SAFETY FIRST

One of the urban myths that surrounds Brazil and can put people off a visit is the question of safety and security. In fact, Brazil, including the main cities of Rio, Salvador and São Paulo, is no more dangerous than anywhere in Europe or North America and violent crimes against tourists or foreign visitors are extremely rare, hence the headlines if they do happen. Brazil is also politically stable with no natural enemies and no terrorist activities. Being sensible and streetwise is the key to a trouble free and enjoyable stay in Brazil. However, just like in London, Paris, New York or any other major metropolitan and tourist center, petty crime in Brazil is an unfortunate fact of life. The crime tourists are most likely to fall victim to in Brazilian cities is robbery and the target of most petty pilfering is the bag. If a bag is left unattended, the chances are that somebody else will try to pick it up. The simple solution is that visitors can’t get robbed if they’ve got nothing with them to be stolen.

Always leave travelers checks, passports, air tickets and alike in the hotel safe deposit box. Visitors should however carry some form of ID, such as a photocopy of their passports, with them at all times.

“Do's & Don’t s”

Don’t ́s

• leave your bag unattended.
• don't keep your wallet in the back pocket or in the external pocket of a bag.
• open your wallet on the street.
• walk in unlit areas at night.
• walk on the street talking on the cell phone.
• leave your cell phone or other valuables away from your sight.
• leave electronic equipment visible when you are on the street.
• wear flashy jewelry in the street, even if it is fake.
• make payments with large amounts of money.
• take more than you need to the beach.
• think it can't happen to you.

Do...

• At your arrival look for the VLDB 2018 welcome desk at the luggage claim area
• take with you the address of the venue and the hotel where you will be staying.
• preferably use the transport provided by the official tourism agency or accredited from the airport.
• put your money, passport and ticket in the safe deposit box of your hotel.
• take cabs rather than buses.
• ask policemen for help if you need it.
• ask your hotel for information. They know most of the answers.
• use our emergency number(#190) if you have any problem avoid crushes.
• act like a traveler rather than a tourist.
• wear comfortable clothing.
• eat light meals and drink water.
• invite a friend to join you. Avoid walking alone.
• have a good time.