5 tips for safe travel to the world’s greatest carnivals

Mardi Gras, or ‘Fat Tuesday’ style carnivals are celebrated all over the world. From Rio de Janeiro to Venice, the Carnival season is a riot of colour, dancing and beautiful cuisine. Carnival occurs exactly 46 days before Easter and takes place this year during the last week of February, ending on Tuesday, February 28.

British holidaymakers wanting to experience Carnival will have a surreal and magical experience on Ash Wednesday. It’s a marvellous event wherever you go, but like all proper holidays, it helps to do some pre-planning.

Here’s our top tips for a stress-free and enjoyable carnival season:

1. Preparation
   

Carnivals are enormously popular and flights to major destinations (Rio, Venice, Cologne, New Orleans) get booked up fast. If you’re going to Rio, then make sure you undergo vaccinations, such as Diptheria, Heptatitis A, and Tetanus shots. If you’re heading for a European-based carnival, it’s always wise to bring your EHIC card.  

2. Security
   

Like all busy tourist areas, security can be an issue. Be careful using your iPhone in large crowds and leave expensive jewellery at your hotel. Also, try not to carry all your holiday  money and documents with you. Leave some funds behind at the hotel  – just in case anything happens.

When you’re out enjoying the parades, wear bags on your front and if you’re feeling especially cautious, keep some emergency funds where pickpockets can’t get them – like you bra!

3. Research your trip
   

It’s always good to do your homework before you fly out. Did you know that banks in Rio close during Carnival, and that cash machines regularly run out? If you’re going to Brazil, then you will need to make sure you have enough cash to cover your trip.

4. Local knowledge
   

Going local is always the best way to enjoy an overseas holiday. Don’t be shying asking locals where the best restaurants are and what to eat. Talking to locals will help you make make the most of your Carnival holiday.

5. Have fun!
   

Carnival is no place to be a wallflower. It’s a gala social occasion and you’ll want to take part once you’re there. Maybe you can dress up or learn the local language to fit in better? Either way, make sure you let your hair down and enjoy this exciting event this Ash Wednesday.

If you’re planning a Carnival holiday, have concerns about a trip you’ve already booked, or need help while you’re away, JustAnswer is here for you.  

Whether your questions are about vaccinations and healthcare, general travel, or legal in nature, JustAnswer can help.