Amenities to Zoning: A is for Amenties

Amenities:  Attractive extras.  The features that, when taken together, make a B&B attractive to guests or customers.

Above and beyond "attractive extras", the amenities you make available in your bed and breakfast should exceed your guests' expectations and create that ever desirable WOW factor.  Inn amenities transcend soaps and shampoos and include everything from beach chairs to fresh flowers.  Your amenities should be equal to and consistent with your property's level of luxury and should be promoted on your website.  One inn's website I visited recently described their inn as romantic, elegant and tranquil.  The amenities they listed on their room page mentioned irons, ironing boards and hairdryers.  While these items are important and worth mentioning, where is the mention of plush terry robes or over sized soaking tubs complete with bubble bath which are consistent with their romantic, elegant and tranquil message?

Upgrade and refresh your amenities regularly.  A good example is an inn we are familiar with that has recently added a new state of the art coffee machine where guests can brew a freshly made cup of coffee, cappuccino or espresso at any hour.  I believe a guest's impression would be WOW the innkeepers are always thinking of me.  As an aside, the innkeepers are also thinking of themselves because this machine saves them time, something all innkeepers need more of!

Trends are constantly evolving and it pays to keep up with them.  In a recent article from portfolio.com titled "A Watery Grave for Hotel Tub's", whirlpool tubs for two are still high on most guests list of wants when they are planning a romantic getaway but there is a growing trend towards more elaborate and spacious showers. Families understandably still want tubs for the kiddies.  If possible and appropriate, having a good mix of both will definitely cover all your guest's needs and desires.

Quality amenities are important to your property's image and should not be overlooked or skimped upon.  Quality does not necessarily mean expensive.  Many innkeepers who are concerned about the expense and waste of bar soaps and shampoo and lotion bottles are changing to liquid dispensers.  There are high end and attractive dispensers available in the market today and guests will respect your desire to provide them with quality amenities and your concern for the environment.

It would be great to hear about any wonderful new amenity or service you have added to your property and what your guest's reactions were.  Hopefully it was WOW!

Janet