Those of us who’ve travelled on business know the awfulness of arriving in a small town(smaller hotel)dining room (room service not always an option when it comes with an extra charge and limited menu); being stared at as if a zoo escapee in the restaurant; being given an inappropriate table (near the lavatories/kitchen entrance, not necessarily because you’re female, but as a solo, you’re worth less); being patronised about your choices if you elect to have a glass of wine with your meal; being ignored if you want an extra mid-meal, but worse, being pestered by opportunist fellow diners when you patently don’t want to be.

Advice? Be strong and clear on arrival “I’d like a table near the window/door, please.” Tell the staff if you would prefer not to be approached by other diners should that situation arise (then it becomes as much their problem if it becomes yours).

Take a book or write notes – you could be a secret shopper/diner, after all; Stick to one course and get the heck out of there – eating on the road adds the pounds you don’t want.

Feedback to restaurants and hotels wherever your experience merits bouquets or brickbats. Bouquets always go down well. Criticism less so, but at least you tried…