Safeguarding valuables in hotel

I am a 55-year-old woman who does a lot of international traveling alone. The issue of where to keep my money and passport is always a problem. Although I am somewhat hesitant about the in-house safes, in so many countries where pickpocketing is a regular job, we almost have to use the hotel safes. I do two other things.

I always put the “do not disturb” sign on my door when I leave. I don’t care if I get that extra towel or not. If I stay at a hotel for three days or more and I want my room cleaned and I’m suspect of individuals, I usually ask the person to do the cleaning and then I just go get a drink or something to eat at the hotel or very close to it, taking my cash with me.

I always tip well when my bags are taken up on the first day. Yes, I do see a lot of extra people doing things for me, but these poor people are very happy for a small token of appreciation. I then feel that the things in my room will be left intact. And I haven’t had any problems, yet.

DEBORAH FILCOFF

Granite City, IL