The world travels constantly. At any given time, millions of travelers check into rooms that someone else recently used. Scary thought, right? Social media has played a major role in influencing consumers to be much more informed about the quality of the accommodation they choose. Consumer sites like TripAdvisor, Google, and B&B.com, to name a few, provide quality insights into consumer experiences that are curated for truthful content before they’re published.

Of increasing popularity are small business entrepreneurs who own and operate bed and breakfast places. The reason the individual business owner is emphasized is that he or she is also often the operator and is closely involved in the day-to-day procedures that affect the quality of the accommodation the next guest will occupy. Small business innkeepers are a group that prides itself on providing service that will make a lasting impression on customers. These consumers are more likely to take the time to submit an honest review for future guests.

A bed and breakfast can use more locally sourced vendors to equip and supply the daily items used for the comfort of the guests. Items like fresh local produce in season (strawberries, peaches and apples, etc.) are conveniences you won’t find in big hotels. They often employ top quality chefs to offer a multi-course breakfast that you won’t find anywhere else. In-room amenities are often provided for the convenience of guests and are equal to or superior to premium hotels in much busier, high-traffic locations. B&Bs alone, while probably a bit more per night, are a good option if they offer a quality breakfast; probably cooked fresh.

Consumers who are planning travel accommodations will benefit from consulting multiple reviews over a period of time; not just the most recent. Travelers who leave reviews often comment on the quality of cleanliness, hospitality, and the overall quality of their visit. While recent reviews are good, if they are consistently favorable, it’s a good indication that the facility is upholding good practice.

Many locations have convenient reservation services on the home page of their website. While this is efficient, taking a couple of minutes to talk to someone (such as the owner or general manager) is also a good indicator of quality. It’s okay to ask detailed questions if you want to know their cleaning practices. For example, if guests have dietary preferences, by contacting management prior to arrival, their needs can often be met, making their visit that much more enjoyable and memorable.