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Tip 1 : Bed and Breakfasts Basics

Since the arrival of the internet there are thousands of first time bed and breakfast goers. For the first-timers there are some basics to make your stay more comfortable for yourself and your innkeeper; and to help you understand the experience.

Once you've stayed in a bed and breakfast, you'll never stay anywhere else! First and foremost is to understand that you are staying in someone's home as was in the 'old days'.

Most bed and breakfasts are owner-operated, and some are run by innkeepers. Most of the things in the home are usually antiques, fine linens and bedding, family heirlooms, and the like - which is what makes it so special. Those things are not replaceable as they would be in a hotel.

Almost all bed and breakfasts offer complimentary refreshments and a fridge in a common area to keep things cold, but don't allow eating in the rooms. So if you're not sure what is permitted, please ask. Before you take everything you own when you go away, ask what amenities are already available - such as bicycles, beach chairs, towels, etc.

Also, ask what might be available to rent nearby - from kayaks and ski equipment to hot air balloons. Your innkeeper will also be happy to inform you of all there is to do in their area and supply you with maps and brochures, or make dinner and tour reservations. You receive much more personal attention at a bed and breakfast than you would in a hotel or motel.

Your innkeeper will be happy to give you a history of their home and the area, the best places to go, the best places to eat, and the places to avoid. They make sure you will get the most out of the time you have away.

Breakfast is always special. Not only are you enjoying the culinary talents of your host, but you get to meet and greet the other guests. Sometimes you'll meet people from the other side of the globe or run into an old high school chum you haven't seen in 25 years! Usually the menu is the same for all.

Some places can accommodate special dietary requests, but I would advise asking when making your reservation. There are some bed and breakfasts that accept babies and very young children. Most don't. Usually the cut off age is 7+. A bed and breakfast is normally not child proofed (unless a special room or cottage is available for families), and really not appropriate for very young children.

Most folks who go to bed and breakfasts are looking for some peace and quiet. I can't vouch for everyone, but once you try it you'll never go back! Bed and breakfasts are great places for women traveling alone. They are also lovely and different places for small weddings, wedding breakfasts, dinners, small business functions and the like. Just ask your host what is available.

Tip 2 : Reserve your Bed and Breakfast at a Convenient Time for Hosts

When reserving a bed and breakfast by telephone, try to call after 10 a.m. local time. Breakfast is usually over by then and innkeepers will be able to devote more attention to your requests and questions.

Tip 3 : Dietary Considerations

While staying at a bed and breakfast, it's a great idea to communicate during your stay your breakfast preferences, (i.e., starches, carbs, fruit preferences, citrus etc). Some inns are small enough to accommodate your requests, and by having what you wish, it makes for a much more enjoyable stay.

Prior to your departure, let them know what you 'vote' your favorite breakfast. Some of our menus are named after guests that either ate a 'record number' or raved on and on ... (i.e. Chauncey's Sour Cream Belgian Waffles with fresh Blackberries ... he ate nine)

We enjoy giving out recipes named after guests to other guests! And ... it's always a great story at the breakfast table.

Tip 4 : Price Is Negotiable

Just like hotels, the rate for a bed and breakfast room is negotiable. The main difference is, that, unlike a hotel where it can take awhile to get to somebody in authority to authorize an adjustment, this is not true with an inn.

The person on the other end of a phone is usually the owner of the bed and breakfast, and he/she can make the decision on the spot. All you have to do is ask in a nice way. Just remember - the innkeeper may only have a few rooms to begin with anyway, and if you are haggling over the last room, then don't be offended if itss 'no dice' on a price reduction.

But on the other hand, one room of a four-room inn without a paying guest reduces a host's profit by 25%. So it's always worth asking for a reduction!

Courtesy : 1000tips4trips.com