Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is indeed beautiful. You get unique views and nature, it is world wide known and it attracts the largest number of tourists in vacation. However, that is no longer enough. I have been to Rio only once, and it was many years ago (16 years ago, maybe?), and while Rio wasnt so dangerous back then, it got only worst, and it was the one place I didnt feel safe waljing around.
Yes, you will cross huge awesome tunnels, but if you fear you will get robbed while on trafic, something is wrong. Foi will hop on an eletric tram, but if you feel those people running and jumping on it are robbers, something is wrong. You will go to your hotel top floor and stare at the ocean and you will get chills, but you will look to the other side, and hey, there is Cryst the Redeemer, how cool is that? But when there are shot noises or shot sparks coming from around, something is wrong.
I am from Brazil and before I went there people told me I needed to wear very simple clothing because it would not call attention.
To be in my top list city needs to be beautiful, safe, and easy to navigate. Rio doesnt make it because, while it has great attractions and an unique beauty, you dont feel safe in there. This is also why Rome didnt make it to the list.
Boaz Viagens 