Originally Posted by
mrrego
There's no need to be frightened--just careful, as you might want to be in Rome, Madrid, or other big tourist attractions. We stayed in Copa, right on the border of Ipanema/Arpoador, went to the beaches in the day, walked the oceanfront avenue in Copa and many streets in Ipanema in the evening. We were far from any favela and near to crowds of people, many of whom warned us to take care of cameras and shoulder bags--like we would in lots of places.
It would be a big shame for someone to avoid Rio or the beaches there because of fear of crime. Keep your valuables locked up, stay where there are people, and enjoy.
Just to reiterate you were not far from a favela if you stayed in Arpoadaor.
Whilst I agree there is no need to be afraid in Rio it is NOT the same as being in Rome or Madrid. I would wear a watch in both of those two cities, I don't in Rio and I would advise others against it. I also go out with a max of R$150-200 and try to avoid bringing a credit card. If they want to rob me of my R$100 and mobile phone they can have them.
If you don't think the location of favelas is a factor then you are being slightly naive IMO. During Carnaval there will groups of faveleiros gathered at the end of some of the streets I mentioned and it won't be to dance Samba.
Having said that I've seen muggings in Ipanema mid-afternoon on Visconde de Piraja and a murder in Copa on Ave Nossa Senhora circa 10pm. All the victims were Brazilian.