Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
standards in the United States. These hotels recognize the tremendous
negative impact that will occur should something unfortunate happen to
one of their guests. They have a security division with officers on duty
around the clock. While this certainly does not take the place of using
common sense and adhering to your basic security guidelines, it does
make a difference. There is always a deterrent value in having a guard
force present regardless of its level of skill. No security is foolproof, but
some security is better than none at all. The bottom line is that you
shouldn't try to save a few dollars by staying in cheap hotels that are short
on service as well as security. Although everyone wants to save money,
avoiding a more secure place to stay to save a few bucks is not worth it.
KNOW THE AREA
Prior to checking in, there are several things you should research. First,
check the overall location of the hotel and make sure it is in an area that
is safe and easily accessible. Again, if you aren't sure, call the embassy and
ask about the hotel and the area. By the way, this is also a good way to
find out a great deal of information about a lot more than security issues.
The staff at the embassy will know the hotels with the best restaurants and
overall service as well as where to get the best value for your money. Call
and ask anyone you talk with where they would tell their own family or
friends to stay. They will be glad to help. A quick check with the embassy
also can alert you to specific problems in whatever area you are intend-
ing to stay in. For example, perhaps there has been a rash of car thefts or
assaults in the part of town you are going to, and that information is too
current to have made it onto the State Department website.
Make sure there is a secure parking area adjacent to the hotel. It is
better if the parking garage is physically on the premises and there is no
need to walk back to the hotel from the garage if you happen to return
late at night. The lot should be well lit, guarded, and have access limited
to hotel staff and guests. Valet parking is also a plus.
When you check in, try not to use your name or, at the very least,
inform the desk not to release any information about you to anyone. That
way you will make it harder for people to find out if you are staying at the
hotel or to identify your room number. Also, ask the front desk not to
deliver any packages to your room. Use the services of the hotel bellman
to transport your luggage to your room. Anything of extreme value or
