When you close the door on the room, you should make sure you’re completely safe. Lock the knob on the inside of the door, and push the deadbolt or chain across to latch it securely.

Before unpacking, go around and check the windows and doors leading to a balcony and adjoining rooms. Be certain they're securely closed and latched. Do it every time you leave or re-enter your room.

Unlike Moses, we don’t command our seasoned readers, but we do attempt to inform them about how to travel with intelligence and sensitivity. Consider these points to remember when on the road, in the air or at sea:

1. Personal safety: If you want to get home again in good shape, follow all sensible rules about travel hazards. Be careful of the food and water you consume, and don’t make a big display of cash while out in a public street. If you’re in a strange town or city, don’t wander alone at night nor fail to protect your wallet and pocketbook.

Guest travel writer PJJ, Yonkers NY: About three years after I retired, my spouse and neighbor couple came up with a brilliant idea. "We're all going on a cruise”.

"No, I’m not," I responded. I just didn't want to go to sea again. I had been on several cruises in my youth. The first was during WWII, consisting of a year aboard a Navy attack transport. Then, as a recalled reservist, a six-month assignment during the Korean War aboard an aircraft carrier.

Navy accommodations and food were adequate back then. However, my most vivid memories many decades later were that during those cruises, some very unfriendly people were out there on the oceans and in the skies trying to kill me.

You and your family group spend only eight hours daily in your hotel (less in busy Disney, Universal and other local attractions), mostly just to sleep. There are many motels near WDW, available to the park by rental car, bus or shuttle in just a few minutes. Nightly rates vary from about $100, and probably highest from late November through New Year’s Day. Here are some to consider.

Courtyard by Marriott Vista Centre, 8501 Palm Pkwy., Lake Buena Vista FL 32830. A mile from WDW, Courtyard offers scheduled free shuttles. It has two pools, a spa and 24-7 video game room. Rooms are large enough to comfortably accommodate two or more guests.

Monumental Movieland Hotel, 12120 International Dr., Orlando FL 32819. Just across the street from Wet 'n Wild Water Park and minutes from Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. The motel is within short walking distance from several large malls, restaurants and shopping centers. Transportation include taxis, shuttles and the I-Ride Trolley.