How to find a quiet hotel room

NEW YORK -- Ever have your stay in a hotel ruined by noise?

The January issue of the TravelSmart newsletter offers tips on how to find a quiet hotel room.

First, select a quiet neighborhood. You don't want a location next to a nightclub, fire or police station, or even the main street of a small town if that street is also the local highway.

Second, ask whether there is any construction on the premises or nearby. If the hotel is remodeling, go elsewhere.

Next, inquire about windows and soundproofing. "You'd be surprised how many luxury brand-name properties have single-pane windows," writes Nancy Dunnan, the newsletter's editor.

Also, avoid party weekends by asking if there are any sports or college events booked; and request a room on a high floor to avoid street noise. You can also ask for a room far from the ice and vending machines, the elevators, the maid's supply closet, the restaurant and bar.

Before you turn in, check to make sure the radio and alarm clock aren't set to go off from the previous stay, and that no wake-up calls are scheduled for your room.

Dunnan notes that airport hotels are often "surprisingly quiet" because they're designed to keep out jet engine noise.

For a free copy of the newsletter, visit www.TravelSmartNewsletter.com or call (800) 327-3633.