Summer’s finally here, with all of its attendant pleasures: balmy weather, barbecues, sojourns to the beach and, of course, vacations. This year, given the double whammy of rising gas prices and a troubled economy, an increasing number of vacationers have elected to incorporate environmental consciousness into their travel plans.

Why choose to stay at a top-notch bed-and-breakfast instead of a hotel? For many, it’s all about the uniqueness of the experience… the individualized hospitality, intimate atmosphere, beautifully-appointed rooms and, last but far from least, the food.