Brazil: main airports

Brazil is open to tourism and most well-prepared visitors have a trouble-free stay by staying in well-known tourist areas, but the level of attention required is above average: crime (theft, snatching, robbery) is high in large urban centres, including tourist areas, public transport and the surroundings of hotels. 'Flash kidnapping' (being forced to withdraw cash or make instant transfers via apps like Pix) is a concrete risk for both locals and foreigners. Cases of spiked drinks have been reported, especially in Rio de Janeiro, on the beach and in crowded venues: never accept a drink from strangers and never leave your own drink unattended. Avoid land border areas and favelas even as part of guided tours, unless with operators of proven local experience. Use ATMs only in safe places (shopping malls, hotels), never on the street.

The currency is the Brazilian real (BRL); credit cards are widely accepted in cities, less so in rural areas. Pix, the Brazilian instant payment system, is very widespread even among small traders, but requires a local bank account: visitors generally rely on cards or cash. Uber and 99 (a local app) operate in the main cities. For connectivity, the operators Vivo, Claro and TIM sell prepaid SIM cards, generally with ID registration. For driving, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is generally also required alongside the national one.