According to an article on Mediapost.com, 80 percent of luxury travel is purchased by Baby Boomers, 45-65 years old.  Not surprisingly, this group makes up not only the largest segment of the population but also the largest proportion of travelers today too.  Do you fit into this category?

While baby boomer travelers flock toward luxury inns and B&Bs, we know value is high on the minds of travelers too.  Whether it’s a stay at a campground or hostel or an escape to a distinctive New England inn, value reigns and getting the most for your money on any travel experience is high on the list of luxury travelers.

When visiting the Captains House Inn in Chatham, Cape Cod recently, I was struck by all the added amenities and value.  It inspired me to calculate the added value of all the extras. I was astounded when I compared the cost of a stay at this luxury inn with as much sophistication, distinct décor, ambiance and haute hospitality as a nearby Chatham resort.  You’ll be amazed too.

Stay at the Captain’s House Inn and receive a long list of amenities free:

Extensive DVD and video library – complimentary

3 course gourmet breakfast including lavish buffet and entrees – complimentary for each person in party

Wi-fi – complimentary year-round

Cape Cod Chips and healthy granola bars in rooms – complimentary

Bottled water and Nantucket Nectars in in-room refrigerators – complimentary

Afternoon tea with an array of sweet treats – complimentary; upgrade to high tea with tea sandwiches, scones and sweet treats - $7.50 per person

Use of fitness center and in-ground pool – complimentary

Use of beach towels, beach chairs and umbrellas – complimentary

Evening cookies and coffee/tea available 24-7 – complimentary

Port or Sherry available 24-7 – complimentary

Upgraded amenities including sewing kits, lotions, shampoos, conditioners – complimentary

Signature microfiber linens and robes for guest use

Flat screen TVs in all rooms

Gas, wood burning or pot belly fireplaces in every guest room

Stay at a nearby Chatham resort and you’ll pay for the complimentary amenities available at the Captain’s House:

Movies – on demand only - $14.95 - $20 each

Breakfast buffet - $25 per person each day

Wi-fi - $10 per day in season; complimentary off season

Chips and snacks available in in-room mini-bars - $3 - $10

Bottled water included in $9 per day resort fee; juices in mini-bar - $4-5 per bottle

Cup of tea with biscuit - $3.50; Tea and scones - $9.00 per person; High-tea - $27 per person

Use of fitness center and pool – included in $9 per day resort fee

Beach towels and beach chairs – included in $9 per day resort fee

Sweet treats in evening – available on dessert menu - $10 - $16 per dessert

Port or Sherry – available at bar; $10 - $30 depending on label

Aveda bath products included

Frette linens and custom robes included

Flat screen TVs in rooms

Fireplaces available in premier master suites and spa suite only

Total for all comparable amenities (2 people, 2 days): $198 - $279

At a minimum, guests are treated to $200 in added value at the Captain’s House Inn. Compare the amenities of any inn or B&B with nearby resorts and you’ll find similar scenarios in every market.  While you can’t put a price tag on the welcoming hospitality today’s inns and B&Bs, you can rest assured the innkeepers will welcome you with smiles and welcome you back with open arms, hugs and a personalized welcome. It’s as much the personal touches as it is the added value that make inns and B&Bs the ideal choice for those seeking memorable experiences and the most for their money.

Marti Mayne is the B&B Editor for Wandering Educators