by Carole Hill

Created on: February 24, 2009

You wouldn't think there could be any reason to be peeved with a stay at a Bed and Breakfast (B&B as we will refer to them from here); but yet, as charming as they are, they do pose some concerns that could develop into grievances and ultimately become a pet peeve!

With many miles of traveling under my belt, I have stayed in a wide variety of Hotels, Motels, Lodges, Resorts, Health Spas, Inns, Cabins, Ship Staterooms, Vacation Rentals and B&Bs throughout various parts of the world. I would like to share just few minor grievances discovered from my own personal experiences, and counter-balance them with a positive antidote.

PRIVACY

Peeve: While most B&Bs I have stayed in claim their rooms offer privacy, they don't mention that walls can be paper-thin and noises and voices carry. This can be uncomfortable for guests wanting tranquil isolation and give you the feeling that you have to "whisper" in your own quarters so as not to be heard by others.

Antidote: Research your B&B choices carefully. Look at room configurations to see if all walls are connected between guest rooms. (Some B&Bs may have separate "cottages" allowing for very private accommodations). If noise is a factor for you, make a call to inquire about the space you're interested in booking. Most B&Bs will be helpful in trying to satisfy your needs.

SOCIALIZING

Peeve: A couple might choose a B&B to celebrate a special occasion like an anniversary for example, when they prefer to share quality and intimate time together.
It is quite common for a host to introduce other guests for the purpose of "getting acquainted" or encourage socializing at informal gatherings in common areas for the guests. This can be a problem for guests who simply wish to be alone.

Antidote: The average B&B accommodates three to four couples at a time (meaning, there could be only three or four rooms). Of course depending on the size of the B&B property, it could hold more. You can inquire when you check in if all rooms will be occupied and hosts are willing to tell you if there are vacancies or if they are filled up. I would just mention discreetly to the host that you are not interested in participating in any activities with other guests; or further, perhaps a B&B is not for you. You can easily find privacy in larger commercial hotels and hang a DO NOT DISTURB sign on your door!

MEALS

Peeve: B&Bs, in many cases, offer meals at set times for all guests. I do understand that these small operations

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