The Difference Between Bed and Breakfasts and Motels

In one word, it's Stereotype. Stereotype is a good descriptor for chain motels. The chains have done a good job of branding. You can be pretty sure of the level of service and the kind of amenities you'll have when you choose a certain motel brand.

On the other hand, if you haven't tried a B&B it may be because of a stereotype. Don't automatically assume that you're just staying in a spare room in someone's house. If you think the bed and breakfast experience involves sharing a bathroom down the hall with complete strangers or having a curfew or staying in a room cluttered with too much bric-a-brac, then you're a victim of stereotype, because there are an estimated 17,000 B&B's in the United States, and no two are alike.

McDowell-Nearing House is a B&B for the 21st Century: We Offer

•  Private ensuite bathrooms; two with whirlpool tubs, two with large showers
• High quality linens, fluffy bath towels, robes
• Name brand soap, conditioner, shampoo and lotion
• Iron, ironing board, hair dryer, makeup mirror
• In-room table or desk with comfortable chairs
•  Four season electric fireplaces
• WiFi, iPod docks, flat screen TV's with cable, DVD players and plenty of electric outlets
• Central heat and air with individual thermostats
• 24 hour access to the breakfast room with microwave, refrigerator, hot and cold beverages and snacks
• Home cooked breakfast served on china at the time most convenient for you
• Guest parlor with plasma TV and gas fireplace, library with guest netbook computer
• Well-lighted off-street parking
  

A recent industry survey shows that the greatest majority of B&B's offer amenities similar to ours. You won't encounter hidden charges such as resort fees, parking costs, or mini-bars.

Bed and Breakfasts are small businesses. A typical B&B has between 4 and 11 rooms. We collect taxes, have licenses and abide by local and state ordinances. Many are inspected by both local government and a local or state bed and breakfast association to assure safety and cleanliness. Four out of 5 owners live on the premises and are participants in the life of the town you're visiting. We put a premium on customer satisfaction. We take pride in our property, whether it's an historic home that has been preserved by its conversion into a B&B or a newly constructed place that is planned around your comfort and privacy.

We appreciate our guests and strive to be knowledgeable about our locality - local events, getting around town, where to dine. If your visit is for romance, we offer add-on packages like roses, chocolates, sometimes even in-room massages can be arranged. It's concierge plus service. Many of our guests agree that a bed and breakfast is "A Better Way to Stay."