Pic: Bruce, host at Rose Lodge in Cape Town


Staying in a bed and breakfast is either a briliant way of getting a more authentic feel for a place than a hotel; or it's a dire way to feel like an unwanted guest in someone else's house. The key factor? The hosts.

We have scoured Been there for the tips which sing the praises of the wonderful people whose knowledge and banter created a stay to remember - for good reasons.

If you feel there's someone we've overlooked or who needs mentioning then post a tip on the site or drop us an email: been.there@guardian.co.uk