Bed and breakfast reunion. What is bed and breakfast

Just an hour's drive south of the American city of Boston, in Massachusetts, there is a small town called Fall River. The city is actually small, with less than one hundred thousand inhabitants, and there is nothing remarkable about it, except that the picturesque Taunton River brightens up the local landscape. It was once the center of the United States' textile industry and the Fall River had a great future. However, a lot of water has flowed under the bridge, and the city has not received any grandiose development.

True, there is something here that is attractive to lovers of the unknown and the paranormal. Who in the subject, immediately guessed that we are talking about the legendary house of Lizzie Borden, inhabited by the ghosts of its former owners. The story looks like a good, very high-quality detective story, although everything really happened.

Baby Lizzie was born, like her sister, Emma, ​​in the family of a wealthy, but rather mean, American citizen. Fate did not allow the children to enjoy maternal affection and love, when Lizzie was only two years old, her mother ordered her to live long, and her father did not grieve for her deceased wife, but immediately found a replacement for her. The stepmother was bossy, nasty, picky and extremely greedy.

A stern woman, who does not recognize anyone but herself beloved, somehow did not immediately accept the tiny girls, and communication boiled down to instructions on what, how and when they should do. Lizzie was a good, obedient girl, she did everything that her stepmother thought of and did not grumble about fate, managing to cheer up her younger sister.

Once a real tragedy unfolded in the house. Suspecting that her stepmother was slowly poisoning her father, as well as themselves, Lizzie tried to eat only what is difficult to put poison into, for example, bread, eggs, fruits, but once she really got very poisoned, so much so that she could hardly get out of bed ... At that time, neither her father nor Emma was at home, and Lizzie was resting in her room. When her father returned, Lizzie went out to meet him and, having laid him to rest on the couch, went back to her room.

It was the girl, who came out a little later, and discovered the body of her father, hacked to death with an ax. Lizzie sent a maid for the doctor, and the police came, they also found the corpse of Mrs. Borden, also killed with an ax in the head. At first, of course, Lizzie herself was accused of murder, but then the jury acquitted her, and she inherited her father's inheritance, and sold the ill-fated house, having moved with her sister to another. However, many are still confident in the guilt of the girl, and how it was actually found out is no longer possible.

Myself former house The Bordens are still standing there, and there is a hotel-museum called Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast. There are eight rooms where you can stay, but for more than a day, the tenants for some reason do not stay. They say that ghosts walk there, stomp with disembodied feet, scream and scream wildly, sometimes a child cries and women's sobs are heard, doors open and close themselves. Don't believe me? You have the opportunity to check it yourself.

Today we will share our bed and breakfast experience. This spring due to lengthened May holidays there was a strong desire to go on vacation to Rome. Several years ago we were there, but only 3 days, and for Rome it is nothing. The tickets were already bought quite expensive, but without a change.

Bed and breakfast, own experience

When we started looking at hotels that were available for these dates, they remained either decent, but expensive, or relatively affordable, but very bad in terms of reviews and location.

Therefore, we decided to turn our attention to the so-called B&B, which means Bed and breakfast, that is, bed and breakfast. I used to think that this was something completely primitive, but in fact, at least now, it turned out to be a very decent accommodation, especially if you choose more expensive, however, this is already comparable to a hotel, but the accommodation itself will be much nicer and better.

We chose not very expensive options. Since we changed the number of our days in Rome, the first B&B ran out of all the rooms, so we had to look again and book another second. Today's story will be about them.

In general, a B&B usually has few rooms, maybe from one to 6-7. Therefore, you need to book in advance. Just check that the reservation can be canceled in case of force majeure. So far, we have only used booking from the booking sites.

