Researching Genetics from a Baltic Sea Apartment

When Alton West arrived at the Rugen hotel (Rügen Hotel), the square-jawed doorman held the thick glass door for him as he entered the lobby. There was a big glass chandelier sparkling above as he scanned the area for a registration desk. "Reservation for West" he said to the curvy blonde behind the counter. "Yes, Dr. West. We have been expecting you." she said, passing him an envelope with his name on it.

Inside the envelope were keys to some apartments (privatimmobilien.de/wohnungen.html) and a note that read:

"Dear Dr. West,

I heard you were coming to Northern Europe from a colleague we have in common. I am told you are the best in your field. There is a matter of great importance that needs your attention. Please follow the instructions on the back of this letter to reach an apartment we have waiting for you near the Baltic Sea. The enclosed key will grant you access. I will ring you with more information.

Regards,
Henry Lehmann"

"Who...", the girl was gone. Alton, curious to find out what this "matter of great importance" is, sets out on a journey that leads him to a Baltic Sea apartment (Ferienwohnung Ostsee). Not a fancy place have you, but no slums either. The number engraved on the key was "429". Alton made his way up to the fourth floor and down the hall to the blue door with the same number. His first instinct was to knock, but he stopped himself just before his knuckles hit the wood, "What if this is some kind of trick? A set up.", he thought to himself. Then he realized he was just a scientist from New York who had never crossed a single soul in his life as he inserted the key into the lock.

The door opened to a furnished apartment. The living room, decorated in a quiet contemporary fashion, had a huge glass window that provided a spectacular view of the crystalline sea. The kitchen was small, but the fridge was stocked. As Alton was making his way to the bedroom, the phone on the counter began to ring. "Uh, hello?" he answered.