[Dmitriy@AUTOcouture]

Thinking about going on a vaca to Buenos Aires then North to Rio... Have been told to think twice about goin there.

Has anyone been? Is it really THAT bad?

[KingOfJericho]

Despite buzz about Brazil being and up and coming world economy, it's still very much a third world country and it can certainly be dangerous. You have to be smart and keep aware of your surroundings. Millions of people travel there every year but all we see on the news are the two broads who disappeared on Aruba. You probably won't be killed but there's a decent chance you'll have your wallet stolen. Watch City of God and stay away from any area that looks like that.

[jbcarioca]

Originally Posted by Dmitriy@AUTOcouture

Thinking about going on a vaca to Buenos Aires then North to Rio... Have been told to think twice about goin there.

Has anyone been? Is it really THAT bad?

I live in Rio de Janeiro and keep my new BMW there too. The single response you had is a trifle overstated. Rio is dangerous in the sense that large cities are. If you wander around late at night is obviously bad areas and act like a tourist you'll probably find trouble. If you're inebriated and flashing money and jewelry you can easily find trouble too.

Neither I nor any of my family members have had any problems since the late 1990's.

BTW, BMW's are luxury cars here and I have a new X1 28i and a Land Rover Freelander 2. I have never had any issues at all.

If you want more details I'll be happy to provide them. Frankly, the expenses ar more of a problem than is crime for most people. That said, Rio is not like Singapore. There is crime.