I don’t know why some people need to be so difficult. Maybe she’s just an unhappy person. Kudos to you for being firm, but still nice to her. Your B&B looks fabulous and it’s clear that you really strive to make everyone happy. 💕💕
Loved your vlog, ignore the naysayers Some people just do not know to be happy. They were never taught, if you cant say anything nice, say nothing at all .. ❤
Yep... some people are just made that way. Complainers!!! They dont go on holiday to enjoy, they go to moan! They will test us, push us, exhaust us! But! hopefully, make us better hosts! Because we care and were nice! Though! Isn't it great when they leave!! 😂 Just add to your 2024 list "fans" for each room, then lock the doors!😊
It sounds like she has a mental health disorder like Narcissistic Personality Disorder or Borderline Disorder. They crave attention and they love putting people down. She built you up at breakfast to make the nasty review sting even more. I was married to someone like that. Don’t take it personal. Everyone that watches your channel has seen what a kind, accommodating and flexible host you are. Keep up firm boundaries regarding arrival and departure times. You need that to schedule your day abscess sure there is enough time to get the rooms ready, besides accommodating your personal life. It was another lovely video. You have a nice way of sharing your life, the history of your town and daily chores and make it very entertaining. All the best to you and many nice customers.
@@queensescape I noticed how strong Bo is when he explained how he dealt with the squatter. He is so calm, confident BUT FIRM. Its a gift. I guess his job as a pilot and the huge responsibility he carries makes it easier for him. I wonder if he is a Personality Type 8 on the Enneagram. They are the strongest personalities on the wheel. Keep thriving and growing. You are a wonderful host and manager and a gifted storyteller/videographer.
@@iu.5146 I would be very curious to know the answer to this. I haven’t heard of a type 8 designation, but can attest that Bo can be an immovable object at times, as I can be an unstoppable force, which makes for some fireworks. It’s a characteristic that frustrates and one I couldn’t do without. 😊
You will inevitably come across some strange or difficult people. The world is full of them. But thankfully, most people are kind and pleasant. You are doing a wonderful job. 😊
You would be right. We need fans. It may sound naive that I didn’t know that going into the summer, but the previous owner didn’t have them for 20 years, so I didn’t even think about it. On my radar now. 😊
Some people just go out of their way to be obnoxious, they must get some form of enjoyment from it. Quite often we have found its the people you put your self out for. Unfortunatly its one of the hazards of being in the hospitality business. We enjoy your blog, stay happy.
❤ Got the patron card today . ❤ I think u always get some people that are a bit hard to please no matter what type of BNB u have it is what it is . Don't worry just carry on . ❤
Karen. So sorry you had such a difficult time with your guest. You mentioned how lovely the son was. My heart goes out to him as he must experience this behavior on a daily basis You handled it beautifully. Love your honest not scripted blogs. Deb from North Carolina USA😊
Oh how I can relate to your difficult guest experience. We ran a b&b in France for 12 years and had excellent reviews on Trip Advisor etc., and many lovely guests who have remained friends. However, we learned that there are some people who aren’t happy unless they are complaining. They live to complain no matter what! They complained about the weather being too hot, the cows mooing too loudly, the birdsong waking them up in the morning, the sun being too bright, we (apparently) offered too much choice at breakfast … you just couldn’t make it up. Thank goodness these guests were really very few, but for some reason they are the guests I still remember for all the wrong reasons! Don’t let them wear you down. You are doing so well 💕💕
Yes, it was a serious complaint- they really believed that I should take responsibility for this and go speak to the farmer and ask him to move his cows somewhere else! Like I say, you couldn’t make it up. Felt I was in a Monty Python sketch 🤣🤣
I had a similar lady at a hotel desk in Paris…. When she found out I was from Canada ( which is bilingual French and English)… but I’m from the English side and we don’t speak French. Well she refused to speak English to us…but to other people not from Canada she spoke English!….. she was surprised that most Canadians don’t speak French…..but I love France. After her I was hoping nobody would ask me where I was from.
There are people like this everywhere. I think they must would be kinder if they had more knowledge. It frustrates and embarrasses me that I can’t speak French better. But a stranger might assume that I just don’t care. I had a similar experience in Germany where government workers would yell at me in German for not speaking German. When I’d arrive at work in tears, my German colleagues would be furious with their countrymen bc they knew I was studying German and trying my best.
We don’t have fans bc the previous B&B owners didn’t offer fans - it’s not more complex than that. We set off this year following their example and have learned as we go what we’d change. I agree with you that I’d like fans for next year.
