Somehow saying that you
are spending the week after Memorial Day in Newport, Rhode Island conjures
images far different from reality. Sailboats, boutiques and great seafood
are very much in evidence, but as is often the case, reality is somewhat
anti-climactic. But if you're visiting the area, a familiar brand provides
a little polish on the otherwise ordinary trip.
Close To It All, But Still Intimate
The Newport Marriott appears too small to be a destination property upon
first glance. Only three hundred or so rooms are located on its 7 floors,
giving the hotel a relatively small footprint on the water at Newport. The
restaurant and coffee stand are also smaller than one might expect, as if
a big city hotel were scaled down to meet tiny Newport's image. But the
location is just right, just before one enters the traffic streaming into
the shopping area and within an easy walk to many shops, restaurants and
a few sites.
Construction was going on while we were there, which made for a bit
of an understandable mess, but I was surprised to see that
the overall hotel was in need of sprucing up. All properties
need refurbishing, but the process is ongoing at truly excellent
properties, and at $300 a night, one expects a smidge more
attention to detail than is typically found in an airport
location or a new
Courtyard. Even Fathoms, the hotel's unfortunately named
restaurant seemed dated and a little shabby.
But the spectacular views and location more than made up for the hotel's
somewhat drab appearance. A thunderstorm rolled in one night and watching
the lightning from the patio of the seventh floor concierge lounge was
outstanding. And, to give credit where its due, the concierge level and
lounge seemed well appointed and nicer than the remainder of the property,
leading one to believe that it was recently refurbished.
Leaving the hotel's side entrance, a mix of trendy shops and regular
stores are jumbled together for blocks on end. Interspersed among them
are restaurants and pubs. I have to admit that I did not have a bad meal
the entire time. In fact, a colleague and I found a pub several blocks
away that served lobster salad for less than $10 each. We agreed it was
the best seafood dish either of us had eaten in years, praise that may
be even more noteworthy considering that we spend a combined 200 nights
a year on the road.
The Rooms and Service
Basic Marriott amenities (toiletries, broadband access, a decent sized television,
etc.) were found in all the rooms. The bed was comfortable with extra pillows
stacked in the closet. Nice fluffy bathrobes were also in the closet, although
Marriott's typical policy is that these are only on the concierge floor.
Missing was the now familiar bottle of Evian in the bathroom complete with
warning that a five dollar charge would be assessed to any who dared crack
its seal. At $300 a night, the housekeeper left a couple of bottles of some
locally bottled water that was just fine.
Housekeeping was outstanding, as was the bell staff and concierge. Even
the telephone operators were friendly here, so if management can't provide
sparkling furniture and has to put up with construction, the staff is
at least well trained in service.
The room itself was bigger than expected with the telescoping desk Marriott
is favoring now. This leaves plenty of room to spread out work papers
and laptop equipment while not cluttering the room.
The Bottom Line, Wrinkled Sheets and All
The rack rate is expensive. Vacationers may find a better rate or more personalized
service in one of Newport's many inns or b&bs. But of the major hotel chains,
only Marriott and a Hyatt are close enough to the action to make the cut,
and while the Hyatt looks nice, its rates are similar if not higher than
the Marriott's. So adventurous souls can try a new place and hope for a
bargain, while those looking for familiar amenities or frequent traveler
points will do just fine at the Newport Marriott.
