I do feel more comfortable walking into a hotel which has some security with interior access to rooms. There is one drawback though. The staff at places like a small Hampton Inn can notice if a number of strangers walk through the lobby who never checked in. Being on the first floor can be a give-away when various guys walk through the lobby down the same hallway. Having to go up the elevator should draw less attention.
Some hotels leave the side doors open til a certain time of evening, so I'd try one of those doors to avoid going past the main desk by going up the stairs or reach the elevator from the back. If I'm forced to walk through the lobby and it's a small hotel, I think of a way to blend in or at least not attract extra attention of the staff. It's nothing sophisticated.
As for the room itself... it is nice if something was done to make it more comfortable. Bottled water, candles, etc. Although, the next time somebody lays out cheerleader pom-poms, they better be the right colors.
lolI haven't begun repeat visits with anybody yet. I imagine it would be cool if there were personal touches based on that particular friendship. I see this can be a two-way street as well.
