General Information
When it comes to booking hotels, doing your homework beforehand is crucial for the best chance of satisfying both your wallet and your needs. Make sure to check out these tips to be informed. Start by considering the location of the hotel in relation to your travel itinerary; proximity to key attractions can save you both time and transportation costs. Don’t overlook the importance of guest reviews and ratings, as these can provide valuable insights into the quality of service and amenities offered. Additionally, compare prices across multiple platforms to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions or loyalty programs that could offer significant discounts. Lastly, consider the amenities that are essential for your stay, whether it’s free Wi-Fi, a gym, or an in-house restaurant, to make sure the hotel meets all your requirements.
Room Types and Room Category
Hotel rooms are categorized and priced according to the number of occupants, number and type of beds, and the amenities that they offer, decor, specific features, room size and even views from the hotel and their rates vary accordingly.
Guest Rooms are assigned morning of the arrival of the guest by the front desk agent who blocks the room according to the room category purchased and at that time, tries to accommodate any specific room requests, such as adjoining rooms, non-smoking rooms, etc.
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Room Type – Indicates the number of occupants and bedding in the room:
Single: A room assigned to one person. Maybe smaller than other rooms
Double: A room assigned to two people. May have a double bed or 2 twins pulled together
Twin: A room with two twin beds. May be occupied by one or more people.
Triple: A room assigned to three people. May have two or more beds, or a roll-away
Quad: A room assigned to four people. May have two or more beds.
King: A room with a king sized bed. May be occupied by one or more people.
Room Category – based on room size, location and amenities.
Standard Room, Classic or Economy Room
The standard designation denotes the most basic type of room offered by the hotel. Standard rooms typically offer the facility’s basic room with few luxuries and a street or parking lot view. Standard rooms vary considerably from hotel to hotel, and hotels known for upscale service likely offer standard rooms with more features than hotels that cater to budget travelers. In addition, some hotels may label a typical room as standard and offer a lower class of rooms under the designation of economy.
The standard room has the basic amenities, usually a television, telephone, closet and private bathroom. Other offerings in the standard room depend on the hotel. For example, two-star hotels may offer little more than the basics. A five-star hotel’s standard room may have a Jacuzzi tub, flat-screen television, honor bar and designer interior decorating.
Superior Room:
This category is always subject to interpretation. It’s supposed to mean superior to a standard room in both size and furnishings, but sometimes it refers to just the view. Some hotels have only Superior rooms; the categories then are defined by the view and location of the room.
Deluxe Room, Executive Room:
A step above standard, moderate and superior rooms, deluxe accommodations combine a desirable view with a number of luxurious amenities. Deluxe rooms surpass lesser accommodations in size, furniture, view, location or any combination thereof.
Run of House:
This can mean anything the hotel wants it to mean, but typically the interpretation should be standard room or better at time of check in; any location within the hotel. With the exception of upgrades to suites or junior suites, this category often does not distinguish between Standard, Superior or Deluxe. It does NOT mean, however, best room available at time of check-in.
Junior Suite:
A junior suite is typically a larger room with a separate seating area. Sometimes it`s got a small divider between the part of the room that the bed is in and the seating area, but it is not two separate rooms. Not quite a full suite, the junior suite gives travelers an opportunity to relax in a designated area of the room or work at an in-room desk. If the hotel also offers a kitchenette in the room, the designation may change to studio.
Suite:
A Suite is usually two or more rooms clearly defined; a bedroom and a living or sitting room, with a door that closes between them. Many hotels use the word ‘suite’ to define any room with a sofa in it so be sure to check thoroughly if what you really want are the two or more separate rooms. Suites are used by business people and families looking to stay in the hotel. The best type of suite is the executive or presidential suite. They are very spacious with the best views and amenities that that hotel has to offer. In many hotels, the presidential suite is on the top floor or penthouse. This suite is the most expensive room in the hotel. Standard suites are more expensive than a standard room of course but may cost only slightly more than the triple or family rooms.
Triple or Family Rooms:
A few hotels built to accommodate families will offer larger rooms with three or more beds. A triple room has three beds. Family rooms offer sitting areas that double as a sleeping space when the couch lets out into a bed. Triple or family rooms are more commonly found as suites than as one large room with several beds in it. It may be more practical to simply upgrade to a suite rather than take a triple room in a hotel that is not tailored toward families.
