REAL LIFE


The rolltop bath and walk-in shower in the Atelier suite


The ground-floor Atelier bedroom suite has a warehouse vibe


love going that bit further for people, to make their stay very special. I’ve met people from all over the world, and one thing I can say for sure is, nobody leaves my breakfast table hungry!” and, with one eye on her Blackpool roots, Christine even offers a traditional English breakfast, “a huge favourite with all my French and Dutch guests,” she says with pride. Reviews online have been


very positive with repeat bookings and enquiries coming in regularly for next year. A happy Christine reports that: “Feedback from my guests has been fantastic, and I am always working hard to make their experience better.”


TIME TO CELEBRATE Being situated in Eymet has ensured her first season was a very busy one. All summer long visitors flock to the Dordogne town on holiday, visiting friends, on business and attending weddings and other celebrations. Of course, househunters (especially readers of French Property News!) are always given a very special welcome. The weekly night markets


and major events such as the 15 August Fête de l’Huître et


du Vin blanc make Eymet a huge attraction way beyond its physical size suggests. “I had no idea how many people could fit into the main square of Eymet” recalls Christine. “It was quite incredible to see the crowds at the Oyster and White Wine Festival and the enjoyment showing on everyone’s faces.” For Christine, who came to


France intending to live a quiet life with a countryside gîte, her background in hospitality meant there was a certain inevitability in her ending up with a B&B in the centre of a prosperous town. She certainly has no regrets:


“I light up when I’m with people, and I like nothing more than sitting with my guests and chatting about their lives and dreams, while sharing my own story with them” For a young girl who started


out at dance school to try and overcome her shyness, and sadly had to give up dancing professionally due to her lack of height, this natural performer has well and truly found her niche as the Dancing Queen of Eymet’s chambres d’hôtes owners! ■


serendipityeymet.com 78 FRENCH PROPERTY NEWS: March/April 2023 A comfy mattress and fresh cotton bedding ensure a good night's sleep


There are four guest bedrooms at the Serendipity B&B


CHRISTINE’S TOP TIPS FOR ESTABLISHING A NEW B&B AS A SINGLE PERSON


Plan well. Check out likely locations for your B&B out of season to see if there is a significant all-year trade. Amenities such as boulangeries and restaurants need to be walkable, and you should be no more than a 30-minute drive to a sizeable town.


Manage your budget and keep an eye on all costs. You need to allow for those times when your B&B is quietest (yet heating and energy costs are at their highest).


Keep your smile on 24/7.


Be prepared to deal with all sorts of people, from all walks of life and whatever kind of day you are having, stay positive and welcoming.


Treat yourself when things go well – and remember hard work pays well-deserved dividends!


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