Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Some B&Bs stock rooms with an electric kettle, along with cups, tea bags, and coffee
packets (if you prefer decaf, buy a jar at a grocery, and dump the contents into a baggie for
easy packing).
Electrical outlets sometimes have switches that turn the current on or off; if your elec-
trical appliance isn't working, flip the switch at the outlet. When you unplug your appli-
ance, don't forget your adapter—most B&Bs have boxes of various adapters and convert-
ers that guests have left behind (which is handy if you left yours at the last place).
MostB&Bscomewiththinwallsanddoors.Thiscanmakeforanoisynight,especially
with people walking down the hall to use the bathroom. If you're a light sleeper, bring
earplugs. And please be quiet in the halls and in your rooms (gently shut your door, talk
softly, and keep the TV volume low)...those of us getting up early will thank you for it.
Virtually all rooms have sinks. You'll likely encounter unusual bathroom fixtures. The
“pump toilet” has a flushing handle that doesn't kick in unless you push it just right: too
hard or too soft, and it won't go. (Be decisive but not ruthless.) There's also the “dial-a-
shower,” an electronic box under the showerhead where you'll turn a dial to select the heat
of the water, and (sometimes with a separate dial or button) turn on or shut off the flow of
water. If you can't find the switch to turn on the shower, it may be just outside the bath-
room.
Your B&B bedroom might not include a phone. In the mobile-phone age, street phone
booths can be few and far between. Some B&B owners will allow you to use their phone,
but understandably they don't want to pay for long-distance charges. If you must use their
minutes max). If you plan to stay in B&Bs and make frequent calls, consider bringing a
for places with Wi-Fi (noted in my hotel listings). Ask your host about using this service,
as some rooms might have better reception than others; usually the ground-floor lobby or
breakfast room is your best bet.
A few B&B owners are also pet owners. And, while pets are rarely allowed into guest
rooms, and B&B proprietors are typically very tidy, those with pet allergies might be
bothered. I've tried to list which B&Bs have pets, but if you're allergic, ask about pets
when you reserve.
Remember that you'll likely need to pay cash for your room. Think ahead so you have
enough cash to pay up when you check out.
