- Avoid rooms with ground- or second-level windows.
Avoid rooms with ground- or second-level windows. When possible, choose a room between the third and sixth floors. Rooms on these floors are high enough to discourage access from the street, yet are within reach of most fire-department ladders.
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- Remember to always close and lock your door.
Remember to always close and lock your door. Make it a habit to use all locks, including the deadbolt and chain. If you choose to stay in a room that faces pools or beach areas, make sure your sliding doors and windows have sturdy locks.
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- Do not open your door to anyone who knocks unexpectedly.
Do not open your door to anyone who knocks unexpectedly. If someone unexpectedly knocks claiming to be a hotel staff member, call the front desk to confirm his or her status before opening the door. And teach children to never open the door without your permission.
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- Park in well-lit areas
Park in well-lit areas and as close to the hotel as possible. Many hotel thefts take place in parking lots and structures, so finding a well-lit area to park your car is essential. Women traveling alone should ask for an escort to their cars at night. If possible, use valet parking services. Valet service allows you to leave and pickup your car at the main entry, while also providing an added layer of security for your vehicle.
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- Take note of the hotel's emergency evacuation plan.
Take note of the hotel's emergency evacuation plan. As soon as you enter your room, take time to look at the hotel's emergency escape plan and make a mental note of the nearest emergency exit and how to get there.
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- Choose a hotel with security cameras.
Choose a hotel with security cameras. Video surveillance cameras can provide an added layer of security to help prevent theft and discourage criminals. Hotel cameras should be placed in stairwells, pathways, exercise rooms, parking lots and any other public areas. Cameras not only help hotel staff track the safety of their visitors, they are also helpful in identifying criminals if a crime does occur.
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- Get advice from a travel health professional.
Four to six weeks before departure, consult a travel medicine specialist for the most up-to-date immunization, malaria recommendations and consultation. They can answer your questions and prepare you for a safe and healthy trip. It's important to get your immunizations early, as some of the vaccines take time to effectively protect you.
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- Protect yourself from disease-bearing insects.
Wear protective clothing and use products containing 20-30% DEET, the insect repellant permethrin and bed nets.
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- Make sure your water is purified
Do not use tap water when brushing your teeth.
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- Consume only well-cooked food
Fruits and veggies? Peel it, boil it or forget it!
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