The first bed and breakfast was located near the Vatican. It is called Domus Quiritum and consists of only 3 rooms. Located in a residential building, it appears to be a former large apartment converted into a Bed and breakfast. The interior is very nice and clean. You can use a shared refrigerator where you can store your food. B&B also provides juices, yoghurts and fruit to eat throughout the day. Breakfast is also included, but of course, small - croissant, biscuits, coffee, juice. You can also make coffee yourself during the day using the coffee machine in the dining room. When we went out to breakfast, we were met by a nice girl with whom we could talk and learn Italian, because I am interested in this language, I spent time with benefit, while eating, trying to reproduce some phrases in Italian and understand what I was told. The atmosphere is very relaxed, you almost feel at home, not like in a hotel.

The room turned out to be very spacious, clean, large bed, wardrobe, table:

Domus Quiritum room

Domus Quiritum room

bathroom with toilet - a fairly large room, everything is there:

Bathroom Domus Quiritum

For some, the main disadvantage of staying in a bed and breakfast is that there is no reception as such - that is, no one is at your disposal around the clock. It is necessary to inform in advance the time of your arrival, so that they will be waiting for you, since they serve only during breakfast, then there will be no one here. You are simply given the keys to the front door, the door to the Bed and breakfast, and to your room.

The second B&B - Lofts in Rome, in which we happened to live this time in Rome, was located near Piazza dei Fiori, in a very popular area. There were 6 rooms in total.

Its main disadvantage was the lack of windows, since he was in an almost basement room. There was undoubtedly a gain in price, since a hotel in this place, with similar conditions, would have cost us 1.5-2 times more. The breakfast here was bigger, in addition to the croissant, it also included a ham or cheese sandwich, although the quality of the food was worse. There was also complimentary bottled water. Also, at any time it was possible to use a capsule coffee machine, which, however, periodically broke down and ran out of capsules with coffee. There were also fruits. Breakfast can be taken to the room and eaten without speaking in Italian.

The room was two-level, on the first one there was a bathroom and a kitchenette - a kettle, a refrigerator, a microwave oven, a table and a fake window :). On the second floor there is a huge bed, a wardrobe and a TV:

First level at Lofts in Rome

First level view and fake window in Lofts in Rome

Second level at Lofts in Rome

Overall the value for money and the particular location is very good, everything we wanted to see in this part of our stay in Rome was within walking distance. I do not regret that we lived in this Bed and breakfast as we walked a lot and were always close to the accommodation.

Of the above, I liked the first B&B more, but in general I never regretted that we had booked not ordinary hotels this time.

In fact, we have already stayed once at Le Petit Tertre in Dijon, which consisted of one room, and it was the most magnificent accommodation I have ever stayed in. (See article). I can't resist showing one more photo of that atmospheric hotel:

B&B in Dijon

Using various sites for searching and booking hotels, you often ask yourself - what is the difference between different types of accommodation? Here, let's compare Bed & Breakfast (B&B) hotels and hotels.

In general terms, we can say that Bed & Breakfast (literally "bed and breakfast" = "Bed and breakfast") is actually the same hotel, but, nevertheless, there are nuances and therefore a hotel with a sign "Hotel" and a hotel with a sign Bed & Breakfast is usually not the same thing. Even Booking.com has a dedicated bed and breakfast section (see). What is a Bed & Breakfast (B&B)?

As the name suggests, Bed & Breakfast is a bed and breakfast only type of hotel (no lunch and dinner options). Not always, but in most cases it is. Another important distinguishing feature of Bed & Breakfast "s is that these are usually small hotels (for example, an apartment divided into 2-4 rooms or a house with 10-20 rooms), in which the owners themselves often live (well, only not in the rooms, of course, but, for example, in a separate part of the same house.) Again, this is not a hard rule, because it could be different. But in any case, Bed & Breakfast is managed directly by the owner or his family members, and not hired managers (although here, too, you can make a reservation “as a rule”, since there may be differences depending on a particular country and the specifics of its legislation).