Views:
In addition to describing the arrangement of beds and furniture, a hotel room classification may denote the view. Hotels often market rooms designated with an ocean view, mountain view, or city view. Depending on location, the hotel may also offer additional designations that include garden view, pool view, beach front and water view.
Meals Plan
Room Only
There are no meals included in your rate.
Bed and Breakfast
Breakfast is included in your nightly room rate. Normally at the hotel dining area only. Breakfast could range from Continental Breakfast (Coffee, Tea, Croissants, Breads and Fruit) to Full Breakfast (Including eggs, omelets, cheeses, etc). Normally the higher the category of hotel you choose, the larger the spread of breakfast items. Breakfast will only be served during a specific time which will be informed at check in.
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American Breakfast
Breakfast is included in your nightly room rate. American Breakfast will include most or all of the following: two eggs (fried or poached), sliced bacon or sausages, sliced bread or toast with jam/jelly/butter, pancakes with syrup, cornflakes or other cereal, coffee/tea, orange/grapefruit juice.
All-Inclusive
All-inclusive plans differ from resort to resort, but the basic ‘inclusive’ plan traditionally covers all meals and beverages.
American Plan
Includes three meals per day at the hotel, i.e. breakfast, lunch and dinner. Meals plans typically do not include wine or cocktails.
Bedding
Americans are used to hotels in the US which normally offer big rooms with either 2 queen sized beds or 1 king bed. It is very important to be aware the rest of the world, does not follow those same standards, unless you opt to stay at a familiar chain property. Remember a lot of hotels overseas, especially in Europe and small historic places throughout the world are built on historic buildings and offer the traditional sleep arrangements of the country.
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For example, most hotels in Europe offer twin beds as the default bedding. The configuration could be one twin bed (for single occupancy, normally the smallest rooms in a hotel), 2 twin beds separated by a nightstand or 2 twin beds pulled together to form a double bed.
When you click on ‘Browse hotels’ in our booking process, our display under Room Type will display the Room category and underneath the number of beds, when that information is provided for us to display.
Special Requests
Special Requests are forwarded to the hotel when requested. Remember that these cannot be reserved ahead of time, they are provided to the hotel so that the Front Desk can do all possible to accommodate you but are subject to availability on your day of arrival.
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Connecting Rooms:
Rooms with individual entrance doors from the outside and a connecting door between. Guests can move between rooms without going through the hallway.
Adjoining Rooms:
Rooms with a common wall but no connecting door.
Adjacent Rooms:
Rooms close to each other, perhaps across the hall.
Room Location:
Request a room on a higher or lower floor, close or far from elevator, etc.
Room Quality:
Request a quiet room, or a non-smoking room (the vast majority of hotels today are non-smoking).
Location of Hotel
Depending on a hotel’s primary purpose, its location is a major consideration:
Major Cities:
Look for hotels that are located in the city, close to the major points of interests. Most big cities, especially those in Europe, are ‘walk-able’ cities, being in a centrally located property, close to the main attractions, with nice restaurants in the area, etc, is ideal.
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Remember, you are there to visit, so although, the price of the hotel may be slightly higher, you will save tons of money on transportation. Plus the convenience of being able to go back to the hotel easily to drop off items if you are shopping or to get ready for dinner are worth every penny.
Small Towns on Country Self Drives:
When you are visiting a country with a rent a car, the actual location of the hotel is subject to the area that you are visiting. Many times, you may wish to stay at a countryside location to have easy access to the attractions in the area or enjoy the beautiful surroundings or the property itself. Other times, it may involve staying at a small charming town. It is very important to research and make your hotel choice appropriate to the area and your interests.
One very important thing to keep in mind is parking. Check the facilities of the hotel that you have chosen to make sure that parking is offered on site. Remember, that just because the hotel offers parking, it does not mean that it is free. So be prepared for parking fees to be paid directly at the location.
Also, look into the town that you are visiting and make sure that it is easy to drive around. Many hill towns, for example, will not allow cars in the town. You will have to park at the entrance and walk to your property. Research ahead of time is very important to have a flawless vacation!
Tropical island or beach resort:
If you are traveling to a tropical Island or beach resort, a beachfront location or access to the beach will be very important. Do remember, that beachfront locations will most probably be a little more expensive. But as your holiday will be based around the beach and the property, the location and the amenities included will definitely affect the quality of your vacation.
