Think B&B for holiday accommodations

The Kingsley House.

Not everyone is comfortable being an out-of-town guest even when a parent or close family member insists it is no trouble at all putting them out and on the couch. It's for this reason many families choose to stay at a bed-and-breakfast while traveling during the holiday season.

It's a "home away from home."

"We used to have a family that booked the whole house at Christmastime," said Dominique Johnson, front office manager for The Inn on Ferry Street in Detroit. It was considered home base for the family who traveled from around the country to reach their home state. Unlike most bed-and-breakfasts, The Inn on Ferry Street not only rents out rooms but has several houses available as well.

"Think of it as Monopoly and we're the Boardwalk side," Johnson said. The residential group on East Ferry Avenue is part of an upper-class neighborhood originally developed in the late 1800s. The homes and carriage houses feature a variety of architectural styles popular at the time, including four Victorians. Popular among these historic homes is Pungs House, a beautifully restored home that was originally built in 1891 for William Pungs, who was vice president of the Michigan Railroad Supply Company and founder of the Anderson Carriage Company. Besides all of its Victorian charm, this historic structure boasts inlaid hardwood floors and two fireplaces. "We decorate each house for Christmas," said Johnson. That includes a Christmas tree where guests can hide away gifts for opening on Christmas morning.

As for Christmas dinner, Johnson said there are numerous restaurants in the area — including The Whitney — or catering services. "That's what one family did," Johnson said. In some cases, because some of the homes can seat 35 guests comfortably for dinner, it is the families staying at the bed-and-breakfast that become the holiday hosts.

The Owen House is another popular choice, not only for Christmas gatherings but holiday weddings, as it features a beautiful grand staircase.

The Inn on Ferry Street.

Prices on the rooms at The Inn on Ferry Street are between $139 and $239 a night. The cost for renting a home: $955 and up.

How about parents coming in to visit a college student?

A search at http://www.bnbfinder.com found several locations, including the Vitosha Guest Haus Inn, a Gothic mansion complex featuring down comforters and fireplaces.

One amenity that is common among any B&B you choose is the hearty breakfast offered by your innkeepers. In some cases, guests can request complimentary shuttle service, within reason, and even a loaner car. Coffee, teas and fruit of the season are available throughout the day.

Send your comments or home and garden tips to gina.joseph@macombdaily.com.