Safety Travel

Safety First When Traveling: 

5 Key Tips That Will Make

Your Holiday More Enjoyable and Safer

It is always a great experience to go to different
counties. You will be able to experience different
cultures, and you will also have the chance to take a
look at some of the most beautiful sights in the
world. However, you should always remember that you
always have to think that safety first when traveling
should be your top priority.

Wherever you plan on going, it is important to
remember that your and your traveling companion's
safety should always be first. Besides, if an incident
would occur, it will definitely make the rest of the
holiday miserable.

Planning holidays or travels is not just about
planning which places you should visit, but it is also
about being prepared for things that may occur. So,
here are some travel safety tips that you should
always keep in your mind in order for you to have a
more enjoyable and safer vacation.

Transportation is the first thing that you should plan
ahead on. You need to remember that even when you are
still in your own country, airports and bus stations
are notorious for pickpockets and robberies. Always
remember that you should always keep your important
travel items with you at all times.

Have your luggage clearly marked in order to avoid
letting someone take it by accident thinking that it's
his or her luggage. Also, instead of using cheap
luggage, always go for quality pieces and well-known
and reputable brands. By doing so, you will never
worry about your luggage breaking or suddenly
springing open in the middle of the airport terminal.

When you arrive in your destination country, always
ask which taxis are safe to ride in. You can check
this with a police officer or from the information
desk at the airport. Also, never share taxis with
stranger. And, when it comes to public transportation,
avoid it late at night, especially if you are not sure
where you are going.

Also, although backpackers will recommend hitchhiking,
you should avoid doing this as much as possible.

Whenever you are checking in to hotels, make sure that
the hotel you checked-in is located in a good area.
Always take not of the emergency exits and never open
your hotel room door to any strangers and never invite
people you just have met in your hotel room. Also, use
the hotel room door lock and chain during the night.

Clothing is another thing that you should plan on to
have a safe trip. The key to traveling safety is by
never looking like a tourist. Always mix with the
public in terms of style. Never ever wear any
expensive accessories, such as gold necklaces,
expensive watches, rings, and other affluent items.
Never put anything that you can afford to lose in your
pockets or purse. If you can, try buying a small bag
that you can wear close to your body. A small bag the
size of a wallet that can be worn as a necklace is a
great idea. A belt bag can also provide you with
security amd peace of mind.

Avoid using cash at all times. As much as possible,
always use your credit card. And, when it is time for
you to pay, never leave your eyes on your credit card.
Accompany the waiter to the cashier when paying with a
credit card to make sure that your card doesn’t get
swiped with a credit card copier.

Remember these things and you can be sure that you
will have a lot of fun on your travels. By keeping
safety on your first priority when traveling, you can
be sure that you and your travel companions will have
a great time during your vacation or your holiday
wherever it may be.

Safety First When Traveling for Enjoyment

You can find a lot of safety tips online and in

offline resources. Traveling is among the most common

activities of people, whether it is for pleasure or

for business. Frequent travelers are no longer

ignorant to these safety tips because they make use of

them whenever they are on a foreign place. If you want

to make the most of your trip, safety first when

traveling is of utmost importance.

Here are some of the things that you can do to ensure

your safety:

1. When traveling, it’s but natural for you to carry

luggage. If you need to place luggage tags, just put

your email address and never indicate there your name,

phone number, and home address.

2. Air traveling is already part when going abroad or

to a far place. You can see in the news that there are

terrorists who sometimes highjack planes. One

effective shield that you can use against an attacker

(if there is trouble on the plane) is the seat straps.

You have to use all your strength in ramming the strap

on the attacker’s face. This move will cut off the

attacker’s vision and once this happens, you can kick

that individual in the groin or in any other sensitive

body part. Knock that person until unconscious.

3. Don’t forget to bring a handy flashlight and

batteries. You can use it if there is no light or you

can even use it against an attacker when needed.

4. Don’t forget to carry wallets. If you want, you can

take two wallets with you. One wallet can contain some

non-important items and a few cash while the other

wallet should contain your important IDs, insurance

cards, cash, and emergency contacts. Keep the wallets

in separate places. For instance, the insignificant

wallet can be placed in your pant’s back pocket and

the important wallet should be in your coat’s front

pocket.

5. When eating in foreign restaurants, you must

acquaint yourself with the place’s layout. Take note

of the front and exit doors.