Inland resorts:
A lakefront location or mountain-backdrop combined with access to towns or cities will make a difference in pricing.
Hotel Star Rating
There is no universal star rating system. Each country has different requirements for awarding stars (a three-star rating in Washington, DC, is different from a three-star rating in Melbourne, Australia or Rome, Italy). International standardization, often considered by government tourism departments, hoteliers, and independent organizations, will not occur until someone can account for differences in culture and geography – not everyone agrees on what makes a good bed, or whether bathrooms should have bidets.
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Examples of Some Country Star Rating Systems:
France
Voluntary system, more than half of France`s hotels participate in this voluntary system. After counting the number of bedrooms, about 55 criteria are considered, mostly having to do with room size, bathroom location and size, and whether there is a tub or shower. Local government representatives rate hotels when they first open. Unless the property has significant improvements or complaints are filed, return visits are irregular. Currently, AC is not compulsory in France, no matter the star rating. If open windows and fans are not enough to keep you cool, check with the hotel in advance. For example, a hotel is rated 3 stars in France, because they complied with the following conditions. The double rooms must be at least 10 square meters – which is tiny, only just over 10 feet by 10 feet. There must be a lift in buildings with three or more stories, and a telephone in the room, but only 80 per cent of the rooms need to have an ensuite lavatory. Staff must also speak at least two foreign languages (including English) and you should be able to ask for breakfast to be served in your room. There are other requirements relating to lighting levels and the measurement of the hotel foyer which speak more of the French love of systematization, than of whether or not they are describing a nice place to stay.
Germany
Voluntary system with 8,000 hotels are rated from one to five stars. They are rated based on nearly 280 criteria: from cleanliness to shower curtains to slippers on demand are considered and regularly updated to reflect customer input. Every three years, properties are reviewed by tourist boards according to the guidelines of the German Hotel and Restaurant Association. Hoteliers have gone to court over classification disputes (for instance, no hair dryer in a three-star). The system is rigid and unambiguous.
Italy
Mandatory system rates all hotels from one star to five-star deluxe. It`s easier to crack the Da Vinci code than get a sample criteria list, but in every region, larger rooms and more amenities (parking, pool) translate to more stars. Regional tourist boards audit hotels about every five years. An Italian hotelier can opt for a lower star rating to save on taxes-meaning a three-star property could really be a four-star, which gives guests a surprise upgrade. In Italy, where the regulations are extremely detailed – right down to the requirement for a spare roll of lavatory paper (all stars) – a three star hotel must offer porterage for bags for at least 12 out of 24 hours. How closely is that requirement monitored? Other rules are probably not of much interest to many guests – would you expect, or want, the staff of a three-star Italian hotel to wear uniforms as they are legally required to?
Spain
Mandatory system – Most hotels are rated with one to five stars; some regions add ‘Q’ (for exceptional quality). Criteria vary by region but generally focus on room size, elevators (every starred hotel must have one), and AC in common areas. A representative from the regional government goes once to rate a hotel. There are no follow-up inspections unless a property requests one (for example, after property improvements). Inconsistent from region to region. Paradors and hotels in castles, convents, and other historic buildings rarely have five stars, despite being ultra-deluxe, because the structures can`t be drastically modified (no elevators, etc.). In Spain, room size is very important to classification and the requirements are much more demanding than in France. So a double room in a three-star hotel must be at least 15 square meters – that`s 50 percent bigger than the French system demands. But while this reflects a minimum standard that is applied nationally, the exact details of what facilities are required vary, because each region of Spain operates a slightly different system.
United Kingdom
Voluntary system rates all accommodations from one to five stars. Gold and Silver indicate exceptionalism. While some subjective criteria (firm mattresses) are considered, objectivity rules. Each property type (hotel, B and B) has a unique checklist, ranging from duvet covers to wash basins. Site inspection Government-funded tourism agencies in Great Britain use independent contractors to assess accommodations, including annual follow-ups. Hotels in the U.K. have restaurants (or at least dining rooms) attached. A two-star property is a one-star that serves dinner nightly (one-stars offer it five times a week).
Asia
In Thailand only a few hotels have an official star rating and the rating you see in some sources may well be the hotel`s own – not a rating conferred by an independent body. Star-level hotels in China are divided into five ranks based on standards issued by the China National Tourism Administration.
