Three Things That You'll Get At A B&B, But Not At A Chain Hotel
If you're used to staying at chain hotels, you might automatically look for one when you're planning your next trip. However, it's also a good idea to consider bed and breakfasts that are in the same area. Initially, you might be concerned about the amenities that you're used to at chain hotels that B&Bs may lack — for example, indoor swimming pools, athletic centers, and on-site spas aren't likely to turn up when you're browsing B&Bs. What you will find, however, are a number of things that you simply don't get at chain hotels. Here are some examples.
Local Area Expertise
While high-end hotels have concierges who can help you with any questions you might have about the area, this isn't the case for the average budget or mid-range chain hotel. When you stay at a bed and breakfast, you get the opportunity to consult with the owners about the area. Perhaps you're looking for a restaurant that the locals favor, or maybe you need advice for a certain type of day trip that caters to your passion for American history. You'll commonly find that the owners of B&Bs are experts about their area, and can help you immensely in this regard.
A Home-Like Feel
Being away from home can be exciting, but it can also be draining because you don't feel at home. At chain hotels, a home-like feel is rare; the size of the building, the standard nature of each room, and other factors can all send a clear message that you're not at home. For some people, this can lead to feelings of stress. One of the biggest perks of staying at a bed and breakfast is that you'll feel like you're at home. Sleeping in a room that looks and feels like a bedroom, and waking up to the smell of your hosts cooking downstairs gives it a welcoming home-away-from-home feel.
A Chance To Meet Other Travelers
Sometimes you'll be the only guest staying at the B&B, which has many benefits on its own. At other times, there will be several other guests, and you'll enjoy the opportunity to meet them. Where anonymity is the order of the day at chain hotels, the home-like atmosphere at B&Bs often encourages interactions among the guests. You might chat while you eat breakfast, or pull out a board game in the evening for some friendly competition — and in the process, make some new friends.
Contact places like Christophers by the Bay for more information.
