Bed and Breakfasts Romantic and Relaxing

Thankfully the days are long gone when staying at a bed and
breakfast entailed sleeping in someone\'s spare room with basic
amenities (possibly including a tired shag carpet) and a shared
bathroom \down the hall\. Hardly romantic!

In fact, the change is so pronounced that smaller boutique
hotels are now incorporating some of the successful qualities of
bed and breakfasts into their renovations. The bywords of good
quality B&Bs are perfect for those seeking a romantic retreat:
intimacy, cosiness, high quality surroundings and a relaxed
quiet friendly atmosphere.

According to the Travel Industry of America, over 42 million
people in the USA had at least one trip last year for occasions
such as a honeymoon or anniversary. This is a market to which
bed and breakfasts have responded. Many are in attractive older
homes which ooze charm, furnished by antiques set in lovely
dcor. You can lazily luxuriate in fine linens on a comfortable
bed, soak in a two-person bubbling whirlpool bathtub and snuggle
up in armchairs to enjoy the ambience of a fireplace - just the
place for a romantic break.

At our Victoria bed and breakfast we love to hear the oohs and
aahs as our guests first enter their room, beholding the beauty
of the surroundings they have chosen for their special time. It
is very rewarding. Even more rewarding has been the discovery
that some guests have become good personal friends.

Personable hospitality is provided by the innkeepers in whose
home you stay. They are not there just for an eight hour shift
for a pay cheque twice a month. Their livelihood depends on what
they offer and how they offer it, so you will rarely be
disappointed.

Planning. Whilst there can be pleasure in acting spontaneously
it is best to take some time in advance to plan your retreat
away. Use the internet to research B&B websites in your area of
choice to find the right amenities and setting at the right
price. Browse through local B&B associations\' websites as well
as those of individual establishments. Some will feature romance
packages. Perhaps the trip could be a surprise for your partner.
Plan to stay for more than one night to allow time to unwind and
enjoy the locality as well as to relax. If the occasion is
special it merits paying a little extra to enjoy the finer
things of life. Remember that a B&B may be less expensive than
an equivalent hotel if only because a full memorable home-cooked
breakfast is included in the overnight rate.

Activities v non-activities. Togetherness in a different
environment is wonderful therapy. Mix rest and activity; perhaps
reading in gardens or strolling on a beach and visiting a local
attraction or browsing through antique shops. (Leave work behind
- no such conversation, no laptop, perhaps no cell phone.) Bring
special treats with you like favourite CDs and DVDs, wine,
chocolates, bubble bath etc. Do check if candles and massage oil
may be used. Bed and breakfast hosts are glad to extend genuine
helpful hospitality so ask your innkeeper for local
recommendations - cosy restaurants, a spa, shopping guidance,
activity suggestions and the best places for whatever you are
interested in.

If this is your first bed and breakfast experience it will
probably not be your last.