United States
The United States doesn’t have a unified system either. In fact, the only national ratings are compiled by private companies. Mobil and AAA use hundreds of criteria – from carpet design to landscaping – to provide hotel ratings in North America (on scales of 1 to 5). And both send inspectors annually to confirm that properties – some 9,000 are reviewed by Mobil; 60,000 by AAA—maintain their standards. But even though the criteria are similar, the resulting ratings aren’t always the same.
What hotel stars indicate (in general):
One Star
These budget properties offer clean accommodations. Most offer 24-hour reception, daily housekeeping service, TVs, telephones, clothes racks or small closets, and private bathrooms – possibly with showers only. On-site dining is usually limited to a Continental breakfast. TripMasters does not offer these type of properties.
Two Stars
These budget properties offer clean accommodations. Most offer 24-hour reception, daily housekeeping service, TVs, telephones, clothes racks or small closets, and private bathrooms – possibly with showers only. On-site dining isusually limited to a Continental breakfast.
TripMasters does not offer these type of properties unless they are located in a remote location with very limited availability.
Three Stars
Three-star is the minimum comfort level for many travelers. Properties in this classification place a greater emphasis on comfort and service, with many offering an on-site restaurant and bar. Baggage assistance is often available. Guestrooms typically feature more space, comfortable seating, and better quality bedding. Bathrooms are often larger, with shower/tub combinations and expanded counter space.
Four Stars
Mostly large, formal hotels. Lobbies typically offer upscale decor and multiple conversational areas. Services often include a dedicated concierge, valet parking, turndown service by request, and 24-hour room service. Guestrooms usually feature superior amenities such as additional seating, minibars, laptop-compatible safes, pillowtop mattresses, bathrobes, and upscale bath products. Decorative features such as crown molding, bathroom artwork, and granite or marble accents may appear. Resorts, and some hotels in Asia, customarily feature full-service spas, tennis courts, golf access, child-care services, and upgraded pools with poolside food servers.
Five Stars
These are hotels that offer only the highest level of accommodations and services. The properties offer a high degree of personal service. The hotel lobbies are sumptuous, the rooms complete with stylish furnishing and quality linens. Guestroom decor is often elegant and may include coordinated fabrics on drapes, chairs, headboards, and duvets. Electronic features sometimes include bedside controls for drapes, lighting, and surround-sound. Oversized bathrooms are often clad in marble, with premium, custom-built features, dual-sink vanities, enclosed toilets, premium spa-brand toiletries, and fresh flowers or live plants.
The hotels feature up to three restaurants all with exquisite menus. Room service is usually available 24 hours a day. Fitness Centers and valet and/or garage parking are typically available. A concierge is also available to assist you.
Staff members are generally polished, anticipate guest needs, and consistently address guests by name. Features may include upgraded check-in, a welcome amenity, and butler service on all or select floors. Although most five star hotels are large properties, sometimes the small independent (non-chain) property offers an elegant intimacy that cannot be achieved in the larger setting. The hotel locations can vary from the very exclusive locations of a suburban area, to the heart of downtown.
Hotel Reviews
TripMasters post a review score for all of our hotels. The higher the score assigned to the hotel, the better the quality of reviews, thus a hotel with an 89 score, will most likely be much better than a hotel with a score of 75.
TripMasters per-selects the hotels that we offer in each city. We strive to offer the best available according to reviews and location. Keep in mind that in smaller cities or towns that do not have a large variety of hotels, we may need to offer hotels with lower scores in order to be able to have sustainable availability.
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It is well worth the time spent to read the summary of reviews on a selected property.The more you research ahead of time, the more satisfied that you will be during your trip. But do keep in mind that some hotels provoke polarized reviews. A lot of this depends on the kind of room that you end up with, and remember that if you choose the more economical options of a standard room or Economy Room, it will most likely be smaller and in a more disadvantageous location than a Superior or Deluxe Room would be. It is, also, largely subjective – due to expectations, age, social background… if you`re used to 4 or 5 star hotels and suddenly end up in a 3-star, you may not be prepared to deal with the level of comfort or service.
Take both overly negative and overly positive reviews with a grain of salt. The truth lies usually somewhere in the middle. Try to spot `trends` in the reviews to determine where the negativity (or positive mentions) come from.
