8 Things to Look For in a Bed & Breakfast

A bed & breakfast (B&B) experience offers couples a chance to escape a hectic life, if only for a weekend. When choosing your B&B, it’s important to consider what perks you can sacrifice and what is non-negotiable. B&Bs are scattered throughout the United States, presenting unique services and accommodations. To put it simply, every B&B has its own way of operating. So with all the options available, how do you know which is right for you and your significant other?

Check out 8 things to look for in a bed & breakfast and tailor your weekend getaway to suit your desires!

1. Affordability

B&B pricing is often determined by several factors, including location, size, and services. If you’re looking to plan according to a set budget, it’s important to consider a B&B’s affordability. Look for a B&B that offers discounts and special, romantic getaway packages that provide the best experience without hurting your wallet.

2. Reviews

You wouldn’t stay at a hotel or eat at a restaurant with bad reviews. Your outlook on B&Bs shouldn’t be any different. Before deciding on a B&B, check Google and Facebook reviews to see the average visitor’s experience with the establishment. Look for comments about cleanliness and staff behavior. While a few commenters might be outliers, many complaints about similar issues are red flags.

3. Location

With B&Bs spread throughout the U.S., the location is another important factor to consider when choosing where to stay. Some B&Bs are located slightly outside big cities, offering easy access to major attractions those cities have to offer. Other B&B locations might be more remote. If you’re looking for a lot of fun weekend activities during your stay, check what’s around the neighborhood or what the B&B offers onsite.

4. Meal Options

You can’t have a bed & breakfast without breakfast, so consider the meal options offered at an establishment before booking your stay. Most B&Bs offer a continental breakfast, which includes pastries and fruit with main entrees. Some B&Bs offer casual fine dining as well. If you or your significant other have food restrictions, check if the B&B has options to suit your dietary needs.

5. Lodging

Consider the lodging options available at a B&B. Many B&Bs have themed rooms that provide unique experiences for patrons. Each room may have different amenities depending on the theme. For example, a country-living-themed room might include a wood-burning fireplace rather than a gas-powered one. Prices often vary by room size and amenities, ranging from luxury to loft suites.

6. Accessibility

All public venues in the U.S. must adhere to federal accessibility laws for websites and physical locations. If you or your significant other require additional assistance, ensure the B&B you’re considering provides adequate accessibility options. If you are a wheelchair user, for example, the B&B should have handicapped parking and ramps available. In addition, a B&B website should make navigation easier for the visually or hearing impaired.

7. Children and Pets

For some couples with kids, it’s not always easy to find time for a romantic getaway. Sometimes a babysitter isn’t an option. So check with the B&B to see if they can accommodate additional guests. Every B&B has its own guidelines regarding children, so remember to mention your guest is underage. Couples looking to bring pets along on their getaway should also check with the B&B ahead of time.

8. Booking

Explore the booking options available at the B&B you hope to visit. Some B&Bs may only book visitors through a website, while others want visitors to call in. Look into how far in advance the B&B requires you to book a room and what discounts might be available. Before booking your stay, ask about flexibility with check-in and check-out times to optimize your B&B experience.

Now that you know what to look for when deciding on a B&B, check out how HideAway Country Inn meets your needs and book your stay now!

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