Good advice when you have a place with so many personalities visiting the place. Don't get tricked and be totally relaxed and confident in your own behavior, Because no matter what you do, these people will come again and again. And unfortunately, there are narcissists who are completely impossible to satisfy if you were to stand on their head. Nothing to do, they can't see it from your angle,,never, Well, the trick is that it doesn't destroy your own mood and work, In this case, I can easily see and analyze the personality, There hasn't been much summer this year and she herself is responsible for going on this stay, And no one controls the weather, and I guarantee you she will come in winter and will complain about the cold in the room, No, of course you have to listen and hear if it is constructive criticism and when you do not advertise with air conditioning or something else, well then it is no longer. The rule is that no matter what, you can't make everyone happy. I myself am someone who is always cold, so I want warmth,, And another thing, don't go into a lot of defense and talk to someone you sense is like that in personality because regardless they will complain and write on the web, You can't do anything, What you can do is promise yourself not to stay paralyzed by it and don't take it personally, but smile in your quiet mind, You know best yourself how much you do and are polite and kind, And things are in order and clean. Ok, I could write a lot more but I feel for you from experience and know that you are very affected by it many times, therefore give yourself rules for the future if you don't want to get tired and actually sick because it gets stuck in the subconscious, No smile to the world and hopefully smiles back, Knock knock there will always be someone who can't breathe without projecting their own problems and dissatisfaction onto others. And you know that everything is energy in the universe so what you send out in vibes is sent back tenfold, try to avoid these situations and don't tell it here on the page because someone enjoys other people's hardships and you also don't know who is watching your channel , who might give you a hard time on a visit. Take care in this world. Good luck with everything and enjoy your amazing place it's so nice and lovely- Finally, you can respond to her complaint and if it is completely out of place and doesn't belong anywhere, I would report to Google that it is harassment and actually blacklist her for visits. Because someone just wants to ruin business for others. Have a good evening Karen and Bo i do a fantastic job both of you, Many hugs from Maria in Denmark😘❤🙏🐞🐝🌻🍀
It was so little Karen and I really hope you don't meet too many of this caliber, but unfortunately there are many of them. That's why you should also look through this and believe me you will get better and better at spotting these people. People forget that it is impossible to satisfy everything for everyone in detail. So it is always good that there is a clear message on your pages about the stay. It is not advertised as a luxury hotel, but I think people confuse these two things as it is a castle and yes you know what I mean. The most important thing is that you maintain your integrity and have a clear attitude towards your own concept, because if you constantly have to review whether you are doing it well enough and fill up more and more energy and things, then you yourself will disappear in this. What do you expect from your concept when it's not a hotel, etc.,, People can't expect it to be the same level or service because then there would have to be many employees on site, No, therefore hold firm and don't let it eat away at you. I know that it takes incredible energy and effort to run what you have and therefore it is important that you agree on your rules and intention together because, as I mentioned before, you cannot avoid criticism, impossible people or complaints of any kind. The art is to keep yourself whole and your mood intact, otherwise you will drive tiredly down the road, and everything will be a struggle instead of the satisfaction and joy of owning such a magnificent place as you have. Have a good weekend to both of you and remember to relax a little. Many hugs and warm greetings Maria.😘@@queensescape
You are truly a rock to put up with those problem guests and you are so nice about it! There are just some people who are unhappy with life in general. You are a lovely lady and your home is gorgeous, so dwell on that and know that you helped her in the end. She is her own worst enemy...so sad.
Hi Karen You Can Not Please Every Body In This difficult world I Think You Did Very Well With Her And You Was calm Well Done You l Watch Your’ Blog A lot Of The Time 💕😘
Hi there, I've been following your vlog with interest and enjoy watching your progress as you develop and build your B&B business but I feel I have to comment on how you shared the story of a dissatisfied guest that had recently stayed with you. Frankly, it made me a little uncomfortable that you shared these guest interactions and details in such a public way. I feel that as a business owner, in which you host people in your home, you should at all times strive to be discrete and professional. I believe that sharing these details in a such a public forum sets the wrong tone. Just imagine how guests would feel knowing that their interactions with you will end up on your Chateau vlog. I do hope you'll take my comment in the positive way it is intended. You work so hard and have achieved so much that I can only see you going from strength to strength and I continue to wish you all the success you deserve.
Yes. I think I agree with you. I was back and forth about sharing that story. On the one hand, I want to share our experience without too much filter and if people come here and are rude, I don’t believe they are entitled to it being kept a secret. On the other hand, I wouldn’t want people to worry about being judged unfairly, so I think I’d go with your point of view moving forward, and I do appreciate it.
Basic French understanding and pronunciation would help. Having a business in a foreign country and not knowing or learning some basics is not only unrealistic but disrespectful and a killer for business.
We’re doing fine, Marie. Rome wasn’t built in a day and nice people on both sides always find a way. We’ve made new friends with plenty who speak no English. And we’ve learned our share of French. Not to mention we have German and Danish capabilities in-house. 😊 A positive attitude and willingness to try go a long way in these modern days where everyone has Google Translate in their pocket.
