Incidents of crime against tourists tend to be greater in areas surrounding discotheques, bars, nightclubs and other similar establishments. Travelers should avoid walking downtown and in business areas after hours. They should also avoid surrounding hillside favelas or slums where there may be a danger of drug-gang violence. Be aware that fireworks often signal a drug shipment arrival. In addition, travelers should stay away from the North Zone of the city and Copacabana's Lido section, both of which are frequented by streetwalkers and muggers. Beachfront bicycle and jogging lanes are crowded, but generally safe during mornings, evenings and weekends. Most of the attacks have occurred in Copacabana but the biggest increase has been seen in Santa Teresa. The following areas have been identified as "high crime" areas: Avenida Atlantica, between Postos 3 and 6; Avenida Rio Branco; Lapa; Santa Teresa and Vista Chinesa.

An increase in street crime involving guns has been noted in São Paulo. Petty theft is common in the center of São Paulo and around major hotels. In addition, thefts involving carry-on luggage and briefcases that have been placed on the floor, sometimes only for a moment, have been reported at Guarulhos International Airport. Travelers should be especially vigilant and take the necessary precautions at this and other Brazilian airports. Since traffic is heavy, São Paulo is not conducive to bicycle riding or jogging.

If Brazilian officials ask for excessive tips or bribes, pretend that you do not understand. The kidnapping for ransom industry primarily targets wealthy Brazilian families, and the threat to foreign travelers is low.

Travelers should also avoid all protests, rallies and demonstrations due to the potential for violence.

If you must drive, however, observe the following guidelines: drive on the right and, whenever possible, travel by day. Driving at night can be hazardous because of poor lighting and the sometimes erratic behavior of truck and bus drivers. Always keep the doors locked and windows rolled up to within two inches of the top frame. Travelers should also exercise extreme caution when driving in the cities. City drivers sometimes disregard red lights and other traffic signs. You must have your own license to drive in Brazil. It is also advisable to obtain an international driving permit, which is available through national motoring organizations.

• Conversations with Brazilians, as with other Latin Americans, may take place at a much closer physical distance than travelers are accustomed to in their home countries.
• Avoid making the sign of thumb and forefinger forming a circle with other fingers pointing up, known as the "okay" sign in some nations; it has an obscene meaning.
• If entertained in a home, flowers and a thank you note sent the following day are appropriate. Do not send purple flowers, as this signifies mourning.
• Brazilians shake hands when greeting and leaving.
• A souvenir from the visitor's home country is an acceptable gift of appreciation.
• Casual clothing is acceptable.
• The Catholic Church is an important part of Brazilian society.

• Both men and women shake hands when meeting and departing.
• Women will often exchange kisses with one another by placing their cheeks together and kissing the air.
• The pace of negotiations may be slow; developing a personal relationship is important.
• The best time to call a Brazilian executive is between 1000-1200 and 1500-1700.
• Business is usually not discussed during a meal and will only begin after coffee is served.
• Business dress for women is important and should be conservative. Manicured nails are also considered very important.

• Mon-Fri: 0830-1730.

2005
Jan. 1 - New Year's Day 
Feb. 19-23 - Carnival
Mar. 25 - Good Friday
Apr. 21 - Tiradentes
May 1 - Labor Day
May 26 - Corpus Christi
Sep. 7 - Independence Day
Oct. 12 - Our Lady Aparecida, Patron Saint of Brazil
Nov. 2 - All Souls' Day
Nov. 15 - Proclamation of the Republic Day
Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve (half day)
Dec. 25 - Christmas Day
Dec. 31 - New Year's Eve (half day)