[CalGalInFla]

Heed the shoes tip! It's one I have learned the hard way.

As a former sales director for the hotel industry, I have some safety tips, I use and feel are important for the woman business traveler who is more often that not, alone.

1) Ensure that front desk person does not state your room # loud enough for someone to hear it. You can ask them not to say it when you start the check-in process.

3) Check your room with the door ajar! Check under the bed, behind draperies and in the shower.

4) It might be a good idea to avoid a visit to the hotel bar. You will attract attention being alone and it has happened that men will follow you out of the lounge.

5) If you ever feel unsafe about walking around the property - ask the front desk to get security to escort you. Particularly if there is a creepy parking structure. If they have valet - USE IT!

6) Be mindful of telling others where you are staying while you are conducting business. You may not know who could be overhearing your conversation.

7) I always put a chair in front of the door, and I keep ALL locks locked.

8) Room service. If you did not order any, and someone knocks and says Room Service, don't answer the door. Always use the peep hole before opening the door.

9) Although it might be a noisier room, getting one closer to an elevator is safer.

10) Find out if the hotel gym is staffed. If not, how often does hotel security patrol it? Might be safer to jog in place in your room.

Happy Travels. Be safe!

J~