6. Charge your mobile phone at the hotel. When you

leave, bring it with you and other gadgets that can be

easily carried. You can even use these gadgets in case

of emergencies.

7. Never travel alone. Through there are some

travelers who do this every time they travel, you

shouldn’t take the chance. Who knows, perhaps they are

just lucky but you’ll never know what’s going to

happen in the next few hours. Always be prepared.

Remember that devious individuals are just waiting to

see a helpless traveler, alone and so vulnerable.

8. You must be mentally alert at all times. Observe

the people around you, how they move or look at you.

Somehow, you will feel uneasy if something’s going to

happen.

9. Before you travel to a foreign place, it would be

best to make a hotel reservation. That way, you don’t

have to fumble or ask for directions in trying to

locate a certain hotel.

10. Don’t travel with so many luggage unless when

needed. Try to wear comfortable clothes and don’t wear

something that might attract the attention of bad

people. Be simple as you are. For women, avoid wearing

high-heeled shoes when traveling.

These are just ten safety measures that you can follow

every time you travel abroad or even locally. If you

follow them, you can ensure your safety.

Safety First When Traveling: Safety Travel Tips For More Enjoyable Trips

Traveling to places that you are not familiar with can

be quite scary. And, to heighten your anxiety, there

are many instances where incidents happen, such as

robbery, murder and even rape. In most cases, tourists

are always the target because they basically don’t

know how to act and prepare in such a strange place.

If you plan on traveling to other parts of the world

and really enjoy your trip, then you have to remember

that safety should always be first when traveling.

So, here are some tips that can help you enjoy your

trip more and also increase your safety.

The first is that you should never list your home

address in your luggage tag. If you are on business,

try using the company's address and if you are

visiting friends in the area, you can try putting your

address instead. Also, in order to avoid letting

people know where you live, try covering the luggage

tags.

The second thing that you should do is that you should

always stay with your luggage whenever it is checked.

You have to consider the fact that most robberies

happen during this time. If you get tired and you need

to put the bag down on the floor to let your arms and

hands rest, always step on the handle of the bag.

A small lock on the zipper also helps prevent robbery.

In fact, even a small lock that can be easily pried

open will discourage thieves from even thinking about

robbing from you.

It is very important that you should always carry

important documents and papers with you, such as your

passport, driver's license and everything that you

cannot afford to lose while traveling. Never leave

these things in your luggage that needs to be checked

in. And, if you can, photocopy your important

documents.

When traveling, always bring a handy flashlight.

You'll never really know when you will suddenly be in

a situation where you will need a flashlight. During

the night, even in the hotel, always keep your

flashlight beside you whenever you get some sleep.

If you need to take medications, always remember that

it should be labeled accurately and it should be

filled properly. Always ask your doctor to provide you

with prescription as well as a document stating that

you need to take the medicines. You have to remember

that there are certain prescription drugs that are

prohibited by some countries.

When you travel, you should never draw any attention

from other people. This means that you shouldn’t wear

anything shiny, such as gold jewelry, expensive

watches, rings and other things that projects

affluence. And, if you can, try leaving your jewelry

at home, especially if you are not really going to use

it when traveling.

Never accept drinks from someone you don’t know,

especially women. And, always keep your eye on your

drink at all times. You have to remember that in some

countries, certain women are raped and murdered

because of drinking drugged beverages.

If you need to get local currency, never ever deal

with exchangers that don't seem reputable. Try asking

the hotel staff or the information desk on the hotel

on where to find a reputable money changer shop.

These are some of the tips that you should remember

when traveling. Always remember that when traveling,

safety first should always be on top of your

priorities.

Safety First When Traveling Abroad

When traveling abroad, it is very important to know

some safety tips. However, the country of destination

plays a significant role in ensuring the safety of

travelers, specifically the area where you’re planning

to visit. Safety first when traveling abroad is always

the priority of travelers.

If you’re a frequent traveler, perhaps you’re already

familiar with some safety tips. To start it off, never

wander alone even on the streets. It would help a lot

if you have a companion whenever you tour the place.

Try to avoid visiting unfamiliar places alone. As

always, you must not attract the attention of

unscrupulous individuals and you should always stay in

a place where there are a lot of people. If you’re

staying at the hotel, their personnel can advice you

in the best places that you can visit, as well as the

places that you should avoid.

