
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL ADVISORY - Brazil
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BRAZIL - NOTICE
 November 8, 1991

Summary:  The Department of State advises U.S. citizens that the
threat of crime in Brazilian cities varies, but is particularly
acute in Rio de Janeiro.  U.S. citizens should exercise special
caution in the Copacabana and adjoining Leme neighborhoods in Rio de
Janeiro and exercise caution in other parts of Rio de Janeiro and
other large Brazilian cities.  U.S. citizens are reminded to obtain
a valid Brazilian visa prior to entry.  Upon arrival in Brazil, U.S.
citizens are urged to communicate with the U.S. Embassy or nearest
U.S. Consulate.  End Summary.

Thousands of people visit Brazil each year and while most tourists
and business travelers experience no problems, visitors should take
precautions in major cities in order to minimize the danger of armed
assault and theft.  Bring only essential valuables and do not carry
large amounts of cash or expensive cameras, and do not wear
expensive/flashy jewelry.  As much as possible, confine sightseeing
activities to groups in well-lighted, frequently used areas, and
avoid city buses.  Do not open your hotel or apartment door without
first identifying the visitor.

The areas of greatest crime against foreigners in Rio are the most
frequented and popular beaches and neighborhoods of  Copacabana and
Leme where street criminals, often youths, target tourists as
victims for armed robbery or theft.  The incidence of crime on those
beaches is most common at dusk and during the evening hours.
Discotheques, bars and nightclubs in these areas of Rio and similar
establishments in some areas of other major cities are often the
site of incidents and should be avoided.

U.S. citizens are reminded to obtain a valid Brazilian visa prior
to entering the country.  U.S. citizens may also wish to obtain the
publication entitled "Tips for Travelers to Central and South
America."  The pamphlet is available for $1 from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.

Upon arrival, U.S. citizens are urged to contact and register with
the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate.
The Embassy in Brasilia may be reached at 321-7272; the U.S.
Consulate General in Rio de Janeiro at  292-7117; the U.S. Consulate
General in Sao Paulo at 881-6511, the U.S. Consulate in Porto Alegre
at 26-4288; and the U.S. Consulate at Recife at 221-1412.
Registration facilitates the providing of emergency services should
it become necessary.

 No. 91-216

This advisory replaces the travel notice of July 6, 1990 by
providing additional information and precautions concerning crime.

