Brazil

Brazil is thought of as a brilliant tourist spot, however due to the one-sided distribution of wealth Brazil is a country which is also known for corruption and petty crime. Estimated to have 5-8 million street children living in the underground sewerage systems of many of the major cities. Levels of crime, including mugging and often involving firearms, are high. Vigilance is required at all times, particularly in major cities. Express kdinapping/hijacks are common. Credit card fraud is common. There have been reports of "date rape" and robberies after the victim has been drugged. Drugs are a major problem. Prostitution has fuelled the spread of HIV. Travellers are often warned not to venture into the shanty towns at night as many are robbed and beaten. Most of the major tourist areas are sheltered from the reality of the street and its problems.
Vehicle security, personal security (has to be taken seriously), corruption, gunfire, general travel, navigation, off road driving, building/office security, hot weather injuries, personal hygiene, sanitation/sterilisation, clothing & equipment, emergency first aid, cultures/customs, communications, emergency shelters.
Robbery on deserted beaches in Rio de Janeiro and in the larger towns of the poverty stricken north-east is a very real threat. Robberies and assaults on residents and travellers are becoming increasingly frequent.

Tap water is safe in cities as long as it has passed through a charcoal filter. Outside cities use bottled water.

Mostly flat to rolling lowlands in north; some plains, hills, mountains, and narrow coastal belt.

Mostly tropical, but temperate in south.

Recurring droughts in north-east. Flash floods and landslides. Occasional frost in south.