Amenities and Fees
When it comes to choosing the perfect accommodation for your trip, hotel amenities play a crucial role in the decision-making process. From complimentary WiFi and well-equipped gyms to included breakfasts and relaxing pools, hotels strive to offer a range of services that enrich each guest’s stay. Some luxury hotels even go the extra mile, offering world-class spas, airport shuttle services, and gourmet dining options. For families, amenities like play areas, organized activities, and connecting rooms can make all the difference. Business travelers, on the other hand, may find conference rooms and business centers extremely useful. Don’t forget to check the complete list of amenities before making your reservation to ensure the hotel meets all your needs and expectations.
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There are 3 fields to help in making your hotel selection.
Air Conditioning
Americans are used to air conditioning 24/7, everywhere and anywhere. Other areas of the world, especially Europe are not as used to air conditioning as we are. Also remember, that many of the hotels in Europe are built on historical buildings way before the a/c was discovered! So it is very important to pay attention to the `Facilities` section on the description of our hotels.
Under Facilities:
Air Conditioning
The common areas of the hotel are air conditioned.
Under Room Facilities:
Air Conditioning (centrally regulated)
The temperature in your room is regulated for the whole building. This means that you cannot adjust the temperature in your unit yourself. And also that it may be only turned on during certain periods of the year – normally from June to September.
Air conditioning (individually regulated)
The temperature in your room is regulated in your room by you! This is the best option possible for you to be completely responsible for the level of cool or heat that you are accustomed to. But do keep in mind, that units in Europe may not be as effective as they are in the USA.
Internet Access
Internet access in hotels is fast becoming a standard amenity. Most hotels today offer free WiFi with a password provided by the front desk. But there are still some hotels who only offer internet access at a computer in the lobby, or will only offer access with a fee. If having access to WiFi is a mandatory need for you, be sure to pay attention to the Facilities section and look for the following. Please keep in mind that the structure and age of the building can sometimes affect the quality of the WiFi connection, so certain areas of the hotel may be spotty.
Under Facilities:
WLAN access – WiFi is available at hotel
WiFi – WiFi is available at hotel
Under Room Facilities:
Internet access – Internet is available, most probably through WiFi Internet Connection – This may be a physical internet connection only.
Car Parking
If you are going to be renting a car in order to get around the countryside, seeing if there is parking at your hotel is very important.
Under Facilities:
Car Park – denotes that the hotel offers parking. Please note that this does not mean that parking will be free. In most cases, be ready to pay for parking fees. Also, some hotels may have parking available, but not on the hotel grounds, but in a separate area close by.
FEES
Our hotel prices include all hotel taxes and service charges as mandated by law. Unfortunately, certain fees and taxes are now imposed directly by City Ordinances and certain resorts which can only be paid at check out.
City Taxes:
More and more cities are now adding compulsory city taxes which are required to be paid by the GUESTS on top of pre-paid rates on all booked hotel accommodation. These taxes vary by the category of the hotel booked and the number of nights you will be staying at the property.
Please look at your voucher, the taxes to pay at check out are indicated in the voucher comments.
Resort/Maintenance Fees:
Many resorts in popular beach areas are now also charging guest directly for Resort/Maintenance fees and cleaning fees. Unfortunately, those cannot be included in our pre-paid rates and need to be paid at check out directly to the hotel.
Please look at your voucher, the fees will be detailed in our voucher comments.
Booking Non-refundable Rates
Ever wondered why nonrefundable rates are cheaper than the regular rack rates, even if the room is the same? It’s because the hotelier benefits from the lower price, too. Locking you in at that low rate guarantees she or he won`t have an empty room, which would cost the hotelier money. Of course, trying to pinch a few pennies will end up costing you if you need to cancel.
Look before you book: If there is any chance at all that you’ll need to cancel your hotel reservation (ex. bad weather, difficult connection, chance of illness) then forgo the nonrefundable rate. Yes, you’ll pay more upfront, but you won`t be out much bigger bucks should you need to put your trip on hold.
B&B, Guesthouse, and Apartments FAQ’S
Are you wondering what to expect when staying at a B&B, guesthouse, or apartment? These lodging options offer a unique, more personalized experience that feels close to home. Bed and Breakfasts (B&B) often include a homemade breakfast in the price, providing an opportunity to interact with other guests. Guesthouses offer a more intimate feel, often with fewer rooms and more personal attention. Apartments are ideal for longer stays, offering the convenience of a kitchen and more space. Check out our FAQ section to find out which option best suits your travel needs.
