HOW TO CHOOSE A B&B

The web is a great place to begin when choosing a B&B. Whether you're from out of town and don't know Portland well or have not visited the area before, or you're from close by but never stayed at a local B&B, here's how to find the ideal Bed & Breakfast for you.

First, make a short list of what you want in your Bed and Breakfast:
1. Is a private bath a must?
2. Where do you want to go during your stay? For example, if being near downtown is important, make a note to check addresses and ask the innkeeper how many minutes it takes to get to city center. Is it important that there are nearby restaurants and a food store?
3. Is food important? Make a note to question the innkeeper over the telephone about breakfasts. Ask what was served that morning.
4. Is price an issue? Are you willing to pay more for something special, or do you just want the lowest price available?
5. Do you have special needs? Many B&B's don't allow pets or smoking and are not suitable for youngsters or wheelchairs.
6. Do you have absolute must requirements? Some B&B's offer wi-fi throughout the facility. Some offer unlimited telephone calls anywhere in the U.S. or Canada, so you can check on things back home at no cost to you. Some offer individual refrigerators, so you can store fruit or doggie bag leftovers from yesterday's dinner. Some offer cable TV with all the premium channels. Some have a hot tub.
7. How about public transportation? Are there nearby buses? How about light rail, trolleys or the tram?
8. Can you walk to a park or to the Willamette River? If you're a morning or evening jogger, you'll want to know about nearby trails.

Next, log on to www.portlandinnkeepers.com Some of your questions will be answered there. Narrow your list down.

Pick your top three choices and log on to their individual websites. Many of your questions will be answered.

Then, telephone your final choice(s). Question the innkeeper carefully, and don't be afraid or embarrassed to ask questions about items that are important to you. Ask about extras: Does the refrigerator have free soft drinks, bottled water and perhaps even a complimentary bottle of wine? Are there free afternoon or evening snacks, like home-baked goods or chocolate cookies? Does the B&B provide a bathrobe for each guest? Take notes so you can compare.

And when you've made your choice, book immediately. There aren't that many quality B&B's in Portland and they fill up quickly.

This advice provided by The Fulton House innkeepers, based on our past experience talking to guests and potential guests, in person or on the telephone. Hope our advice helps you plan your stay at the Portland Bed & Breakfast of your dreams.