KEEPING SAFE IN HOTELS


The success of a business trip can be jeopardised by concerns over the threat of theft, violence, germs or fire within your hotel.


Choose the right hotel


If possible, select a hotel which has installed modern electronic guest room locks, with security card keys as against hard keys as the latter can be duplicated. The majority of these systems automatically change the lock combination with every new guest. However, even with these systems, there is no guarantee of stopping unauthorised access to your room, so consider the futher ways as outlined below.


Request a room with a peep hole on the door and make sure that your room has no connecting door to another room. If possible, ask for a room between the third floor and sixth floor. Most thefts occur on the first two floors.


Secure windows and balcony doors and check the room thoroughly before locking yourself in. Check curtains, behind doors and closets for intruders. Use valet parking if it is available. Keep your room tidy so you will notice any missing items quickly.


Check hotel policy on theft from rooms: many discourage leaving valuables in the room and won't pay a claim if they request that guests should use a room safe or leave items with the desk/concierge. If you follow the recommended procedure, you will be in a better position to claim compensation if a theft does occur.


Hygiene and health


It may be wise to choose a modern hotel over an older one to reduce the amount of allergens and dust in the rooms and public areas. If you are allergy-prone or are vulnerable to colds and flu, ask for an allergy-free room. Some hotels provide


allergy packs, including face masks, special pillows and mattress covers.


If you have any concerns about your hotel’s cleaning practices, consider packing a sheet to throw over the bedspread to protect against mites, germs or allergens lurking in the cover. Use your bed for sleeping only - and don’t work or eat on it, or even lie on it if you can avoid it. Wear body-covering pyjamas and light socks to bed.


Keeping fit


If your stay is of more than a few days, book a hotel with a pool or exercise room – it’s a safer option than going out for a jog in an area you don’t know well. Exercising is an ideal means of keeping alert in unfamiliar surroundings.


For advice on choosing a hotel and hotel safety tips, visit www.independenttraveler.com


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