Solo trip to Brazil: Rio, São Paulo and Bahia (29F)
Hi everyone!
I'm a 29F from Puerto Rico and I'm thinking about taking a solo trip to Brazil from October 19 to November 2. My tentative itinerary is around 5 days in Rio de Janeiro, 5 days in São Paulo, and 3 days in Salvador, Bahia.
I speak Brazilian Portuguese, so communication shouldn't be a big issue, but I'd love some input from people who have traveled there solo.
Does this itinerary make sense, or would you change the amount of time in each city? I'd also love honest advice about safety as a solo female traveler, good neighborhoods to stay in (or avoid), and the best way to get around, especially at night.
I'm also wondering what the best payment methods are in Brazil these days. Is it best to rely on credit cards, carry some cash, or use an app?
Are hostels generally safe for solo female travelers, or would you recommend sticking to hotels or Airbnbs?
Also, since I'm from Puerto Rico and travel with a U.S. passport, do I need a visa to enter Brazil?
Any advice, recommendations, or things you wish you'd known before your first trip to Brazil would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!