If you’re looking for accommodations that are more personal and comfortable than large, anonymous chain hotels, bed & breakfasts are right for you. The owners of a bed & breakfast graciously open their home to you as a guest, and you’re likely to have a far more personal experience. While many facets of staying in a bed & breakfast are the same as any hotel, the home-like atmosphere of some properties causes travelers to lose their manners or relax more than they would in a more formal property. If it’s your first time at a bed & breakfast, the following tips will help you have a smooth and relaxing stay.
Ask about the house rules and follow them.
The rules were established for a reason. If you have an issue with the rules, discuss your concerns with the owner. You might learn the reason the rule was made.
Respect the innkeeper’s schedule.
Don’t expect to check in before the listed time unless you’ve made prior arrangements. When it’s time to check out, make sure you have removed all your belongings from the room. The innkeeper needs to change the sheets and prepare the room for the next guest. Many bed & breakfasts stay booked, and you should never infringe on someone else’s time.
Always ask for permission.
Remember, the inn is someone’s home. Furnishings are personal belongings of the innkeepers, which may be antiques and other personal mementos they want to share visually with you. Ask if it is alright to sit in their living room, for instance, or to use garden furniture.
Watch over your kids.
If you have children with you, make sure that they behave well and understand that they’re not at home. Don’t allow them to run down the halls, jump on the furniture or bother other guests.
Respect other guests.
Don’t make noise while others might be sleeping. Keep your voices down in the early morning and at late night. During the day, talk in soft tones.
Be personable.
Feel free to ask questions to the innkeepers about the area, but don’t monopolise their time. There may be other guests who might need their attention. Innkeepers are a wealth of information about their hometowns and they’ll love to share their knowledge and get to know their guests.
Leave a tip.
Oftentimes, the innkeepers do all of the cooking and cleaning themselves. Tipping is a nice way to recognise that hard work. While it’s true that innkeepers provide service, you shouldn’t treat them like they’re your servants. A discerning guest, who treats an innkeeper with respect, will be willing to do the extras: the option of having coffee before breakfast is served, the most luxurious down pillows, the complementary glass of wine and a gift at departure. Leave a tip and let the innkeeper know what you liked about your visit.
Enjoy your stay at one of the best bed & breakfasts in Australia today.