Everyone is looking for a deal these days, and there is no shortage of them at B&Bs. A complimentary – and often gourmet – breakfast is always included. Yet, there are lesser-known and equally worthwhile benefits to a B&B stay. In fact, I’ve calculated as much as $180 in savings realized by staying at a B&B. Here’s how it works:
- Free breakfasts for two daily (all B&Bs): $50
- Free Wi-Fi access and/or guest computers (nearly 90% of B&Bs): $20
- Free afternoon refreshments, wine and cheese and/or evening dessert for two (94% of B&Bs): $40
- Tip-free help with luggage & concierge services (over 65% of B&Bs): $10
- Free local telephone calls (75% of B&Bs) plus free long distance calls: $10
- Free parking (over 95% of B&Bs): Up to $50
Total savings for the two-day stay: up to $180.Still not enough? Here’s some advice for turning the next B&B getaway into a real travel deal.
Six tips for B&B getaways
1) Travel midweek to the country and weekends to the city: Rural B&Bs are popular relaxing weekend escapes for those hoping to “get out of the city,” yet midweek is quieter. Since business travelers tend to fill urban B&Bs during the week, you’ll often find wider availability on the weekends. Room rates may reflect the slower times, so ask for midweek or a weekend rate depending upon where you’re traveling.
2) Choose a one-tank destination: Luckily gas prices are lower and there are a wide variety of B&B options within a one-tank drive from Boston. Choose a closer destination and drive to your getaway.
3) Follow Kim’s Deal Sheet in About.com New England Travel. Almost each issue offers a special deal from New England B&Bs.
4) Bring your own wine. Rather than going out to bars, where drinks can total as much as $20, bring your own wine or cocktails and enjoy them in the privacy of your room or perhaps on a scenic porch overlooking a beautiful foliage view.
5) Check specials. Every B&B offers special packages filled with value. Be sure to check for special offers, and if you don’t see them, ask when booking.
6) Tweet for Treats: Follow your favorite B&B on Twitter or Facebook or sign up for newsletters from your favorite B&Bs. Newsletters often offer exclusive specials or coupons to their loyal guests.
Stay tuned for Part II where you’ll find six more great ideas for bed and breakfast savings.
For More Information:
B&B online directories offering savings to inngoers:
IloveInns.com is offering their 20th edition Bed and Breakfast and Country Inns guidebook for $10 in a blow out sale (regularly $24.95) . It comes with a buy one, get one free certificate for a complimentary second night at B&Bs throughout the country.
BedandBreakfast.com offers a different a savings promotion each month, often resulting in up to $100 off a four-night stay.
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Comments
You can add the cost of lunch to that list, since the breakfasts at most B&Bs are hearty enough to last until it's time for the late afternoon wine and cheese.
Good point, Barbara! Chalk up another $15-$20 in savings at B&Bs!
Not to mention the "beyond compare" level of comfort and personal service... priceless! No hotel could ever come close.
The breakfast part is really important. Ordinary motels and some hotels serve what they call breakfast, but just isn't a lovely relaxing meal to start the day.
Some great deals there.
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