Other travelers keep their money and valuables in the

hotel safe. It is not advisable to bring a huge amount

of cash when traveling because you will be a ‘hot’

sight for criminals. But there are travelers, who

prefer to carry huge money with them so that in case

there are muggers, they can get away safely since they

satisfied the needs of the muggers.

Here are still some helpful safety tips that you can

use when traveling abroad:

1. Always carry your wallet with you. You don’t have

to expose it so that other people can see but just

keep it in your pocket. If you encounter a mugger who

asks for your wallet, don’t hesitate to give your

wallet. Jus think of it this way – your wallet will

save your life. Don’t wait until the mugger exercise

violence.

2. As mentioned earlier, you need to bring your

wallet. However, you have to make sure that you don’t

leave personal details in it like address, contact

numbers, and other essential information. If you want

to get back at the mugger or robbers, you can leave

false details. You can bring as much as $50 and a

credit card for your personal use. You see, you’re

never too sure when an accident will happen. Just in

case your wallet is robbed, you can cancel the credit

card as soon as possible.

3. Keep your cellular phone. This stuff is valuable

and so don’t go displaying it on the streets. You will

be more prone to snatchers and robbers when they see

an expensive mobile phone in your hands.

4. If possible, don’t carry stuff like laptops even if

you’re on a business trip. You can just keep the

necessary files in the memory of your USB flash disk.

You can just use the hardware of the company that

you’re going to visit.

5. As much as possible, have your stuff insured such

as the phone, wallet, Mp3 players, and other important

things.

Now, why is it that muggers and robbers are stressed

in this article? Well, the reason is quite obvious –

these devious individuals are often encountered by

travelers. 90% of all the traveler’s offences comprise

robbery or mugging. These individuals will often run

away with your wallet and other valuables especially

if they see a couple of dollars. Besides, your life is

far more important than your wallet and valuables,

right? You can still earn that money as long as you’re

safe and sound.

Travel outside the country, safe and sound

There is an undeniable fact that most people have this great chance to travel abroad for some time in their lives. For some reasons, others go abroad for work. Whatever the purpose of that travel abroad is, see to it that you make yourself safe from whatever hassles and be prepared for the whole trip.

These are the tips you have to bear in mind so that you would not have a hard time for traveling is intended to be coated with fun and excitement.

What are these tips?

See to it that you have signed the right passport and visa, double check everything for these are the most important things you have to secure before anything else. And be sure to fill in the information intended for the emergency page.
More readings would definitely help you out. Get to know the country you want to visit. The Consular information sheets would surely be very essential as a reading material. You really have to get to know the country you choose to go
As you are in the other country, of course, you have to be under the rules and law of the country you are paying a visit at. For it would surely decide your total stay there. Stay out of the hassles and troubles by being of knowledge.
Be aware of their custom as well. Do not get yourself that feeling of being an outcast or do not hurt others just because you have gone against their usual beliefs and their usual acts. When you know the culture and the custom, the more you sow seeds f respect to the place and its people.
Make another copy of your important travel papers.
And of course, contact the nearest offices that are very helpful to you


These are the reminders you have to carry with you whenever you go around and see the world. Traveling is indeed fun but you could turn it into a disaster if you do not how to handle and enjoy it with the right steps, information and guide.

As you visit places and meet people, make this as your guide. This would definitely lead you to the places you more than dreamed of.

Family Camping Fun

While getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life is one of the reasons families choose to go camping, for kids – it’s the ultimate adventure.   If you are planning a family camping trip this summer, here are some tips that will ensure your vacation is both a safe and fun experience.

1. Pre-camping preparation.  If you have small children, you may want to select a tent that will accommodate all if you comfortably.  On the other hand, if you are camping with older children, it may be a good idea to purchase additional pup tents to give them some sense of independence.

Another great tip is to practice assembling the tents in your backyard so as to avoid wasting time at the camp site.

2. Selecting a campsite.  Depending upon whether you decide to “rough it” or choose a campsite that is close to amenities, you can research the many campsites online that offer comprehensive information on the area.  This will enable you to decide not only what equipment, clothing, and food you need to take, but the available hiking areas and points of interest as well.

Ensure that the campsite you select is an official campsite area.  Moreover, when researching camping sites it’s a good idea to look for those areas that are on the high ground.  Thus, if it rains, your tent and equipment will not become water logged.  

