The Green Lantern

I had a request to talk a little about bed and breakfast etiquette. Our favorite location to frequent is Carmel, CA (for all who have listened to my ravings about Carmel, I apologize). It's special to my heart, I did part of my growing up there...thank you Mom and Dad for our home on the sea, what beautiful memories; my brother was just recently engaged there.

We always stay at the same B&B. The Green Lantern Inn has been there since 1927 and it's so charming (so is the entire town). It's where my parents spent their honeymoon, and where they stayed until they bought a vacation home there.

I will never forget staying there one year; we were there for a week and stayed in the same room we always do. I was awakened in the middle of the night to sounds that I should have never heard and did not wish to hear, obviously. Needless to say, this would be my first rule:

• Remember you're not the only ones there. While it's wonderful to be away and enjoy the company of your significant other, there are other guests staying there for the same (and other) reasons. As always, be considerate of others. You can still enjoy time together while remembering that you're not on an island for two.
• Leisurely morning walks and sitting on our little patio...what fond memories, and two things I love to do while I'm there. I also love the food. Remember that if you're eating breakfast in the main dining area, you should be dressed. I'm not suggesting that you come into the dining area coiffed and ready to go at 7am, but pajamas are better for your room. If you want to remain in your "comfies", have your honey get breakfast and meet you in the room; most B&B's have trays, and if you can't see them, don't hesitate to ask.
• Tipping: this is different than staying in a hotel because most "innkeepers" are also the owners. Often times they are the ones making up your rooms. It would be insulting to leave money on the bed or in an envelope for them for cleaning; but it's never considered bad taste to write a lovely thank you note, send flowers or a nice basket if you loved your stay...my top 10 hostess gifts might be appropriate. Ask your innkeeper who is tending to your room so that you can make an informed decision.

I'm sure there are many more things to add to this, but in my opinion, these things are crucial to remember so that you can enjoy your stay and, at the same time, help others feel comfortable.

As long as I'm reminiscing about Carmel, these are a few of my favorites: Patisserie Boisseire (I've mentioned them before-without name- they don't allow cell phones), Highlands Inn (Pacific's Edge restaurant), Jonathan Lee (we loved you and still listen to the beautiful music all the time-I'm playing his music today), clam chowder at Flahertys, Masterpiece gallery, Carmel Bakery, Katy's Place, The Spa at Pebble Beach, Thom Gregg Jewelers (our family jeweler for 25 years, we love you!), and I have to say, I do love the new Tiffany & Co on Ocean, even if it is a little bit of the outside world creeping in! I could go on forever, but these links should help you fall in love with Carmel, and then you can go experience it for yourself...but not in the Summer!