10 Things B&B Guests Want

Here is what you’re potential B2B guests are thinking…

It’s vacation time. I want to try something new – a bed and breakfast. It’ll be more home-like and very relaxing to stay at a B&B.

Bed and breakfasts have cozy accommodations in a more private, less commercial setting.

Each B&B has its own unique charm – it might be a rustic setting, French country, luxury or antique-filled.

The ambiance, the friendly service and the delicious food set a B&B apart from its hotel cousins.

They have an image in their head. The key for you, the B2B owner, is to make sure you meet and exceed the image in your customers’s heads.

In this article, we look at 10 things B2B guests are looking for when it comes to having their most enjoyable vacation in years.

#1: Online Reviews

One of the most important things guests do before choosing the right B&B is check the online reviews. (tweet this)

They consult with Google, Facebook, Yelp and Trip Advisor. These are popular places to find bed and breakfast reviews.

You can usually trust what you find, but be careful. If you see 50 positive reviews and one or two negative ones, they might be fake or from people who are hard to please.

Look at reviews customers are leaving you. See if there is room for improvement. Leave signage around your B2B letting guests know where they can leave reviews.

#2: Breakfast

Breakfast is an integral part of a B&B stay.

Guests want to make sure breakfast is delicious, filling and wonderful. After all, breakfast is half of the reason they are choosing this type of lodging.

Every B&B owner has their own breakfast style. One might offer French cuisine while another offers home-style cooking such as biscuits and gravy.

Check out the breakfast and make sure it’s acceptable for guests.

Some guests may have food allergies or special needs such as gluten-free so they’ll ask if the B2B will cater to food specifications and personalize their menu.

#3: Theme

Bed and breakfasts usually have a theme.

The quintessential B&B is an old Victorian mansion filled with gorgeous, but uncomfortable antiques and an austere air. For many people this is very charming, but it may not be for everyone.

B&Bs have come a long way. You’re sure to find numerous different styles. From Victorian to rustic, to French provincial and modern. Choose one. Embrace it. Focus on the guests that want your theme.

Most people can find a bed and breakfast that intrigues them and makes them feel right at home.

#4: Bathrooms

It’s hard to believe, but there are still bed and breakfasts that have communal bathrooms.

Some might all be organized this way, while others might have several rooms with their own baths, but several others that share bathrooms.

In another instance, you might have a private bath, but it’s located outside your room.

Avoid any discomfort and be upfront with your guests on the bathroom situation. You most definitely want to clear this up if guests are the private-bath kind.

#5: Surrounding Area

Before choosing a bed and breakfast, guests consider the surrounding area.

Is the B&B located in a safe part of town? Is it within walking distance of attractions, shopping and dining?

They might ask if the B&B is in a quiet location or the center of the city. Perhaps they’re looking for the city-vibe, or maybe they want a peaceful, restful stay.

If they need transportation, is it easy to get on the bus or train? Is Uber available?

#6: They’ll Ask Questions

Potential guests often make a list of all the questions they have. Staying in a B&B is a more intimate experience than staying in a hotel, and to have the best time, they want to make sure they know everything up front.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Is it smoke-free, pet-free or children-free?
• Do you have Wi-Fi or cable television?
• Can I print from my computer if needed?
• Is it quiet?
• Do you offer mid-day refreshments or dinner?

#7: Booking Procedure

Bed and breakfasts don’t have a lot of rooms, so they are often booked, especially during the busy season.

Be sure to help your guests know when they should book your B&B. Maybe it’s at least 45-60 days out. This may mean the difference to getting a room or being denied. It might also mean that they can get the first choice of room.

Don’t forget to ask about cancellation policies. Be upfront with any and all the fine print.

#8: Little Details

Guests want to check on the amenities, beyond bathroom and the basics, at the bed and breakfast to make sure they’re suitable.

Do they need a gym or access to one, a hair dryer, extra toiletries, swimming, hot tub, room service or coffee any time of day?

Make sure to include all the details so guests know what to expect, what to bring and what not to bring.

#9: Pets

Do guests need to bring pets?

They most certainly want to find out if the B&B is pet-friendly. This might mean the difference between them leaving on vacation or staying home.

On the flip side, if they don’t like animals or are allergic to them, they’ll want to find out if they’re allowed.

They’ll also want to ask if the innkeepers have their own furry friends. Even if you don’t allow guests to bring pets, the residents animals might bother them if they’re allergic.

#10: A Few Final Things

How do guests really know if a B&B is right?

Here’s a list of things they often ponder before reaching out to make that reservation:

• Small, intimate travel lodging and dislike large hotels.
• Rooms that are uniquely decorated appeal to you, and antiques
• Meeting new people and are a social person, so breakfast with new friends sounds wonderful.
• The charm of a B&B beats modern electronic conveniences.
• Want an adults-only place to stay.
• Personalized attention from the innkeepers is welcome.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know a little more about how guests choose the right B&B you’re better prepared to market to your audience and know how to treat them when they arrive. Know who you are and what you have to offer. Know your audience and help them realize that your B&B is the best option for them!

 

At Hotel Propeller, we build functional, beautiful websites to help you stand out in the crowd. You’ll find everything you need to attract guests to your website through your email marketing. Take a look at our showcase and contact us today. 

Images: Roberto Nixon and Travis Grossen on Unsplash