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發表於 1-11-2009 17:54:53
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Is it Safe to Travel to Brazil?Absolutely! Like any other developing country, Brazil has its share of problems. Unfortunately, Brazil has had its share of negative publicity regarding safety issues in the past. Although there have been incidents in the past, most of these have occurred in situations where people were not following common sense (much like the types of crimes that occur in the United States).
Examples can be: Walking alone in an unlit street in the middle of the night, wandering into unknown or bad neighborhoods, etc. It is also appropriate to note here that Brazilian police in Rio de Janeiro and Salvador have more than tripled patrols in high traffic tourist areas in the past couple of years. These areas are just as safe as any large city in the United States.
Recommended for a SAFER STAY in Rio:
• Don't walk around with jewelry
• Don't argue with the cops
• Don't try to drive
• Most of Rio's slums ("FAVELAS") are on the Hills and should be avoided at all costs.
Transportation
Taxis – The most popular form of transportation for tourists is taking a cab. Compared to taxi services around the world, taxi services in Rio are cheaper. Between Copacabana and Ipanema a cab will cost you R$10 - 15 (US$5 - 10). There are two types of taxis in Rio de Janeiro. The regular, metered yellow cabs may be flagged on the streets. Special Taxis, "Taxi especial," are larger, with air conditioning and more expensive. These are found at airports and outside hotels or can be summoned by phon It's not recommended to rent a car unless you have a Brazilian escort.
Subway – Fast and Convenient for those traveling from Copacabana to Downtown.
"Frescao" (Air-conditioned bus) – This bus serves the business community and is very safe and convenient. They are about $R5 and run more frequently during business hours. Public Buses – This form of transporation is less recommended. Although it may be a bit cheaper, the public bus takes a lot longer. Also, there is more chance of being pick pocketed.
Temperature
During summer, from December to March, temperatures range from 23 C (72 F) to 35 (95 F). From July to September, the winter temperatures stay close to 20 C (68 F). For a temperature & precipitation chart see climate.
Time Zone
Rio's time zone is 3 hours behind Greenwich time (England). Ther's a two-hoursgap between Rio de Janeiro and New York time. From October to the end of February, Brazil is under Summer Saving Time, with clocks one hour behind. So it is 5 hours behind Paris or Geneva and four hours ahead of Chicago.
Currency
The Brazilian currency is the Real (R$). The official rate of exchange is available from daily newspapers, hotel cashiers, banks and travel agencies. Cash and travellers checks are easily exchanged at these locations. Many hotels and shops accept foreign currency and Credit Cards. The Exchange Rate is usually at around 2 - 2.2 R$ to the US Dollar.
Tipping
In restaurants, beauty salons and bars, tips are usually given when not includ in the bill, varying from 10% to 15%. |
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