How to Open and Operate a Bed and Breakfast
by Jan Stankus

Publisher:  The Globe Pequot Press
ISBN:  0762700637

As part of the How to Start a Home-Based Business series, this book (nowin its fifth edition) provides top-notch advice for anyone considering amove to innkeeping. As the B&B industry matures, more and more regulationsare being put into place which can affect the way an inn operates. AuthorJan Stankus, former director of the Traveler's Information Exchange, spokewith dozens upon dozens of innkeepers and other insiders to develop thisextremely useful work.

The book begins by asking, "Should you become a bed and breakfasthost?" The fantasy of living in a beautiful home and serving breakfast tofascinating guests is powerful. But it's not reality--that beautiful homeis going to need constant attention and the fascinating guests may be lessso when they don't arrive for check-in until 1 a.m. and you have to beready with a full, cooked breakfast at 6 a.m. for your other guests.

How to Open and Operate a Bed and Breakfast peels away the fairy talefacade of innkeeping and reveals the real work underneath. But it's farfrom depressing--the book wouldn't be at all helpful if it allowedreaders to operate under misconceptions. And the comments, suggestions, andideas from dozens of professional innkeepers let readers know that they cando it, if they really want to.

Chapters include "Getting Started," "The Business of B&B," "The PerfectGuest," "The Perfect Host," "Publicizing Your Bed & Breakfast" and "AMemorable Breakfast." The book is full of lists where readers can find moreinformation, such as state innkeeper associations, industry newsletters, andtourism offices. Several worksheets, which can be photocopied and filled inas ideas come to you are also found inside.

All in all, this book is more than a worthwhile investment for anyone withdreams of a luxurious life in that gorgeous Victorian home you stayed in onyour last vacation.

Elizabeth Arneson, your Guide for Bed & Breakfasts