we were lodged at movenpick zurich-airport hotel on 27th & 28th may 06 as part of an indian group travelling across europe.in spite of its reputation as a five star hotel and an added security rating , we were shocked to loose our handbag at the hotel's restaurant during breakfast on 28th morning -an event which happened within seconds - when my wife went to pick up some tea from the counter. since there were no video cameras in the restaurant it was not possible to investigate further. later ,at the indian embassy at berne which we had to visit because we lost our passport placed in the handbag , we were told that there was at least one incident of passport theft from this particular hotel in zurich EVERY WEEK IN THE RECENT PAST -so ,we thot it advisable to warn our friends travelling sultably.

venkyakella

I am sorry to hear of your distressing experience.

Unfortunately these kinds of thefts have occurred in many places; the thieves often dress carefully so as not to arouse suspicion, even in five star hotels, as you found out.

Because thieves will always be better at stealing then we tourists will be at avoiding them, many people on this board including myself swear by moneybelts. These are special pouches that are worn underneath clothing - either around the neck, around the waist, or around the leg. The pouches are just big enough to hold a passport, airline ticket, spare credit card, and some currency.

I hope that despite everything you managed to enjoy your trip.

Thanks for the warning which, IMO, should have <b>included</b> the recommendation of not leaving any valuables unattended anywhere.

I'm not aware of any place in the world where it's safe to go off and leave your handbag - even for a moment. You're simply asking for it to be stolen.

It's nice to be trusting - but you need to limit it to people you know - not a room full of strangers - who - esp in upscale hotels - often include thieves.

How did the restaurant/hotel react? They obviously have a problem and need to deal with it, especially by warning their guests or providing increased security measurements. This is not good for their reputation.

I am very sorry about your problem -- however &quot;<i>we were told that there was at least one incident of passport theft from this particular hotel in zurich EVERY WEEK IN THE RECENT PAST</i>&quot; Perhaps there is a reason. Is this hotel full of tour groups of people foolish enough to leave valuables sitting around unattended? And why were the passports in the handbag anyway? When traveling, one's passport is the most valuable possesion you have.

Not trying to be rude, I am sorry you had to face all of this. But in any public place, and a hotel dining room is public for sure, you need to keep an eye on your things. I cannot see how the hotel is at fault. It could have been anyone - even including someone from you tour group.

People who stay in five star hotels generally have more money than those who stay in hostels. The thieves may be lazy but they aren't stupid.

Protect your valuables with a moneybelt.