The bed and breakfast difference makes all the difference. As a bed and breakfast (B&B) owner, you may often wonder how you stack up against larger hotel chains. With their sprawling properties, fancy amenities, and what seems like an endless supply of guests, it’s easy to feel like the little guy.
But the truth is, B&B inns have many advantages over their bigger counterparts. In this blog post, we’ll explore five reasons why B&Bs are better than giant hotels, and provide specific examples of the advantages of having fewer guests.
The Bed and Breakfast Difference : More Personalized Service
One of the most significant advantages of staying at a bed and breakfast inn is the personalized service you receive. Unlike larger hotels, B&B owners and staff have the time and flexibility to cater to the unique needs of each guest. Here are some examples of how B&Bs can provide a more personalized experience.
- Personalized breakfast options: B&Bs often serve homemade breakfast tailored to the dietary needs of their guests.
- Local knowledge: B&B owners are usually locals who know the area like the back of their hand. They can provide guests with insider tips and local recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and activities that they may not find in guidebooks.
- Personalized attention: B&B owners are often more hands-on than hotel managers. They can greet guests personally, chat with them during breakfast, and offer personalized attention throughout their stay.
- Personalized decor: B&Bs are often decorated with unique and personal touches that reflect the owner’s taste and style.
The Bed and Breakfast Difference : More Intimate Accommodations
One of the biggest draws of B&Bs is their intimate atmosphere. With fewer rooms and guests, B&Bs provide a cozy and welcoming feel that larger hotels can’t replicate. Here are some examples of how B&Bs can provide a more intimate experience.
- Quiet atmosphere: Because B&Bs are usually located in residential areas or smaller towns, they offer a quieter atmosphere that can be relaxing for guests who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Opportunities for socialization: B&Bs often have communal spaces like living rooms, patios, and gardens, where guests can socialize with each other and the owners.
The Bed and Breakfast Difference : More Affordable
While some may assume that B&Bs are more expensive than hotels, they can be more affordable, especially when you factor in the amenities included in the price. Here are some examples of how B&Bs can be more affordable than hotels.
- Free amenities: B&Bs often providefree amenities that hotels charge for, such as Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast.
- Fewer hidden fees: B&Bs usually don’t charge hidden fees, like resort fees, parking fees, or early check-in fees, which can add up quickly in hotels.
- Better value: Because B&Bs provide more personalized service and amenities, guests often feel they’re getting better value for their money.
The Bed and Breakfast Difference : More Flexible
One of the advantages of running a small business is the flexibility it provides. B&Bs can cater to the unique needs of their guests, whether that means accommodating dietary restrictions, offering late check-ins, or providing extra amenities. Here are some examples of how B&Bs can be more flexible than hotels.
- Customized experiences: B&Bs can provide customized experiences for guests, such as private tours or activities.
- Flexible check-in/check-out times: Unlike hotels with strict check-in and check-out times, B&Bs often accommodate guests who need to arrive or depart at unconventional times.
- Pet-friendly: Because B&Bs have fewer guests, they can often accommodate pets more easily than hotels, which may have strict pet policies.
The Bed and Breakfast Difference : More Sustainable
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to travelers, and B&Bs are well-positioned to meet that challenge. Bed and breakfast inns have an easier ability to offer sustainable accommodations than large hotels for several reasons.
- Smaller scale: B&Bs are often smaller and more intimate than large hotels, which means they have a smaller environmental footprint. They use fewer resources, like water and energy, and produce less waste than larger properties.
- Locally sourced food: Many B&Bs offer locally sourced food for their breakfasts, which supports local farmers and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances.
- Green initiatives: B&Bs are more likely to implement green initiatives, like renewable energy, reducing plastic waste, and encouraging guests to reuse towels and linens. They may also have more control over their supply chain, which allows them to make more sustainable choices when purchasing products and services.
The Smaller Accommodations Difference
In conclusion, bed and breakfasts and smaller inns offer several advantages over larger hotels. B&Bs provide more personalized service, and a more intimate atmosphere, and can often be more affordable than chain hotels. They also have the flexibility to cater to the unique needs of their guests and are better positioned to offer sustainable accommodations.
These advantages stem from the fact that B&Bs are often smaller and more personable businesses that prioritize guest comfort and satisfaction. Select Registry B&B Member Inns are known for luxury. Thus, if you’re a B&B owner, take pride in the unique experience you offer your guests, and continue to build upon these strengths to provide a truly memorable stay.
B&B Consulting
Licensed Realtor Rob Sales works directly with those interested in buying or selling hospitality properties. With decades of experience, Rob knows the right questions to ask and skillfully guides his clients during each step of the process. Contact Rob today for a complimentary phone conversation. He is happy to be of service to you.