What You Should Know BEFORE You Book your Bed and Breakfast!

By Kathy Steinemann

A bed and breakfast stay can be a remarkably relaxing, comfortable experience - if planned properly. BEFORE you make your reservations, however, there are a number of important items to consider. A bed and breakfast stay can be a remarkably relaxing, comfortable experience - if planned properly. Before you make your reservations, however, there are a number of important items to consider. Are you allergic to certain foods, pets, or cigarette smoke?

Many innkeepers are happy to provide special menus - including diabetic-friendly, gluten-free, or Vegan meals. Many inns are smoke-free, and most do not allow pets. If you have severe animal allergies, you should also determine whether or not the innkeepers have pets on the premises.

Will you have children with you? Children are prohibited at many inns. Sticky little fingers do not go well with antique furnishings, plush carpets, wallpapered walls, and fine art. Be well-informed about the inn's child policy. Is your pet along for the ride?

Even small pets can have a devastating effect on curtains, carpets, furniture, and bed coverings. Some inns will allow pets - typically with a cash deposit to cover damage. Others will be happy to recommend a good nearby kennel or boarding service.

Will you be showing up late?

Small bed and breakfasts are often home-based businesses managed by the innkeepers themselves. They will not be overjoyed to have their sleep disturbed by guests arriving in the wee hours of the morning. Establish your estimated arrival time when you make your reservation. If you are delayed by a late flight or other unforeseen circumstance, call the innkeepers as soon as possible. Of course, you will have their contact information handy for emergency purposes - right?

Are the bathroom facilities private or shared? Don't assume that you will have a private bathroom. Although even small inns often provide private baths, many don't. If this is important to you, find out in advance! What's up for breakfast?

Breakfast might be cold 'continental' fare - or it might be a gourmet creation with several entree choices. Some inns - usually the larger ones - will also offer additional meals. Extra meals are not normally included in the rates, unless you purchase a lodging package.

What about early cancellation?

If you must cancel - do so as quickly as possible. Bed and breakfasts do not have large room inventories, and they almost always charge early-cancellation fees. The longer you wait to cancel, the larger the fee is likely to be. If you have travel insurance (you do - right?) it may cover the fees in case of illness, a death in the family, etc.

Now get on the internet or the telephone . . . ask those questions . . . pack your suitcase . . . and have a great vacation!

(c) Copyright Kathy Steinemann: This article is free to publish only if this copyright notice, the byline, and the author's note below (with active links) are included.

About the Author:

Searching for a bed and breakfast, hotel, or hostel? Visit 111 Travel Directory. Trying to find some great travel tips? Surf over to 1000 Tips 4 Trips. Article source: 111 Travel Directory: Triple1.com (triple one dot com)