Research and learn about your destination

 

Checking your health before traveling

• Go to the doctor and have a general check-up, including a heart check, to make sure everything is in order. A good check-up at the dentist can also save you from toothaches that can ruin your trip.

• In Brazil, access to doctor's appointments and basic medicines is made easy by the SUS (Unified Health System).
  But no one wants to need doctors during a trip, so be prepared.

​

Have all your vaccinations up to date

• It is not compulsory to present vaccination certificates to enter Brazil. However, the Brazilian Ministry of Health strongly recommends that all travelers update their vaccinations according to their country of origin, including: yellow fever, polio, measles, rubella, diphtheria and tetanus.

​

Arrange travel insurance

​

Always have a first aid kit

• There are situations that need to be remedied immediately, even temporarily, until more comprehensive care is provided by a mobile health unit or hospital. No one is free from a high fever in the middle of the night, in a town or city where you can't easily find an open pharmacy.

 

On country and forest trails, cover your body

​

Protect yourself from the strong sun

​

Don't carry too much cash, prioritize credit cards

• Having some cash in your wallet is important, even at a time when all commercial establishments accept debit and credit cards, even street vendors, it's not necessary to carry large amounts. Therefore, leave the largest amount in your locked suitcase at the hotel. Many of them have safes, and if so, use them!

• But it's possible that you'll need something in a place or from a vendor who doesn't accept cards, depriving you of purchases if you don't have cash. In any case, avoid carrying large sums in your purse or wallet, or keep them in a “dollar purse”, a small zippered fabric pouch wrapped in elastic that can be tucked inside your pants.

​

Take care of your luggage, suitcase or backpack
 

Violence, thefts, muggings and street scams

• Another topic that you'll need to research when it comes to your travel destination. In big cities, you need to know your way around, especially women traveling alone. The rate of sexual violence against tourists is high in Brazilian capitals, so be prepared!

• The same rule applies to thefts and muggings: you need to know the history of the place you're going to. Be very careful with Uber and Taxi, avoid trusting the driver about the route he is taking, as they often become victims of violence too.

• Attention should also be paid to smaller towns, many of which have alarming numbers of crimes and violence these days.

• Another highlight is street scams carried out by charming and persuasive people. Don't trust anyone you've just met with personal information, especially bank details, or hand over money for a product to be delivered later.

• Find out as much as you can about your destination!