When I travel on vacation or business, I leave behind all my daily chores: taking care of a 100+ year old house, two lively dogs and an aging Italian sports car.
As a result, I have a built-in bias for staying in a hotel rather than renting a house or villa so someone else can take care of transportation, meals, housekeeping and security issues.
Even in my home base of Washington, DC, visitors at times are victims of crimes.
Tourists are likely to be unfamiliar with the area or distracted trying to find their local destination or focusing on the sights.
The more conspicuous the traveler is, the more likely pickpockets or serious criminals may take note.
Generally, staying in well-traveled areas offers some protection.
However, choice of lodging can create additional security issues.
If you are traveling alone, it is even more important to take security into consideration since a solo traveler does not have back up.
Although details of the recent attack outside Acapulco are still coming in, it is reported to have taken place in a "beach bungalow" in the pre-dawn hours in Playa Encantada.
Previously, on November 20, 2012, the US State department had issued a travel warning for the state of Guerrero, including parts of Acapulco and certain local highways.
However, in any region, but particularly those with ongoing crime or political unrest, travelers should give consideration to security.
In selecting a hotel, it would be wise to check whether: - There have been reported incidents of robberies or assaults.
- Recent security has been adequate.
Having stayed in a hotel that had been bombed, I was glad to see their enhanced security was similar to a modern airport's.
- Reliable transportation is available nearby and whether rental cars are a good alternative.
- Hotels have security staff on duty at all times.
- Guest room levels are open to the public.
In Africa, one hotel where I stayed had a staff member at the lobby level elevator bank checking room keys before each person went up.
As in many office buildings, other hotels may require a key card to use the elevators.
- ATM's or check cashing facilities are available within the hotel.
- Restaurants or room service are available 24/7 so that late night arrivals are not left wandering the streets looking for dinner.
- Room numbers of guests, especially those of women staying alone, are available to anyone on staff or visiting/calling the hotel.
For tourists in any region considering renting a beach house or separate property should consider a number of factors.
Unlike a ski chalet at the slopes, many beach properties are built with at least a partly open-air style to take advantage of the location and warm climate.
In addition, if the location is remote, it may present an ideal spot for a crime of opportunity, such as robberies/burglaries that may escalate.
Renting a house or villa may give more a feel of the local community and culture.
However, things to consider include: - Is the neighborhood or area viewed as safe? Have there been repeated local incidents, especially violent crime? - How accessible is the rental not only to beaches but to restaurants and local transportation? - Are there occupied houses/rental properties in use nearby? - In remote areas, is there good mobile phone coverage? - If the house is frequently rented, have keys been widely distributed to guests and local service providers? - If a group is staying there and coming in and out at different times, are burglars being given easy access via doors left open or lost keys? Lastly, on travel both men and women should be aware of activity around them.
Whether at home or abroad, if something seems off, it is better to follow your instincts.