If you are traveling to a bed & breakfast for the first time, you may be wondering how your stay will differ from staying in a hotel or private rental like AirBNB.
In many ways, your stay will be very similar to those mentioned above. You will have a private room and bathroom, free wifi, and small appliances like a coffee maker and refrigerator in your room.
B&Bs provide a more quaint and personalized experience than a chain hotel, but unlike an AirBNB, you will have a knowledgeable host on-site as well as other amenities like a hot cooked breakfast!
Below are some tips and frequently asked questions for our first time visitors!
#1 Remember that you are sharing the space with others and be mindful of that.
When you check into a bed & breakfast, it is important to remember that you are not the only guest in the house. Other travelers will be staying in their own suites and oftentimes, like at de la Bleau, the innkeepers live on site.
While we hope you make yourself at home and enjoy the common areas, we also ask that you treat these areas with respect. This means being mindful of noise levels, personal space, and manners.
Additionally, most B&Bs have designated quiet time. At de la Bleau, our quiet hours are from 10 PM to 7 AM to ensure that guests are not disturbed when trying to sleep or wind down for the night.
#2 Feel free to ask questions and communicate with your host.
We have guests of all ages visit de la Bleau and tell us that this is their first time staying at a Bed & Breakfast, so don't be scared to ask questions if you are unfamiliar with B&B life.
Whether this is your first time at a bed & breakfast or your 100th, you may have questions about your trip. We are happy to answer any questions about the property's amenities, restaurants and activities in the area, or general information about your stay.
If spills or accidents happen in your room or around the property, don't hesitate to immediately notify your host so the proper actions can be taken!
#3 Be social...or not!
Many people are under the impression that when staying at a bed & breakfast you are expected to constantly socialize with your host and other guests.
While the breakfast table is a great place to gather around and meet new people, you are in no way obligated to do so.
You are welcome to dine with the other guests in the main room or take your breakfast up to your own room to enjoy your meal in private!
#4 Do I need to let someone know when I am coming and going?
No! There is no need to inform anyone when you are coming or going. Before check-in, you will be given codes to access your room and the elevator whenever you need!
#5 Make special requests ahead of time
There are some things that guests should tell hosts before checking into the bed and breakfast. For instance, let us know of any dietary restrictions or food allergies so that we can plan accordingly.
It is also polite to let your host know if you will need to check-in outside of normal hours, if you will not be attending breakfast, or if there are any special accommodations you will need during your stay.
#6 When is breakfast served?
At de la Bleau, breakfast is served from 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM on Saturdays & Sundays in the dining room.
Come enjoy our famous sweet and savory candied bacon, eggs made to order, and an assortment of pancakes or French toast!
#7 Know that every B&B is unique
Whether this is your first Bed & Breakfast stay or you are a B&B veteran, know that each and every bed & breakfast is unique.
While these tips apply to de la Bleau and many other bed & breakfasts, the house rules and overall culture will vary depending on where you stay!
