They assured one another they'd remain inconspicuous, even mentioning they offer matcha tea.

They assured one another they'd remain inconspicuous, even mentioning they offer matcha tea.

In the picturesque regions of France, bed and breakfast (B&B) owners have developed a keen eye for spotting vacationers, especially those seeking anonymity during their stays. While the focus is not solely on identifying illicit couples, B&B owners have implemented various strategies to ensure safety and compliance.

One of the primary methods is guest screening. Many properties use identity verification tools, including biometric matching, to confirm the identities of guests and prevent anonymous or fraudulent bookings. This helps maintain transparency and peace of mind for both the guests and the B&B owners.

Another strategy is the enforcement of detailed rental agreements. These agreements outline occupancy limits, guest identity requirements, and behaviour expectations. They specify check-in/check-out times, maximum number of occupants, and restrictions on additional guests. These measures help B&B owners detect and deter illicit stays.

Clear house rules and policies are also essential. Rules regarding guest conduct, quiet hours, and access areas are set to minimise unauthorised or suspicious activities. Enforcement of these rules through screening and agreements can help owners detect and prevent illicit couples from booking under false pretenses.

Onsite monitoring and verification at check-in is another tactic used by some B&B owners. They verify guest identities in person, ensuring bookings comply with stated policies.

While vacationers may believe they are incognito amidst the summer crowd, they may be spotted quicker than they think. Newcomers on vacation are often noticed by their unfamiliarity with local customs and practices. For instance, navigating roundabouts or asking for an iPhone charger at the village grocery store can give away a vacationer's status as an outsider.

Symbols such as the "A l'aise Breizh" Bigouden sticker, commonly seen on cars in the region, or Armor-Lux clothing, while traditional, can also signal a vacationer as an outsider. Even the shine of new petanque balls, purchasing a Percheron baguette in the Perche, or wearing Armor-Lux gear can reveal a vacationer's status.

In the end, vacation offers the promise of anonymity to many people. However, in the region's B&Bs, it seems that anonymity is a luxury that's difficult to maintain.

The B&B owners' careful observation of guests extends beyond identifying illicit couples, as they recognize unfamiliar behavior or items that might suggest a visitor's outsider status. For example, asking for an iPhone charger at the village grocery store or wearing Armor-Lux gear can potentially reveal a vacationer's identity.

Maintaining a lifestyle in line with local customs, especially during travel, can help vacationers avoid drawing unnecessary attention to themselves. This includes understanding local practices, such as navigating roundabouts and purchasing regional products like Percheron baguettes.

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