Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Rankin Inlet (May 03/00) - Tara's Bed & Breakfast offers a little touch of homestyle living to Rankin Inlet visitors.

Owned and operated by Tara and Brian Fotheringham, the B&B -- the only one in the community -- offers an alternative to hotel living.

"When we looked at the size of the rooms in our home, knowing we were only going to have one child, we thought about a lot of different things," says Tara.

"We thought hard about foster care, but decided to go with the B&B because it represented more of a second career choice."

Tara says if the B&B, which opened Dec. 10, 1999, works out well, it could allow her to spend more time at home with two-month-old Brett.

She says they're hoping to attract both government visitors and tourists to their B&B with one special rate. Flexibility is another plus they hope will attract guests.

"People can do their laundry or come down and make their own coffee, things like that with no extra charge.

"Every room has its own phone and there's no extra charge for local calls. We also provide a continental breakfast which is put out in the evening and affords business people more options."

Tara's B&B features three rooms designed for singles -- but are more than comfortable for couples.

With their first summer season of business quickly approaching, the Fotheringhams don't know what to expect.

"It's a non-smoking environment with a quiet family atmosphere," says Tara.

"We've named our three guest rooms after people who helped us out -- Barney Tootoo, Brenton Porter and Luc Paquet.

"We feel we have a lot to offer guests and if they try us once, they'll be back."