Everything You've Always Wanted to Know About B&Bs (2024)

The Main Differences Between Bed and Breakfasts and Hotels

In the midst of vacation planning, you may find yourself wondering: what is the difference between a bed and breakfast and a hotel? Arguably one of the most essential factors in travel preparations is deciding on the perfect place to stay. Evaluate what it is that matters the most to you and your travel companions. Maybe you enjoy the idea of staying in a unique suite with an expertly curated aesthetic. Perhaps you require specific amenities to ensure that you’re able to work remotely from the comfort of your room. While B&Bs and hotels both have their own pros and cons, take the time to consider what is best for you.

One of the many benefits of booking a stay at a Select Registry B&B or boutique hotel is that you can optimize your vacation by staying somewhere that caters to the type of experience you want. What is it that draws you to the area? Whether you’re interested in the arts and culture of a city or more concerned with the region’s food and wine, chances are one of our stellar bed and breakfasts or boutique hotels can enhance your stay and accommodate your passions.

The Accommodations: Bed and Breakfast vs. Hotel

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Unique Suites at B&Bs

It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of a bed and breakfast experience. One major perk of staying in a B&B is that the rooms often exude a distinct style. Stay in historic houses that boast a Victorian air of elegance and regality. Rest your head in a room styled with meticulous artistry. Your room may feature luxurious clawfoot tubs and stylish, plush bedding. Some B&Bs welcome their guest with a piece of artisan chocolate. The suites are as unique as the bed and breakfasts themselves.

Cookie Cutter Rooms at Chain Hotels

One of the perks of staying at a chain hotel is that you usually have a good idea of what to expect. Depending on the size of the hotel, the rooms are typically spacious. While they are often spotless, they tend to be modestly decorated. Because hotels generally are larger in size, guests often have more privacy.

The Amenities: Bed and Breakfast vs. Hotel

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Exclusive Amenities at B&Bs

Another great benefit that comes with staying in a B&B is that the amenities are often more personalized. Each room is unique in style and may also come with its own unique set of amenities. In many cases, you don’t have to pay extra for WiFi, bottled water in the room, or parking at a B&B. Additionally, they often host wine and cheese happy hours for their guests. Some bed and breakfasts might also have swimming pools, restaurants, or even Tesla and electric car charging stations!

Many bed and breakfasts make for the perfect location for your dream wedding. You can host your ceremony, private reception, and house your guests all in one place. Bed and Breakfasts also make for great honeymoon destinations. Look for a B&B that offers spa services for couples massages and ensure your romantic getaway is one for the books!

Essential Amenities at a Chain Hotel

The most popular amenities you’ll come across when staying at a chain hotel range from swimming pools and full-service bars to 24-hour front desk service and premium bedding. Some hotels may have gyms for exercise or small recreation areas. In the room, you might have a small coffee pot or microwave.

The Breakfast: Bed and Breakfast vs. Hotel

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Homemade Breakfasts at a B&B

Given that the word breakfast is in the name, it comes as no surprise that bed and breakfasts serve some of the most delicious, homemade meals in the morning. At many B&Bs, guests with dietary restrictions can request a vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free dish. Slice into a hearty pile of waffles or pancakes with homemade syrups made with local berries. Order a classic plate with sizzling eggs and bacon. Many innkeepers pride themselves on their ability to prepare a delicious breakfast for their guests!

Continental Breakfast at a Chain Hotel

Most chain hotels offer a complimentary continental breakfast to their guests. You can fuel up for the day on breakfast items such as eggs, bagels, waffles, fruit, yogurt, oatmeal, and more! While you might miss out on a fresh, homemade breakfast prepared at a B&B, you will still have plenty of options to choose from at a hotel’s continental breakfast bar.

Stay Select

Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of what the differences are between bed and breakfasts and hotels. Rest assured that when you choose to stay in a Select Registry property, you’re granting yourself the vacation of your dreams. Once you determine what matters most to you in your search for the perfect accommodations, you can select the optimal location for your next big vacation. Whether you’re interested in staying on the beach or you need to find a place to rest your head while you’re away for business>, we assure you that our properties will have just what you need!

