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Why The Green Gate Bed and Breakfast Hates Americans
The Sunday Times called the Green Gate B&B "the greatest little B&B in Ireland", Fodor's claimed this property was "one of the world's top establishments", and even the LA Times called it "the best B&B we have ever stayed in", but before you start clicking around for rates and availability you should know that the B&B-keeper "doesn't deal with Americans".
While this may seem a bit harsh, Green Gate's owner, Paul Chatenoud has his reasons:
It's not me that doesn't like Americans, it's Americans that don't like me. I've recently had 10 American couples who decided, once they saw the B&B, they didn't like it. Most didn't tell me to my face; they said they were going into town for a drink, then called up and cancelled, refusing to pay. The cottage is exactly how The Sunday Times described it: remote and basic.
It's got low ceilings, brown water -- but is in the most beautiful place in the world. Some Americans love it, most seem to hate it. They want an old cottage that is actually brand-new.
It's only Americans that this happens with and I can't take the risk any more. I have revised my website to warn that the Green Gate is the opposite of the American way of life. I advise Americans to come and look first, but not to book in advance.
Ugh, bailing on a hotel room without being upfront about it is so cowardly.
What exactly is Paul's web warning? Well there are many, but our favorite "yankee go home" sign on the Green Gate website is the on that says:
The Green Gate is not a fake, pink, new, stupid, American Disneyland Castle. It is a real, green, old, radiant Irish thatched cottage.
This guy rocks. He is up front and honest, and while he may sound a bit like the the militant innkeeper in West Virginia, let's face it, when you own a four room B&B you can turn away whomever you damn well please.
Related Stories:
· Green Gate B&B reviews [TripAdvisor]
· Green Gate B&B Commentary [TimesOnline]
