Image Source: kimolsonphoto.com
While planning our two-week blend of business and leisure trip around New England, I began my accommodation search on Hotels.com, appreciating their rewards for loyal customers. However, our trip coincided with the leaf-peeping high season, throwing us into the gnashing teeth of sky-high hotel rates.
Faced with the drastic difference between low-season and high-season tariffs, and agonizing over the prospect of paying outrageous amounts for two weeks, I considered alternate routes.
In the quest to sidestep hotels, I’d initially dismissed Bed & Breakfasts as pricey and lacking privacy. But leafing through tripadvisor.com, my curiosity was piqued by their inviting “B&B and Inns” category, which I decided to explore further.
A careful parsing of the highest-rated establishments within our prospective locales led to a discovery of a few enticing options. Reviews were reassuringly positive, with several patrons sharing their memorable experiences.
However, a persistent worry was the potential strain on our budget. Several B&Bs were indeed beyond our means. But to my delight, in every city, a high-rated inn or B&B was more affordable than a hotel, and even included breakfast. A particularly shocking find was a B&B costing nearly a third as much as nearby hotels.
In regards to the crucial need for free, easy-to-use internet due to the business aspect of our trip, all B&Bs and inns we lodged at provided free wireless internet. Astonishingly, the process was smoother than it typically is at hotels. And for those who can’t compromise on a personal bathroom, most contemporary B&Bs now come equipped with one.
Another irresistible allure of B&Bs is the breakfast. Nothing beats starting your day with an inclusive, often gourmet, breakfast—think pumpkin pancakes, vegetable frittatas, pecan French toast. A delicious departure from conventional hotel food offerings.
For the broadest selection of rooms, an early booking is recommended for both hotels and B&Bs, but it’s even more imperative for the latter due to their limited capacity. Specific room requirements, such as a king-sized bed or a large tub, are more likely to be met with early reservations.
A maverick strategy for booking is waiting until the last minute. Despite the risk, you might be rewarded with discounted rates as establishments scramble to fill rooms.
The attention to detail at our B&Bs left a lasting impression. Snacks on arrival and daily perks like fresh cookies, chocolate cake, and wine and cheese were delightful additions. Complimentary tea, coffee, soft drinks, and bottled water were also included.
However, B&B stays can have drawbacks. Breakfast is usually served at fixed times, potentially delaying your day’s start. B&Bs often have communal tables, requiring mandatory socializing, which might be uncomfortable for some. Additionally, during high season, a minimum stay of 2-4 nights may be necessary.
While B&Bs may not be available in every city, we found ample options in the New England area. Compared to traditional hotels, they offer similar prices, more personalized services, and home-cooked meals. For me, these factors contribute to a more enriching travel experience.
