I’ve always dreamed of Brazil’s beaches, music, and rainforests, but the latest U.S. travel advisory has me pausing. Updated on August 8, it now warns of kidnapping risks, urges increased caution, and lists no-go areas like favelas, certain border regions, and parts of Brasília at night.
The report of a kidnapping-for-ransom involving U.S. travelers plus warnings about drink spiking, violent crime, and gang activity is a wake-up call. Brazil is still on my list, but when I go, it’ll be with extra planning, trusted guides, and a sharper focus on safety.