🍎 Hi Karen Beautiful sunny windy day here in Florida! About your guests that wanted a fan because it's so hot everywhere now, the temperature is extreme, so you must have fans for your guests because it's only temporary for them to feel at home as they might use it in their home when it's hot. My daughter and I can't live without a fan even with the air condition on because it keeps the house cooler and the air turns on less, not to mention we have to have the sound in the bedroom to fall asleep. When we visited Denmark, we had to buy a fan to fall asleep believe it or not! Also some people's body temperature is higher because of medication and alcohol that will make the blood pressure higher and so your body feels warmer. It's not because they're fussy or complaining, but their body is used to the fan for feeling cooler and sleeping better, because the sound of a fan in the bedroom will also block the noise from the other bedrooms and it's a lot better to block the disturbance from outside, that's why we have to have a fan to fall asleep. Bye for now.🌴
The night air here is really cool so opening the windows makes a huge difference. (It’s so much different from anywhere I’ve lived.) But we’ll be getting fans anyway. 😊
I have a ton of digital calendars. They’re much better organized. Only issue is that we have an AirBNB calendar, and Booking calendar, and a Queen’s Escape calendar - but not one calendar to rule then all. I like to have the bookings in front of me - all in one.
Yes, guests can be challenging...and it is a wonder why when you did all you could to make her comfortable. Fans will be a nice addition next year. An informative video of the Martel area - thank you! The heat will soon be gone and lovely days return to enjoy your beautiful château & the region. Thank you for sharing each week. 🥰
1. There are people who are just unpleasant, miserable or mentally not exactly up to scratch. She showed poor manners. Poor thing.... You showed self-control and good manners. These were noticed by the teenager! Never let the woman back into your home! 2. Anyway, as climate change has been really made its reality felt this year, it might be an idea, eventually, to invest in full sized electric tower fans, which are airconditioning systems. They are not expensive. I have got one. My tower fan really cools a room beautifully. I put it on setting one (the lowest setting) all through the night and sleep beautifully during a heatwave. My machine is not noisy. Old fashioned fans are not the answer. They blow, not cool. 3. I must visit you one of these days! Keep well.
I wonder which fan you mean. I have really looked for an air con unit but couldn’t find any that really cooled without a window attachment (which we won’t do). If you have a chance to share with me, I’d be interested. Thanks!
I bought the Tower Fan on 16 August 2022 at Lidl for £19.99 (UK). In the instruction booklet it is called: Tower Fan STV 50 F1. On the receipt it is described as: Tower Fan White 0351584. Just put plug into the wall socket.
I like your honesty and enjoyment you get from living there. I watch feeling like I can’t wait to be a guest one day with the glimpses of your chateau, warm hospitality and surrounding area. I also find your open take on life there from so many angles that you wouldn’t otherwise consider, which must be interesting for people to watch who want to do the same chateau b&b business. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
That guest sounds like a classic case of Bipolar Disorder! Nuts. Keep doing what you do ; there’s still a bunch of us that would never be that way regardless and when at your beautiful Chateau…will appreciate all you do and provide 💛
Are y’all planning on adding AC when you begin renovations? Do y’all have a salon for guests to relax, read, etc. downstairs? Definitely need some fans to help with temps.
We don’t plan AC, but fans, yes! We don’t have a salon for guests. We have the dining room with coffee and tea service where guests can work / relax + the terrace. I would have liked a salon for guests, but we just didn’t have enough rooms.
Karen, I’m still loving your channel. Love the way you handled the difficult client…you can be proud that you were a “notch above” her in the manners and class department. Keep plugging on; I’m sure you’ll be challenged again but remember the lessons learned and you’ll prevail. Watching from central PA, USA.
It is hard I know but don’t let these people get you down. There will always be people who like to complain and find fault with everything. Who know that is probably why she did not have a partner to come with her!!!! He up and left!! There is psychologically something wrong with them and no nothing to do with you or your hotel and service they will always be unhappy people. Keep up your good spirits and just try not to think about it anymore. In this business you will experience it a few times but then the nice appreciative guests over ride them. Good luck for the season next Summer. Greetings from Sri Lanka!
Some people are just difficult. If it were to cold she would of complained too. Sounds like she isn’t a very happy person. I would be happy to have 80 degree weather. It been in the mid to upper 100’s here for weeks now.
Dont worry about people who cant do interpersonal relations. Some people are broken and cannot conform to social norms especially when hot/stressed/faced with something unexpected. Theres no reasoning with them, just try not to take it personally, she's just "like that" as her son was all too aware. There are a lot of FUBAR people, my sister is one... Still hell to spend time with as much now or more so than when we were kids. She just is wired up wrong. This other lady sounds same, has a mental pic in her head and cant adjust to the reality. Not your fault
That stinks when you have a customer like that. It is good this isn't a regular experience! Rog and I love seeing your adventures and how hard you work to make it work! So smart you have them in a Playlist so we can just watch one after the other. Thinking about you all from way over here and pray you continue to be blessed!
I run an Air bnb and one guest gave me a low location score because he had to drive 10 miles for his work. He chose us!! We are in a quiet location surrounded by fields, footpaths, local pub and beautiful views. A guest’s review was there wasn’t much to do. Never stepped outside their room. Got to laugh 😂
I live in Mexico where air conditioning is rare. Where I live, the highs are usually in the mid 70s but it does get up to 85F. a few days. Even so, I need lower temperatures to sleep, so I have adapted. Look for portable tower fans with refrigerated air. They are not easy to find, but are a life saver. Also when the outside air gets cooler put another fan in the window and bring the cold air in with a fan. Or simply close the chateau for guests in August or really hot months. Hope this helps.