3. Make a checklist.  This is very important to ensure you do not forget anything on your camping trip. Among the items on your checklist, some of the more important items you will need are:

* Cooking gear such as a frying pan, a few pots, a bucket, barbecue grill or stove, bags with a Ziploc, and cooking utensils.  In addition, food containers and canned goods are best.  It is also recommended that you prepare meals at home and package them in containers for the trip.  Also bring water, a can opener, hot water kettle and coffee pot, and a cooler with a block of ice.

* Packing the appropriate clothing is also essential.  Depending upon the location, wearing light layers is a good idea as well as packing some sweaters and jackets for the evening hours.  Extra socks, hats, and gloves may also be warranted. If you intend to engage in some hiking, proper hiking boots are necessary.

* Sleeping bags, first aid kit, flashlights, cell phone, garbage bags, toiletries, sunscreen, ointments, a map of the area, insect repellent, games for the kids, and rainwear.

For a complete checklist on what to bring on a camping trip, there are many camping websites that offer a myriad of suggestions.

4. When you reach the camp site, choose an area to set up the tents. Ensure there are no rocks or debris where the tent will be set up.  Most campgrounds will post warning signs or instructions regarding specific animals and vegetation.

5. When preparing a campfire, if appropriate, ensure that it is set up further away from the tents.  After you have roasted the marshmallows, sang songs, and told ghost stories; douse the fire before going to bed.

Finally, enjoy the entire camping experience.  Sleeping under the stars, communing with nature, and relishing the time spent with family will not only bring a family closer together, but the memories of this experience will last forever.

Cautionary Advice for Bed and Breakfast Guests!

Summary:
If you’re seeking distinctive lodging with personalized service, a bed and breakfast inn may be your best solution. There are some important considerations you need to be aware of, however. BEFORE you make your reservation, there are some important considerations.

If you’re seeking distinctive lodging with personalized service, a bed and breakfast inn may be your best solution. There are some important considerations you need to be aware of, however. BEFORE you make your reservation, think about the following:
Do you have allergies?
Ask the innkeepers if they can provide specialized meals. If you are allergic to smoke, make sure that the inn is smoke-free. Pet allergies? Be certain that the bed and breakfast doesn’t allow pets.
Do you intend to travel with children?
Many inns do not allow children. Fine antiques, plush wallpaper, thick carpets, and original artwork may not be compatible with little fingers. Be aware of the inn’s policy regarding children.
Are you taking a pet with you?
The majority of bed and breakfasts are hesitant to allow pets. Even a teacup Yorkie or kitten can quickly do hundreds of dollars worth of damage to furniture, window treatments, wall coverings, and bedding. If the innkeepers will not allow pets, they may be able to recommend a nearby kennel or boarding facility.
Will you be arriving late?
Most small bed and breakfasts are home businesses managed by the innkeepers themselves. If the innkeepers are in bed by ten p.m. they might not be enthusiastic about guests arriving at midnight. If you plan on arriving at a specific time and are delayed, be courteous and call ahead. This means some forethought on your part. Ensure that the inn’s contact information is in a pocket, purse, wallet, or easily-reached piece of luggage.
Will you have a private bathroom?
Don’t wait until you arrive to discover that you will be sharing a bathroom with other guests. Private baths are becoming more common nowadays, including accommodations with ensuite baths; however, there are still many inns with rooms operating in 'shared-bath’ mode.
What kind of breakfast do they serve?
Breakfast menus can range from muffins, juice, and coffee to multi-entree gourmet breakfasts. Some inns (usually the larger ones) also offer additional meals - typically not included in the nightly rate.
What is the cancellation policy?
Last-minute cancellations can really hurt your wallet! Unlike hotels, bed and breakfasts have a limited number of rooms and almost always charge for cancellations. Normally, the sooner you cancel the better. If you wait until the week before your vacation to cancel, you might be required to pay for the entire stay. Travel insurance will often cover the fees. (Read the fine print of your policy to be sure.)
Ask the right questions, be prepared, and have a wonderful, relaxing stay!

7 Top Camping Safety Tips

Summary:
No doubt about it, camping can be fun.  But, if you don't pay attention to safety, your fun camping outing can turn into the camping trip from Hell.  What are some of the most important camping safety tips you should know?
1.  Plan Ahead.   Do your research.  Make sure the campground you've chosen is a safe one.  Make sure there are no current fire dangers.  Check out the weather.  Any health alerts in the area, such as dangerous bacteria count in the water, or outbreak of...

