Travelers are often looking for a place to stay that is going to be accommodating to their needs. While this is not always at the forefront of your mind as a B&B operator, it is important to consider the specific requirements that some of your guests may have.
More and more people have dietary restrictions or allergies to certain ingredients, and you should be proactive when developing your B&B catering schedule. Without a plan in place, your guests may feel unwelcome, uncomfortable or even unsafe at your property, which can lead to negative feedback about your B&B.

Here are a few tips to help you be prepared for guests with specific requirements, including dietary requirements or allergy requirements:

Establish A Few Rules That Protect Everyone

By creating a set of guidelines for your property, you can protect every guest that comes through your door — whether they have specific requirements or not. Implementing a smoke-free policy is a great way to protect your guests from the nuisance of cigarette odors, while also preventing accidents and injury at your property.

Another policy to consider is becoming a pet-free property. Many people are allergic to pet hair, and pets also can cause damage to your B&B. These policies will not only improve the experience of your guests with special needs, but also will allow you to maintain the pristine condition of your B&B.

Offer Air Purifiers To Guests With Asthma Or Seasonal Allergies

For many, asthma and environmental allergies can be a debilitating condition, especially if they are traveling to a climate that they are not familiar with. Even if your B&B offers amenities such as air conditioning, it can still be difficult for them to breathe or sleep comfortably while away. Invest in a couple of air purifiers to have available for guests who may have special breathing requirements. This will increase their comfort and safety while they stay at your property, as well as boost their impression of your B&B.

Create An Alternate Allergy-friendly Menu For Guests

There’s an increasing number of people who are searching for allergy-friendly hotels that offer a menu that is both delicious and safe. You should consider alternate meal options that are free of peanuts, tree nuts, and gluten, as these are several common allergies that guests may have. Fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, potatoes, lean protein and fish are all viable options for people who have these allergies.

It’s important to read all ingredients that you are using when preparing your meals, because sometimes common items contain traces of these allergens. For those with food allergies, it’s not just a matter of likes and dislikes — contact with these allergens can have life-threatening consequences.

You can help be prepared for any guests with specific requirements by asking them to provide you with additional information about their needs during the booking process.
You can customize your booking form to include space for guests to share their needs with you, such as dietary requirements or allergy requirements. That allows you to personalize their stay and ensure that they have a safe, happy and healthy vacation.

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By Dean Elphick

Dean is the Senior Content Marketing Specialist of Little Hotelier, the all-in-one software solution purpose-built to make the lives of small accommodation providers easier. Dean has made writing and creating content his passion for the entirety of his professional life, which includes more than six years at Little Hotelier. Through content, Dean aims to provide education, inspiration, assistance, and, ultimately, value for small accommodation businesses looking to improve the way they run their operations (and live their life).