Rio de Janeiro, like any other large city, has its fair share of violence. A bit of common sense goes a long way; with that in mind we won't attempt to list all that could happen and how to avoid it. Our aim is just to give you some pointers.

• Rio is not the place to flaunt jewelery;
• Valuables are best kept in the safety deposit box in the hotel;
• A photocopy of your ID or passport is usually good enough to have on you; except if you're driving.
• Most restaurants and stores take credit cards so having a lot of cash on you is not necessary.
• If you plan to leave the touristy areas, it's best to have a tourist guide. Downtown is also safe enough (daytime).
• Expensive cameras or other equipment are best carried on shoulder straps and put away when not being used.
• Taxis are cheap enough, so unless you're on a shoe-string budget, why bother with urban buses .
• It is not a good idea to accept drinks from strangers in bars and clubs; spiked drinks are very common.
• Inviting somebody you've just met back to your hotel is plain daft. There are plenty of sex motels around. Likewise, going back to their place is asking for it.

Delegacia de Atendimento ao Turista - DEAT
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