This, as they say, is about the differences in essence. but what are the differences between a typical Bed & Breakfast and typical hotel ? It would be nice to decide on what is considered a typical hotel. If we talk about family-type hotels, which are also often called mini-hotels or guesthouses ("guest house" - a guest house), then there are practically no differences. On the contrary, such hotels and B & Bs have much more in common. This is, as a rule, the "home" of the atmosphere, starting with interiors, often made in the traditional style of the region in which the hotel is located, and ending with food, often close in essence to what is called " home kitchen". Again, let's say that not everywhere and not always, but often. It is also important to note that such hotels, as a rule, do not have 24-hour "reception". In practice, this is expressed in the fact that with the owners it is necessary to discuss in advance the time when you check in or leave the hotel in order not to be at the closed doors upon arrival. After check-in, guests usually receive keys to their room and to the general entrance to the hotel, which are rented out upon check-out.

In fact, this, in our opinion, is the main purely external difference from non-family hotels managed by hired managers. Such hotels most often have a round-the-clock front desk with a permanent administrator behind it. In these hotels, everything is much more standardized and, as many believe, soulless. Nevertheless, we will probably refrain from evaluations. Both "classic" hotels and bed & breakfast "s have their pros and cons, and tourists are different - some prefer a home environment and the opportunity to communicate directly with the owners of the hotel, while others are focused on greater isolation and solitude in emotional terms, so to speak. ...

Comparing bed and breakfasts and hotels, one cannot but raise the issue of the cost of living. As a rule, prices in bed & breakfast "s are lower than in hotels geographically located in the same area. For example, if you look at the prices for accommodation in the center of Rome, then almost all the most economical options are B & Bs.

There are also differences in terms of the form of payment for accommodation. Most often, you can pay for a room in a bed & breakfast in cash only, while hotels, as a rule, accept both cash and bank cards international payment systems.

These are, perhaps, the main differences between hotels and Bed & Breakfast "s.

"Bed and breakfast" (English - bed & breakfast, B&B), that is, in translation "bed and breakfast" - is another of the accommodation options, popular in many countries of the world, especially in Europe. Difficulties.net has already examined in detail the features of European hotels and apartment rentals, but now it's time for B&B.

Bed and Breakfast is essentially a private mini-hotel owned by one owner (family). This is, as a rule, a private apartment (house) with several rooms in which guests live. At the same time, part of the territory of the apartment has been turned into a public space - a living room and a kitchen, as well as often a bathroom with a toilet, are common for all guests of the B&B. Basic services in this case include the provision of overnight stay ("bed") and breakfast.

In no case should you confuse bed and breakfast with a hostel., which by definition is a hostel (in most cases, you pay for the night in the same room with other residents, of course, both the kitchen and the bathroom are shared). In a B&B you get a private room and, quite often, your own bathroom, at a price lower than the price of a hotel room. In addition, the owners of bed and breakfast mini-hotels, as a rule, fight for clients and create a truly homely atmosphere in their apartments.

Pros and cons of Bed & breakfast

For whom, how, but for me in the accommodation of "bed and breakfast" there are much more pluses than minuses, and lately I more and more often opt for them when traveling across Europe.

The owners place their properties in the same booking systems as the hotels (there are also entire sites dedicated to finding only bed and breakfast). Accordingly, you have before your eyes complete information about the conditions of accommodation, services and services, as well as reviews of guests who have already been there.

In the overwhelming majority of cases in Europe, "bed and breakfast" is a well-renovated apartment (house) prepared specially for renting. This is a big plus, because, for example, in the case of Airbnb, you may well find yourself in a rather unkempt master's apartment, from where only a couple of days ago the owner took out some of his belongings, deciding to earn extra money on tourists. Unlike Airbnb, bed and breakfast does not require a deposit for your accommodation (in any case, I have never met such).

Breakfast is served in bed and breakfast in the shared dining room by the hosts, or you can whip it up yourself by taking the food you owe (since you paid for breakfast) in the fridge. In this regard, bed and breakfast is not much different from a standard hotel: usually a choice of tea, coffee, juice, toast, pastries, eggs or sausages. There are a lot of variations here, for example, the owner of your B&B can even send you to the nearest cafe, where you can choose a drink + a croissant or something more substantial for a certain amount.

