Advantages of Staying at a Bed & Breakfast

There’s rarely a better time to curl up at a bed and breakfast than the fall. Hot summer weather is gone, attractions uncrowded and leaves putting on a show.

If you find the right bed and breakfast, you’ll typically enjoy personalized service. Instead of a big breakfast buffet, some hosts will cook a special breakfast just for you at an arranged time. And many owners will also clean your room at a time that’s convenient for you. There likely wouldn’t be a maid knocking at your door.

There are plenty more advantages to staying at a bed and breakfast. Bed and breakfast owners usually live in the area (if not in the house) and can offer you special advice on what to see and where to eat. You might even luck into a free room upgrade.

Most bed and breakfast inns are small enough so that you don’t have to mess around with an elevator. There’s no cold business feeling. In fact, a good host will make you feel like you’re visiting a friend’s home. You’ll likely be able to enjoy uncrowded common areas and nice grounds. Many bed and breakfast establishments are also tucked away from heavy traffic, construction and road noise.

What are the disadvantages of staying at a bed and breakfast?

You may need to plan ahead. For example, if you’re wanting to stay in New England during peak leaf season, you’ll be challenged to find a good bed and breakfast at the last minute. Also, many hosts will ask what time you’re arriving. They have their lives too, and the arrival times may not be quite as flexible at those offered at large hotel chains.

The only other disadvantage I can think of is tipping. If you’re staying at a larger bed and breakfast with a staff, you’d obviously still tip as usual. When an owner also provides services like cleaning your room, whether or not to tip is a gray area. You’re already paying the same person for your stay, and some family-owned inns will even request that you don’t tip. In the past, tipping advice experts would say that it’s not necessary to tip the owner of an establishment. However, the trend shows signs of changing. It can’t hurt to ask about the tipping policy when you book your room.

If you’re planning a fall trip, search for a bed and breakfast at bbonline.com or bedandbreakfast.com.

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