Are hotels magnets for terrorists?
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 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.
