Bed and Breakfasts
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Share Your Thoughts on B&B's

Opting for a bed and breakfast over other types of lodging is a great way to personalize your stay, get to know the locals and, in many cases, find a warm, cheerful room for the same price as a major hotel chain.

bed flowers inn hotelThere are so many varieties of B&B's that choosing the perfect one may seem overwhelming. In fact, the term has come to describe anything from an upscale, sprawling estate of restored cottages to a room and morning coffee at an unassuming farmhouse. There are plenty of great resources for searching out B&B accommodations, both online and off.

Is a B&B Right for You?
Bed and breakfasts are a favorite options for many travelers, but they're not right for everyone. You may want to consider a B&B if:

  • You prefer smaller, more intimate accommodations than a large hotel.

  • You appreciate rooms that are individually decorated, especially with antiques or period furniture.

  • You enjoy getting to know other travelers over a lavish communal breakfast.

  • You prefer charm over amenities, and don't mind if your room doesn't have Internet access or other modern conveniences. (Editor's Note: More B&B's are adding such modern amenities every day -- so ask your innkeeper!)

  • You like staying in residential neighborhoods or quiet rural settings.

  • You're looking for adults-only accommodations (many B&B's do not accept children).

  • You enjoy the experience of a "home away from home" -- including quirky touches like the innkeepers' cat curled up in the corner of the living room.

  • You like having the personal attention and expertise of an innkeeper at your disposal.

  • You appreciate transparent pricing (many B&B's list nightly rates on their Web site).

    waffle strawberries cream strawberry breakfast sweetYou may want to avoid B&B's if:

  • You appreciate amenities like gyms, pools, room service and business centers.

  • You appreciate the privacy and anonymity of a big hotel.

  • You'd rather eat breakfast alone or with your travel companion than make small talk with a bunch of strangers.

  • You're on a very tight budget (B&B's tend to be a little bit more expensive than ultra-budget hotels and motels).

  • You'll be checking in and out at weird times (very early or very late); unlike a large hotel, B&B's tend not to have 24-hour front desk service.

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