Originally Posted by J Houston
As someone who spends at least over 300 nights in hotels each year I will never check into a hotel without checking: (1) The room; (2) That the room windows open; (3) There is a fire alarm in the room; or (4) stay on a floor higher than the third level.
After check-in I walk down the fire escape stairs to make sure they are clear and that no door, including the one to the outside is permanently locked (or chained).
In high-risk destinations I never dine in the hotel or near 'picture windows'; hang around lobbies; use cabs known to the hotel. Always 'dress down' and daunt flaunt 'high technology'. Carry bags in front of you and don't wait on the edge of the kerb for a light to change.
In Russia using old shoes when walking avoids attention, too.
Much good advice in this post. Also as some one else stated, you are much more likely to be the victim of a robbery than of an act of terrorism.
I feel for the most part hotels are safe. Try to stay with the major chains & try to find out as much about the area as possible in advance. You are responsible for your own safety. If the worst happens you be certain the police will not be there. Being alert, being aware, not looking like a victim, these are your best defenses. If something doesn't feel or look right, it probably isn't........