In some areas of the world, guest houses are the only kind of accommodation available for visitors who have no local relatives with whom to stay. Among the features which distinguish a guest house from a hotel or inn is the lack of a full-time staff.

What Is a Guest House? A guest house provides accommodations for guests, family members, or renters.

Generally, B&Bs are smaller (up to 3 guest rooms) and managed by the owner who stays on the property. Guest houses are larger (4 to 16 or more rooms), often providing additional services like a licensed bar or a swimming pool, and may be managed by the owner or a professional manager.

Guest houses tend to have comfortable but basic, home-style facilities. Hotels, on the other hand, typically have more facilities, including in-room mini-bars, bar and restaurant areas, gyms, and more.