6 pointers to get quality rest during hotel stays

Let's face it, few people sleep as well in hotel rooms as they do at home. But quality sleep is key to enjoying the next day and, for people with diabetes, to keeping your blood sugar on an even keel.

Shouting, music and mysterious clangs at night leave you stressed and tired the next day.

• Ask for a room away from the elevator, vending machine and ice machine, without much foot traffic nearby.
• You'll also want plenty of floors between you and any wedding parties, student groups or other gatherings.

Packing your own pillow and your favorite pajamas, along with other calming items — the book that you read before turning in or the needlework you do for winding down — will help you feel more comfortable and sleep better in your new surroundings.

After you've brushed your teeth, take a quick turn about your hotel room and make sure the curtains are tightly drawn, the air conditioner or heater is set to a comfortable temperature and the door is locked.

Also check the clock radio and make sure the alarm is turned off.

Why is it that clock radios in hotel rooms always seem so much more complicated than the ones we have at home?

• Stop worrying about whether the alarm will go off at 7 a.m. or 7 p.m., and have the front-desk operator give you a ring when it's time to rise and shine.

Pack earplugs and a sleep mask and don them before putting your head on the pillow.

It's tempting when you get back to your hotel room after a long day on your feet to slip off your shoes, fall back on the bed and relax.

• Just add one step to that routine.
• Every time you remove your shoes while you're on vacation, check your feet for red spots, blisters, irritation, cuts or nail injuries.
• Treat any foot problems according to your doctor's recommendations. Your feet can take a pounding when you're seeing the sights, and troubles with your tootsies can cause health complications long after your vacation is over.