August is the busiest month so we definitely won’t be closing. 😊 I will get fans though. I’ve never had luck with refrigerated air fans. If you have a brand name please share. Thank you!
I will show you our calender book that we use for bookings (the one previous owner had) The client sounds like a typical French client, they are often sceptical when the arrive since we are not French after all your friendly help they still wrote a bad comment. A for us important French client once told we that in the statistics for hotel and restaurant clients, the French clients are the worse in the world. We do not care any longer what they write about us, since there is nothing you can do except beeing nice to your clients.
🍎 Hi Karen and Bo Gorgeous cloudy day! About your difficult guests as you said that was a little annoyed that no one was there to book her in. Unfortunately for you, if no one is there, that will create anxiety for your guests. What if they have to go to the bathroom as soon as they get there and no one is there? Then you wouldn't know that they had to go in your bushes and you don't want that mess on your plants! Especially if they hide the toilet paper in the bushes! #2 What if you go to a hospital and all the doctors and nurses are having lunch and they close the door with a sign on it that says closed for lunch when you had an appointment in five minutes. Or going to the airport and the doors won't open because of the same thing, all the workers are having lunch or went somewhere to take care of business like you had to do that day. You can't be at two places at the same time or do two things at the same time, it's highly impossible. We all do that, but some obstacle or situation is going to get in the way and whatever it is, it's not done well or you have to do it over again. If you're expecting or have guests and you have an appointment, if it was me, someone has to be at the house to cover me for any situations if I had to leave the house, because strangers when it comes to business, don't like excuses. If they're paying for services, they want it to be on a scale of one to ten, a ten not anything below eight, because they will tell others and others will tell other people. It's just the way every business is and that's what makes a business prosper or fail. Because there are so many bed and breakfast chateaus in France, especially in your area, you want to be one of the top ten and the only way to do that is, when you have company, you are there no matter what or have someone to cover for you and operate the same way if you were there. I grew up in a business and my mother always said, if you can't be there, close your business's doors and make sure you didn't make an appointment to be there and then you're somewhere else. I quote she says, they won't come back and they will tell others and then the word gets around, so you don't lose one person, but you lose 50 people or more. You don't want to get a scar if you don't have to, especially if they think they can get a better price for better service. It's just the way people are with business. We also tell other RUclipsrs the same thing. Cheers to France!🌴🇺🇲
Thanks for the advice. I actually did close the business online for this day, but 1 reservation somehow got through. No matter. We won’t be running like a Holiday Inn anytime soon and when there’s no one to cover there’s no one to cover no matter if you think it should be that way or not. I spoke to this guest and told her 4:00. She was early so had to wait. It’s not my preference, but life is like that sometimes. You and I probably align a lot in our thinking. Bo is more fluid and thinks people will understand bc this is our home, not a box hotel. That means I end up in a lot of situations that make me uncomfortable but he feels completely fine about. We have different tolerances when it comes to how to run the business. I’m trying to be more flexible, but I reckon I lean a bit more in your direction. 😊
@@lindamounts2193 No. People don’t stay here during the day. They’re here at night when it’s in the 60s. They open their windows and no one whines. This was the first.
I don’t know why some people need to be so difficult. Maybe she’s just an unhappy person. Kudos to you for being firm, but still nice to her. Your B&B looks fabulous and it’s clear that you really strive to make everyone happy. 💕💕
Loved your vlog, ignore the naysayers
Some people just do not know to be happy. They were never taught, if you cant say anything nice, say nothing at all .. ❤
Yep... some people are just made that way. Complainers!!! They dont go on holiday to enjoy, they go to moan! They will test us, push us, exhaust us! But! hopefully, make us better hosts! Because we care and were nice! Though! Isn't it great when they leave!! 😂
Just add to your 2024 list "fans" for each room, then lock the doors!😊
Absolutely.
A fan or portable AC unit would be very helpful.
I definitely agree. Putting it in the budget for next summer.
It sounds like she has a mental health disorder like Narcissistic Personality Disorder or Borderline Disorder. They crave attention and they love putting people down. She built you up at breakfast to make the nasty review sting even more.
I was married to someone like that. Don’t take it personal.
Everyone that watches your channel has seen what a kind, accommodating and flexible host you are.
Keep up firm boundaries regarding arrival and departure times. You need that to schedule your day abscess sure there is enough time to get the rooms ready, besides accommodating your personal life.
It was another lovely video. You have a nice way of sharing your life, the history of your town and daily chores and make it very entertaining.
All the best to you and many nice customers.
