Bed & breakfast (B&B) inns are a popular alternative to cookie-cutter hotel chains - especially if you are looking for a local experience when you are on holiday. But with no "known brands" like an InterContinental or a Marriott attached to these, how do you know you will have a good experience and not a "wish we would have gone there instead" feeling when you get there?

Here are some questions you want to ask the B&B while you are making a selection.

• Do you belong to any professional organisations?
  Some countries or states may have professional associations for bed & breakfast inn keepers. Being a member of such associations would mean they have had to meet certain standards of cleanliness and function. They would have been "inspected and approved" for membership.
• Will we have our own bathroom?
  Although it is likely you would, don't assume. Better to ask in advance if it is important to you to have your own bathroom. There are essentially three basic bathroom options at B&Bs:
• Private, en suite meaning you have your own bathroom, and it's located in such a way that you can enter it from your room or suite.
• Private, not en suite meaning you have your own bathroom, but you have to leave your room to access it. (e.g., It may be across the hall from your room.)
• Shared. Your bathroom is also used by other guests at the inn.

• What is the size of the bed?
  It'll often be either a king or queen. Some bed and breakfasts have rooms or suites available with two twin beds, in addition to rooms with king or queen size beds, but such inns are the exception.

• Will our room have air conditioning?
  Again, if this is important to you, ask in advance before making a reservation. Find out also if it is central air conditioning or individually-controlled units.

• Will the innkeeper be available to offer suggestions for places to visit?
  Because these establishments are usually run by locals who are familiar with the area around the B&B, they may be your best guide. This would be especially useful if you are new to the place. Most innkeepers like to help guests find the best places to visit, the best restaurants, and even the most romantic spots.

• When is breakfast served?
  There are usually three basic options when it comes to the time that breakfast is served:
• At a specific time. This may not be suitable if you are likely to wake up late.
• During a specific range. This gives you a bit more flexibility so you won't miss the breakfast.
• At a time of your choosing (up to a particular time). This would be bonus especially if you don't want to be tied down to a schedule of any sort.

• What type of breakfast will be served?
  Ask if you can see the breakfast menu ahead of time. If you have any special dietary needs, it is good to check if they can accommodate you. You may also want to check if they will serve your breakfast to you in bed.

• Do you accept children?
  Important if you are travelling with kids. You don't want to assume this and be caught in a bind if you arrive and find out kids aren't allowed. While many bed and breakfasts do welcome children, bed & breakfast places aren't always the best place to bring children as the inn is usually small. Make sure your children are well-behaved and mature enough to stay at a B&B.

• Do pets live at the B&B?
  Sometimes B&B owners may be pet owners as well. While their pets are generally never allowed in guest rooms, if you have serious allergies, you may want to consider checking into a B&B that doesn't have pets.

• How much privacy will we have?
  This may vary from inn to inn, but generally you should have quite a bit of privacy. Most innkeepers have a good ability to sense whether or not you want a lot of interaction, and if you don't, they typically use a low-key service style. If you are looking to meet the other guests, find out also if there is a common room where you can mix and mingle. Often, there may be a library or parlour as common areas. Some innkeepers would also host a social hour for their guests.

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