Not all of Brazil is that bad. The big cities like Rio and Sao Paulo, of course, are crime ridden. But unfortunately, that's where most tourists will end up, and so the odds are greater they'll have a bad experience.
However, there's also alot of beauty, and the people can be very nice. It's a shame they all get tarred with the same brush.
However, because of the genuine potential of violent crime, most people looking for a relaxing vacation will probably go someplace else.
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If you take anything I say as advice, you're crazier than I am.