With more Americans taking car trips this summer and fall (nearly half of them traveling at short notice), chances are you're one of those people looking for last minute accommodations. A reliable option we wouldn't you spur-of-the-moment (or is procrastinating) travelers to forget are the thousands of comfortable B&Bs dotting the map, some of which have reduced their prices with you in mind. How does savings of 10% up to 50% sound?
The Web site, www.bedandbreakfast.com, is the best place to find where you want to stay. They list over 27,000 B&Bs and inns throughout the U.S. around the world. The site has a wide variety of search functions and good maps to help you find the place that suits you best. You can make reservations online, subscribe to a free newsletter and post questions on expert-hosted message boards--hmm, that sounds familiar. Look for "Special B&B Deals" for last-minute offers from inns and B&Bs worldwide.
Some sample discounts for last-minute travel during August (and later, if noted):
Stay two nights, have dinner in the restaurant at least one night, and get 50% off the room rate at Snowvillage Inn in New Hampshire. Regular room prices start at $124 through September 15, 2003, so you would be paying only $62. The deal depends on whether they still have rooms on Thursday mornings, when it goes into effect, so e-mail then. Their Web site is www.snowvillageinn.com.
Up in Victoria, that more-British-than-the-British capital of British Columbia, the Humboldt House B&B offers 10% to 30% off to woo last-minute travelers. Regular rate for the lowest-price room is $155 (American, not Canadian, dollars) and each room features a deep soaking tub and shower. Look them up at www.humboldthouse.com.
In New York City, the 1871 House has its own Procrastinators Club. Sign up on their Web site (www.1871house.com) and get discounted rates. Those who call within 24 hours of arrival receive 30% off regular room rates and a free upgrade at this East 62nd Street site. The price is $139 year round for last-minute callers--for a lower level studio apartment with kitchen, dining area, bedroom with queen bed and bath, but no breakfast.
The Ivy Terrace, also in the city on East 58th Street, rewards those booking at the last minute with a free bottle of wine and a 10% discount on a three-or-more-night stay. Regular room rates year round start at $175, with breakfast food provided in the fridge. The Web site here is www.ivyterrace.com.
In Breckenridge, Colorado, you'll find the Hunt Placer Inn B&B, which gives you a free upgrade to a luxurious mini-suite if you make your reservation within 5 days of arrival. That represents a $40 savings. Rooms here start at $135 for standard units through October 31, 2002. Online at www.huntplacerinn.com.
In Chester, Vermont, the Stone Hearth Inn offers a Simple Super Saver Plan, in which guests receive a $20 per night discount for every two-night stay, as well as a free upgrade of rooms, when the reservation is made within a week of arrival. Value rooms here with double beds go for just $79 midweek, $99 on weekends, year round. Website: www.thestonehearthinn.com.
Room deals mentioned above all include private bath, breakfast (unless otherwise noted) and bedroom with either king, queen or double bed. Taxes are not included.
The URL, again, for the marvelous Bed & Breakfast.com Web site is www.bedandbreakfast.com.
