depends a lot on where you live- where will you live and work? chances are if you're working for a multinational you'll be fine.

my inlaws live in a crummy area of SP and we all just keep our heads down and try to be smart. don't wear a nice watch or act like a fool. nobody's going to rob you for your groceries, but if you're dressed up to go out on friday night, be careful. take cabs.
when i visit our folks, i leave everything that i'd hate to lose at home. carry a copy of your ID, not the real one. bank card only on the day you want to use it. money gets divided and put into different pockets. if you do get mugged, don't resist. we lived there for a few months, our kid went to school there, it was disturbing at first, but you get used to it.

but again, this is in a REALLY BAD area. you will most likely not be in a place like this.

Edited by 3casas - 19 July 2012 at 08:31

I think if you are smart and pay attention you are safe for the most part. Obviously Sao Paulo has crime issues, but I have never really had any issues and I live in a somewhat shady neighborhood. That being said I try to carry as little cash/cards as I can.

Originally posted by Esprit One’s options in life must be painfully few if one decides to live life under the conditions described.

People, the locals especially, are a little paranoid. The TV news dwells on lack of security. That said, Brazil is a bit dangerous and one should be prepared mentally for an assulto, mugging, though it might never happen.

How dangerous is Sao Paulo? While there, I was the victim of a burglary by the NET TV guys, my brother-in-law was held up at gunpoint, my sister-in-law was also separately held up at gunpoint, my friend was robbed at an ATM, and another friend had his briefcase stolen from the locked trunk of his car.

That being said, I agree that in general if you keep your head down, don't flash any money, cell phones, jewelry, and keep to the main streets you should be ok. Be aware and make sure that you look like you are aware.