I'm a travel agent...this is the first thing I ALWAYS do when entering a hotel room - and it's not unpacking
While it's common for many people to unpack or appreciate the view from their balcony when first arriving at their accommodation, Dimple Chudasama-Adams insists it should be the last thing guests should be doing.
The seasoned traveller, from Birmingham, UK, regularly shares 'secret' tips and travel advice with her 5,400 following on Instagram.
In a recent video, posted to her account @escape_the_ordinary_by_dimple, Dimple unveiled her 'travel pro checklist' of five crucial jobs to do in hotel rooms or rented accommodation to ensure safety, comfort and and optimum hygiene.
The first is checking for bed bugs, which is crucial on arrival as it can help prevent an infestation in your own home once your trip has come to an end.
Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers and can easily attach themselves to luggage, clothing, and other items, so thoroughly inspecting the room before unpacking can help prevent their spread.
Dimple advises holidaymakers to 'pull back sheets and inspect mattress corners' for dark spots that could indicate the presence of bed bugs.
Her next piece of advice is to wipe down high-touch surfaces in hotel rooms, such as remote controls, light switches and door handles, which is crucial for hygiene.
These surfaces are frequently touched by multiple guests and can harbour germs and bacteria, potentially spreading and resulting in illness.
Dimple's third tip is ensuring the doors lock and the safe functions properly, which is vital for security and peace of mind, and preventing unauthorised access and potential theft.
The travel expert also urges guests to 'check the minibar and take photos' to avoid surprise charges at checkout.
Taking photos upon arrival provides evidence of the minibar's original state and can be used to dispute any discrepancies that could later occur.
Many minibars also use sensors or are manually checked by staff, resulting in accidental or inaccurate charges.
Dimple's fifth and last word of advice, aimed at solo travellers, is to lock doors with a wedge or lock, which is crucial to enhance safety and security in an unfamiliar place.
This provides an extra layer of protection against unauthorised entry, giving guests peace of mind and time to react in the event of an intrusion.
Dimple's advice generated mixed responses in the comments, with some viewers suggesting their own top tips while others accused the travel agent of being 'paranoid'.
Dimple's advice generated mixed responses in the comments, with some viewers suggesting their own top tips while others accused the travel agent of being 'paranoid'
One person wrote, 'Paranoid much?' while another commented, 'Maybe umm, don't travel? Geez.'
Meanwhile, another holidaymaker suggested: 'Perhaps check the fire exit routes first.'
A second added, 'Check that the toilet flushes, the sink drains and you have enough toilet paper.'
It comes as a safety expert has issued a warning to guests staying in hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs to watch out for five spots in rooms that contain the most dirt.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Sun
30 minutes ago
- The Sun
UK weather: Met Office issues yellow rain warning TODAY with ‘persistent, heavy' downpours & 50mph winds after heatwave
THE Met Office has issued a yellow warning for rain today as "persistent, heavy" downpours are predicted for parts of the UK. Windy conditions, with gusts of up to 50mph, could also lead to travel disruption in the affected areas, marking a stark change in the weather since the heatwave earlier this week. 6 6 6 The weather warning has been put in place for much of the west coast of Scotland from 6am today until 3pm tomorrow. It states: "Persistent, heavy rain on Friday and Saturday brings difficult travel conditions and possible flooding in places". The Met Office explained that spray and flooding on roads would likely increase journey times, with bus and train services also similarly impacted by the rainfall. Warnings have also been put in place for "some interruption" to power supplies and other services. The strongest period of rainfall is expected to be throughout much of Friday and overnight before easing on Saturday, the weather agency said. It warned that around 40 to 60mm of rain is expected to build up "quite widely", with potentially more than 100mm falling over some mountains. The Met Office added that the rain would be accompanied by windy conditions, with gusts reaching as high as "40 to 50mph" around coasts and hills. Residents in these areas have been advised to avoid travelling by road during "potentially dangerous conditions". If you must travel, make sure to drive cautiously and watch for possible danger, the Met Office cautioned. Areas affected by the warning include Perth and Kinross, Stirling, the