Dear editor,

On Dec. 3, the Napa Bed and Breakfast Inns, an association of 13 distinctive inns, hosted their first Holiday Bed and Breakfast Tour and Taste event. Created as a way for innkeepers to invite local residents and out-of-town visitors to step inside bed and breakfasts trimmed in holiday finery, the event transformed into much more than a tour. With the generous participation of a large number of Napa Valley businesses, it also became a showcase for many of our finest restaurants, wineries, and merchants. In the spirit of holiday giving, it also gave the association a way to make a charitable contribution to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Innkeepers spent hours transforming their properties, many of which are beautifully restored historic treasures, into festive holiday settings. But the event would not have been as magical, or successful, without the support and generosity of so many Napa Valley businesses.

A dozen downtown merchants developed exciting special offers for ticket holders. With the merchants representing food, wine, art, clothing and gifts, guests could use their tickets for holiday gift shopping or treat themselves to fine dining and wine tasting.

Each member of the Napa Bed & Breakfast Association would also like to thank the community for their support and participation. If you missed this year's event, don't despair. Based on the tremendous positive reaction, it will be an annual event. For details about next year, look for us in area calendars or check the association Web site, www.historicinns.com. This site is also a great resource when friends and family come to visit. With links to the Web site of each participating member, detailed information about every inn is only a click away.

Happy Holidays from the Napa Bed and Breakfast Inns!

Deborah Coffee

Owner, Inn on Randolph

Napa