Etiquette and Dress Code in Brazil: real experience from chats
From real experience
When visiting major Brazilian cities like Rio and Sao Paulo, tourists should be highly cautious.
Avoid wearing visible jewelry or expensive watches. Only use your phone inside secure locations like shops or cafes. Carry valuables in a hidden pouch or waist bag. Exercise extreme caution after sunset, as many areas become unsafe. Dress simply to blend in with locals and avoid appearing as a naive target. Buenos Aires is generally safer than Brazil but still requires vigilance.
✓ 2 reports from chats
Safety guidelines for Brazil: 1. Avoid displaying expensive phones or jewelry in public, especially in traffic.
2. Do not walk in deserted areas or near favelas at night. 3. Use taxi/rideshare apps for transportation. 4. Use the 'Fogo Cruzado' app to track real-time security alerts (shootings/clashes). 5. Beach security: do not leave belongings unattended; ask locals or families nearby to watch items if necessary.
✓ 1 report from chats
In Brazil, especially in areas like Centro Histórico, Brás, and Luz, it's advisable to avoid wearing visible gold jewelry (e.g., chains) and expensive mobile phones, as they are frequently targeted by snatch thieves.
Police indicate that robbers often do not use weapons, but focus on items that can be quickly grabbed. Safer areas exist, but general caution is recommended.
✓ 1 report from chats
Safety guidelines for São Paulo: avoid wearing jewelry, refrain from carrying handbags, and use a hidden money belt under clothing for cash.
If carrying a phone, ensure it is not a high-value device or be prepared to surrender it if robbed. Crime rates vary by district, but general urban vigilance is required.
✓ 1 report from chats
Hotel guests in Brazil report instances of staff attempting to blame visitors for pre-existing broken electronics (e.g., TVs).
Document or report room defects immediately upon check-in. In terms of street safety, tourists are advised to avoid displaying high-end photography gear and smartphones in public; use them quickly and store them immediately.