Everything You've Always Wanted to Know About B&Bs (2024)

FAQs

What should I expect from a B&B? ›

What should I expect while staying at a B&B? The amenities provided by B&Bs can vary but in most cases, you can expect complimentary tea and coffee, a hairdryer, a TV, fresh towels, and basic toiletries like shampoo and soap. A good B&B is all about the personal touches.

What are the disadvantages of a B&B? ›

Bed-and-Breakfast Cons

Some may not offer some amenities that are standard in large hotels or resorts such as swimming pools, hot tubs, or workout facilities. For some who enjoy those activities, staying at a bed-and-breakfast may not be optimal.

What do people want in a bed and breakfast? ›

Bed and Breakfast Benefits
  • Scheduled Activities. ...
  • Get Local Advice. ...
  • Meeting New People. ...
  • A Personalized Experience. ...
  • Delicious Home-cooked Breakfast Each Morning. ...
  • Close Quarters Means Your Stay Will Be Very Personal. ...
  • Can Lack Some Standard Amenities and Privacy. ...
  • Structured Environment.

What is the 30 day B&B rule? ›

Originally, "bed and breakfast deal" was used to refer to selling an asset one day and repurchasing it the next to take advantage of capital gains tax exemptions. It now refers to selling an asset and repurchasing it within 30 days to take advantage of tax exemptions.

How much does the average B&B make? ›

The average size of B&Bs nationwide is six rooms, and the average income is $135,000 per year, according to PAII. Most innkeepers (83%) live on the property. Karen says it's true that “bigger is better” when it comes to income generated, but once a B&B becomes a certain size, it can mean hiring outside help.

What is the difference between a bed and breakfast and an Airbnb? ›

Briefly, here's the difference between and Airbnb and a B&B. Airbnb is a lightly regulated home-sharing site that lets almost anyone list accommodations for rent. A B&B is a regulated small inn subject to state or local lodging laws. Think of it as a small hotel with a few extra perks and personal touches.

Why is it called Airbnb when there is no breakfast? ›

The two called their new endeavor "Air Bed and Breakfast," a reference to the air mattresses the guests were staying on. While the sleeping accommodations sounded less than appealing, guests loved the breakfast and city tours the pair provided.

Can you eat in your room at a B&B? ›

B&B guests shouldn't eat take away meals in their rooms – often there will be lovely antique furniture and textiles, which are designed to be used for sleeping, rather than eating! Most hosts will be happy for you to use the dining room to eat, or recommend local places to eat.

Do you tip B&B owners? ›

The Innkeeper of a bed and breakfast usually wears many hats. They're host, front desk attendant, cook and create all the ad-ons. They also welcome you, tidy up, and make you feel at home, If they've made a positive difference in your stay, it's suggested you show your appreciation with a modest tip.

Can you make a living running a B&B? ›

The amount of money you can expect to make all depends on the size of your property, the area you're located in and how luxurious your property is, but at the end of the day running a bed and breakfast is certainly not a get-rich-quick scheme. Or at least, if you treat it like one you'll be sorely disappointed.

Why choose a bed and breakfast over a hotel? ›

Personalized Service

The hotel staff is there to ensure everyone is comfortable but at a cost. However, a bed and breakfast has a smaller staff so that they can provide more personalized service. They can get to know the guests more and help them plan their activities.

What can B&B owners do to please their guests? ›

Creating feelings of warmth

Allow opening/closing access to a window. Provide a heater/air conditioning unit. Allow guest access to radiator setting. Provide a range of sheets/blankets of different thicknesses.

Do you tip after breakfast at a B&B? ›

While tips aren't always required, think about whether or not the staff made a positive impact on your stay. If the answer is yes, leave a modest tip along with a thank you note to show your appreciation.

Do you tip housekeeping at a bed and breakfast? ›

They often double as the breakfast server in the morning. The average tip at a bed and breakfast for housekeepers is from 5 – 20 per room, with 10 being the average. Should you tip the Innkeeper? The Innkeeper of a bed and breakfast usually wears many hats.

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