Bed and Breakfasts.

If you're anything like me, you may have a teeny weeny obsession with reality TV.  I'm not referring to Big Brother or The Real Life.

I mean quality TV shows like The Real Housewives of Atlanta.

And my current favourite, Tori and Dean Inn Love.

If you haven't had the chance to see it, Ms Tori Spelling and her new husband opened a B & B 'Chateaux La Rue' (after her pug) when gazillionaire daddy Aaron Spelling forgot to leave her more than 100 grand in his will.  Oh, life's tough for some.

Anyway, I love this show.  I love how they interact with each other and their guests.  They've had all sorts.  Romantic couple, partying grannies and NUDISTS.

Which brings me to my question.  Why choose a Bed & Breakfast for your weekend away?  And how do you know your host will be more like this

than this?

Here are some tips for choosing a quality B & B.

The internet has made it possible for anyone to google a destination and fall in love with the pictures on a web page.  Then you arrive and find out you're staying with someone that reminds you of Norman Bates in Psycho.  Yikes!

Your best bet is to go by recommendation or get someone reputable to organise it for you.

First and foremost understand that most bed and breakfasts are owner operated.  Most of the things in the home are usually antiques, fine linens and bedding.  This is what makes the experience unique and special.

You always receive much more personal attention at a B & B than you would in a hotel or motel.  If you're shy then I wouldn't recommend them!  Your inn keeper will be happy to give you a history of their home and the area, the best places to go, the places to eat and the places to avoid.  They make sure you get the most out of the time you have away (which is what we do here at Luxury Oz Stays too).

Breakfast is always special too.  That is kind of the whole point of a Bed and Breakfast.  Duh.

Not only will you enjoy the culinery talents of your host, but you'll get to meet the other guests too.

Downside?

Most bed and breakfasts don't accept young children.  Usually the cut off is 7 +.  Most people go to bed and breakfasts for peace and quiet.  They're perfect for a romantic get away, a unique weekend for friends or for someone who wants some quiet time alone.

If you see a B & B you like, book early.  Remember B & Bs only have a few rooms and it doesn't take long to fill them.  Get an expert to do it for you.

Unfortunately, Tori and Dean have moved on from running Chateaux La Rue.  Darn it.  I'm sure Donna Tori and I would have gotten along like a house on fire.

Have you ever tried a B & B?  Did you love it?