Move to Rio - good or bad idea?

[Hazelwood1]

Have any of you lived in Rio recently? I would welcome any insights into the reality of family life out there (for non-brazilians). My partner has been shortlisted for a job and we have one ds 2.7 and number two arriving in 3 weeks time. I've heard that crime rates have risen dramatically in the last two years. Do you think it's possible to have a good quality of life out there with two small boys or would you give it a miss? Thanks!

[Aquamarine1029]

I wouldn't even consider it. Brazil is rife with massive problems on every level. Crime in Rio is very high.

[12FreeRangeEggs]

No experience OP, but to give some perspective - A friend of mine is from Rio. She recently visited her parents and upon her return declared that that would be her last visit with her DCs, in future she would travel alone or meet her parents else where in Brazil / South America. And this is someone who last year took her kids to South Africa and had a wonderful trip.

Crime, corruption and political unrest are through the roof she says.

[LiliesAndChocolate]

I spent a month in Rio while DH was working there and preparing our possible move. There are many things I love about Rio but it is very unsafe, the poverty is painful to look at, kids 4 years old ( or looking 4 years old) working on the beach picking up cab or carrying a huge bag of charcoal and following the mum selling food on a BBQ on her hip, kids going through rubbish for food, the fear of being robbed, the corruption of the police , thé crazy traffic , and you have no idea how rough the sea is, very dangerous .

Buzios ln the other hand is lovely.

Two more things to consider ziska virus and the dengue from time to time.

Not sure I would enjoy living in Rio. A bit stressful I think.

[LinoleumBlownapart]

I lived in Rio years ago and it was great. Never had a problem. I would go anywhere in South Rio or Barra. There is a big expat community, a British school and weekly mum meetups for newcomers.
BUT my sister in law is currently in Rio, it's a lot worse than it used to be. Her stress levels are high, she's on edge all the time, worrying about car-jacking and mugging. She's Brazilian. Until Rio improves, which I have no doubt it will, I would say don't do it.
I was there in January, it's beautiful, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. We walked around the tourist spots, and while I felt fine in some places, going to Ipanema to the beach was not pleasant. I didn't feel comfortable. We went back to the more tranquil Botafogo as soon as we could. You can walk, catch a metro and go shopping, it's not like you have to live in isolation. But you do feel on edge.