Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
just be a gift certificate to a local restaurant or a light continental. Off-site innkeepers will generally provide the requisite
restaurant recommendations but may be scarce outside breakfast and check-in hours.
In addition to some sort of breakfast, amenities often include baked goods in the afternoons and beverage stations
available all day. Most B&Bs have common areas for guests to gather. Private, en suite bathrooms are the rule rather
than the exception. Each B&B has its own policies, but almost all prohibit smoking, pets and children under the age of
12. Cancellations of less than a week may forfeit a night's pay. Two-day stays may be required.
Camping
Tent site rates range from $10 to $20 per night. Most campgrounds are set up for recreational vehicles (RVs) with elec-
tricity and water at sites ($20 to $50 per night). Facilities almost always include water, toilets and showers. Private
campgrounds may have club rooms, pools and internet access. State parks host some of Texas' best campgrounds, for
more see Outdoors (
Click here
).
Hostels
The Texas hostel network is very small. Austin has several good ones, and Houston has two. Check
www.hostelz.com
to
see if any others have popped up.
Hotels & Motels
Chain hotels and motels rule the state; relatively few places are independently owned.
BARE-BONES BASIC
»
Chains such as Motel 6, Red Roof Inn, Econo Lodge.
»
Synthetic comforters, fake veneer furnishings: expect that they'll all look oddly similar.
»
Hard to find nice ones under $70 a night.
MID-RANGE
»
Brands include La Quinta, Best Western, Hilton Garden Suites, Marriott Courtyard.
»
From $90 to $140 per night.
»
Changeable duvets, coffee makers are usually standard.
»
Rarely have an on-site restaurant.
TOP-END
»
Four Seasons, Westin, St Regis etc.
»
Boutique hotels in Houston, Dallas and San Antonio fall into this category.
»
Stylish surrounds, posh public areas.
»
Numerous dining and drinking outlets on-site.
»
Rates start at $190; some basic amenities (eg internet) may cost extra.
