Popular Spring Break Destination Now a ‘No-Go’ For Maine Vacationers

Even when we get a mild winter in Maine, by mid-February, people are often anxious to escape the snow, ice, and cold for a few days.

This winter has been unusually harsh compared to recent years.

All the more reason why you probably want to escape from Maine right now.  Most of us are looking to escape to somewhere warm.  Somewhere with beaches, great food, and nonstop entertainment.

If you have been planning a winter getaway, there is one popular vacation destination that we are now being warned to avoid.

Brazil

In recent years, the South American country of Brazil has become a popular winter travel destination for millions of people living in the Northern Hemisphere.  As Brazil is south of the equator, its summer months are December through early March.

Additionally, Rio De Janeiro's Carnival celebrations, which typically happen from the end of February through early March, attract millions of people to the already crowded city.  The event, which takes place the week before Ash Wednesday, features block parties, parades, and lots of samba music.

Personally, I have never been to Rio, but Carnivale sounds like a lot of fun and I would love to go.

Unfortunately, there is a darker side to this popular destination.

Criminals have realized that visitors to the city and surrounding communities are easy targets. As a result, the U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory.

A U.S. State Department Travel Advisory

Brazil is currently under a Level 2 Travel Advisory.  That means travelers should use extra caution.

Safety suggestions include not showing wealth, avoiding walking at night, avoiding bars/clubs alone, and avoiding accepting drinks from strangers.

The advisory also says you should never resist attempts to rob you.  It is far better that you give up cash and card, but keep your life.

Of course, if you do choose to travel to any of the destinations that the United States government has issued advisories for, your best bet is to just use caution.

Have you ever been to Brazil?  What was the highlight of the trip?  Tell us about it by sending us a message inside our app.