As solo travelers, there are many factors that are important to us when making a decision on where to travel alone next. Probably one of the BIGGEST factors is safety and the reception we’re to expect from locals: because no one wants to travel somewhere they feel unwelcome.
Most solo travelers want to make friends and mingle with the locals. This is the best way to meet people, learn the culture, the language, and the way of living! According to tourists, you’ll have to look no further than Brazil to find what you’re looking for.
Though Brazil is well known for its lush rainforests, incredible beaches, and an array of carnival events, it’s also home to some of the friendliest locals! This is a massive draw for solo travelers.
A large seaside city, Rio De Janeiro is famed for its beaches and Christ the Redeemer standing tall over its people.
With a population of over 6 million, Rio attracts many visitors each year looking to immerse themselves in its vibrant culture and to get a chance to meet the friendliest of locals along their travels.
Friendly Faces
Solo travelers are solo traveling for a reason. To experience the power of independence, visit new places, and most importantly: befriend the locals.
One blogger notes that Rio De Janeiro is “full of Brazilians who love to have fun and are more than happy to include you in their festivities – especially when there’s a carnival involved.” Another claims he’s “been to 40+ countries and the reception from Brazilians has been the warmest.” A good sign for us travelers!
According to the owner of the popular blog, ‘What About Brazil,’ “most locals indeed love to befriend foreigners — and they’re more than happy to show them around or even invite visitors over for an authentic home-cooked meal.”
World’s Best Beaches
If beach holidays are what you crave, you’ll be thrilled when you land in Rio De Janeiro! Though the entire country has a variety of beaches throughout, the city is home to 2 of the most famous.
A stretch of white sand lined with the city’s buildings as its backdrop, Copacabana Beach is famous for its warm, blue waters and striking pavement patterns.
Designed in the 1970s by Roberto Burle Marx, hundreds of tourists and locals can be found jogging or walking along the wavy black and white patterns along the beachfront. There’s always something happening here: from water-sports to live entertainment.
Venture to the South zone of Rio and you’ll find another contender for best beach: Ipanema. Home to hundreds of stores, nightclubs, and restaurants, this spot will definitely keep you entertained for a while on your travels.
Vibrant Culture
Culture means something different worldwide, and each country adopts this in its own unique way. Rio thrives on its street and dancing cultures, sharing these passions with travelers.
Lively beats and incredible drumming can be heard throughout the city as street performers share their best Samba moves. Samba is a way for locals to share their country’s history through specific movements and is the art of storytelling at its finest.
While you don’t have to attend Carnival to experience Brazil’s culture, it’s certainly a fun event to visit at least once in your life, and what better way to see all of Brazil’s heart and history in one place. (Carnival typically falls sometime in February in Rio!)
Safety Is Key
Like any large city, it’s important to remain vigilant and keep your wits about you. Petty crimes like theft can definitely happen if you’re not careful (especially in overcrowded touristy areas).
Aside from this, Rio De Janeiro is known for being a pretty safe city for solo travelers. Attracting hundreds of digital nomads and travelers each year, it’s very easy to meet people in Rio.
With an entertaining nightlife scene and vibrant food culture, there’s always something to be done and locals to be met throughout the city!
