Well, it's quite common to hear that Brazil is a beautiful country and it's also a well known fact that it is quite dangerous to live in. Just a quick search on the internet and you'll find several articles stating this, especially true for the "cidade maravilhosa" Rio de Janeiro. Here a link on some of the most dangerous places to go on holiday http://www.gustey.com/2010-most-dangerous-cities-in-the-world . So what's my experience after spending 6 months living in Rio as a resident and not just a tourist?Trying to be less of a target may help. I have to say that I've lost a bit of the "gringo" look I used to have when first arrived. The milky glow spotted at my arrival (15 years in London didn't help)has gone , command of the language has improved but the "sotaque" (accent) it's a very strong Italian one as I had it when in London, never tried to hide it! Clothing is definitely "Carioca" now, "chinelos"(sandals), football shirts (rigorously fake), rubbish mobile phone, wallet in the front pocket and a bit of friendly arrogance when addressing people. Knowing the area you are in it's a plus, it's not advisable venturing in places you don't know anything about especially when it's dark. You quickly learn not to flash any money when outside, prepare your change to take the bus in advance, trying to use cash point during opening times inside the branch etc.. Listening at the news on the telly it makes you quite itchy, every single day there's a report of some sort of shooting, armed robbery, drug dealer war, police shooting, lovers shooting and the always present "bala perdida" (stray bullet). Apparently most of the reported stray bullets were indeed addressed to the right target! Cannot comment on that,just suffice to say that it happens often. When visiting Brazil avoid watching a tv show "Brazil urgent" or you'll never leave the hotel. By the way the hotel is not a safe bet either http://riotimesonline.com/brazil-news/front-page/hostages-taken-at-luxury-hotel-in-rio/
I think that Brazil is more dangerous than Europe when talking about violent crime as weapons are easily available to lots of people and the class inequality doesn't help. Unfortunately crack cocaine is on the increase and are quite rare social programs to help the drug addicts, who will recurr to violent crime or prostitution to feed their habits. As I said the place you are in helps to avoid some of the dangers but you are never safe ,just have a look a the pic I've posted next to this post. It happened when I was living in a decent building in Copacabana, 50 mt from the beach. A family fight ended with a complete window (glass and frame) falling down to the terrace where 5 minutes before I was having my breakfast. Have a safe day!
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