How To Bring Your Reluctant Spouse to a Bed and Breakfast

Here's How:

1. It's probably wise to start with traditional methods of convincing -- logic and the like. If that doesn't work, resort to the more complex (sometimes trickier) options outlined below.
2. Explain that bed and breakfasts are almost universally recognized as a more personal alternative to hotels and motels. And that you can make sure you will have a private bathroom (which is a very common concern among people who have never stayed at a B&B).
3. Assure your spouse that inns are run by professionals -- and stay at a larger bed and breakfast (i.e. one with more than 10 rooms) at first if that helps.
4. Appeal to other interests: "The best public golf course in the state is right next to this bed and breakfast."
5. Cut a deal: "If we stay at a bed and breakfast, I'll buy the present for your mother's next birthday. And your father..."
6. Make the trip a secret, but be aware that this could backfire. If your spouse gets upset when you arrive, the whole trip could be sour.
7. Be sure to pick a top-notch bed and breakfast. Get recommendations from other travelers in the About.com Bed and Breakfasts Forum or other online discussion groups.
8. Splurge on a nice room. Perhaps your spouse will enjoy the Jacuzzi tub and king-size bed. Be certain that you have a private bathroom.
9. Let the innkeepers know what's going on. They're likely to go out of their way to help ensure a pleasant stay.

Tips:

1. Be patient. Bed and breakfasts are totally different than chain hotels and motels, so it might take some time for your spouse to warm up to the experience.
2. This is extremely important, so I'm repeating it again: Make sure your room has a private bathroom, preferably en suite (in the room, as opposed to next door or down the hall).