Highlands, Argyll and Bute, Inverclyde, North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, and West Dunbartonshire. Grumpy Wimbledon fans left with sticky fingers as record-breaking weather sees ice creams melt before getting to court Summarising the weather today, the Met Office said it would be "wet and windy" across Scotland and Northern Ireland, with the rain being heaviest across western Scotland. It said this rain would also spread into parts of northwest Wales as well as northern England as the day progresses. But beyond this, the Met Office said it would be a largely "fine and dry" day elsewhere, with "plenty of sunshine". Temperatures have begun to drop down towards average levels from this time of year, after a heatwave swept across much of the UK over the past week. 6 6 6 Lasting for as long as six days in some areas, temperatures soared above 34C during the heatwave in southern England. The blistering heat finally came to an end on Wednesday as temperatures were no longer above the given threshold for three consecutive days in any part of the UK. On Tuesday, the hottest day of the year so far, Brits were spotted rushing to beaches and outdoor pools to cool off. 34.4C was recorded on the mercury in Writtle, Essex, trumping last year's record high of 33.2C - recorded on June 21 in Charlwood, Surrey. Since 1960, UK temperatures in June have surpassed 34C in only three years, with the hottest being 35.6C - recorded in 1976. Met Office five-day forecast Today: Wet and windy across Scotland and Northern Ireland, with the rain heaviest across western Scotland. The rain will also spread into parts of northwest Wales and northern England later. Otherwise, fine and dry elsewhere with plenty of sunshine but breezier. Tonight: The cloud and rain gradually spreading southeastwards across the rest of the UK, but very little reaching the southeast. A mild night but remaining windy in the north. Saturday: A breezy day with large amounts of cloud and some outbreaks of rain, most frequent in the west. Temperatures around average in the north, but feeling warm in the south. Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday: Remaining changeable on Sunday and Monday, with some further spells of rain, especially in the west. Drier and brighter for all on Tuesday. Rather cool initially, but turning warmer Tuesday.
The Independent
33 minutes ago
- The Independent
Ultimate family weekends – from outdoorsy getaways to fun-packed city breaks, the best British trips
Looking for inspiration for a family getaway this summer? You don't have to head to the airport for an adventure. From rural adventures and buzzy city breaks to coastal getaways and glamping, there are so many options for a great British weekend away, all handily on our doorstep. Travelling by train makes it even more fun for the whole family, and with a Railcard (there are nine to choose from including the Family & Friends Railcard) users can save up to a third off most rail travel around Britain, it pays for itself in no time. With such great discounts as well as great offers like 2FOR1 and a third off selected attractions when you travel by train with National Rail's Days Out Guide – you can squeeze in even more enjoyment for less this summer. Find the one that's right for you at Enjoy the coast with the most in Cornwall Beautiful beaches, buzzy seaside towns and world-class attractions make Cornwall a classic family destination – and there's no better way to arrive than by train. Head to St Ives and you can enjoy one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in the country en route. The town has plenty to keep you busy, from outdoor adventures like seal spotting and a picturesque working harbour to cultural attractions like Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Gallery. Another great weekend destination is St Austell, where you'll be a short bus ride from both the lush environs of The Eden Project and The Lost Gardens of Heligan, beautiful romantic gardens that were rediscovered 33 years ago and have been lovingly restored since. Nearest stations: St Ives, St Austell – both a few minutes walk from the town centre Go fully rural on a farm break Kids will love getting to stay on a working farm where they can get off their screens and get involved with activities like feeding lambs, watching cows being milked and even walking alpacas. Featherdown Farms offer a variety of farm stays throughout Britain that offer the perfect off-grid family break – many of which are accessible by train. There's East Shilvinghampton Farm on Dorset's stunning Jurassic Coast (close to Weymouth, Upwey and Dorchester stations), Moor Farm in the beautiful Cotswold countryside (five miles from Gloucester station) or College Farm in Norfolk (ten minutes from Beccles station). Nearest stations: Various – see above Step back in time in historic York Not only is York a beautiful city, packed