As a rule, the owners of the B&B themselves clean the rooms after the guests check out, or some of them hire someone from outside to clean.

Most the best way- if the B&B you want to book only has 1-2 rooms... Chances are good that you will be alone during this period, without guest neighbors, especially if you are staying for only one or two nights. This means that you will have at your disposal the whole spacious apartment, which gives completely different sensations than a hotel.

The only drawback is the need to "check the clock" with the owner of the mini-hotel before your arrival.(since he cannot sit and wait for you 24 hours, as in a 24-hour hotel reception), so in Europe be sure to have his local number on hand.

Another moment. Many B&B owners prefer to get paid for the room with cash (not everyone in Europe wants to pay taxes in full, either), so it is better to have cash with you.

In general, it is great option for a lower price get a more spacious and comfortable room than in a hotel, often in the very historical center of European cities, with breakfast and often with a warm welcome from the owners. Still, in "bed and breakfast" the reception of guests is not set on such a flow as in a hotel or hostel, and this type of accommodation itself implies "home hospitality". Usually, the owner will also be happy to tell you about everything interesting that is around, and will guide you in the city.

The Åland Islands have a long tradition of caring for travelers. Along the old post road were inns where tired travelers could sleep and refresh themselves. Today's visitors move much faster, and the choice of places to stay along the route is more varied.

Most of the hotels are located in Mariehamn, but some are located in the countryside and in the archipelago: two four-star hotels in the Åland Islands - Havsvidden in Yeta and Silverskär in Saltvik, as well as several three- and two-star hotels, for example, Bastö in Finström, Elvira in Eckerø or Gullviva at Brandeau. Construction of the Smakbyn Hotel in Sunda is planned.

There are some very good and quirky hotels and bed and breakfast in the Åland Islands. Hotels in a historic setting include the Hotel Enigheten in an old courthouse and inn from the 18th century in Degerby on Vöglø. You will also feel the old atmosphere combined with modern comfort at the Björnhufvud in Eckerø, Kvarnbo in Saltvik and Amalia in Lemland.

Hotel Kvarnbo, built in the 1880s, has interesting story... The hotel is located opposite the Saltviks kyrka church, and modern archaeologists believe that there was major center trade during the early Iron Age and the Viking Age in 500-1000 AD. When the future owners of the hotel, Ella and Martin, bought their relative's old house, it was in very poor condition.

Today the main part of the house with an area of ​​540 square meters has been completely renovated. The kitchen, dining room and eight large rooms have been lovingly refurbished. The interiors and colors correspond to the era of the building, although it is equipped with all modern comforts - each room has a toilet and shower.

The main idea was for the guests not only to spend time here, but to be able to enjoy it. Guests sit and chat for a long time in the evenings on the veranda or in the dining room by the fireplace.

Ella is a sommelier and organizes beer, wine and champagne tastings. All equipment is locally produced. The strongest taste experience was caused by tasting the world's oldest champagne, found in the wreck of a ship that sank in the waters of Åland in 2010.

Ella's other passion is music. Music events are organized here every summer. Also worth seeing is the fully stocked early 20th century workshop, which features a bar, pinball and old bicycles that Martin is restoring.

Although summer is the most favorable season, many people prefer to visit the Åland Islands at other times of the year as well. The following hotels are open all year round or at least until late autumn:

PellasGästhem Hotel in Lappo Brandø and JurmoVandrarhem Hostel in Jurmo Brandø, Degerby Mat & Café in Vöglø, Antonsgästhem Hotel on Chokar Island, Djurviks Hotel in Yomala, Godby Gästhem Hotel and Godby Vandrardshem Hostel in Gionatöndeundeon, Gudby Vandrardshem Hostel in Gudbyu Lemdande, Hotel Anderssonsoch Granbergs in Eckerø.