Why We are NOT Canada Select Rated
Canada Select while claiming its categories reflect quality, actually uses a set of criteria that only reflects the quantity of things that a facility has available. This is a classification that caters to large city hotels. Any establishment having at least 1 room with a shared bath can not get a rating of more than 2 1/2 stars. And to get 4 or 5 stars all manner of business oriented services are required. And lastly, air conditioniong, which except for buildings with windows that open, is like asking for fridges in an igloo. No matter what other amenities the B&B has, no matter the quality of the service, the beds and linens, the food service or the cleanliness, friendliness and elegance of the B&B, the prime criteria is first and foremost having private or ensuite baths for EVERY room.
This is not to say that we are against private or ensuite bathrooms, phones, internet access, etc. In fact we do offer many of these things. It is just that the criteria says that EVERY room must have one and that it is a feature more important than many others. For proprietors who want their B&B to be like a home away from home and who want to offer a relaxing and enjoyable experience to their guests, other things are more important. Phones and in room TV and laundry service are fine, but for some, a peaceful, quiet environment and attentive hosts combined with excellent food and service are the appeal. But there are no criteria for these things in the Canada Select rating system. So, we have chosen not to join. We will continue to serve that segment of the travelling public that appreciates comfort, real quality and friendly, caring, personal service.
We welcome your comments and questions. You can email or phone us at any time. You can link to the Canada Select website here to see for yourself their criteria. If you read down to the bottom you will also see that the 1/2 stars Canada Select gives out are for quality. Any establishment having the required "things" gets the full stars. Its the 1/2 stars that tell the story.