Safety and Financial Tips in Brazil: real experience from chats
Short answer
Card payments are widely accepted across Brazil, but keep cash for specific locations like beach facilities, nightlife, and local service fees. Prioritize personal safety in crowded areas by concealing valuables and avoiding deserted alleys, and consider 'cama' class night buses for comfortable long-distance travel.
From real experience
Travel tips for Brazil: 1. Use 'cama' class night buses for long hauls; bring warm clothes due to heavy AC.
2. Cash is still king if you lack international cards; exchange can be difficult, finding physical offices is a mission. 3. Safety: be vigilant in Rio; avoid wearing visible jewelry in crowds. 4. Logistics: Plan Iguazu Falls for the end of the trip to maintain the wow-factor. Use apps like inDrive if Uber faces issues.
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While not universal, there are instances in Brazil where foreigners may encounter inflated prices for goods and services, often referred to as 'gringo pricing.' Examples include tours and legal services where costs can be significantly higher than for locals.
Although official 'resident discounts' exist, the practice of charging foreigners more is sometimes observed, particularly in tourist areas or when dealing with certain service providers.
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In Brazil, card payments are widely accepted, including by many beach vendors.
However, some specific locations may only accept cash, such as public toilets on Copacabana beach and certain museums located on military bases (e.g., on Copacabana).
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Tourist tax in Salvador region: Morro de São Paulo charges ~50 BRL (payable at the pier).
Boipeba and Cachoeira have no tourist tax. Beware of common street scams in Pelourinho and Elevador Lacerda areas.
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In Brazil, cash is not widely observed by some users.
Recommendations include using Revolut or Wise for their favorable conversion rates. However, certain establishments, particularly nightlife venues, may still require cash payments.
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Safety tips for Rio: Use concealed money belts under clothing, secure cameras to the wrist, and avoid deserted alleys in the city center.
Debit/credit cards are widely accepted for most transactions.