North Park News
September – 2005
Newest Neighborhood B&B Offers Relaxing Retreat
Owners Breton and Karrie Buckley follow Asian customs of service
By Alicia C. Graham
In this original San Diego suburban oasis of structures well over 75 years old, the San Diego Bed & Breakfast is the newest escape from the ordinary.
The two-story B&B offers a quiet and peaceful retreat, setting it apart from most chain hotels. Restoring the 1939 Bancroft Street bungalow on their own, owners Breton and Karrie Buckley have created a warm and inviting atmosphere with a focus on service. “Here, patrons can be above it all,” says Breton. “We are trying to express residential San Diego in the best possible way; this bed and breakfast is a special part of the community and has a different feel.”
Inside the B&B, guests can lounge on the leather sofa or recliner, enjoy the 37-inch plasma screen television, state-of-the-art electronics and a full walk-in closet. The Buckleys preserved the kitchen�s original cabinets, replaced the appliances, and added a stackable washer and dryer. The bathroom also has been fully remodeled and is equipped with a full bath and shower. When opening the bathroom mirror, patrons will find it stocked with toiletries.
The B&B�s makeover also included laminate floors, new light fixtures, central heat and air and garden landscaping. Guests also have their own private entrance and parking space. The B&B is located behind the Buckley�s own house.
The San Diego Bed & Breakfast follows traditional Asian customs of cleanliness and service. “I travel to Asia repeatedly and the hotels insist on providing luxury and comfort for their guests,” says Breton. In the bedroom, the padded, queen-size, leather headboard provides comfort when reading or watching television in bed. Protecting the bed linens is another Asian custom the Buckleys follow. The blanket is wrapped between two sheets to ensure it never touches the floor.
In the evenings, guests receive a “turn-down” service where the duvet is removed, exposing 600-thread sheets. Guests will find “After Eight” chocolates sitting on top of the pillows. In the morning, guests wake up to a choice of two different newspapers and a continental breakfast, including fresh baked pastries, two types of cereal, crackers and brie, fresh fruit, pitchers of orange juice and milk, and Starbucks coffee. “Listening to the fountain or enjoying the gardens is a great way to relax in the morning,” says Karrie. “We love hosting and taking care of the details.”
The one-unit San Diego Bed & Breakfast accommodates both business travelers and tourists and offers high-speed Internet service, maps and tour guide information. The B&B is a member of the San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau. To make reservations, visit www.sdbb.us or e-mail [email protected], or contact the Buckleys at (619) 962-1691. The San Diego Bed & Breakfast is located at 3413 Bancroft St.
Note: While we no longer set breakfast, clean and provide turn-down service daily, this 2005 article is part of the history of the San Diego Bed & Breakfast and is included so that you can see the traditions that have led to our current model of more relaxed hosting and more privacy for our guests.