Staying at a bed and breakfast for the first time can be a little intimidating without any background knowledge of what to expect. Maybe you have questions about things to do or, rather, things not to do at a bed and breakfast. One thing is for sure, staying at a B&B is the farthest thing from your standard overnight stay at a chain hotel. Most bed and breakfasts are independently owned, and each one boasts its own unique qualities. We like to think we know a thing or two about bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, and inns. Which is why we compiled this list of things you shouldn’t do when you stay at one.
If you’re planning a romantic getaway, you can’t go wrong staying at a charming Select Registry bed and breakfast with your sweetheart. We know the best places to stay in order to accommodate your vacation needs, and we’re happy to share our secrets with you in our Romantic Getaway Guide!
5 Things Not to Do at a Bed and Breakfast
1. Don’t Assume the Breakfast Will Be Boring
The breakfast at a B&B is one of the many major differences between bed and breakfasts and chain hotels. Many bed and breakfasts adopted the farm-to-table philosophy when it comes to making breakfast for their guests. They pride themselves on providing meals that feature homegrown veggies, local farm products, or even the day’s freshest catch. The menus often change with the seasons, or even daily, to ensure your breakfast features only the freshest ingredients. Say no to microwaved eggs and bagels and opt for a delicious meal every morning when you stay at a bed and breakfast.
2. Don’t Expect the Same Experience Twice
There is no better way to describe a bed and breakfast experience than unique and authentic. You’ll never experience the same decor, food, or amenities in two different B&Bs. You’ll also never see two matching rooms in the same B&B. The beauty of a vacation at small, independent lodging is that each location exudes the personality of the owner and the locale. This makes for a personalized experience you won’t find anywhere else! From towering castles and Victorian-inspired mansions to nationally recognized historic B&Bs, each property boasts its own specialized charm.
Buhl Mansion Guesthouse and Spa in Sharon, PA, is an 1890 Romanesque castle that boasts an ornate exterior, unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Admire a stunning courtyard, gorgeous gardens, and a large greenhouse outside. On the inside, revel in the opulent furnishings, beautiful crown molding, and a grand staircase fit for royalty.
3. Don’t Worry About Missing the Best Local Insights
Still weighing the pros and cons of staying at a bed and breakfast? Unlike the staff at a standard hotel, B&B innkeepers live and work in the area you’re vacationing in. They have contacts all over town and know the area better than anyone. They’re live-in concierges, and you can count on them for the best suggestions when it comes to local food and wine, shopping, exploring natural wonders, or enjoying the arts and culture of an area. Not much of a planner? That’s okay. The innkeepers can help you figure out exactly what you want to do during your stay.
Some properties even compile their own travel guides for their guests! For example, check out this NC Mountain Vacation Guide that the Orchard Inn Bed & Breakfast created for travelers looking to stay in Saluda, North Carolina.
4. Don’t Expect to Be Ignored
Most innkeepers actually live in their bed and breakfasts full-time, so when you stay with them, you’re not just one of 200 other random guests. Compared to large hotels, bed and breakfasts, inns and boutique hotels tend to be on the smaller side. This means their focus is entirely on making sure your experience is the very best — and that you receive the care and attention you truly deserve. The innkeepers are your hosts, and as great hosts do, they want to get to know you in order to serve you better.
5. Don’t Be Surprised When the Innkeeper Is Also the Chef, Groundskeeper, Valet, Wedding Planner, Etc.
If you’ve never stayed at a bed and breakfast or inn, this realization may shock you. B&Bs are a small business, so it’s pretty typical for innkeepers to wear many hats. This means they’ll greet you, cook you dinner, tend to the gardens, and help carry your bags to your room.
Don’t Miss out on a Select Registry B&B Experience
Now that you know what not to do at a bed and breakfast and what to expect during your stay, you can start planning the vacation of your dreams! Select Registry’s esteemed selection of properties cater to your vision and ensure a personalized experience unlike any other! Maybe you imagine yourself staying on the beach. Perhaps you’d prefer a mountain retreat. See for yourself what makes our B&Bs so special!