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Is there a specific cutoff time for check-ins?
Each B&B or other accommodation option will have a set time for check-in. If it is not listed on your voucher, you may ask us to verify, or you can call ahead on your own prior to your arrival.
In some countries, where tourism is more geared toward beaches and activities in the sun, you might notice that check-in times at B&Bs or similar accommodations may be later than in countries where this is not as crucial to the country`s tourism economy. There is no one hard and fast rule even by country, but we have taken the time to study a handful of B&B options in many European countries and we can give you a rough estimate of what to expect. Remember to find out your B&B`s check-in times in advance of arrival, either through TripMasters or by calling the property directly, and call ahead to the owners of the property if you feel like you will be later than 30 minutes before the check-in cutoff. If you fail to call ahead, you may lose your reservation and need to find alternate accommodations, at an additional cost.
Republic of Ireland:
3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland):
2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (Some places are open as late as 10 p.m.)
The Nordic Countries:
3 p.m. to 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Typically 6 p.m. in Denmark, 7 p.m. in Sweden and Finland, and 8 p.m. in Norway)
Germany and the Benelux:
3 p.m. to 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Some B&Bs start check-in at 2 p.m. in Germany. Many allow check-in until midnight and do not always have staff on-hand during check-in)
Switzerland and Austria:
2 p.m. to 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Some properties allow check-in as late as 8 p.m. Call ahead if you are arriving at 6 or after)
France:
3 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Some have shorter check-in hours, and others allow check-in as late as 11 p.m.)
The Iberian Peninsula:
3 p.m. to 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Self check-ins are common depending on the region of Spain or Portugal. Call ahead to establish a plan for check-in)
Italy and Malta:
2 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Some allow check-in until 9 or later. Call if arriving after 6:30 just to be safe)
Croatia and Slovenia:
2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Some allow check-in until midnight)
Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary:
2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (Many B&Bs offer check-in as late as midnight in some regions, especially in summer)
Poland:
2 p.m. to 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. (It is recommended to call ahead if you are arriving after 6)
Greece and Cyprus:
2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Some allow check-in until midnight)
Will someone be on-site to check me in?
No, not always. In many countries, B&Bs stop staffing the ‘front desk’ area (if there is a physical one) at 3 p.m., which is also the same time many B&Bs start the check-in process. Your B&B should provide you with check-in details in advance of your arrival. However, if you have not received them within a week of your arrival, reach out to us or directly to the B&B and make check-in arrangements for when you do arrive. If anything, the instructions from the B&B should let you know what to expect. If you are staying in an apartment or efficiency rental, you may have to pick up the keys from another location or another person who isn`t the landlord. Make sure you know where you`re going and who you need to speak to (if anyone) before you go on your trip, so you are prepared.
Note: For travelers booking self-drive packages and not relying on other modes of transport between cities, make sure you know what your driving times are and account for delays such as traffic, weather, and road closings; those things can add up if you are not prepared, and can cause you to be late. To avoid jeopardizing your reservation, make sure to call ahead if you feel like you are going to miss the check-in cutoff — and make sure to make that call far enough in advance of the cutoff, so you do not inconvenience the property owners too much when you do arrive. Calling ahead is very important!
Do B&Bs always include breakfast?
In some countries B&Bs include breakfast, and in some countries they don’t. For example:
British Isles
In the UK and Ireland, a large cooked breakfast is often included in your stay. Known by various names like ‘English breakfast,’ ‘Irish breakfast,’ or simply a ‘fry-up,’ this hearty meal is a staple.
German-speaking Countries
In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, B&Bs are often referred to as ‘Privatzimmern’ or ‘Gästezimmern.’ A good-sized breakfast is usually included in the price. Some ‘Pensionen’ may offer breakfast, while others may not.
Francophone Countries
In French-speaking countries, B&Bs are known as ‘chambres d’hôte,’ and breakfast is typically included.
Scandinavia
Known by various local names, B&Bs in Scandinavia almost always offer a large breakfast. Many even provide materials for guests to pack a lunch, making it a budget-friendly option.
