Resorts are the ideal getaway for families to create unforgettable memories. But if you’ve never stayed at one alone, do you think it’s even possible?
You can stay at a resort alone, but there are essential tips for a successful stay. For example, avoiding secluded areas and mingling with other resort visitors is advisable for your safety. You can spend some alone time in your hotel room, ensuring it’s always locked even when you leave.
In the rest of this article, I’ll discuss these and more tips about staying at a resort alone.
Tips for Staying at a Resort Alone
Nowadays, resorts are renowned for catering to groups from couples to families or even work colleagues. But that doesn’t make them entirely closed for singles.
If your next vacation plan entails you staying at a resort alone, take heed to these essential tips to remain safe
while relishing the time to the fullest:
Research the Area Extensively
Since you will be alone for most of your resort leisure, it’s essential to thoroughly know the area before visiting.
If you’ve already picked out your preferred one, a simple Google search about the state, town, and even its smaller locality might be enough. Look up some photos of the area, find out its proximity to famous landmarks, and even learn about its crime rate.
The last place you want to stay alone is on a desolate resort far from civilization, renowned for anything negative.
Read multiple reviews about it from a reliable website, such as Tripadvisor and Yelp, and weigh your options by safety status.
Learn All About the Resort
When you’ve arrived at the destination, head straight to the receptionist to learn everything about the resort. There’ll most likely be a flyer at your disposal, but always ask questions whenever in doubt.
It’s a simple but vital step, yet many people overlook it because they might feel comfortable with some prior online research.
Discover all available activities and services, from spas to yoga classes, gym programs, and area tours. This will help you shape your expectations and plan your limited time well to make the most of your stay.
Even seemingly trivial knowledge like when the restaurants are most and least crowded is crucial when you’re alone.
Avoid Rooms on the Ground Floor
Many resort properties are single bungalows. However, you can request rooms on the upper floors (preferably from the third) when applicable. Those on the ground floor are easily accessible to almost anyone close to the building, which could make you uneasy.
Also, try to be closer to the emergency exit on the upper floor, but not too near. Remember that such a stairway could be lurkers’ breeding ground.
There’s no denying the convenience of the lobby proximity on the ground floor, but you’re alone, so prioritize safety.
Thoroughly Check Your Lodge/Room
Upon entering your room for the first time, check it out thoroughly to ensure that nothing is amiss. From the door and window locks to the refrigerator, air conditioner to the television, they should all properly work and never settle for less.
You’ve just lodged the resort alone for a memorable time, and nothing should compromise that. If you notice anything wrong with the facility, request another room immediately.
Even if murals via vandalism make you uncomfortable, report them to the receptionist.
Never Make It Obvious That You’re Alone
From the reception desk, try to hide the fact you’ve come alone. Don’t admit it when asked while checking in because more strangers may be listening. How many keys do you need? Request two.
In your room, sleep on the entire bed, and place two towels & toothbrushes where they’re supposed to be, respectively.
And in public, don’t talk to anyone about your single status throughout your stay.
If the receptionist mistakenly blurted out your room number while assigning it, demand a switch immediately written on paper. They are experienced and understand such scenarios, so that shouldn’t be a problem.
Mingle With Others
Still discussing hiding your single status, making friends with other resort guests is also a good decoy. But don’t be too desperate to avoid meeting the wrong people.
If you’re about to leave any place and see a group going, walk behind them. You’ve seen a couple obviously stranded for any reason? Try helping out. Also, avoid any quiet or vacant places as much as you can.
There’s no better way to hide the fact that you’re alone than not being alone. And who knows? You could make new friends for life.
Mingling with others also helps you avoid boredom during your solo trip. You can make new friends and discover opportunities to have more fun during your stay. [How to Avoid Boredom When Traveling Alone]
Always Keep Your Windows and Doors Locked
It’s easy to open your door locks, especially when it’s become a habit. But that should change when you’re alone at a resort. Whether you’re in or out, always keep your doors locked.
As for your windows, you can leave them open when you’re in, but they must always be locked when you get out.
Don’t open to any knock on the door without confirming who it is. If the person claims to be a hotel employee, check with the front desk via a quick phone call.
Always Be on Your Guard
It’s easy to get carried away by many fun activities at a resort, but try to remain vigilant, mainly because you’re alone.
If you suspect anyone is watching or following you, report immediately to security personnel. Trust your instincts and never allow the person to know your room/lodge.
As for your belongings: the fewer, the better when leaving your lodge/room. If you must take your phone and keys, purchase a waist pouch to safely strap them around you wherever you go.
Final Thoughts
It’s perfectly all right to stay at a resort alone, but you should do these to make your stay safer:
- Research the area extensively.
- Learn all about the resort on arrival.
- Avoid rooms on the ground floor when possible.
- Thoroughly check your room/loge for the first time.
- Hide your single status.
- Mingle among friends; and
- Always be on your guard.