with historic buildings, green spaces and atmospheric streets, it's also extremely walkable, making it easy to take in the attractions – of which there are many. Walking the mediaeval city walls is a must, as is climbing York Minster and strolling narrow cobbled lane The Shambles – believed to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. Children and adults alike will love the huge collection of locomotives at The National Rail Museum and the immersive experience of the Jorvik Viking Centre. Take a spooky walk through 2000 years of history at the York Dungeon, where you can get a third off entry with your train ticket (pre booking essential). When you travel by train you can also take advantage of National Rail 2FOR1 offers at York's Chocolate Story, York Army Museum and on City Cruises down the River Ouse. Nearest station: York, about a 10 minute walk to city centre Explore the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast Use the picture perfect town of Tenby, with its colourful houses, sandy beaches and quaint harbour, as a base to explore this stunning stretch of coastline. Board a boat to Caldey Island, hit the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path for breathtaking views or simply enjoy one of the town's three beaches. Just a couple of miles from the town centre are The Dinosaur Park and Manor House Wildlife Park. If you're feeling brave, go on a guided ghost walk unveiling haunting secrets and local mysteries, and be sure to make a trip to Fecci's, which has been serving up delicious fish and chips since 1935. Nearest station: Tenby, about a five minute walk from town centre Go glamping With everything already set up and no camping gear to lug with you, it's easy to arrive by train for a weekend of glamping — and there are plenty of options within easy reach of train stations. In the Yorkshire Dales, Ribblesdale Pods are walkable from the station (Horton in Ribblesdale) and have large family friendly options, as well as dog-friendly pods and ones with hot tubs. Adhurst Yurts in Hampshire are a ten minute taxi ride from Petersfield Station and offer extras like guided nature walks and the option to learn skills like bushcraft, fly fishing and basketry. The eco-friendly cabins at Little Menherion in Cornwall feel like they're in the middle of nowhere – but are just three miles from Redruth station. If you want to keep the kids happy then North Hill Farm with its quirky selection of glamping options is a 15 minute taxi journey from Watford Junction – where you can also catch a shuttle bus to the Harry Potter Studios. Nearest station: Various – see above Enjoy a kid-friendly culture trip in Liverpool Packed with museums, galleries, iconic buildings and a buzzy waterfront, Liverpool has plenty to entertain visitors of all ages. Kids will love the dinosaurs in the World Museum, and the interactive Museum of Liverpool. Hop on a ferry across the Mersey and you'll find Eureka! Science + Discovery, aimed at igniting kids' interest in science and technology. Music lovers will enjoy the British Music Experience, a huge museum dedicated to the history of UK pop music. And if you're into the Fab Four, you can also take advantage of 2FOR1 entry to The Beatles Story Museum when you travel by train. If this doesn't hit the right note for you, there are lots more Liverpool offers for you to enjoy on Days Out Guide. Football more your bag? There's 2FOR1 tickets available for rail travellers when you take a tour of Anfield, too. Nearest stations: Liverpool Lime Street or Liverpool Central, both in the city centre Hang out with wildlife in the New Forest Step off the train in the New Forest and before long you're likely to find yourself up close with wild ponies, who roam the streets, moorland and woodland there freely (as do wild pigs). The national park is full of walking and cycle trails, so it's easy to explore the beautiful scenery by foot or hire bikes to reach attractions like the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary. With eight stations in the New Forest you can also hop around easily by train. Brockenhurst is a good entry point, but from there you can explore destinations like the pretty village of Sway, or Ashurst, where you'll find the New Forest Wildlife Park. You can also easily reach the coastal town of Lymington. Nearest station: Brockenhurst, in the centre of Brockenhurst village Stay in a castle Warwick Castle – located just a 15 minute walk from Warwick station – is one of the country's best family-friendly attractions. But did you know you can also stay there, too? It offers various accommodation options, including a hotel, lodges, mediaeval themed glamping and exclusive suites in the 14th century castle tower. During the day there loads going on to keep everyone entertained, including jousting experiences, the UK's biggest bird of prey display and live shows in the castle dungeon. Even