3 Unique Differences Between a Bed and Breakfast and an Airbnb

Choosing the right accommodation type can significantly impact your experience when planning a relaxing getaway. As mentioned in several other informative blogs, there are numerous types of accommodations that one could look for in a hospitality property. Two other popular options are available in the US: Airbnbs and bed and breakfasts (B&Bs). Both offer unique, memorable, and relaxing experiences but differ in several key areas, including overall service, in-house amenities, fees, and more. This blog will delve into the specifics explaining the differences between Airbnb rentals and bed and breakfasts.

Atmosphere and Experience

Bed and Breakfast (B&B)

• Old-Fashioned Hospitality: Bed and breakfasts are renowned for their warm, welcoming

  

  atmosphere, often imbued with old-fashioned hospitality. Old-fashioned hospitality is the culture behind the warm welcoming of visitors into their homes, which they are most known for, even though other hospitality properties can and will do the same. These establishments typically offer a cozy, home-like experience where guests can enjoy a personal touch.

• Personalized Experience: Bed and breakfasts are small, generally family-run establishments with fewer rooms, offering an intimate and customized experience. Hosts often live on-site and provide local recommendations, engaging with guests to ensure a personalized stay. This level of service makes guests feel valued and special.
• Unique Charm: Each room in a bed and breakfast features unique decor that reflects the property’s character and history. Many are in historic buildings, adding charm and a sense of stepping back in time. This unique atmosphere creates a memorable experience for travelers.

Airbnb

• Variety and Independence: Airbnb is a platform that empowers travelers with a wide range of lodging options, from a single room in an apartment to entire homes, including unique spaces like treehouses and mansions. This diversity caters to travelers, from solo adventurers to large families, allowing them to choose their ideal stay.
• Less Personal Interaction: Unlike bed and breakfasts, Airbnb hosts sometimes do not interact much with their guests, which is not always the case. This lack of involvement can sometimes offer a greater sense of privacy and independence but lacks a personal touch. Checking into the Airbnb property involves contacting the host to confirm arrival details. When guests arrive, options can include an in-person key exchange or a self-check-in.
• Modern and Diverse Styles: Accommodations on Airbnb can vary widely in style, from minimalist modern apartments to rustic cabins. This platform offers more options for those seeking a specific aesthetic or unconventional lodging experience.

Linens and Bedding

Bed and Breakfast (B&B)

• High-Quality Linens: Generally, bed and breakfasts provide high-quality, often luxurious linens and

  

  bedding to enhance the overall experience.

• Daily Housekeeping: These properties keep the linens fresh by changing them regularly and cleaning the rooms daily, though since Covid, many give you the option to do daily cleaning or not. B&Bs correspond to most hotels’ standards, including sanitation and housekeeping.
• Attention to Detail: Hosts often ensure that bedding is comfortable and inviting, with extras like decorative pillows or high-thread-count sheets.

Airbnb

• Varied Quality: The quality of linens can vary widely. Some properties offer hotel-quality linens, while others may provide more basic options.
• Self-Service: Guests may need to make their beds, even with the typically provided linens, and do laundry if their stays extend longer.
• Flexibility: Guests can choose properties based on their linen preferences, often detailed in reviews or in property descriptions, or you can call ahead to check with the hosts.

In-House Amenities and Services

Bed and Breakfast (B&B)

• Delicious Breakfasts: One of the hallmarks of a bed and breakfast is the complimentary homemade breakfast. These meals are often a highlight, featuring local

  

  ingredients, hearty comfort foods, and a wider variety of options.

• Personalized Amenities: Bed and breakfasts often go the extra mile with amenities, such as gift baskets with local products, pamphlets, advertisements, or other unique event decorations. They use mini shampoo, conditioner bottles, small travel-size kits, or refillable toiletries. The goal is to make the guests feel at home and warmly cared for.
• Host Involvement: Hosts at bed and breakfasts are typically profoundly and personally involved in the guest experience. From helping to prepare meals to providing daily housekeeping, they also often participate in local events and fundraisers, further embedding the establishment within the community and with guests.

Airbnb

• Varied Amenities: The level of amenities in an Airbnb can vary greatly depending on location,

  

  pricing, and number of people. Some Airbnbs’ will provide pump dispensers that can be refilled with soap, shampoo, or conditioner, while others provide small disposable containers. While some hosts provide fully equipped kitchens, others may offer only basic amenities like a microwave or coffee pot. Breakfast is generally not included unless specified in the listing.

• Self-Service and Additional Costs: Most Airbnbs have kitchens requiring guests to cook and clean up, including taking out the trash and washing laundry. In addition to these self-service tasks, hidden fees like service charges or cleaning fees can be added. That does not include any additional pet fees.
• Diverse Options: The variety of accommodation means that amenities can range from luxurious to very basic, depending on the property and the host’s offerings. Guests can filter listings to find properties with specific amenities like pools, pet-friendly policies, or workspaces.

InnStyle at Your Service!

InnStyle is here to help anyone wishing to have or host beautiful experiences at their desired hospitality properties. Along with comparing Airbnbs and bed and breakfasts, InnStyle has also written blogs comparing the differences between a hotel and motel. Staff are always available to answer your questions, so please call InnStyle and speak to one of their representatives. A few suggested amenity product lines on the InnStyle website are their Infuse White Tea Coconut Kit, Cali Tarocco, and the Terra Green Amenities. InnStyle can be reached at 267-354-6020 or 800-877-4667. Their website is https://www.innstyle.com/.