Always ask how long the bed and breakfast has been in operation. Since they are family run businesses a bed and breakfast tends to either be a long standing business or one that is just relatively new. A b & b that has been open for a long time typically has lots of repeat customers and may need to be booked in advance.

Not all bed and breakfasts are open all the time, especially over the holidays. Since they tend to be someone's home, often the owners use the guest rooms for family as well. Consider calling ahead if you are planning to return over the busy winter holiday season.

In some areas the term bed and breakfast does not always mean a house like environment. Sometimes older hotels or motels are converted into bed and breakfast facilities, which can be a bit misleading. If you have never been to the bed and breakfast before you can always ask how many rooms they have, this will give you an idea of the size.