Some of our most satisfied customers are first time B&B guests.
When some people think about staying at a Bed and Breakfast (B&B), they imagine unpleasant things like waiting in line to use the bathroom while the innkeeper's daughter is taking her time in the shower. Or sitting in the family room at night watching only the TV shows that the family wants to see. Or fighting with the innkeeper's son over the last piece of French toast at the family breakfast table in the morning.
If this is how you imagine life at a Bed and Breakfast, it's no wonder you've never had the desire to stay at one before. For people who want a rustic cabin or life in the wilderness with a tent, then perhaps a B&B is not for you. But if you want all the comforts and amenities of an upscale hotel room, along with a few little 'extras' that a hotel simply can't offer - then you should definitely consider staying at a Bed and Breakfast for a change.
One of my guests recently compared it to choosing a restaurant for dinner. If you want a safe, standard, predictable menu, then you will likely opt for a chain restaurant such as a 'Boston Pizza' or 'Kelsey's'. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique, one-of-a-kind restaurant that is rich in atmosphere, maybe has a story to tell, and prepares food in delicious ways you have never tried before - then the adventurous side of you would probably prefer staying at a B&B.
Hotels are fine in the sense that there are no surprises. You are almost always going to get a decent room without any hassles. But when you are on vacation, even if its just for a night or two, staying at a Bed and Breakfast promises to be a much more rewarding and memorable experience. There are many fine B&B's in Simcoe county that offer private suites, complete with separate sitting rooms with cable TV, private bathrooms – some even having a Jacuzzi tub, a fireplace or even a private sauna. All for about the same price as you would pay at a standard hotel. And don't forget the delicious, often home cooked breakfast waiting for you the next morning. Try getting all of that at a regular hotel! Staying at a Bed and Breakfast can also be a very social experience. Your hosts are likely to be very knowledgeable about the local area and can give you tips on what to see and do, as well as where to dine. Breakfast in the morning can also be very interesting, not just from a culinary point of view but in terms of the other travellers you may meet from other parts of the province or even other parts of the world. We have had couples stay with us who start out as complete strangers and wind up being good friends by the time they leave, enjoying many of the local sites together during their stay.
So, the next time you embark on a journey big or small - put some spice into your travel and try staying at one or more B&B's along the way. No two places are alike, so I can guarantee you a pleasant and unforgettable experience!
John and Cathy Martens
John and Cathy Martens are the proud owners of A Wymbolwood Beach House B&B, just 15 minutes north of Wasaga Beach.