I feel like you are a born business owner. Bonis also very good at setting boundaries. He’s taught me a lot. ❤️
@@queensescape I noticed how strong Bo is when he explained how he dealt with the squatter. He is so calm, confident BUT FIRM. Its a gift. I guess his job as a pilot and the huge responsibility he carries makes it easier for him.
I wonder if he is a Personality Type 8 on the Enneagram. They are the strongest personalities on the wheel.
Keep thriving and growing. You are a wonderful host and manager and a gifted storyteller/videographer.
@@iu.5146 I would be very curious to know the answer to this. I haven’t heard of a type 8 designation, but can attest that Bo can be an immovable object at times, as I can be an unstoppable force, which makes for some fireworks. It’s a characteristic that frustrates and one I couldn’t do without. 😊
You will inevitably come across some strange or difficult people. The world is full of them. But thankfully, most people are kind and pleasant. You are doing a wonderful job. 😊
I’m sorry but I have to politely disagree. If it’s hot, every room should have a fan.
You would be right. We need fans. It may sound naive that I didn’t know that going into the summer, but the previous owner didn’t have them for 20 years, so I didn’t even think about it. On my radar now. 😊
Some people just go out of their way to be obnoxious, they must get some form of enjoyment from it. Quite often we have found its the people you put your self out for. Unfortunatly its one of the hazards of being in the hospitality business. We enjoy your blog, stay happy.
Fabulous video. Loved the in depth tour of the incredible church. Can't believe the lady left a nasty review.
❤ Got the patron card today . ❤ I think u always get some people that are a bit hard to please no matter what type of BNB u have it is what it is . Don't worry just carry on . ❤
Karen. So sorry you had such a difficult time with your guest. You mentioned how lovely the son was. My heart goes out to him as he must experience this behavior on a daily basis You handled it beautifully. Love your honest not scripted blogs. Deb from North Carolina USA😊
Thanks. I know I’m going to get a little flack for sharing this story. I was torn but felt like we’re trying to be transparent. So, thanks.
Oh how I can relate to your difficult guest experience. We ran a b&b in France for 12 years and had excellent reviews on Trip Advisor etc., and many lovely guests who have remained friends. However, we learned that there are some people who aren’t happy unless they are complaining. They live to complain no matter what! They complained about the weather being too hot, the cows mooing too loudly, the birdsong waking them up in the morning, the sun being too bright, we (apparently) offered too much choice at breakfast … you just couldn’t make it up. Thank goodness these guests were really very few, but for some reason they are the guests I still remember for all the wrong reasons!
Don’t let them wear you down. You are doing so well 💕💕
The cows mooing too loud… 😂 That had me in stitches.
Yes, it was a serious complaint- they really believed that I should take responsibility for this and go speak to the farmer and ask him to move his cows somewhere else! Like I say, you couldn’t make it up. Felt I was in a Monty Python sketch 🤣🤣
@@elainehayden2483 😂😂😂
Omgsh the patience you’ve got! Good for you!! Yeah those kinds of people are usually unhappy in general. But the bad review?! Boo.
I had a similar lady at a hotel desk in Paris…. When she found out I was from Canada ( which is bilingual French and English)… but I’m from the English side and we don’t speak French. Well she refused to speak English to us…but to other people not from Canada she spoke English!….. she was surprised that most Canadians don’t speak French…..but I love France. After her I was hoping nobody would ask me where I was from.
There are people like this everywhere. I think they must would be kinder if they had more knowledge. It frustrates and embarrasses me that I can’t speak French better. But a stranger might assume that I just don’t care. I had a similar experience in Germany where government workers would yell at me in German for not speaking German. When I’d arrive at work in tears, my German colleagues would be furious with their countrymen bc they knew I was studying German and trying my best.
After all that, leaving happy, she writes a bad review. Not cool
Glad you got that cooler. The church history and tour were so interesting. ❤
Karen, you are a brilliant narrator ❤
That is so kind. Thank you.
Why on earth don’t you have a fan or 2 fans in every room?? I mean, this is a basic commodity !!
We don’t have fans bc the previous B&B owners didn’t offer fans - it’s not more complex than that. We set off this year following their example and have learned as we go what we’d change. I agree with you that I’d like fans for next year.
