Sunday, April 20, 2014

Visit A Friday Harbor Bed And Breakfast

By Essie Osborn


Researching this topic raises the question: Is it better to visit a Friday Harbor bed and breakfast - or run one? This charming town on beautiful San Juan Island looks like the perfect place for a peaceful getaway or for a peaceful life. There are gorgeous views of the water, the mountains, and of flower-filled gardens everywhere you look.

The island of San Juan was once owned by the Hudson Bay Company, which made its name in the fur trade but which ran a salmon cannery here. The town got its name from a man who came to work in the cannery but who stayed to settle. Once a major fruit and vegetable source for the mainland, the town (the county seat) depends on tourism now. Fortunately, it is such a scenic spot that visitors flock to it, especially in the summer.

The population of between two and three thousand permanent residents shows that this really is a small town. It's surrounded by mountains and water; the views are breathtaking. Everything else is sky, beaches, boats, and charming homes and businesses. Visitors are encouraged to get on 'island time', which is slow and sweet.

You can get to San Juan by regular commercial flights, seaplane, ferry, or private boat. There is taxi service for those who arrive without a car. Getting around is easily done on foot; the town is only about two mile square. You can also rent bicycles and mopeds for exploring on land or a kayak for the water. Reservations are always a good idea for overnight stays and essential in the summer.

There are many kinds of Bed and Breakfast establishments, too. Some are very private; one has only one guest room suite. Others have up to seven, while some hotel chains offer the authentic B&B experience in their rooms. They promise privacy, luxurious bedrooms, charming gardens to stroll in, and gourmet breakfast buffets.

Some inns have as many as seven guest suites. There are charming Victorian manses and more contemporary houses with modern decor but all the comforts. It's fun to go online and check out the photo galleries that let you see for yourself what each establishment has to offer, like private balconies or kitchenettes. You can have your own private retreat or enter into the home life of your hosts by sharing their living room and patio.

There is even one place to stay that's in a marina. That's because it's a commodious boat. Go online to check this one out; there are several bedrooms that look as spacious and elegant as you could wish, as well as decks with views of the busy waterfront.

This vacation destination is great for doing as little or as much as you like. You can just sit back and absorb the peace and quiet or get out to see the sights. These include two species of whale, which you might spot from one of the beach or from a boat during a wildlife tour. There's hiking, kayaking, bird watching, and more in the national parks, and shopping, museums, galleries, entertainment, and dining in town.




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