Innkeepers Sallie and Welling Clark have owned and operated the historic Holden House since 1986 and are experienced hospitality professionals.
Today, thanks to the power of the internet and AI search engines, it can be confusing for the average traveler to research and make a decision on where to book. And while would-be travelers may not have stayed at a bed and breakfast before, there are distinct advantages for overall value and service. Here are a few benefits of selecting bed and breakfast accommodations vs. a vacation rental or chain hotel or motel.
- Inclusive Amenities: Breakfast is included, with free parking and other value-added amenities that may be provided (available coffee/tea, cookies, afternoon snacks, WiFi, etc.), in contrast to hotels that may charge extra for these or add service and resort fees which is tagged on to the base price.
- Personalized service: An innkeeper who lives and works in the area to recommend restaurants, out-of-the-way activities, events, attractions, museums, hiking trails, and more. In short, local ownership and operation provides a touch of culture and knowledge you won’t find at a hotel front desk or find at all at a vacation rental property.
- Private baths: The popularity of bed and breakfasts over the years has also raised the expectations and amenities for guests. Today, you’ll rarely find a B&B without private attached baths. If you’re concerned, make sure to ask in advance, and research their “official” websites in advance. Many B&Bs also feature in room fireplaces, jetted tubs and luxury accommodations.
- Safety: B&Bs generally have onsite innkeepers with personal safety a priority. While you may not know what to expect at a hotel, it’s an ideal travel option for single business travelers and couples alike.
A few tips before you book:
- Book directly through the bed and breakfast’s official websites. Should you find B&Bs listed on third-party Online Travel Agent (OTA) websites, you may not be getting the best price or have access to their individual specials, packages and discounts. Instead, you can use these sites to research initial information and then use search tools such as Google to find their “official” B&B websites.
- Check out guest ratings and comments such as Google and Tripadvisor to see real feedback on your B&B research. This is one of the best ways to get tips from other guests who have actually stayed there. When using as a guideline, review a selection of overall comments while also knowing that guest comments are based on individual tastes and experiences.
- Should you want a more personalized experience, don’t hesitate to call the inn directly. Here you’ll get a sense of the property from a personal standpoint and can ask the naive question to make you feel more comfortable.
- If you’re traveling with children, ask if the property accepts children. Most B&Bs are geared toward adults and couples with the accommodations that incorporate a quiet atmosphere, so it’s important to ask in advance. If they don’t accept kids, a simple ask for referrals to other local properties can save you time.
- Share any food allergies and expectations in advance with the innkeeper. Innkeepers strive to make your stay pleasant and due to the size of B&Bs, your host may need to prepare in advance to accommodate and be understanding of the extra mile they will be going to ensure your satisfaction.
- If accessibility is a concern, be sure to inquire in advance. Most B&Bs don’t have an elevator, so be prepared to carry your luggage up a flight or two. Ask for a first floor or accessible room if this is a necessity. Some B&Bs do have ADA accessible rooms, but availability may be limited.
- ENJOY!!!
Check out HoldenHouse.com to learn more about the boutique-style B&B located in beautiful Colorado Springs, a community in proximity to 14,110 foot high Pikes Peak, known as America’s Mountain Innkeepers Sallie and Welling Clark have owned and operated Holden House since 1986 with decades of experience in hospitality.