However, to get to the point of this post, whilst I was reading various accounts of the events mentioned above, I came across this article from the International Herald Tribune by Keith Bradsher. Now I can see where he's coming from with the whole, "this'll change everything" approach to how hotels are designed. But I'm a little amused (if one can be considering the recent events) by this statement:
..the attacks have underlined the vulnerability of five-star hotels to determined attacks by determined gunmen armed with military assault rifles..I mean, this guy Bradsher is smart, quick to realise that hotels are vulnerable to attacks by gunmen with assualt rifles and hand grenades, a point he seems determined to make. Who'd have thought it? Whilst slightly further on in the article, he's right on the money again:
Yet even security guards armed with handguns might hesitate to resist an assault by heavily armed terrorists who have a detailed knowledge of the hotel's layout..
Y'think?
But seriously, are there buildings that could survive such an attack, short of a military base or bunker? I don't think so. Bradshers resident expert isn't making his article much more credible either, suggesting that as well as changing your sheets, your maid will be checking your belongings for explosives.
At some point, Coldrick said, "we might see cleaning ladies with explosives detectors."
But of course, it's easy to criticise without having to give a solution to the problem, so here's mine:
the Wayward Thoughts Hotel:
- 1 Room, Sleeps 75
- Balcony
(Only accessible at night, no lights permitted due to snipers)
- Roof Terrace (See Above.)
- Guest Parking
- 5 Star Security Rating
See a Picture here - (Apologies for awful photoshop skills in advance)
Welcome to the Wayward Thoughts Hotel a (once) modern, stylish (some say) non smoking hotel, located right in the heart of fashionable Normandy, and directly adjacent to the famous D-Day beaches.
The sleeping quarters are air-conditioned* and we offer complimentary bullet proof jackets and helmets for every guest. The hotel features various dining options – our bar serves light meals and snacks throughout the day, whilst our Restaurant serves period food** from 6 - 10pm.
The gun emplacements can accommodate up to 180 guests, perfect for conferences and meetings.We provide great customer care and a warm welcome. Whether you are travelling for business, pleasure or conferencing, our aim is to meet your individual needs and exceed your expectations.
*Depends on your definition of air-conditioned**The hotel accepts no responsibility for illness as a result of eating 60 year old food.
