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Top 7 Resources for Bed and Breakfast Newbies

By Elizabeth Arneson, About.com

If you've never stayed at a bed and breakfast, it may seem a little intimidating. But I've found that B&Bs can provide the absolute best accommodations for a relaxing or romantic vacation -- and I hope that you can also experience that pleasure!

With that in mind, here are some great resources for any B&B newbie.

1. Top 10 Myths About Bed and Breakfasts

One of the best things about staying at B&Bs is that each one is unique. But almost all of today's B&Bs have on thing in common: They're run by professional, competent innkeepers. Nonetheless, some outdated myths about bed and breakfasts persist. These myths have their roots in the days before most travelers even knew what a bed and breakfast was. Today, with rare exceptions, they are simply myths. As with hotels, there are good B&Bs and bad B&Bs. With a little research you should be able to find one that fits your preferences. Here are my picks for the top myths about bed and breakfasts.

2. Before you Make a Reservation at a B&B

Before you make a reservation, you should make sure that you'll be comfortable in the bed and breakfast you've chosen. Asking these questions can help a lot. Topics covered here include the inn's real location, the inn's breakfast, your bedroom, your bathroom and concerns about allergies.

3. Finding the Perfect Bed and Breakfast

Is there a perfect bed and breakfast? Of course -- in fact, there are hundreds, probably even thousands, of them! The trick is sorting through the estimated 20,000 bed and breakfasts to find the perfect one for you on your next getaway. (And that 20,000 figure just represents B&Bs in the United States -- there are probably at least 50,000 total inns around the world.) Here are some simple tips designed to help you locate the best possible inn.

4. Creating a Romantic B&B Getaway

If your vacation is to be a romantic escape, that takes a little special planning (not not necessarily a lot). These simple preparations can help you have a grand B&B escape, even if it only lasts for a weekend.

5. Before You Buy a B&B Gift Certificate

A gift certificate to a bed and breakfast is a wonderful gift for any occasion, but there are a few things you should think about before purchasing one.

6. Choose a B&B Recommended by Other Travelers

We have links to dozens of B&Bs recommended by guests who have been there -- and it's hard to top a personal recommendation.

7. Choose a Unique Bed and Breakfast

If you really want to break from the cookie-cutter feeling of a hotel, consider staying at one of these unique B&Bs. You can stay at a bed and breakfast in a castle, a lighthouse, a former jailhouse, even a treehouse. It's a big jump from a traditional hotel, but a stay at one of these unique inns will make your vacation unforgettable.

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