if you don't opt to stay on-site, day visitors who travel by train can get a third off entry. Nearest station: Warwick, about a 15 minute walk from Warwick Castle Have a family-perfect city break in Edinburgh From taking in historic attractions like the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and Grassmarket to enjoying outdoor adventures like climbing Arthur's Seat and exploring Holyrood Park, the Scottish capital has so much to offer visitors. You could lose a day alone in Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, a five-floor attraction with over 100 interactive exhibits. Other family friendly attractions include Edinburgh Zoo, the Edinburgh Dungeon (where train travellers can enjoy a third off entry alongside their discounted rail fare when they travel by train with a Railcard and prebook through and, of course, a Harry Potter walking tour. Another great thing about a city break in Edinburgh? It's only 10 minutes on a train from the city centre to Portobello Beach – so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Nearest station: Edinburgh Waverley in the city centre Enjoy some old-school seaside fun in Blackpool Blackpool's popularity as a holiday resort soared when the town's railway station opened in the 1840s – and to this day it remains a fabulous seaside destination to discover by rail, with a perfect blend of old school charm and modern attractions. The seven mile stretch of beach has three Victorian piers, with the Central Pier home to the town's famous Big Wheel. Blackpool Pleasure Beach has roller coasters and rides to suit both big thrillseekers and little adventurers. The Blackpool Tower is an iconic British landmark (and home to the equally iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom) and rail travellers can get a third off tickets to climb it when they prebook. There's a third off other attractions too, including SEA LIFE Blackpool, Madame Tussauds Blackpool and The Blackpool Tower Circus. Nearest station: Blackpool North Station, about a 10 minute walk to main attractions Enjoy great value British adventures by train From stunning nature and the Great Outdoors, to culture, cuisine and incredible scenery, there's no doubt Britain has it all in spades, and these unmissable adventures are just a simple, enjoyable train ride away. So there's never been a better time to start planning some Great British getaways, from day trips to weekends away or a longer staycation. With Railcard, whether you're travelling solo or with a friend, on a couples weekend or off on holiday with the family, you can save on all sorts of train journeys around Great Britain. Railcard helps you save a third off rail travel and for just £35 for the year, it pays for itself in no time. With 9 different Railcards available, find the one for you at What's more, you can enjoy 2FOR1 and other offers with National Rail's Days Out Guide when you travel by train. So make this your year to get out, experience and explore everything on your doorstep and enjoy truly great value getaways.
The Independent
33 minutes ago
- The Independent
Major fire shuts part of London Underground causing commuter chaos
Commuters in London are facing severe disruptions this morning (Friday 4) after a major fire brought Tube trains to a halt. The blaze began underneath railway arches in Roxeth Green Avenue in South Harrow around 1am. London Fire Brigade (LFB) deployed 100 firefighters and 15 fire engines to contain the fire, which was under control by 4am. There are no reports of injuries. However, parts of the Piccadilly line between South Harrow and Uxbridge remain closed. Transport for London (TfL) reports that there are also severe delays on the westbound line only between Acton Town and South Harrow. London Underground tickets are being accepted on local bus services in the interim. LFB received the first of around 40 calls about the fire at 1.18am and mobilised crews from Harrow, Wembley, Stanmore, Ruislip and surrounding fire stations to the scene. Two 32-metre turntable ladders attended and were used as water towers to help extinguish the fire from above. A drone was also deployed, providing the Incident Commander with a greater situational awareness of the incident. Road closures are currently in place in Roxeth Green Avenue, near the junction of The Arches, and are expected to remain in place through the morning. According to the LFB, an unknown number of gas cylinders at the site are believed to have exploded during the early stages of the incident. Firefighters safely removed two further cylinders and cooled them to an ambient temperature, as gas cylinders can explode when exposed to heat. Local residents were advised by authorities to keep their windows and doors closed because of the smoke. The cause of the fire, which severely damaged vehicle workshops, businesses and other commercial properties, is under investigation.
