Rhonda A.
Yelp
Newport Rhode Island is exactly everything you imagine it to be. Classic New England old world money town, with numerous bays and harbors, glorious mansions of mini castle style and size. Wonderfully fresh seafood, hearty stews and soups, with fried crustaceans of every kind.
It's a small town, jam packed with history and local culture. I really loved it. This past November was my first visit and hopefully will not be my last. It's relaxing charm and ease lend to a more gentle time of embracing nature and disconnecting from busy work schedules.
I booked my room through Hotels.com and was my favorite lodging experience times ten in my 8 day East Coast excursion. Arriving later than I had anticipated, I called earlier to their front desk to confirm my reservation. Even in winter, one can lose a room, so why chance it. The very friendly lady reassured me all was well, my reservation was solid. I now inquired into parking after several nightmare scenarios earlier in my trip. Luckily, there was ample, open, and included parking just steps from the main building. Hercules. Hercules. Oh indeedy. It's the small things that make me happy.
I stroll into their lobby and just feel so happy. There are serene beach pictures, complimentary infused water with fruit, soft lightening, and a well maintained interior. It's so inviting and after a long drive as well as feeling home sick, I was ready to fill a smidge hugged by warm and gracious surroundings. Almost like home. Traveling is great, but can take its toll. After a very easy check in, the front desk associate asked if an ocean view was important. Kinda right. We were right across the Atlantic Ocean. She says it's pretty quiet, not too many visitors, so I am going to put you in a suite is that OK. Oh honey. Sign me up. ***This is key*** Whomever is nice to the receptionist checking you in will usually score a great deal, and I landed a whale of a set up!! Tipped her $5, because honestly she didn't have to do that. But she saw how tired and disheveled I was; I mentioned needing a hot bubble bath. And my double suite did not disappoint.
Walked across the street. Put the ever so efficient parking pass in my rental car so there were no worries of being towed. Emptied my car and swiped the electronic key to gain access to the separate lodging & elevators. A couple floors up. Nice hallways with clean carpet, more serene beach nautical photos. I opened my room door and collapsed on the living room couch. WOW.
There was a fully stocked kitchen, with a microwave, dishwasher, silverware, glasses, soap, stove/oven, refrigerator and more. In the living room a big screen TV, two big picture windows, a dining table, couch, side tables, and stackable washer /dryer. OMG!! The master bedroom was big. The Master Bathroom was HUGE!! A tile shower and jet jacuzzi bathtub called my name. The complimentary toiletries were Tree Tea high quality products and were just divine. On the other side of the suite was a second bedroom with bath. My suite could of easily slept 6 grown adults with more space for kids if need be. I was so blown away. My receptionist was too generous. So, I put on my shoes and went across the walk way to their main building and tipped her an additional $10.
I needed to wash my clothes and there was the equipment to do so in the comfort of my room. Which saved me valuable time, it was a long day at this point, exhaustion was kicking in majorly. After a light snack I took one of my most luxurious and bubbly baths I had in a long while. Oh la la. Pampering is a real treat. There was plenty of room to hang up and store my belongings. And liked the convenience of multiple outlets to charge my cell phones in every room The bed was comfortable with high quality linens. Everything was clean and in good condition. Only one little ding. A throw pillow on the couch was ripped. But I just mentioned it on the check out form, so it could be mended.
This hotel does not provide breakfast. However, there are several places right down the street though, so it's not a big deal. Most probably cook their own meals with a fully stocked kitchen. I really felt so lucky. At high season, I am sure my room probably was major moo la la. I paid no where near that for a winter rate. ***Off season travel destinations can really be the bees knees***. So timing and manners serve us well.
There is also a lovely rooftop spa and lounge with views of the Northwest inlet, Easton pond. An indoor pool and gym were on lower levels. Other guests were quiet. Hardly even saw others as they checked out. Lovely memories for sure in Newport.