Where is the bed and breakfast located?

This may seem like an odd question, but location can be everything depending on what you intend to do during your stay. Do you want to get away from it all at a secluded respite where televisions, wireless internet and Starbucks are nowhere to be found? Or do you need a more urban setting, complete with technology and nearby access to great restaurants and nightlife? If you have a specific itinerary in mind, talk with your innkeeper and ask how far the inn is from the attractions you wish to visit. Also, don’t forget to ask about parking. Some inns, just like most hotels and motels, charge a parking fee, and a few inns do not have parking at all, especially in urban settings. Here’s an example of two distinctly different locations in the same general area: The Pacific Northwest.

If you long to get away from it all, the Saratoga Inn on Washington’s Whidbey Island is the picture of serenity. With views of the Saratoga Passage and distant Cascade Mountains, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty. The interior is beautiful, as well, and each of the guest rooms includes a fireplace. Many rooms also feature a water view. On the opposite end of the spectrum, perhaps you want to enjoy the sites and sounds of Seattle close up. If a city setting is what you crave, The Inn at Harbor Steps is a perfect choice. The inn is located in a high-rise residential building within walking distance of shops, restaurants and galleries. Rooms are stocked with modern amenities such as a wet bar and refrigerator, high-speed internet access and phone with voicemail. In addition, the rooms are spacious with sitting areas, and many rooms have a fireplace, jetted tub or perhaps a garden view. Whether you choose island country ambiance or big-city charm, you’ll enjoy a full breakfast and afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres.

What kinds of rooms are available?

There’s nothing cookie cutter about a bed and breakfast. Innkeepers take a lot of pride in creating a special experience for their guests. Each room usually has been decorated individually, and some innkeepers even have a theme for each room. Unlike hotels, where the rooms are generally the same size and style, room sizes often range from sweet, cozy retreats to large spacious rooms with all the trimmings. Some rooms have private baths with whirlpool tubs, and some rooms might share a bath. Be sure to make a list of what you want and ask your innkeeper what is available. Here are some example rooms:

With its spectacular view of Monterey Bay from the inn’s rooms and common areas, the Green Gables Inn in Pacific Grove, California, is truly a feast for the soul. The ocean view, the Victorian architecture and the wonderfully decorated interior combine for a picture-perfect experience. The guest rooms in this historic bed and breakfast range from small and cozy to spacious retreats with jetted spa tubs and fireplaces. No matter the room choice, you’ll be pampered with plenty of amenities, and the inn’s location is just minutes from restaurants, shops, galleries and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Is the inn appropriate for children or pets?

Bed and breakfasts often are located in historic, restored homes. Many innkeepers decorate their inn with fine antiques and knickknacks. Other inns are especially romantic and more suited to couples than to families. Several states have laws that forbid innkeepers from outright banning children, but that does not necessarily mean that you should bring the kids. It’s your vacation, and you want everyone to be comfortable, so be sure to choose an inn that is suitable. Be sure to ask what kinds of activities, either at the inn or nearby, are available for kids. As for pets, a few innkeepers allow pets, and some will even board your horses for a fee, but be sure to ask. There are plenty of great options for families, and some locations may be ideal.

At the Blue Lantern Inn, which overlooks the harbor in Dana Point, California, there is much for the whole family to see and do. The harbor, which includes a small beach, marine center, tide pools and a replica of a historic tall ship is just around the corner and down the hill. Guests can walk to several restaurants, delis and coffee houses. Doheny Beach is two minutes away, and there are several local parks. Laguna Beach is a few miles to the north, and family-fun Meccas of Disneyland, Legoland and Knott’s Berry Farm are all about a half-hour away. As for the inn, the rooms, several of which offer sea and harbor views, are spacious, and each has a fireplace and jetted spa tub. The kids will love the full breakfasts and afternoon tea as well as the teddy bears and freshly-baked cookies.

What amenities are included in the rates?

Bed and breakfasts are famous for including a variety of pleasing amenities, most especially a delicious breakfast. It might be a three-course feast served by candlelight or perhaps a basket of goodies delivered to your room. Some inns serve simple continental fare. Other amenities might include turn-down service or fresh flowers in the room. Fluffy robes and special bath soaps are other thoughtful items. Many inns also cater to a bustling business crowd and offer wireless internet, phones with voicemail and even fax service. The inn’s website should detail all of the amenities included in the nightly rate, as well as check-in and check-out times. If it doesn’t, be sure to ask when making your reservation. Here is an example of amenities you might find:

Guests at the Channel Road Inn in Santa Monica, California, are pampered with plenty of amenities. There is a full breakfast and afternoon treats, which include wine and hors d’oeuvres. Freshly baked cookies and beverages are available throughout the day. Rooms are stocked with amenities, such as luxurious linens, European bath soaps, fluffy robes, televisions with DVD players and practical items such as irons and hair dryers. There are DVDs and books to borrow at the front desk, as well as easily forgotten items such as shaving cream or a toothbrush. A concierge service is available, and the staff can recommend restaurants or provide directions to local attractions. After a day exploring Los Angeles, you’ll return to find you’ve been treated to a chocolate turn-down service.