Iberian Peninsula
In Spain and Portugal, private accommodations like ‘pensiones,’ ‘camas,’ and ‘casas particulares’ often do not include breakfast. However, it’s always worth asking during the booking process.
Italy
Italian B&Bs can be found under names like ‘alberghi’ and ‘pensioni.’ Breakfast is often included, especially if you don’t have a kitchenette in your living area.
Greece and Cyprus
Known as ‘domatia,’ B&Bs in these countries usually do not offer breakfast.
Adriatic Countries
In Croatia and Slovenia, private accommodations called ‘sobe’ generally do not include breakfast. However, countryside tourism farms may offer it.
Former Czechoslovakia
Known as ‘penzions,’ these establishments often include breakfast, but it’s not guaranteed. Apartment rentals are less likely to offer this amenity.
Poland
Many B&Bs, known as ‘Zimmer,’ include breakfast in the price. Those that don’t usually offer shared kitchens for guests to self-cater.
Keep in mind that if you select apartment housing, popular in many countries across Europe, it may be up to you to self-cater and breakfast may very well not be included. It`s always important to establish whether or not breakfast is included in your stay before arriving if this is important to you.
Is there parking available on-site?
It is very important that you figure out the parking situation at your accommodation option before arriving in Europe. We recommend that you ask about this during the booking process with TripMasters. The short answer is that it depends on the property, and in many parts of Europe, simply being a guest does not entitle you to free parking. Many times, when parking is offered, it is an extra expense with a set fee per night. With that said, in many cases (but not all) there are parking options, which can consist from anything to parking lots to underground car parks, also all offered for a fee.
What are sleeping arrangements like?
If you have trouble with mobility or accessibility for whatever reason, B&Bs and similar accommodations may not be the best options for you. Sometimes the room you will be staying in might be located up a few flights of stairs, perhaps as many as three or four. Now this isn`t a continent-wide rule, and in many European nations you will find lists of accommodation options that are suitable for disabled people or people with limited mobility; you should access this list from the tourism standards board of the country in question you will be visiting.
Since many of these are private residences, and many are older buildings, expect situations which may be cozier than you are used to. Rooms can be small compared to U.S. hotels or even U.S. B&Bs, and if you are expecting a king-size bed, it would be best to make sure this is all confirmed beforehand, because that may not even be an option offered in smaller properties. Floors may creak and walls may be thin. They add to the coziness and overall experience, but it is important to be aware that, while welcoming, you most likely will not get a `chain hotel` experience — the hope is that you will get an experience that is even better.
Do rooms share bathrooms or will there be private bathrooms?
It depends on the property. If you have an `en suite` bathroom, that means the bathroom is connected to your room. Most often these bathrooms are private and only for your use, but sometimes they can be connected to the room next door and you may have to share. It is important to address this possible distinction during the booking process. If you have selected a property with a `private bathroom`, keep in mind that this does not always guarantee that it is an en suite. You may have the private bathroom all to yourself, but it is possible that it will be across the hall or down the hall from your room.
Is Wi-Fi available?
It depends on the country and the property, but the trend is that these accommodation options are moving toward more connectivity for its guests. You`ll find that most properties in the British Isles, Germany, and the Benelux, among other locations, will offer Wi-Fi as an amenity. In other areas of Europe, Wi-Fi availability in B&Bs can range from widespread, like in France, to hit-or-miss, like in Greece and Cyprus. If this is an important factor in your accommodation selection, make sure you establish that the property has Wi-Fi during the booking process.
Is room service available in B&Bs?
In many B&Bs, limited `room service` is available as the owners wish to keep competitive with other accommodation options. This, of course, is completely at their own discretion and such `service` will be far more limited than you will find in a hotel. While some B&Bs offer maid service during one`s stay, many do not, and instead clean your room after you leave. If you require something routine such as extra towels, or small toiletries, B&B owners will be accommodating. You may get more customized service in farm homestays, which you can find from France all the way to Eastern Europe — it is a subset of the local tourism industry called agritourism.
Can I stay at a B&B or similar accommodation option for just one night?
Many B&Bs offer stays of one night, but it’s safe to say that the majority require stays of at least two nights. This can be for a number of reasons, perhaps first and foremost that many B&Bs are located in high-tourism areas and just like in many touristed areas of the U.S., accommodations require stays of what would be the equivalent of ‘a weekend’.