Staying in a hotel is a lot of fun. You can order room service, drink and eat from the mini bar, and somebody else will make your bed for you. You even get fresh towels every day. Many people look forward to going on vacation solely so they can stay at hotel. However, there are some hidden dangers when visiting a hotel. Some thieves have worked out how to rob tourists in hotels, so you need to be careful. Luckily, you're reading this article. In here you'll find all the tips you need to know in order to stay safe at a hotel.

First of all, whenever you are inside your hotel, you should keep it locked at all times. And that means using that metal hinge and locking it from the inside. You never know who has an extra key to your room, especially if it's one of those magnetic room keys. They can be easily reprogrammed or copied.

Many thieves will hang around elevators, or even in the hallways and wait for guests to come out of the elevator. Guests are most vulnerable when they are standing in from of their door searching their pockets for their room key. For this reason, you should always have your room key ready when you approach your door. Try not to stop, just quickly swipe the key and enter your room. That way the thieves won't have a chance to attack.

Of course, you should never leave valuables in your hotel room, but sometimes you don't have much choice. When this happens, you'll have to hide them, and keep them out of plain view. That way, the maids that clean your room won't be tempted to take them. Also, if somebody breaks into your room while you are out, they will be in a hurry, so they won't have much time to look around. Don't make it easy for them. Hide all your valuables as best you can. Pants pockets, wrapped up within your dirty clothes, anything to make them hard to find.

Never, ever open your door if you aren't expecting anybody. And when staying in a hotel, the only time you should be expecting somebody is if you order room service. Any other time somebody knocks on the door, don't answer it. Always call the front desk to make sure it's somebody who works at the hotel if that's who they say they are. Otherwise, just call the police.

It may be tempting to tell that cute guy or girl your room number, but it could be a scam. While they are keeping you busy in the bar, their buddies are busy ransacking your room, knowing that you are away.

When you are getting into the elevator, especially at night, never get in with somebody you don't know. This is the oldest trick in the book. People will hang around an elevator until they see somebody who looks like a tourist. Then they'll get in the elevator with them, and it's all over. Wait until the next elevator, so you can ride by yourself.

When you follow these simple guidelines, you'll have a much safer trip. You won't worry so much, and you can enjoy your vacation, the way it was meant to be.