One of the most essential decisions made when planning a vacation is where one will be staying. Most people find it easiest to just book a room at a hotel. Many travelers, however, will find a bed and breakfast will suffice as a top-notch alternative to other choices in lodging. Whether it’s romance, a solo retreat, or even a family vacation, a B&B can offer that personal touch and charm the average hotel simply cannot. The top reasons to stay in a bed-and-breakfast rather than a hotel for the next getaway are discussed here.
Personalized Experience
One of the greatest perks of a B&B is all the personal touches you will get. Most bed-and-breakfasts are owner-operated, usually by an individual or small family that takes pride in making your stay comfortable and memorable. In contrast to large hotel chains, where so often the guest may simply be another number, owners of B&Bs go all the way to learn your name, preferences, and needs.
It may range from personalized recommendations on local attractions to special arrangements for food allergies to quirky amenities like having breakfast delivered to the bed or special room configurations if it is an anniversary or birthday. Many B&Bs will go out of their way for anniversaries and birthdays to create a celebratory feel with small details like champagne, flowers, or personal notes.
Homey Atmosphere
The coziness of the environment in bed and breakfasts mostly makes them homely. Instead of entering a large impersonal lobby, often you are greeted by an owner or staff that greets you and immediately makes you feel at home. A B&B’s design and décor reflect the local culture and charm, each room offering its unique character.
Unlike the cold and standardized hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts are more likely to offer a room with character: antique furniture, local art, or a fireplace. You will feel like you are staying at your friend’s house, not in some bland, cookie-cutter space. That adds to your whole travel experience.
Delicious Home-Cooked Meals
Of course, one of the hallmarks of staying at a B&B is the breakfast itself. Many B&Bs boast freshly made, home-cooked meals, one of which one would not likely find at the average hotel. Whereas hotel breakfasts can be so cookie-cutter and impersonal, with lines of buffets and pre-packaged items, B&Bs usually take the time to prepare a delicious meal for their patrons, using locally sourced items whenever possible.
You can often get a full breakfast spread with items such as made-to-order eggs, fresh fruits, homemade pastries, and locally sourced jams and honey. Most B&Bs do have options for special dietary requests, whether gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian, which would make this meal far more enjoyable and without stress.
Unique Accommodations
Every bed and breakfast is different, and that’s the best part. Whether one steps into a historical, Victorian home, a charming cottage near the ocean, or even a hip retreat to the mountains, each B&B has its characteristic feel.
Often, rooms are individually decorated with antiques, local art, or even handmade furniture to give a place and personality. Many B&Bs now offer themed rooms or special features, such as whirlpool tubs, private balconies, or gardens, where you can choose which room perfectly suits the mood of your trip.
Quiet and Intimate Setting
When you think about finding a quiet and personal place to stay, a bed-and-breakfast may be just the place for you. Most B&Bs are much smaller than hotels, holding fewer guests and not as active.
In contrast to hotels, where you usually find bustle, conferences, and several guests, B&Bs provide an atmosphere of quietness where one can relax. Whether reading in a garden, having a glass of wine on the porch, or sitting with other guests around the fireplace, a B&B offers a more intimate nature welcome respite from the busyness found in everyday life.
Value for Money
On the surface, a B&B might seem more costly than a hotel. But add the extra value of what usually comes included, and it’s often less expensive. Many bed-and-breakfasts don’t charge extra for something most hotels do, including free breakfasts, Wi-Fi, and parking. Some even include added perks like afternoon tea, wine tastings, or evening desserts that can reinforce your stay without adding the price.
Plus, because the B&Bs are smaller, you usually get a little more attention to detail and service that can feel more luxurious than staying in a large hotel chain, where it’s far more impersonal. You feel that the personal touches, the homemade breakfast, and the unique accommodations turn out to be an ideal value overall.
The Last Words:
Choosing accommodations through a bed and breakfast rather than a hotel can take your next getaway to a whole new level in many aspects. Whether you are going on a romantic retreat, solo travel, or a family vacation, a bed and breakfast will give you the ideal location for a memorable and fulfilling experience. Next time you plan a trip, consider the many advantages of staying in a B&B-you won’t be disappointed!
