Are hotels magnets for terrorists?


Written by Doug Henderson on December 18, 2008 in Business Continuity.

Are hotels magnets for terrorists?

The recent lethal attacks on two of India’s most famous hotels — coming just two months after a huge truck bomb devastated the Marriott in Islamabad, Pakistan — have underlined the extent to which these hotels are becoming magnets for terrorists.

By The Associated Press and The New York Times, December 1, 2008

LONDON — Consider how a city looks to a terrorist seeking targets.

As police officers stand guard, a bouquet of flowers is placed on the pavement near the landmark Taj Hotel in Mumbai, India, in memory of the victims of last weeks attacks.

As police officers stand guard, a bouquet of flowers is placed on the pavement near the landmark Taj Hotel in Mumbai, India, in memory of the victims of last week's attacks.

There’s the airport — inviting, but heavily secured. There’s the U.S. Embassy, perimeter guarded by crack local forces and Marines. And there’s the plush international hotel, open to anyone with a decent outfit and money for a cup of coffee.

For decades, luxury hotels have been oases for travelers in developing countries, places to mingle with the local elite, enjoy a lavish meal or a dip in the pool and sleep in a clean, safe room.

See Are hotels magnets for terrorists? in the Seattle Times.

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