Hotel location: how to ensure the neighborhood is safe and well connected

Going on vacation is always a fun experience, and checking into a luxury or boutique hotel should add to the enjoyment. But even if the hotel itself is nice, what if the neighborhood that surrounds it isn't? This guide aims to help you assess the neighborhood you are staying in and see if it is safe and well-connected.

Why hotel location matters for your stay

There are several reasons why you should consider the location of a hotel before making your booking. Consider how safe and comfortable the location is: Is it well maintained with good street lighting, or does it appear run down? Is there a high level of security in the area, or does it have a reputation for criminal or anti-social behavior? Finally, is the hotel fully accessible? If it is in a hard-to-reach location, is it really worth staying in?

How to assess neighborhood safety before booking

Before you book your hotel it is important to look at the neighborhood it is located in first. Is it a safe, residential location or one with unsavory activity or unsafe walking conditions? Here are some ways to assess the area of your chosen hotel before making a booking.

Checking crime rates and safety statistics

Take a look at the official safety statistics for the location you plan on staying in. For example, the FBI will have information on crime rates in neighborhoods across the US. Consider apps that offer data on how safe neighborhoods are in your chosen destination. 

Reading traveler reviews and testimonials

Look online to find other people's experiences staying in the area. If people regularly talk about safety issues, you may wish to rethink staying there. Be aware, however, that some reviewers may have biases, so do as much research as possible.

Looking at lighting, foot traffic, and business activity in the area

Safety goes beyond just the presence of criminal activity in an location. Check to see if other conditions are safe, such as if the area is well-lit or if it is run down with potential trip hazards. Consider local businesses and traffic as these can also affect the safety of a neighborhood.

Understanding local customs and potential red flags

Sometimes, areas can contain potential risks not related to crime or safety issues. If you are staying in an unfamiliar location, there is a risk of accidentally causing offense if you are unfamiliar with local customs. Always research local customs and possible risks before making a booking to avoid any troublesome issues.

Evaluating public transportation and connectivity

Another factor to assess when choosing an area to stay in is how easy it is to get around. Is the location walkable or well-connected to a local public transportation network? Here are some things to consider when choosing a place for convenience.

Proximity to major attractions and landmarks

Consider how far your hotel is from the places you want to visit on your holiday. A hotel close to major tourist sites will often be more expensive and in a busier area, but will offer a more convenient way to explore the city. Check local maps to see how close your hotel is to these attractions.

Accessibility to buses, subways, and other transport options

If you plan on exploring beyond your immediate area, consider how easy it is to get around. Many large cities will have an established public transportation network, so check to see where it goes and if there is a stop near the hotel. Alternatively, research other options, such as taxis, to see if this is an affordable option.

Traffic flow and peak hours to consider

The busier an area, the harder it can be to get around. Research online to find out how congested the traffic is at any given time in your chosen location. Consider peak hours as well as this may greatly increase the time spent getting to locations as opposed to normal hours.

Well-connected areas versus remote neighborhoods

Consider what you plan to do when choosing the area to stay in. A hotel in a quiet, remote neighborhood will offer you a peaceful, relaxed stay, but won’t give you the convenience of staying in a busy but well-connected location. Both have their pros and cons, so make your decision based on your preferred holiday.

Best practices for choosing the right hotel neighborhood

Now that you know what to look out for when choosing what location to stay in, you can start researching areas to see if they meet the criteria for safety, convenience, and accessibility. Keep these practices in mind when considering where to stay.

Staying in well-lit, busy, and monitored areas

It is always a good idea to choose areas that are well-maintained and secure for your hotel stay. These tend to be close to the heart of the city or near major attractions. Research the area to find out if it is clean and well-lit and has ample security.

Considering city layout and transportation hubs

Knowing your way around the city will help you out considerably when it comes to planning your holiday. Take a look at online maps and public transportation guides to familiarize yourself with getting around. Perhaps download some transportation apps to make it easier to travel around the city.

Balancing quiet residential comfort with central accessibility

As mentioned earlier, choosing safe and quiet residential areas can mean sacrificing the convenience and accessibility of centrally located hotels. If possible, consider different areas and see if you can find a hotel that perfectly balances comfort with the convenience of central accessibility.

Looking for hotels with their own security measures

While an area you choose to stay in may be well-monitored and secure, it pays to stay in a hotel that has its own additional security. Research the hotel and find out what security measures they have for added peace of mind.

Tools and resources to research hotel surroundings

Unlike the old days when you would need to read a paper map, consult a guidebook, and ask a travel guide for help, these days, multiple websites and apps can help you research areas easily. Here are some basic online tools to keep on hand.

Using Google Maps and Street View for virtual exploration

Google Maps is a great way to learn the layout of the city, how far attractions are from where you are staying, and what the best way to get around is. In addition, Street View will show you what the area looks like from the street, enabling you to become familiar with the surrounding location.

Checking local forums, Reddit threads, and Facebook groups

Chances are that if a location is popular enough there are forum threads dedicated to discussing it. Reddit is a good resource as it has a large user base happy to pass on their knowledge. Another good source is social media, in particular active Facebook groups.

Exploring official city websites and traveler safety indexes

Finally, many popular cities will have official websites that will give you valuable information on the destination, including the best areas to stay in. Government websites on traveler safety should also be consulted so you can be fully prepared.

Examples of safe and well-connected areas in major cities

Fortunately, there are some great examples of areas in cities that are safe and easy to get around in. Here are some locations in major cities that have a reputation for being safe and accessible.

Safe neighborhoods in San Francisco for tourists

Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Financial District are all safe and centrally located neighborhoods within San Francisco that are close to or well-connected to major attractions. For neighborhoods that are a bit quieter and more relaxed, consider Nob Hill, Pacific Heights, and the Marina District.

Well-connected areas to stay in New York City

Midtown in Manhattan is one of the most central and well-connected areas in New York City through its subway system, while other options include Soho, Greenwich Village, and the East Side. Outside of the city center, Williamsburg in Brooklyn and Long Island City in Queens are also safe and well-connected and just a quick ride from the center of Manhattan.

Hotel districts recommended for families and solo travelers

No matter where you visit in the world, a general rule to follow is that the safest hotel districts can be found in major tourist centers. If you are a solo traveler or have a family, research the most popular areas in your destination for a safe and convenient holiday.

Frequently asked questions about hotel locations

How can I tell if a neighborhood is safe?

First, research crime rates in the neighborhood you plan to stay in. Next, go online and read online reviews and testimonials. Research the area to find out how accessible it is and how well-connected it is through public transportation. Finally, ask any locals or hotel staff for advice before making a final decision.

Is it better to stay near the city center?

There are pros and cons to staying in or near the city center. These areas are often close to major attractions and well-connected by transportation networks, saving you time when exploring. They are also generally safer due to being well-lit and maintained. However, they can also be more expensive, busier, and in higher demand compared to other locations.

What should I avoid when choosing a hotel area?

Avoid booking hotels in areas that have a high crime rate, are poorly lit or maintained, and are far from public transport or basic amenities. Make sure to thoroughly research the area you plan to stay in before making your final decision.