Good advice when you have a place with so many personalities visiting the place. Don't get tricked and be totally relaxed and confident in your own behavior, Because no matter what you do, these people will come again and again. And unfortunately, there are narcissists who are completely impossible to satisfy if you were to stand on their head. Nothing to do, they can't see it from your angle,,never, Well, the trick is that it doesn't destroy your own mood and work, In this case, I can easily see and analyze the personality, There hasn't been much summer this year and she herself is responsible for going on this stay, And no one controls the weather, and I guarantee you she will come in winter and will complain about the cold in the room, No, of course you have to listen and hear if it is constructive criticism and when you do not advertise with air conditioning or something else, well then it is no longer. The rule is that no matter what, you can't make everyone happy. I myself am someone who is always cold, so I want warmth,,
And another thing, don't go into a lot of defense and talk to someone you sense is like that in personality because regardless they will complain and write on the web, You can't do anything, What you can do is promise yourself not to stay paralyzed by it and don't take it personally, but smile in your quiet mind, You know best yourself how much you do and are polite and kind, And things are in order and clean. Ok, I could write a lot more but I feel for you from experience and know that you are very affected by it many times, therefore give yourself rules for the future if you don't want to get tired and actually sick because it gets stuck in the subconscious, No smile to the world and hopefully smiles back, Knock knock there will always be someone who can't breathe without projecting their own problems and dissatisfaction onto others. And you know that everything is energy in the universe so what you send out in vibes is sent back tenfold, try to avoid these situations and don't tell it here on the page because someone enjoys other people's hardships and you also don't know who is watching your channel , who might give you a hard time on a visit. Take care in this world. Good luck with everything and enjoy your amazing place it's so nice and lovely-
Finally, you can respond to her complaint and if it is completely out of place and doesn't belong anywhere, I would report to Google that it is harassment and actually blacklist her for visits. Because someone just wants to ruin business for others. Have a good evening Karen and Bo i do a fantastic job both of you, Many hugs from Maria in Denmark😘❤🙏🐞🐝🌻🍀
Thank you for that long reply. I found a lot of wisdom in your word and certainly encouragement. Thank you so much. ❤️
It was so little Karen and I really hope you don't meet too many of this caliber, but unfortunately there are many of them. That's why you should also look through this and believe me you will get better and better at spotting these people. People forget that it is impossible to satisfy everything for everyone in detail. So it is always good that there is a clear message on your pages about the stay. It is not advertised as a luxury hotel, but I think people confuse these two things as it is a castle and yes you know what I mean.
The most important thing is that you maintain your integrity and have a clear attitude towards your own concept, because if you constantly have to review whether you are doing it well enough and fill up more and more energy and things, then you yourself will disappear in this. What do you expect from your concept when it's not a hotel, etc.,, People can't expect it to be the same level or service because then there would have to be many employees on site, No, therefore hold firm and don't let it eat away at you. I know that it takes incredible energy and effort to run what you have and therefore it is important that you agree on your rules and intention together because, as I mentioned before, you cannot avoid criticism, impossible people or complaints of any kind. The art is to keep yourself whole and your mood intact, otherwise you will drive tiredly down the road, and everything will be a struggle instead of the satisfaction and joy of owning such a magnificent place as you have. Have a good weekend to both of you and remember to relax a little. Many hugs and warm greetings Maria.😘@@queensescape
You are truly a rock to put up with those problem guests and you are so nice about it! There are just some people who are unhappy with life in general. You are a lovely lady and your home is gorgeous, so dwell on that and know that you helped her in the end. She is her own worst enemy...so sad.
Hi Karen You Can Not Please Every Body In This difficult world I Think You Did Very Well With Her And You Was calm Well Done You l Watch Your’ Blog A lot Of The Time 💕😘
Thanks, Janice. ❤️
Well, you convinced me. No bed and breakfast for me because all my nasty guests would wake up 💀😂😂😂
Hi there, I've been following your vlog with interest and enjoy watching your progress as you develop and build your B&B business but I feel I have to comment on how you shared the story of a dissatisfied guest that had recently stayed with you. Frankly, it made me a little uncomfortable that you shared these guest interactions and details in such a public way. I feel that as a business owner, in which you host people in your home, you should at all times strive to be discrete and professional. I believe that sharing these details in a such a public forum sets the wrong tone. Just imagine how guests would feel knowing that their interactions with you will end up on your Chateau vlog. I do hope you'll take my comment in the positive way it is intended. You work so hard and have achieved so much that I can only see you going from strength to strength and I continue to wish you all the success you deserve.
Yes. I think I agree with you. I was back and forth about sharing that story. On the one hand, I want to share our experience without too much filter and if people come here and are rude, I don’t believe they are entitled to it being kept a secret. On the other hand, I wouldn’t want people to worry about being judged unfairly, so I think I’d go with your point of view moving forward, and I do appreciate it.
Basic French understanding and pronunciation would help. Having a business in a foreign country and not knowing or learning some basics is not only unrealistic but disrespectful and a killer for business.
We’re doing fine, Marie. Rome wasn’t built in a day and nice people on both sides always find a way. We’ve made new friends with plenty who speak no English. And we’ve learned our share of French. Not to mention we have German and Danish capabilities in-house. 😊 A positive attitude and willingness to try go a long way in these modern days where everyone has Google Translate in their pocket.
🍎 Hi Karen
Beautiful sunny windy day here in Florida! About your guests that wanted a fan because it's so hot everywhere now, the temperature is extreme, so you must have fans for your guests because it's only temporary for them to feel at home as they might use it in their home when it's hot. My daughter and I can't live without a fan even with the air condition on because it keeps the house cooler and the air turns on less, not to mention we have to have the sound in the bedroom to fall asleep. When we visited Denmark, we had to buy a fan to fall asleep believe it or not! Also some people's body temperature is higher because of medication and alcohol that will make the blood pressure higher and so your body feels warmer. It's not because they're fussy or complaining, but their body is used to the fan for feeling cooler and sleeping better, because the sound of a fan in the bedroom will also block the noise from the other bedrooms and it's a lot better to block the disturbance from outside, that's why we have to have a fan to fall asleep.
