FAQ / What are the negatives to B&Bs?
The reasons why people dislike Bed and Breakfast Inns are as varied as the people that visit them. Here are some reasons that I feel are the most frequent.
Children - If your children are well-behaved and controllable this shouldn't be a problem. Most B&Bs welcome Children. You might find comments on web sites that will say something to the effect "Children Under 12 Discourage". This doesn't mean they won't allow you to stay at their lodging. If you are bringing a child with you make sure you notify the property when you make your reservation and measure their response. If they discourage you then it may indeed not be a suitable place for a child. Many B&Bs are historic in nature and contain antiques and items that could be easily damaged or soiled and be very difficult, and expensive, to replace.
In Room Telephones - Some people want a phone beside their bed or they need computer access to a phone line for business.
Pets Not Allowed - Many Inns will not allow guests to bring pets. But in many cases they can recommend a nearby kennel or other facility.
Pets Allowed - Many Inns have pets in residence or allow guests to bring their own pets. It is not unusual to find cats, dogs or birds as fixtures at some B&Bs. In almost all cases these pets are very docile and gentle, an innkeeper takes a major liability risk if that wasn't so. If you have an allergy or dislike pets a property like this is out of the questions.
Credit Cards - It is rare, but you may still find a Bed and Breakfast that doesn't take credit cards.
Air Conditioning - In hot climates this can be a deal breaker for many guests. But some B&Bs are listed on Historic Registers, or are limited by similar situations, and are unable to install air conditioning equipment without disturbing the buildings historic nature.
Smoking - Due to insurance and other local regulations no smoking bans are often enforced at B&Bs. Many offer an area, such as a porch, where guests can have a cigarette. But some don't and in bad weather this can be a real challenge for smokers.
Strict Cancellation Policy - Because most B&Bs has only a handful of rooms they often have cancellation policies that are more restrictive than hotels. If a five bedroom inn has a one room go empty they have lost %20 of their revenue.
Private Baths - A very few Inns do not offer a private bath with every room. But some do not and it is important to confirm with the property that your room includes a private bath.
No Parking - Some properties, due to their residential nature, do not have defined parking for guests. Many B&Bs started out life as residential homes that have been converted. During this transformation from private home to a commerical bed and breakfast parking can become an issue.
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