I would suggest wearing pants with deep pockets with maybe a zipper or something as pick pocketing is terrible in those type of areas. Also, drink /bottled/ water, can never be too safe.

In my experience, traveling alone isn't very fun and I would recommend getting someone to tag along for company or in case anything goes bad.

I've also posted some basic traveling tips in the source for your convenience.
Source(s):
I've traveled to 6 different countries.
http://kidshealth.org/teen/safety/safebasics/travel_tips.html

Permalink | Report

Here are some good suggestions to keep you safe and have a great time.
# Do not even bother packing flashy jewelry, gold, or platinum and diamond-studded watches. If you've got it or like it, this is place to buy them but not the place to flaunt it...
# Your invaluable valuables belong in the safety box of your hotel room.
# Carry along a photocopy of your passport, in case you are asked to show some ID. Leave the original together with your driver's license in your safety box (unless you're driving, of course).
# Do not take along more cash than you need. Most restaurants and stores take plastic, anyway, and you use your debit cards ATM's at selected banks.
# Stay on the South side of Rio, or at areas specifically recommend by our insider's guide.
# Avoid dark or isolated areas where you do not see a single soul at night (duhh), such as the Flamengo Park, or the Financial District.
# Walk with a sense of purpose, as if you knew where you are going to. Looking like a victim is the first step to becoming one.
# Don't leave your camcorder or state-of-the-art camera swinging from your limp hand, like a shopping bag. Wear shoulder straps.
# If you bring along expensive cameras, camcorders or laptops, consider an insurance.
# At the beach, do not leave your expensive camera, passport and/or cash laying around on the sand unattended while you go for a few laps. Do not hide your money in your $200 sneakers either, or you will lose both (that's an old one).
# Don't take off your watch and leave it laying on the sand behind your back while you are sitting on the sand distracted by the girls or boys that pass by (we've seen saw someone do this...)
# Do not take regular buses alone (see getting around), taxis cost much less than you expect. If you must take a bus (at your own risk), avoid the window seats and the back rows. Keep the exact change in hand, so you don't have to mess with your wallet (which is obviously in your front pocket).
# Good Night Cinderella is an old trick that still works. You take a drink offered by a friendly stranger (men or woman). It contains powerful sleeping drugs. You will need help to get back to your hotel room, and this caring and friendly person will gain access to your valuables while you are helpless. Do not leave your drink unattended at bars or discos, for the same reason.
# Don't take strangers you've just met back to your hotel room - even if you think you are in love! This is the easiest way to become a victim of violence or theft. Say that your hotel does not allow visitors (which may well be true) and go to a honeymoon motel, instead. Everybody knows where to find them.
# If someone accidentally spills something on you in the street, and offers to clean it say thank you, and walk away. They may have a partner waiting for a chance to pick your wallet while you are distracted with the action.
# At nightclubs and rock shows, stay away from pitboys. These muscular guys, nicknamed after their pitbulls, tend to hang out in boys-only groups. They may pick up fights for no apparent reason (we know it's the steroids speaking). Their favorite victims are members of other pitboy groups, or with security guards.
# Don't get involved with the drug scene, even if you think you know what you're doing.
# If you get in trouble with the police, do not offer a bribe. It could make things go from bad to sour. Underhanded cops are usually very open when they are creating a problem to sell the solution. They will take the initiative of asking for the cervejinha (i.e. tip).
# If the worse happens and you are approached by some criminal element, try and keep calm. Never fight back. They may have guns, be on drugs, could react violently. You certainly have more to lose than they do.
# Though police officers in the street try to be helpful, most do not speak other languages. If you need to report something was stolen for insurance purposes, go directly to the tourist police (DEAT). Their office is located in Leblon, on Av. Afrânio de Mello Franco s/n, across from nightclub Scala.
Source(s):
http://www.ipanema.com/rio/basics/e/safety.htm

Permalink | Report

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v204/amitbulbule/Rio/rio1.jpg

Safety is definitely a concern in Rio. As a foreign tourist, you should pay extra attention to what's going around you when you stop to take a picture, fish your wallet out of your pocket in the street, or use an ATM.

Saving jewelry for an outing with a definite destination and a ride in a reliable taxi is better than wearing it when you go for a walk.

Avoid lonely neighborhoods. When you are walking around, don't display a hesitant attitude – if you need to stop for directions, go into a store or a restaurant to ask someone.

Follow these tips to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment:

* Safety First: Arrive early to orient everyone before the crowds pile in. Make sure the kids know where to go if you get separated in a crowd, label their clothing in case they get lost, make sure they stay clear of the floats.
* Bring supplies: Pack snacks, extra toiletries, a cell phone. A picnic basket and an umbrella are for just in case.
* Bring a large carryall: Passing parades toss out beads, candy, stuffed animals and more known as "throws," a tradition dating to the 1870s. There are sure to be souvenirs that kids will want to keep.
* Dress comfortably: Comfortable shoes, some rain gear and an extra layer may come in handy.

IMPORTANT: Don't go it alone. They say there is safety in numbers and this is especially true for Carnival. All the festivities draw large crowds, and unfortunately, thieves take advantage of it. It's best to use the buddy system to stay safe. It's also advisable to leave any valuables, such as jewelry, cameras, watches and important documents, at the hotel. Only take any necessary cash with you and use a disposable camera if you want to take pictures.

Check out these online saftey guides:
http://www.braziltravelinformation.com/brazil_safety.htm
http://www.helium.com/items/557304-tips-for-traveling-to-rio-de-janeiro-during-the-carnival-celebrations
http://www.travelblog.org/Forum/Threads/11404-1.html
http://www.tenhon.ca/rio/safety.html

Be Safe, and Have Fun!!!
Permalink | Report