February 27, 2015, it's our 3rd year anniversary! Yup, about 2 weeks ago, John and I celebrated our 3rd year. Every year John and I try to travel. This year, since we're trying to save for a bigger trip towards the holidays, John and I decided to stay local. About an hour away from New Jersey and 40 minutes from Philadelphia is Glen Mills, PA. It's hard to imagine that something so close can totally feel remote and new. We made a booking for a bed and breakfast, which offered tasting at their newly renovated barn. I have to say, it was one of the most romantic times we've spent together and it we had a great time not only making new memories but going back through the old ones we had for the past 3 years of marriage.
So, this is a first time experience for us at a bed and breakfast and if you're b&b virgins like us, I'd like to tell you about what you can expect, what you can do and what to look for when you're looking for a place to stay at.
1. Everything is personal.
Since most owners live in the actual homes you will be staying at, you should expect that you are going to be welcomed and toured in the home. They will be showing you all the common areas, introducing you to probably the 3 or 4 staff members that are in the home. Having said that, you should treat the home also with respect and try your best to abide by the rules.
Home-made muffins! Sweet Water Farm Sunday Breakfast Special: Eggs Benedict
2. Early lights out.
Not that they will limit you or watch you go in and out of the home, but most b&b's does have an early "lights out" custom, for Sweet Water Farm, the place is dark and quiet around 10pm. If you're going with a group of friends, I would suggest looking for a b&b that offers cottages (like Sweet Water Farm) where you and your friends can have a little bit more freedom to make noise or play some music.
3. Breakfast.
This is a bed and breakfast so make sure to read on what people are saying about the breakfast part. Ours was nothing extravagant but I do appreciate that they were very properly prepared. (I always tripadvisor an place I go to!)
4. Visit the local areas.
There's nothing like staying somewhere homey and feeling like a local so ask around for what's great to try, whether it's restaurants or wine tastings or even antique shops. Immerse yourself in what the area has to offer.
5. Take it all in.
If you're like John and I who work in the city, work crazy hours, enjoy the quietness, serenity the calmness and the laid back feel that b&b's offer. It's not all the time that you get to stay in a grand home so look and touch and feel the beauty that's in it. Walk the grounds; talk to the other folks staying in. Even if you're never going to get to see them again, it's nice to hear stories other than yours and it's nice to share you own experience in the area with them, there's no harm in sharing notes!
Brogan, sweet water's welcome wagon
I hope that your next b&b or your first b&b experience will be as great as ours!
