B&B, GUESTHOUSE, AND APARTMENT FAQ'S

Is there a specific cutoff time for check-ins?

Hotels in Africa, like those around the world, typically have a standard check-in time in the early to mid-afternoon, often around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. However, flexibility and policies can differ among hotels.

Each B&B or other accommodation option will have a set time for check-in. If it is not listed on your voucher, you may ask us to verify, or you can call ahead on your own prior to your arrival.

In some countries, where tourism is more geared toward beaches and activities in the sun, you might notice that check-in times at B&Bs or similar accommodations may be later than in countries where this is not as crucial to the country`s tourism economy. There is no one hard and fast rule even by country, but we have taken the time to study a handful of B&B options in many African countries and we can give you a rough estimate of what to expect. Remember to find out your B&B`s check-in times in advance of arrival, either through TripMasters or by calling the property directly, and call ahead to the owners of the property if you feel like you will be later than 30 minutes before the check-in cutoff. If you fail to call ahead, you may lose your reservation and need to find alternate accommodations, at an additional cost.

Will someone be on-site to check me in?

No, not always. In many countries, B&Bs stop staffing the `front desk` area (if there is a physical one) at 3 p.m., which is also the same time many B&Bs start the check-in process. Your B&B should provide you with check-in details in advance of your arrival. However, if you have not received them within a week of your arrival, reach out to us or directly to the B&B and make check-in arrangements for when you do arrive. If anything, the instructions from the B&B should let you know what to expect. If you are staying in an apartment or efficiency rental, you may have to pick up the keys from another location or another person who isn`t the landlord. Make sure you know where you`re going and who you need to speak to (if anyone) before you go on your trip, so you are prepared.

Check-In/Check-Out Times: Check-in times can vary, but in many Arican hotels, it's in the afternoon. Check-out is usually in the morning. Be sure to verify the specific times with the hotel.

Note: For travelers booking self-drive packages and not relying on other modes of transport between cities, make sure you know what your driving times are and account for delays such as traffic, weather, and road closings; those things can add up if you are not prepared, and can cause you to be late. To avoid jeopardizing your reservation, make sure to call ahead if you feel like you are going to miss the check-in cutoff -- and make sure to make that call far enough in advance of the cutoff, so you do not inconvenience the property owners too much when you do arrive. Calling ahead is very important!

Do B&Bs always include breakfast

The inclusion of breakfast in Bed and Breakfast (B&B) accommodations in Africa, as in other parts of the world, can vary depending on the specific B&B and its policies. While the term "Bed and Breakfast" suggests that breakfast is typically included, it's not always the case, and there can be variations in what is offered. Here are some considerations:

Breakfast Inclusion: Many B&Bs in Africa do include breakfast as part of the room rate. This breakfast may range from a simple continental breakfast with items like bread, pastries, and coffee to more elaborate, home-cooked meals.

Variations: The style and quality of breakfast can vary widely. Some B&Bs take pride in offering a hearty, homemade breakfast with local or regional specialties, while others may provide a basic self-serve breakfast.

Options: Some B&Bs may give guests the option to include or exclude breakfast in their reservation, allowing you to choose based on your preferences.

Room Rate: It's important to check the room rate and what it includes when booking a B&B. Be sure to confirm whether breakfast is included and what type of breakfast is offered.

Special Dietary Requirements: If you have dietary restrictions or specific preferences, it's a good idea to communicate them to the B&B when booking to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

Local Practices: The approach to breakfast in B&Bs in Africa can also be influenced by local customs and practices. For example, some B&Bs in rural areas may offer traditional or local breakfast options.

It's always a good practice to check the specific policies and offerings of the B&B you plan to stay at. You can find this information on the B&B's website or by contacting them directly. This way, you can ensure that the accommodation aligns with your expectations and dietary preferences, especially if breakfast is an important part of your stay.

Is there parking available on-site?

You must figure out the parking situation at your accommodation option before arriving in Africa. We recommend that you ask about this during the booking process with TripMasters. The short answer is that it depends on the property, and in many parts of the continent, simply being a guest does not entitle you to free parking. Many times, when parking is offered, it is an extra expense with a set fee per night. With that said, in many cases (but not all) there are parking options, which can consist from anything to parking lots to underground car parks, also all offered for a fee.

What are the sleeping arrangments like?

If you have trouble with mobility or accessibility for whatever reason, B&Bs and similar accommodations may not be the best options for you. Sometimes the room you will be staying in might be located up a few flights of stairs, perhaps as many as three or four. Now this isn`t a continent-wide rule, and in many Asian nations you will find lists of accommodation options that are suitable for disabled people or people with limited mobility; you should access this list from the tourism standards board of the country in question you will be visiting.

Rooms can be small compared to U.S. hotels or even U.S. B&Bs, and if you are expecting a king-size bed, it would be best to make sure this is all confirmed beforehand, because that may not even be an option offered in smaller properties. Floors may creak and walls may be thin. They add to the coziness and overall experience, but it is important to be aware that, while welcoming, you most likely will not get a `chain hotel` experience -- the hope is that you will get an experience that is even better.

Is Wi-Fi available?

It depends on the country and the property, but the trend is that these accommodation options are moving toward more connectivity for its guests. If this is an important factor in your accommodation selection, make sure you establish that the property has Wi-Fi during the booking process.

Is room service available in B&Bs??

In many B&Bs, limited `room service` is available as the owners wish to keep competitive with other accommodation options. This, of course, is completely at their own discretion and such `service` will be far more limited than you will find in a hotel. While some B&Bs offer maid service during one`s stay, many do not, and instead clean your room after you leave. If you require something routine such as extra towels, or small toiletries, B&B owners will be accommodating.

Can I stay at a B&B or similar accommodation options for just one night?

Many B&Bs offer stays of one night, but it`s safe to say that the majority require stays of at least two nights. This can be for a number of reasons, perhaps first and foremost that many B&Bs are located in high-tourism areas and just like in many touristed areas of the U.S., accommodations require stays of what would be the equivalent of `a weekend`.