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Small hotels,
bed and breakfasts as well as homestay exchange networks make
ideal accommodation choices. Generally, their size allows for
caring, personal attention and they are very often run by females.
|
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Surf the net.
Check out websites such as http://www.roomforoom.com,
a new global room-exchange community. Whether you're planning
a study abroad, work-exchange or just a short trip, this site
will try to find you a free room in exchange for your future hospitality
in your own city. Women Welcome Women aims to foster international
friendship by enabling women of different countries to visit each
other. Members are of all ages and backgrounds and come from many
parts of the world. Any woman may become a member, regardless
of nationality, religion, home circumstances, etc. Visit http://www.womenwelcomewomen.org.uk.
Finally, log on to http://www.HERmail.net
and find a female mentor in the city or country you plan to visit.
She'll probably have loads of good hotel and B&B tips for you.
Naturally, the site expects that you will register to help other
women travellers, however registration is not mandatory in order
for you to get advice. P.S. Always use common sense when connecting
with others on the Internet. Cyberspace
is imperfect; treat it accordingly, stay safe and have loads of
fun! |
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Avoid extra
stress. If you don't have advance reservations, travel early in
the day. This allows time at your destination to find a place
you like before it gets dark. |
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Whether at a
hotel, hostel or B&B, always ask to see the room before you take
it. Is it clean enough? Does the door lock properly? Does it feel
safe? |
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Trust your intuition.
Don't stay anywhere unless you're feeling entirely comfortable
both with the accommodation and its location. |
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Never accept
a room if the check-in clerk calls either your name or room number
out loud. Others within hearing distance may try to call you or
gain access to your room with this information. |
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Avoid the ground
floor or any other location with easy outdoor access to your room
(i.e. a balcony or fire escape). |
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Book a room
close to the elevator and away from exits. Stairwells allow trouble-makers
to hide and to come and go undetected. |
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Never open your
door to anyone without taking the necessary precautions. Even
if your caller claims to be part of the staff, check with the
front desk to verify the need to gain entry. |
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Consider investing
in a small, lightweight portable smoke detector as well as a deadbolt
that installs easily on any inward opening door. These items are
perfect if you plan to be sleeping in very simple accommodations.
Ask about them at your favorite travel shops. |
