BED AND BREAKFAST. The term started in the UK and then spread across Europe, but now you can find this type of accommodation almost everywhere. Oh no, you’re thinking. I’m over that bathroom thing down the hall. Well, most B-and-Bs have, too.
“B&Bs” began with people inviting travelers into their homes…providing rooms and serving breakfast for a little extra money. They all used to have toilets and showers down the hall…sometimes with a sink in the room. That’s what you think you’ve overcome. But Bed and Breakfasts have changed, and it helps to know what to ask and what to look for.
More and more of them have “en suite” facilities with toilets and showers in the room. Sometimes these have been shoehorned into the room… other times the houses have been remodeled with guests’ privacy in mind. Beware of the term “private bathroom”… You may be the only one who can use it, but that bathroom may be down the hall… and you’re the only one with a key.
There are still some places that have “standard” rooms. That means they only have the sink in the room and a trip down the hall for everything else. If you’re not speaking your native language, make sure you’re talking about the same thing. Ask to see the room if you are asking in person. We have never found an owner who objects to that.
Bed and Breakfasts can be small…just a room or two in a house, and you may be the only guests. They can also be guest houses with up to 15 or even 20 rooms. The ones you want to look for are those that have friendly hosts and a good location. Part of the charm of a “B&B” is that friendly host who will give you directions and tell you about her favorite restaurant.
Another advantage of B-and-Bs is that you’ll get that breakfast…and it’ll usually be a hearty one. In England and Ireland, it will almost be too much to eat it all…cereal, juice, toast, eggs, bacon, sausage, grilled mushrooms, grilled tomato, and baked beans. Tell them if you just want some… they’re happy to serve you just what you want. In France, you may only get croissants, butter and jam… but they will be great croissants and lots of them.
Ask when breakfast is served…this is not a hotel. Breakfast is usually only served for an hour or two, and you don’t want to fall asleep and miss it.
Bed and Breakfast will generally save you money in Europe and other areas, but that’s not always the case everywhere. Europeans who come to the United States are surprised to discover that B-and-Bs are expensive accommodations…often more than hotels, not less.
The people who have opened “B&Bs” in the United States have transformed the concept, turning them into luxury destinations. Many are housed in historic inns or homes that have been beautifully restored and decorated.
They may come with evening wine tasting and a gourmet breakfast, but they often don’t come cheap. They are certainly charming and well worth the money, but you should be aware that they are not usually budget accommodation in the US.
Bed and Breakfast can be like having a home away from home when you travel. Just make sure you know what you’re getting.
