A very common question that people ask is: ‘is Brazil safe place for visitors?’ The short answer is “yes, but…”

Safety is relative, like it is for any country. It largely depends on where you go, what you do and who you are. Let’s unpack things a bit, to set your mind at ease.

Firstly, Brazil is a huge country. And yes, it has pockets of poverty, gang rivalry and opportunistic crime, but once you’ve spent time here, you will realise that these areas are quite contained (usually far from any place you are likely to be anyway) and it’s quite easy to avoid putting yourself in harm’s way.

Brazil’s big famous cities, like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, come with their fair share of dodgy neighbourhoods and questionable characters. But overall, overseas visitors to these cities will feel a warm welcome, and it’s easy to avoid any trouble by knowing where you’re going, blending in, dressing down and avoiding public transport and walking in quiet streets after dark.

Florianópolis, where we are based, is a lovely, safe place. It’s an island city, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge, and the quality of life here is of a high standard. You can walk around Florianópolis without needing to worry – it’s as safe a place as any you’re likely to find in your own home country.

You should take the regular safety precautions that you would take anywhere.

Blend in with the locals

Dress down, don’t flash expensive jewellery or accessories about, and try not to look too much like a ‘tourist’. Don’t carry loads of cash.

If you’re going to be in Brazil over New Year’s Eve, be sure to wear all white clothes, otherwise you’re going to stand out.

Don’t walk around staring at your phone, oblivious to your surroundings – that rule of thumb applies for most parts of the world.

Be careful around cash machines and bus stations

If you plan to go to a cash machine, it’s best to do that during the day, when there are people around. When it comes to Florianópolis, it’s fine to take public transport after dark, just try to avoid walking around on your own at night in deserted places. If you are walking at night, stick to well-lit, populated areas. A tip: download Uber to your phone – it’s a safe and cheap way to get around town.

Swim in safe areas

When it comes to swimming at the beach, take advice from locals and swim between the flags. If there aren’t any, try to swim in the same place where other people are.

If you follow these simple tips, you’ll be fine. However, if you do find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time, be sure to remain calm and comply as best you can. Then be sure to report any crime to the tourist police.

Emergencies

In case of emergency, you can call the following numbers:

• Police – 190
• Ambulance – 192
• Fire Service – 193