re: Any travel to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil?

I've flown in and out of Rio about 30 times in the last 15 years. No issues at the airport. The flights to and from the USA are overnight flights. Before the World Cup, the Rio airport didn't have air conditioning and it was miserable. It's much better now. The worst hamburger I've ever had was in the airport so avoid the food vendors if possible. If you're taking a taxi into Rio, book an official taxi at the airport before you leave the customs areas. There are many fake taxis that may gouge you at best and kidnap you for ransom at worst (well I guess they could do worse).

The Rio beach areas are nice. It can get very crowded on the weekends but that just adds to the energy. Lots of people watching and most Brazilian women wear very little at the beach. Be careful with pickpockets and avoid wandering beyond the beach area. If you go to the tourist attractions (Sugar Loaf, Christ the Redeemer, etc) book a tour or official taxi through your hotel.

It goes without saying to stay out of the favellas and sketchy areas and don't do or wear anything to make yourself a target for robbers or kidnappers. If you happen to know Spanish don't even try to use it there. I've met very few Brazilians that speak or understand it.

Sorry I can't offer anything specific about Sao Paulo as I've never spent any time there. Some Brazilians I've worked with were from there and would not travel in or out of the city at night. I guess the roads outside of town have banditos or something.

The Brazilian people are generally very warm and friendly. Enjoy a Caipirinha (national cocktail) or several.

Cheers.