Too Touristy and Eating Randomly? 6 Must-Know Tips for Traveling in Brazil

▲The 2014 FIFA World Cup was held in Brazil. The photo shows Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. (Photo / Screenshot from CNN)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

CNN recently selected the "11 Best Global Travel Destinations of 2014," and Brazil, thanks to hosting the 2014 FIFA World Cup along with its natural beauty, Carnival, and party culture, topped the must-visit list. However, Brazil’s poor safety and hygiene conditions are well known worldwide, so when traveling here, remember six key tips including “Don’t act like a tourist” and “Don’t eat randomly.”

▲The vibrant and passionate Carnival is also a major highlight of Brazil. (Photo / Zuma Press / Associated Press)

Avoid Counting Money in Public

Brazil’s poor security is internationally notorious. When traveling solo or with others, pay extra attention to personal safety. Avoid counting money in public or leaving your luggage unattended while chatting with others. Whether you’re traveling alone or with companions, keep your belongings simple and research which areas are more dangerous beforehand.

Avoid Wearing Revealing Clothing

When walking in crowded streets, avoid wearing revealing clothes or dressing like a Christmas tree weighed down with bags and packages.

▲Soccer is a national passion in Brazil. (Photo / Fromthe official Facebook page of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil))

Do Not Resist if Robbed

If unfortunately confronted by robbers, never resist on the spot—the consequences could be dire. Locals suggest that carrying money in Brazil is a delicate balance—you shouldn’t carry too much, but also not nothing at all. One traveler was beaten by an offended robber after being robbed while having no money on them.

Wear Sunglasses While Shopping

Also, wear sunglasses while shopping—they help block sunlight and prevent people from “seeing right through you,” allowing you to observe your surroundings without drawing suspicion.

Get Vaccinations in Advance

When traveling in Brazil, also pay attention to dietary and hygiene concerns. Yellow fever and malaria are two major infectious diseases in the country. Yellow fever risk areas are mainly in northern, central-western, and southwestern Minas Gerais, while malaria is concentrated in the north. Get vaccinated 10 days to two weeks before visiting these regions.

Never Dine in Unclean Restaurants

Food is a big part of the travel experience, but if you notice a restaurant is unclean, do not eat there to avoid contracting cholera or hepatitis.

In short, Brazil is vast, with diverse regional cultures and customs. Observing how locals behave and avoiding drawing too much attention on the street can help you steer clear of unnecessary harassment and trouble. (Source: Central News Agency)

[2014’s 11 Best Travel Destinations]
1. 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil
2. 100th Anniversary of the Panama Canal Opening
3. Myanmar’s “New Tourism Initiative”
4. Myvatn in Iceland
5. One Visa for Three Countries in East Africa (Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda)
6. New Zealand’s 2,500 km Cycling Loop Route
7. Japan: Luxury Train Tour on the Seven-Star JR Train
8. Ecuador’s “Tourism Revitalization Plan”
9. Playas de Nosara Beach in Costa Rica
10. San Sebastián, Spain
11. Tallinn, Estonia
(Source: CNN)