Chat GPT and Cecil Bacon Manor, Seattle

Before I began my Pacific Northwest journey, I decided to try out ChatGPT. I find that when I provide specific limiters, AI produces more reliable results. Originally, I thought I’d fly into Seattle, so my search began there. My first prompt asked, “Can you map out an itinerary for me to see all the Dambo trolls in Washington and Oregon starting in Seattle?”

Within seconds I had a basic itinerary. Chat GPT suggested a fast-paced two day itinerary as well as a more relaxed three day itinerary. However, I determined I would have more time, so I then stated, “Please make it printable.  I will get in midnight March 25, and I will leave the afternoon of March 29.  Both in Seattle.” I even mentioned I would travel solo, so some suggestions included specific assists for solo travelers.

ChatGPT has been a fun learning curve for me, but I also realize it isn’t a perfect algorithm. My goal in using it was to provide a route that had little backtracking with realistic timelines. With this information I knew I could add extra activities (mostly hikes and Liberty Bell replica visits) to my itinerary. This in no way took away my planning and research, but it did allow me to narrow my research to fewer great options. In the end, I used the basic path suggested, but I altered times, activities, and cities.

ChatGPT also offered hotel options upon request. I hesitated to lean into this advice, but I did visit the websites and read the reviews of all suggestions. One suggestion that continued to surface included a bed and breakfast stay at the Cecil Bacon Manor Bed and Breakfast. I spent time trying to decide if this home would suit my needs, but in the end I decided to splurge and stay two nights.

The smallest room in the home had already been snagged, so I decided to book the Garden Room located in the lowest level of the home. I had a queen bed as well as a day bed in my room. Additionally, there were two sinks (one inside the private bathroom and one just outside). It appeared only three rooms filled the lower level, so the area felt quite private.

Here’s a list of some interesting quirks in my particular room:

• My room had its own electric piano.
• There’s an additional door just off the bathroom. It provides an emergency exit, and the room serves as storage for the B&B.
• An electric fireplace provides the warmth needed on cooler nights.
• The room sits under the common areas, and sometimes you hear the squeaking sounds of feet moving across the floor.
• The room’s door opens with an electronic tag that is placed over the lock. It fits on a keychain and works for the outer door as well.
• I couldn’t get over how comfortable the bed was. It made it hard to get up and moving in the morning. And those sheets!!! Superb!
• Ample plugins provided energy for my many technological needs.
• The owners are working on the baseboards (trying to decide how to keep it within the period of the home), so don’t panic.

Because the home is a bed and breakfast, it is best to arrive between 3 and 7pm on your first day. In fact, during the reservation process, it asked my ETA. I decided 5:00 would be best for me.

The home, located in the Harvard-Belmont Landmark District has limited parking. With my early arrival, I had a spot within the property, but on the second night I had to locate street parking. Thankfully, my car sat one block from the home.

The manor also provides easy access to restaurants, a grocery store, and bus lines. Once I arrived “home”, I’d walk two blocks for my meal. I loved the convenience as I had no desire to stay out late and hope for a parking spot.

Before I let you leave the home, I’d like to talk about the family who owns the B&B. I interacted with the mom. She and her son alternate weeks of running the home. She was present when I arrived and walked me through every part of my room. We sat and chatted for a while about my reasons for my trip, and she asked if I had any dietary restrictions because she also served as the breakfast cook. I loved the short time with her, and I felt if I needed anything while there, I had a friend.

Breakfast…I almost forgot. I loved having hot chocolate available. Tea and coffee drinkers would also find joy. Breakfast itself was served from 8:30-9:30, so all tenants had the chance to visit with one another. I ate breakfast with a mother and daughter from Portland. One morning we ate eggs and toast. The next morning we feasted on French toast. The quality of the food surpassed my expectations, and it set me on the right foot for the day.

Normally I’d have eaten early, so I could get on the road, so the later breakfast time gave me the chance to remember that this trip stood to rejuvenate and restore me. In the end, I relished the slower pace. The Cecil Bacon Manor Bed and Breakfast set the tone for every activity I attempted while in Seattle. I am so thankful to have stayed there!