We also use credit cards whenever possible; but in addition to tipping, and to those places that do not accept credit cards, there is always the possibility of a credit card system failure. We always have enough cash for the day, just in case. I never use a debit card anywhere, even at home.

We do use the room safe, and feel comfortable where we stay. In the past, we've used a Pac Safe backpack, locked and cabled to the bed frame. It's large enough for a full-sized laptop, which we no longer bring.