Bye for now.🌴
The night air here is really cool so opening the windows makes a huge difference. (It’s so much different from anywhere I’ve lived.) But we’ll be getting fans anyway. 😊
Why arn’t you using Google calendar?
I use it all the time
I have a ton of digital calendars. They’re much better organized. Only issue is that we have an AirBNB calendar, and Booking calendar, and a Queen’s Escape calendar - but not one calendar to rule then all. I like to have the bookings in front of me - all in one.
Yes, guests can be challenging...and it is a wonder why when you did all you could to make her comfortable. Fans will be a nice addition next year. An informative video of the Martel area - thank you! The heat will soon be gone and lovely days return to enjoy your beautiful château & the region. Thank you for sharing each week. 🥰
1. There are people who are just unpleasant, miserable or mentally not exactly up to scratch. She showed poor manners. Poor thing.... You showed self-control and good manners. These were noticed by the teenager! Never let the woman back into your home!
2. Anyway, as climate change has been really made its reality felt this year, it might be an idea, eventually, to invest in full sized electric tower fans, which are airconditioning systems. They are not expensive. I have got one. My tower fan really cools a room beautifully. I put it on setting one (the lowest setting) all through the night and sleep beautifully during a heatwave. My machine is not noisy. Old fashioned fans are not the answer. They blow, not cool.
3. I must visit you one of these days! Keep well.
I wonder which fan you mean. I have really looked for an air con unit but couldn’t find any that really cooled without a window attachment (which we won’t do). If you have a chance to share with me, I’d be interested. Thanks!
I bought the Tower Fan on 16 August 2022 at Lidl for £19.99 (UK). In the instruction booklet it is called: Tower Fan STV 50 F1. On the receipt it is described as: Tower Fan White 0351584. Just put plug into the wall socket.
How about publicizing ONLY ENGLISH SPEAKING guests welcome. Really.....!!!
We do fine with all nationalities. Our nice as well as challenging guests definitely span the globe. 😂
I like your honesty and enjoyment you get from living there. I watch feeling like I can’t wait to be a guest one day with the glimpses of your chateau, warm hospitality and surrounding area. I also find your open take on life there from so many angles that you wouldn’t otherwise consider, which must be interesting for people to watch who want to do the same chateau b&b business. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
Thank you for that. 😊
That guest sounds like a classic case of Bipolar Disorder! Nuts. Keep doing what you do ; there’s still a bunch of us that would never be that way regardless and when at your beautiful Chateau…will appreciate all you do and provide 💛
Some people are so 2 faced
Are y’all planning on adding AC when you begin renovations?
Do y’all have a salon for guests to relax, read, etc. downstairs? Definitely need some fans to help with temps.
We don’t plan AC, but fans, yes! We don’t have a salon for guests. We have the dining room with coffee and tea service where guests can work / relax + the terrace. I would have liked a salon for guests, but we just didn’t have enough rooms.
Karen, I’m still loving your channel. Love the way you handled the difficult client…you can be proud that you were a “notch above” her in the manners and class department. Keep plugging on; I’m sure you’ll be challenged again but remember the lessons learned and you’ll prevail. Watching from central PA, USA.
It is hard I know but don’t let these people get you down. There will always be people who like to complain and find fault with everything. Who know that is probably why she did not have a partner to come with her!!!! He up and left!! There is psychologically something wrong with them and no nothing to do with you or your hotel and service they will always be unhappy people. Keep up your good spirits and just try not to think about it anymore. In this business you will experience it a few times but then the nice appreciative guests over ride them. Good luck for the season next Summer. Greetings from Sri Lanka!
Thank you for your fabulous intro to your channel, is so soothing and peaceful. May your day be filled with the love of God!
Amen!
There is always that one customer.....you handled it well and will have a repeat guest again! Success! Cheers!
Some people are just difficult. If it were to cold she would of complained too. Sounds like she isn’t a very happy person. I would be happy to have 80 degree weather. It been in the mid to upper 100’s here for weeks now.
Moulin= Mill
This makes so much more sense with the walnut oil mill. 😊
You're so sweet to be kind 💕💙🩷
Le Petit Moulin means the little mill not mussel
yep eg Moulin Rouge is Red Mill
Oh. My. Gosh. I didn’t know that. Could it mean a walnut mill?
Dont worry about people who cant do interpersonal relations. Some people are broken and cannot conform to social norms especially when hot/stressed/faced with something unexpected. Theres no reasoning with them, just try not to take it personally, she's just "like that" as her son was all too aware. There are a lot of FUBAR people, my sister is one... Still hell to spend time with as much now or more so than when we were kids. She just is wired up wrong. This other lady sounds same, has a mental pic in her head and cant adjust to the reality. Not your fault
FUBAR people… 😂
Can you reinstall your exterior shutters? They help enormously with heat. Esp. south facing.
