Safety Tips for Solo Travelers Staying at Hotels
Traveling solo can be an exhilarating experience, offering the freedom to explore new places on your terms. Of course, one of the things you must prepare is a visa, especially if it’s a place that requires one.
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However, it also requires extra attention to safety, especially when it comes to accommodation. Here are some essential safety tips for solo travelers staying at hotels.
1. Choose a Reputable Hotel
Researching and choosing a reputable hotel is the first step to ensuring your safety. Opt for well-known hotel chains or highly-rated independent hotels with positive reviews from other solo travelers. Websites like Expedia can provide valuable insights into the safety and reliability of various accommodations.
2. Check the Hotel Location
The location of your hotel is crucial for your safety. Ensure the hotel is in a safe, well-lit area, preferably close to public transportation and main attractions. Avoid hotels in secluded or sketchy neighborhoods. Using Google Maps and reading reviews can help you gauge the safety of the hotel's surroundings.
3. Request a Room on Higher Floors
Rooms on higher floors are generally more secure than those on the ground floor. They are less accessible to intruders and offer more privacy. When booking, request a room between the third and sixth floors – high enough to deter break-ins but low enough for emergency access.
4. Secure Your Room
Once you’ve checked in, make sure your room is secure. Check that the door has a deadbolt and a peephole. Always use the hotel’s provided safety lock and consider bringing a portable door lock or doorstop alarm for added security. Avoid propping your door open, even for a short time.
5. Keep Valuables Safe
Utilize the hotel’s in-room safe to store valuables like passports, cash, and electronics. If the room doesn’t have a safe, ask the front desk if they offer a secure storage option. Always keep a small amount of cash and a photocopy of your passport separate from your other belongings.
6. Be Cautious with Personal Information
When checking in, don’t share your room number aloud, and ask the front desk not to announce it either. Be discreet with your personal information and avoid sharing your travel plans with strangers. Use the hotel’s Do Not Disturb sign to give the impression that your room is occupied even when you’re out.
7. Stay Connected
Keep in touch with family or friends while traveling. Share your itinerary and check in regularly to let them know you’re safe. Consider setting up a daily check-in time so someone knows to raise an alert if they don’t hear from you.
8. Trust Your Instincts
Your instincts are a powerful tool for staying safe. If something feels off about the hotel or your room, trust your gut and request a room change or switch hotels if necessary. It’s better to inconvenience yourself slightly than to compromise your safety.
Solo travel offers incredible freedom and adventure, but it’s essential to prioritize your safety, especially when staying in hotels.
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