Bed & Breakfast
At the most basic level, a bed and breakfast is place, often found in a renovated home, mansion or small hotel, to spend the night and enjoy a full breakfast (included in the price of the room) in the morning.
B&Bs vs. Hotels
Typically, staying at a bed and breakfast offers a more personal experience than staying at a hotel. If you choose to, you can interact directly with the innkeeper and other guests, something that isn't always practical at a hotel.
Bathroom Options
Typically, there are three basic bathroom options at bed and breakfasts:
- Private, en suite: You have your own bathroom, and it's located in such a way that you can enter it from your room or suite.
- Private, not en suite: You have your own bathroom, but you have to leave your room to access it. (e.g., It may be across the hall from your room.)
- Shared: Your bathroom is used by you and other guests at the B&B.
Breakfast Options
Typically, there are three basic options when it comes to the time that breakfast is served at most bed and breakfasts:
- At one specific time: The meal is served at a set time.
- During a specific range: The meal is served between a range of times and you can join at anytime.
- At a time of your choosing during a specific range: The meal is available during a range of time and you are asked to identify when you would like yours.
Other questions to ask before making a reservation at a B&B
- What is there to do in the area around the inn, and how far do you have to travel to get to it?
- Where is parking available? If the B&B is in a city, you should also ask about any parking charges.
- If the inn has fireplaces, what kind are they (real wood or gas-burning)?
Every B&B is different, and not every B&B web site has all the details you need to make a truly informed decision. Don't be shy about asking questions of the innkeeper before making a reservation. Remember, this is your vacation, you're paying to stay there and you should be comfortable with where you will rest your head at the end of the day.
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