When they’re done we will. They’re being sanded and painted.
That stinks when you have a customer like that. It is good this isn't a regular experience! Rog and I love seeing your adventures and how hard you work to make it work! So smart you have them in a Playlist so we can just watch one after the other. Thinking about you all from way over here and pray you continue to be blessed!
Thank you! 🙏🏻
I run an Air bnb and one guest gave me a low location score because he had to drive 10 miles for his work. He chose us!!
We are in a quiet location surrounded by fields, footpaths, local pub and beautiful views. A guest’s review was there wasn’t much to do. Never stepped outside their room. Got to laugh 😂
Oh my gosh. 😂
I live in Mexico where air conditioning is rare. Where I live, the highs are usually in the mid 70s but it does get up to 85F. a few days. Even so, I need lower temperatures to sleep, so I have adapted. Look for portable tower fans with refrigerated air. They are not easy to find, but are a life saver. Also when the outside air gets cooler put another fan in the window and bring the cold air in with a fan. Or simply close the chateau for guests in August or really hot months. Hope this helps.
August is the busiest month so we definitely won’t be closing. 😊 I will get fans though. I’ve never had luck with refrigerated air fans. If you have a brand name please share. Thank you!
Karen. I liked your honesty in your blog. Dealing with the public can be challenging. Don’t fret over it, you are growing a great channel.
Thank you for that. I felt a bit like a gossip in this one… something I don’t like. But that’s between me and me. Haha. 😊
❤❤❤❤😊🥰🥰💐💐🇨🇦
Thank you for a lovely tour thru the church!
It’s a really special building in our town. ❤️
I think i read her review. She’s just another FA and that’s definitely in English. Hahahahahaha
I will show you our calender book that we use for bookings (the one previous owner had)
The client sounds like a typical French client, they are often sceptical when the arrive since we are not French
after all your friendly help they still wrote a bad comment.
A for us important French client once told we that in the statistics for hotel and restaurant clients, the French clients are
the worse in the world. We do not care any longer what they write about us, since there is nothing you can do except beeing nice to your clients.
🍎 Hi Karen and Bo
Gorgeous cloudy day!
About your difficult guests as you said that was a little annoyed that no one was there to book her in. Unfortunately for you, if no one is there, that will create anxiety for your guests. What if they have to go to the bathroom as soon as they get there and no one is there? Then you wouldn't know that they had to go in your bushes and you don't want that mess on your plants! Especially if they hide the toilet paper in the bushes!
#2 What if you go to a hospital and all the doctors and nurses are having lunch and they close the door with a sign on it that says closed for lunch when you had an appointment in five minutes. Or going to the airport and the doors won't open because of the same thing, all the workers are having lunch or went somewhere to take care of business like you had to do that day. You can't be at two places at the same time or do two things at the same time, it's highly impossible. We all do that, but some obstacle or situation is going to get in the way and whatever it is, it's not done well or you have to do it over again. If you're expecting or have guests and you have an appointment, if it was me, someone has to be at the house to cover me for any situations if I had to leave the house, because strangers when it comes to business, don't like excuses. If they're paying for services, they want it to be on a scale of one to ten, a ten not anything below eight, because they will tell others and others will tell other people. It's just the way every business is and that's what makes a business prosper or fail. Because there are so many bed and breakfast chateaus in France, especially in your area, you want to be one of the top ten and the only way to do that is, when you have company, you are there no matter what or have someone to cover for you and operate the same way if you were there. I grew up in a business and my mother always said, if you can't be there, close your business's doors and make sure you didn't make an appointment to be there and then you're somewhere else. I quote she says, they won't come back and they will tell others and then the word gets around, so you don't lose one person, but you lose 50 people or more. You don't want to get a scar if you don't have to, especially if they think they can get a better price for better service. It's just the way people are with business. We also tell other RUclipsrs the same thing.
Cheers to France!🌴🇺🇲
Not having fans, at least, in the room is rather shocking.
Not really. The business ran the last 20 years without fans.
Thanks for the advice. I actually did close the business online for this day, but 1 reservation somehow got through. No matter. We won’t be running like a Holiday Inn anytime soon and when there’s no one to cover there’s no one to cover no matter if you think it should be that way or not. I spoke to this guest and told her 4:00. She was early so had to wait. It’s not my preference, but life is like that sometimes. You and I probably align a lot in our thinking. Bo is more fluid and thinks people will understand bc this is our home, not a box hotel. That means I end up in a lot of situations that make me uncomfortable but he feels completely fine about. We have different tolerances when it comes to how to run the business. I’m trying to be more flexible, but I reckon I lean a bit more in your direction. 😊
Their choices weren't good ones, either. It's 103 degrees and you don't think of a fan? @@queensescape
@@lindamounts2193 No. People don’t stay here during the day. They’re here at night when it’s in the 60s. They open their windows and no one whines. This was the first.