B & B Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a hotel and a Bed & Breakfast?
A Bed and Breakfast is defined as a small property, usually a home with 3-5 guest rooms, and the owner living on site. At the Power's Mansion Inn, we offer 16 unique rooms. Each with a private bath. Many B&B's may also have small cabins in addition to the main house. Typically the owner is the one who will welcome you personally and prepare your morning breakfast. A B&B is a fun and different place to stay; it's a home away from home.

Your lodging experience will be more personalized with the host sharing the common areas of their home and information about the local area you might not get in a hotel. A B&B provides a breakfast included in the room price that usually incorporates local specialties you would not normally receive from a hotel kitchen.

Concierge services, activity planning, drinks & snacks, local calls or use of fax machines or internet which are usually an extra charge in a resort hotel are often included free. However do not expect a 24 hour desk to attend to your needs or lift your bags. At a B&B your host does all the work with little or no staff.

What are the rooms like in a B&B?
Guest rooms in a B&B are typically delightful. The owner has usually put lots of care into choosing the atmosphere, furniture and décor of the rooms. You will find them more comfortable and cozy than a hotel room, and equally if not more, private.

At the Power's Mansion Inn we have taken care to choose high-quality beds and bedding you would not find except at the most luxurious class of hotels. Rooms feature custom made artisan beds, comfortable queen size mattresses, Italian and other fine linens as well as original and historic artwork. Several of the rooms have romantic fireplaces as well. The mansion has been carefully restored to its historic prowess with all of the furniture being antiques or replicas from the time period. Nearly all of the wall coverings and fireplaces as well as many of the fixtures are original historical artifacts.

Will I have to share a bathroom down the hall?
Some B&B's offer shared baths and others offer private baths. It's is always a good question to ask when choosing a B&B.

At the Power's Mansion Inn, ALL our bedrooms have private baths. In addition you will find the spa amenities you usually find in a better hotel such as fluffy towels, quality soaps, shampoo, and conditioner.

Why do B&B's have specific check-in times?
Most B&B's have specific check-in and check-out times, and do not operate around the clock like a hotel. The owner of the property will personally greet you and show you what the property offers in the way of amenities. Some B&B owners have other jobs, or will be the ones cleaning and preparing the rooms for your stay, which is why specific check-in times are requested. If you are unable to meet the check in time, due to a late arriving plane, let your hostess know so arrangements can be made well in advance to be there to let you in.

At Power's Mansion Inn, we are happy to greet you for check-in between 2:00PM and 5:00 PM. If you have a later arriving flight, please call ahead so we can arrange to let you in and show your room.

Are there TV's, Telephone and Internet access at a B&B?
This varies greatly from property to property, and if these are important to you, it is wise to ask.

At the Power's Mansion Inn we have TV sets with satellite TV in every room. High Speed Wireless Internet access is available in the parlors, dining area, rooms 1-6 as well as on outside patio and waterfall garden area. The nearby Flour Garden Bakery and Cafe also offers free wireless internet to its customers. Each room has direct dial phones with inter-room calling available. If you need to send or receive a fax, or make a copy, just let me know.

What is breakfast like in a B&B and when is it served?
All B&B's provide breakfast but this can vary greatly among properties from a light continental breakfast to a hot, sit down breakfast.

At the Power's Mansion Inn, you will be treated to a lavish Gourmet Breakfast. Our menu changes relative to each day of the week. Please ask what will be on the menu during your stay. If you have any special food requirements or restrictions, we are always happy to accomedate them. Breakfast is served at both 8:30am as well as 9:00am. You will be asked your preference when you make your reservation.

How can I find out about area attractions and activities?
First, scan the Great Places To See, Fun Things To Do page on our website. We have listed worthwhile activities and attractions there. Also view our Calendar Of Events to see what upcoming events are in the area. Auburn is the Event Capital of the World. Our central downtown location provides a place that is walking distance to many of the more than 300 events that take place in Auburn every year.

Your hostess is able to book activities and rental cars for you, often at a discount. These include guided culture and nature hikes, tours of lava tubes, or helicopter rides to see the active volcano. In addition she can recommend places for a picnic, beaches, day hikes, art or theatre activities, fun country markets or antiquing.

Does a B&B serve breakfast, lunch and dinner?
Depending on the state you live in, a B&B may or may not serve other meals. The Power's Mansion Inn only serves breakfast at this time.

A complete listing of area restaurants is available on our Great Places To See, Fun Things To Do page. Everything from pizza and sandwiches to chocolate & desserts to gourmet dining is available in Auburn. Some suggest reservations which your host is happy to do for you, while you go enjoy a stroll through Auburn's historic Downtown. Area restaurants are only a brief walk or short drive drive away. Their are more than 20 restaurants within a one mile radius of the Power's Mansion Inn.

Am I expected to tip at a B&B?
At a B&B, like any quality accommodation, the staff works hard to provide for your comfort. Tipping is not expected, but is always appreciated. If you would like to leave a tip you may include it with the comment card and place it in the envelope provided in your room. We strive to provide great service and welcome your feedback, tip or no tip.

POWER'S MANSION INN
195 Harrison Avenue. (Front Guest Entrance)
164 Cleveland Avenue. (Rear Employee Entrance) Auburn, CA 95603
530.885.1166
info@powersmansioninn.com

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