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Colorado bed and breakfasts join together to create guest lodging an “expected” experience.
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B&Bs offer comfort and quality lodging...
by Sallie Clark, Marketing Chair, Bed & Breakfast Innkeepers of Colorado Association and Innkeeper at Holden House 1902 Bed & Breakfast Inn, Colorado Springs, CO
The second oldest profession: Innkeepers have been around since the beginning of time. From the New Testament's story of Mary and Joseph having to stay in a manger because there was "no room at the inn" to the first monastery that served bed and breakfast guests or a French pension, German gasthaus, English, Irish or Scottish B&B, the American bed and breakfast industry has also come of age. And while B&Bs throughout Europe are known to be quite basic, in the U.S., American travelers have become accustomed to an increasing demand for private baths, warm hospitality and modern amenities.
Envied by many: Innkeeping may be known as the second oldest profession, but innkeepers don’t mind being first when they take top line for the most envied of work environments. For many years, the profession of innkeeping has been glamorized in the media. You know - visions of sitting on the veranda and sipping lemonade while informally chatting with guests and being your own boss - “Oh yes, that’s the life!” That’s also the reason so many guests are continuing to seek out a stay at bed and breakfasts and country inns. It’s the image of a glimpse into history, a return to simpler times, relaxation and rest, romantic rooms and private seclusion or joining other guests for friendly company and good conversation over the breakfast table. Staying at a B&B also provides the expectation of homespun hospitality with a warm smile and welcome to greet you. The saying, “Come as a guest and leave as a friend” is the reason why B&Bs have been, and continue to be the place to stay when looking for a special experience. And, as B&Bs strive to keep up with changing traveler needs and amenities, more business travelers also seek them out to be off the beaten path. Like their leisure counterparts, they enjoy the atmosphere of a home away from home with the corporate amenities they require.
Economic impact: It’s estimated that in 1982 there were approximately 1,200 inns in the United States serving 1 million guests. In 1998, there were approximately 40,000 inns serving 38 million guests, creating $2.1 billion in sales and $2.3 billion in ancillary sales such as attractions, shopping and restaurants. At last count, there were approximately 43 statewide bed and breakfast trade associations, specifically dedicated to promoting B&Bs and many more local associations. As the industry grows, so does the need to pool limited resources together in order to stretch marketing dollars. State tourism efforts continue to focus attention on bed and breakfasts, realizing that not only are they a lodging alternative, but also a valued destination attraction. Even the film and book industry has joined the bandwagon with television reality series, commercials, movies, and novels that feature B&Bs and the innkeeping profession as a backdrop..
The guest: Inn guests fall into an across-the-board category. According to a study completed in 1995 by YBR Marketing, it was confirmed that the bed and breakfast guest is a most desirable visitor to any community. 92.8% attended college, graduated or earned a post-graduate degree and 47.9% had a household income in excess of $75,000. Inn guest couples spent an average of $225.72 per day on lodging food and incidentals. Age groups were not so much a factor, but the inn guest’s primary activities were dining out, sightseeing, shopping and relaxing. Thus, creating a boost to the local economy.
Association trends: So, now that you know about the industry, let’s talk about how to locate quality B&Bs. As the state B&B association in Colorado, Bed & Breakfast Innkeepers of Colorado (BBIC) was founded in 1987 as the first trade association in the state dedicated to promoting quality bed and breakfast inns for guests. Today, that tradition is still alive and well, with a membership of approximately 100 B&Bs statewide, each having been inspected by an independent inspector and approved for membership under a rigorous set of standards. The BBIC association meets each year to conduct business and to provide continuing education for its members and aspiring innkeepers (those looking to start their own B&B). The association also sponsors an “aspiring innkeeper” workshop each year in conjunction with the conference. This year’s conference will be held Nov. 8-9, 2009 in Golden, Colorado. For more information, visit www.InnsofColorado.org Therefore, when seeking out the perfect bed and breakfast, look to a state or local bed and breakfast association where quality is the standard fare. And, if you're traveling to other state's, check out the BBIC website and access the travel links page for a listing of B&B associations nationwide.
Finding a quality B&B: The key to a great B&B stay is research, and Colorado bed and breakfasts offer something for everyone. What better time to visit the Colorado Rockies than during the fall season when the aspen trees are at their peak. Our warm days and cool evenings are a great break from hotter climates and whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family or on business, we’d love to have you drop by. The BBIC website is located at www.InnsofColorado.org . In addition to listing member inns with direct links to individual websites, the BBIC internet site also features a free email sign up subscription to Colorado Inn-Spirations enewsletter, and includes a link partners page with a portal to B&B associations across the United States in an effort to support other state B&B associations. For more information and a free directory, visit the website or call 800-265-7696.
While you might find unexpected events during your travels, you’ll find the expected when it comes to great service, accommodations and delicious breakfasts at one of our Bed & Breakfast Innkeepers of Colorado member inns. Take a “Rest at the Best Colorado has to Offer”.
For General Information on Colorado travel fun, visit www.Colorado.com where you'll find activities for everyone.
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