Day 3 Chris

We had read a lot about street crime in Rio before we came. From what we had read it almost felt like there was a 90% chance of being pickpocketed within 5 minutes of leaving our hotel. However, whilst we take the usual precautions and keep aware of who is around us, we haven't felt at any time any cause for concern. The streets aren't crowded enough that you are being jostled and has so far been relatively easy to ensure you have personal space aound you. However, we are aware from guides that if you provide opportunities, thieves may strike. We are being careful - so far so good.

Today was a free day for relaxing. We spent the morning by the pool. Although the pool itself is fairly small, the pool area is very nice, We then went onto the beach for a few hours. The JW Marriott hotel provides sunbeds, umbrellas and towels. Whilst there were may people on the beach, it is a big beach and it didn't seem to congested. The main problem is that you can't risk leaving belongings by your sunbed, or anywhere else, while you go in the water, so it does really restrict you to going in one at a time.