab on the street, check that it's official by looking out for a phone number on the side, and checking that the driver has their identification card clearly on display. (Usually hungup by the rear-view mirror).
Although such advice may make Rio sound like a terrifying place, the truth is that this is a wonderful city that can be enjoyed to the full as long as you exercise some common sense.