No doubt about it, camping can be fun.  But, if you don't pay attention to safety, your fun camping outing can turn into the camping trip from Hell.  What are some of the most important camping safety tips you should know?
1.  Plan Ahead.   Do your research.  Make sure the campground you've chosen is a safe one.  Make sure there are no current fire dangers.  Check out the weather.  Any health alerts in the area, such as dangerous bacteria count in the water, or outbreak of any rodent-carrying viruses?
2.  Pack the Emergency Kit.  Be prepared for cuts, bee stings and allergic reactions. Bring antihistamines, antiseptic, bug sprays and insect repellents, pain relievers, bandages, sunscreen and if possible, a snake-bite kit.
An emergency kit should also include the following items:  Whistle, flashlight, compass, a small Swiss Army knife, razor blades, tweezers, magnifying glass, sterilized water packets for cleaning wounds, emergency blanket, thermometer, cold pack, and a mirror.  A mirror can be helpful when signaling for help.  Some people also use a CD.  If you can afford them, a pair of night-vision goggles can also be a help in an emergency.
3.  Arrive at the Campsite Early.  Arriving early, with ample daylight, allows you to examine the entire campsite and set up while there's still light.  Be on the lookout for sharp objects, broken glass, huge ant beds, branches, poison ivy, hazardous terrain and bees.
4.  Build your Tent on a Safe Spot.  Make sure your tent is flame-resistant and keep it at a safe distance from the campfire.  Try to pitch your tent on elevated land so it doesn't flood in case of rain.  In order to keep the bugs out, make sure you close your tent immediately upon entering and leaving.
5.  Go Over Safety Issues with Family Members. Make sure family members are aware of poisonous plants in the area.  Be sure the children understand that they should never drink from any stream or river, regardless of how clean it may look.  Finally, issue each member of your family a whistle for emergency use only.
6.  Be Fire Safe.  Make sure there are no current fire restrictions before building any fire, and don't build a fire if there are strong winds.  When you do build a fire, keep it in the fire ring, and make sure there are no flammable items near the fire.  Do not use heating devices or candles inside the tent.
Never leave your campfire unattended, and keep the area clear of leaves and twigs.  Before going to bed, make sure the campfire is property put out by drowning it with water.
7.  Be Aware of Wild Animals.  Be sure to familiarize yourself and your family with safety concerning wild animals.  Wild animals have acute senses of smell.  Make sure you keep your campsite clean and free of food or garbage which might attract them.  It is best to store all food, garbage and strong-smelling items (such as soap or toothpaste) in bear-resistant containers or your vehicle.   Keep your sleeping bag and tent completely free of food and food odors, and set up your cooking and eating area at least 100 yards from your tent.  Do not go to sleep in the same clothing you cooked in, as even the cooking smells can attract bears and other wild animals.
While it may seem like attention to safety takes the fun out of camping, in reality it helps ensure that your camping vacation is a fun time for the whole family.  And, isn't having fun the point of camping?

7 Secrets To Travel Safe On Your Next Vacation

Summary:
You’ve got the plane ticket, the hotel reservation, the itinerary. But have you given any thought or taken any steps to protect your health and safety? The worst thing that can happen is that you spend your vacation in a hospital— or bring home a weird, exotic virus that has you bedridden for weeks.
You also want to avoid theft, mugging, or worst, terrorist attacks. Your resort may call itself an “island paradise” but let’s not be naïve and assume everyone is as friendly a...

