1. Walking with your phone in your hand everywhere
When taking photos, checking a map or finding an address, stay aware of your phone. You do not need to stop using it: just avoid walking completely distracted with it in your hand.
⭐ ERNESTINHO'S GOLD TIP“Keep a digital copy of your passport on your phone and, whenever possible, leave the physical document in your hotel or apartment safe. To explore the city, you normally only need the essentials: a little cash, your card and your phone with the apps we recommend on this page.”
2. Leaving your phone, wallet or backpack unattended at the beach
If you are with family or friends, take turns watching your belongings while the others swim. At our Barraca Rio 122, you can ask our staff for advice on where to leave your belongings while enjoying the sea.
3. Wearing expensive jewellery or conspicuous watches
I do not recommend walking around the Cidade Maravilhosa with gold items, conspicuous necklaces or expensive watches. Leave them at home or safely stored at your accommodation and go out light to enjoy Rio without worrying about unnecessary valuables.
4. Walking alone along isolated or poorly lit streets at night
After dark, the most practical choice is busy streets and familiar places. If you do not know the area, ask before going out or use an app to plan your journey.
5. Going to the beach at night assuming it is like daytime
The beach is one of Rio’s great attractions, but the atmosphere changes considerably after sunset. To enjoy the evening, choose busy places and follow advice from people who know the area.
6. Carrying all your documents and money
You do not need to go out with everything you have at your accommodation. Take only what you need for your outing and keep the rest somewhere safe. Carrying fewer things also means greater comfort throughout the day.
7. Getting into an Uber without checking the plate and driver
Before getting in, check that the plate, vehicle model and driver information match the app. It takes only a few seconds and is part of travelling with peace of mind.
8. Showing how much money you have in public
In Rio, as in any tourist destination, avoid displaying large amounts of cash in public. Carry only what you need and keep your cards and cash discreetly stored.
9. Accepting help from strangers during cash or card transactions
If you need to withdraw cash, pay or resolve a card issue, always use the bank’s or venue’s official channels. If you have questions, ask staff directly.
10. Leaving a drink unattended at a bar
If you are enjoying a night out in Rio and leave your drink unattended for a while, the most practical choice is to order another when you return. Then you can keep enjoying the evening with peace of mind.
11. Accepting a seller’s price without asking first
Before buying, simply ask how much it costs. It is an easy habit that avoids surprises and lets you compare calmly before deciding.
12. Not asking the price before ordering at the beach
Before ordering a drink or food or renting a service at the beach, ask the price. There is nothing wrong with doing so, and it lets you enjoy yourself without surprises on the bill.
13. Thinking all Rio beaches are the same
Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, São Conrado, Prainha and the other beaches have completely different atmospheres. Part of Rio’s magic is discovering which suits your travel style best.
14. Going out without sunscreen
In Rio, you can be enjoying the beach, walking through the city or hiking and realise too late how much sun you have had. Keeping sunscreen in your backpack is one of those small habits that makes a big difference.
15. Underestimating distances in Rio
Rio looks easy to explore on a map, but mountains, traffic and the layout of neighbourhoods can make journeys longer than expected. Organise your outings by area to make much better use of the day.
16. Trying to see the whole city in one day
You cannot get to know Rio by rushing. It is better to enjoy two or three places calmly than try to tick off ten in one day. Leave time to sit facing the sea, have a coffee or simply enjoy the moment.
17. Entering an unfamiliar community or favela on your own
Communities are part of Rio’s history and life, but they do not all operate in the same way or have the same readiness to receive visitors. If you want to visit one, go with someone who knows the place well and can guide you.
18. Hiking in isolated places without knowing the route
Rio has incredible trails, but before setting out, learn about the route, difficulty and local conditions. If you do not know the way, consider going with a guide or someone experienced on that trail.
19. Believing everything online about Rio without checking
Online you will find excellent advice as well as outdated or exaggerated information. Before deciding, compare sources and, where possible, ask someone who actually lives in Rio.
20. Arriving afraid and forgetting to enjoy Rio
This may be the most important tip. Get informed, use common sense, look after your belongings and then enjoy yourself. Rio has beaches, music, food, nature, culture and an energy that is hard to explain until you experience it.
I would choose three priorities for the trip and keep everything else as options, not obligations. Rio is large: if a plan sends you across the city several times, group stops by area and protect time to eat, rest and get back. Before setting out, confirm hours and bookings directly with each venue; for a beach, trail or event, check the day’s conditions too. A flexible itinerary usually works better than an impossible checklist.
ERNESTINHO'S BEST TIP ❤️“Rio is not about being afraid. It is about knowing where you are, enjoying it with common sense and leaving room for surprises. After these small tips, put your phone away, slip on your havaianas and enjoy the Cidade Maravilhosa.”
“Rio de Janeiro through my eyes.” 
