Tips for First-Time B&B Guests

Because this may be your first experience at a B&B. Because no two B&B’s are the same. Because a B&B is not a hotel. And because many B&B’s are historic properties, here are some travel tips to help you thoroughly enjoy your B&B experience. Also, be sure to visit the website for any B&B that interests you to review their individual amenities and policies.

• Unlike hotels and motels, B&B’s do not have a 24-hour front desk. Most have an established check-in time. Confirm what that time is, and call if you are delayed beyond that time.
• Also understand that the B&B is the personal home of your innkeeper and host. Please respect the private areas that are distinguished from common areas for guests.
• Reservations are generally required and confirmed with a deposit by check or credit card guarantee.
• Make sure you ask about cancellation policies. Due to their small size, cancellations affect B&B’s greatly. Refunds on last minute cancellations or early departures (you choose to leave earlier than your scheduled departure date) will often be made only if the innkeeper can rebook the room. A processing fee may apply.
• The best times to reach an innkeeper by phone are between 10:00 a.m. (after the breakfast rush) and before 9:00 p.m. Email, of course, has become the primary mode of communication as that has no time restrictions.
• Breakfast is always included in the rate. Some offer a Continental breakfast while others serve a full breakfast. Breakfast times also vary from inn to inn.
• When making your reservation, inform the innkeeper of any allergies or dietary restrictions to determine if the inn can accommodate your restrictions.
• The majority of B&B’s now offer private baths, but some still have shared baths. Make sure you understand the bath arrangements when making your reservation.
• Some of our B&B’s do accommodate pets. Make sure you check in advance, and ask to see the Pet Policy if a B&B does in fact allow pets. Be aware, however, many B&B’s have resident pets, some of which share the common areas.
• B&B’s, since they are homes, are not required to be handicapped accessible, so please inquire if you have special needs.
• Due to New York State Laws, indoor smoking is not allowed—although some may have smoking areas outside.
• Some inns welcome families, some are adults only, and some accept children above a certain age. If you are traveling with children, make sure you understand the inn’s children policy.