You’ve got the plane ticket, the hotel reservation, the itinerary. But have you given any thought or taken any steps to protect your health and safety? The worst thing that can happen is that you spend your vacation in a hospital— or bring home a weird, exotic virus that has you bedridden for weeks.
You also want to avoid theft, mugging, or worst, terrorist attacks. Your resort may call itself an “island paradise” but let’s not be naïve and assume everyone is as friendly as they look in the brochures.
Be smart. Prepare, make informed decisions, especially if you’re traveling with your family. This vacation is supposed to be fun—and you can do your part by preventing most disasters.
1. Check Travel Advisories
Your embassy will list places that they recommend “caution” or right-out tell you to stay away from altogether. This could be because of a tense political situation, or a low level of security in underdeveloped areas.
But also take advisories with some degree of salt.  You can safely assume that the capitals and major cities of a country will be more tourist friendly, since governments would’ve probably taken great efforts to develop them. The exception, of course, are countries going through civil war—in which case, read the international newspapers (or the web-version of their local English paper) to see how bad it really is.
2. Get Vaccinated
Some viruses that are relatively rare in your country may proliferate in the climate of another—and you don’t have the natural antibodies to fight them. Get the full range of vaccines (your embassy website will also recommend which ones you really need, depending on here you want to go).
3. Bring Medicines and Prescriptions
Ask your doctor for two copies of your prescriptions (carry one in your wallet, and leave one in your luggage). Also bring enough anti histamines (for allergies) or any maintenance vitamins or medications. Asthmatics should carry have a nebulizer—especially since attacks can be triggered by change in climate or physical exertion (you never know how much walking you’ll be doing during the tour).
4. Never Flaunt Your Valuables
Wearing your Rolex or flashing large amounts of money practically screams “Rob me!” to the pickpockets. Keep small bills and change in your belt bag for easy access (these are for entrance fees, cab fares, snacks). Keep larger bills in a zippered pocket.  To be very safe, divide the money and distribute it among several pockets—at least, even if you do get robbed, you still have something left.
Another tip: bring only what you need for that day and leave the rest in the hotel safety deposit box.
5. Travel in Groups
This is unfamiliar land, and you may not even speak the local language. So stick together (at least divide into pairs), especially at night.
6. Ask the Hotel Receptionist/Travel Agent Which Places to Avoid
Before exploring the area, get a list of places known for its crime rate, or streets that tend to get dark after a particular hour. Identify the areas on a map and avoid accordingly.
7. Tell the Hotel Receptionist Where You Are Going
This is very important if you are going skiing,  hiking, or participating in any activity where there is a risk of getting lost or injured.
 Name how many people will be in your party and what time they can expect you. Then, they can alert authorities if you have not
returned.

Cautionary Advice for Bed and Breakfast Guests!

Summary:
If you’re seeking distinctive lodging with personalized service, a bed and breakfast inn may be your best solution. There are some important considerations you need to be aware of, however. BEFORE you make your reservation, there are some important considerations.

Article Body:
If you’re seeking distinctive lodging with personalized service, a bed and breakfast inn may be your best solution. There are some important considerations you need to be aware of, however. BEFORE you make your reservation, think about the following:
Do you have allergies?
Ask the innkeepers if they can provide specialized meals. If you are allergic to smoke, make sure that the inn is smoke-free. Pet allergies? Be certain that the bed and breakfast doesn’t allow pets.
Do you intend to travel with children?
Many inns do not allow children. Fine antiques, plush wallpaper, thick carpets, and original artwork may not be compatible with little fingers. Be aware of the inn’s policy regarding children.
Are you taking a pet with you?
The majority of bed and breakfasts are hesitant to allow pets. Even a teacup Yorkie or kitten can quickly do hundreds of dollars worth of damage to furniture, window treatments, wall coverings, and bedding. If the innkeepers will not allow pets, they may be able to recommend a nearby kennel or boarding facility.
Will you be arriving late?
Most small bed and breakfasts are home businesses managed by the innkeepers themselves. If the innkeepers are in bed by ten p.m. they might not be enthusiastic about guests arriving at midnight. If you plan on arriving at a specific time and are delayed, be courteous and call ahead. This means some forethought on your part. Ensure that the inn’s contact information is in a pocket, purse, wallet, or easily-reached piece of luggage.
Will you have a private bathroom?
Don’t wait until you arrive to discover that you will be sharing a bathroom with other guests. Private baths are becoming more common nowadays, including accommodations with ensuite baths; however, there are still many inns with rooms operating in 'shared-bath’ mode.
What kind of breakfast do they serve?
Breakfast menus can range from muffins, juice, and coffee to multi-entree gourmet breakfasts. Some inns (usually the larger ones) also offer additional meals - typically not included in the nightly rate.
What is the cancellation policy?
Last-minute cancellations can really hurt your wallet! Unlike hotels, bed and breakfasts have a limited number of rooms and almost always charge for cancellations. Normally, the sooner you cancel the better. If you wait until the week before your vacation to cancel, you might be required to pay for the entire stay. Travel insurance will often cover the fees. (Read the fine print of your policy to be sure.)
Ask the right questions, be prepared, and have a wonderful, relaxing stay!