Safety First

As a woman who travels alone, I have some solid facts to share with anyone really, but woman specifically.

HOTEL ROOMS: There are generally two locks on a door. The latch lock and the chain. One is useless and one is a must. What do you think? ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS use the chain lock. Anyone with a hotel key and/or a little smarts can get in past the card lock especially hotel workers. But if you chain the door, they will have to break that chain to get in. And keep the chain on anytime you are in the room.

NEVER open the door to someone you don't know. If someone comes to the door, regardless of their excuse - call the desk and ask for immediate assistance. When waiting for an elevador and a man joins you....move off like you've forgotten something. DO NOT enter your room when there is a man in the hallway with you. If there is a man on the floor at the same time you are...go past your room. Once he enters his room, go back to yours.

If you are unsure of where to book a hotel room in an unknown city, do some google searches. For instance. Look for the local high end department store in a suburb. They will be in malls and usually in a nicer side of town. If you must stay in a small town, go with a recognized chain. Even if it means you may have to drive further to your next appointment. I prefer to stay in hotels with 'inside' doors, where you have to come into a building to access your room. I like balcony's as much as the next person....get a room on a higher floor. NOT on ground level.

CAR: ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS keep your doors locked. When you are in it and when you are not. No exception. Should someone come to your car while you are sitting in a parking lot, talk through the window. They will hear you just fine. Should you be in an accident - your cell phone is your best friend. 911 dialed from a cell, goes directly to the state police and they can redirect your call and send help.

THE MOST IMPORTANT FACT: ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS pay attention to your surroundings. Don't leave a building or car if you have any doubt. Always carry your cell phone. Your cell phone is your best friend.

Personally? Stay out of bars. If you want a drink, have it in a restaurant. Some hotels give out 'buy one - get one' tickets at check in. Get the drinks and take them to your room.

And? Have a good time. In your free time there is no reason why you can't enjoy your surroundings. Tour, shop, walk - just plain have a good time!!! Traveling is FUN. Just BE SAFE!!!