Jane in L.A.

Help! Going back east end of August to take daughter to Brown Univ. Arriving in Providence and need hotel suggestions near campus. Also, just where is the most centralized place in Boston and what hotels -- we'd just like to walk out the front of the hotel and sightsee (not too pricey). Anything to see in New Hampshire?? Thank you!
Jane

KPT

Jane,
I can't help you out in Providence but Boston and New Hampshire is another thing.
First of all, Boston is Very expensive.I don't know of a "reasonable" hotel in town that you can just step outside and see the sights. The Boston Harbor Hotel has dramatic views of Boston Harbor but I don't feel that the expense justifies the view. My advice would be to stay outside the city and take public transportation into the town. There is a lot of construction going on and traffic and getting around in general is a nightmare.
There is plenty to sightsee in New Hampsire so I would suggest that you contact either AAA or a good travel agent. Make sure you go to the top of Mount Washington via the Cog Railway for the most stunning view you have ever experienced. It is the highest peak east of the Mississippi.
Good luck to your daughter and congrations on her acceptance into Brown.

Donna

There are lots of wonderful places to stay in Providence, but would recommend that you call Brown and inquire. Most colleges and universities have arrangements with local establishments which offer deep discounts for visiting parents not available to anyone else. As for Boston, try the Newbury Guest House (right on Newbury Street) which is in one of the best neighborhoods and near a subway stop. If they're booked, the Midtown is an excellent choice. Moderate rates, well located, subway stop right out the front door, but it's in walking distance to the Prudential Center and Copley Square. If you want to stay within walking distance of the major tourist sights, be prepared to pay big bucks. But, you can get around easily on the subway. As for New Hampshire, if you'd be more specific about where you are planning to go, could make recommendations.

Jane in L.A.

THANK YOU KPT and Donna! I will definately contact Brown and see what they suggest. And the trip to the top of Mount Washington is now on my list! We haven't made any REAL plans....just want to keep it loose. We're flying into Providence and had planned to rent a car, especially since we don't know how to get to Boston from there, and then onto New Hampshire. The thought of dragging all that luggage around on subways/trains/busses gives me the shudders!
Have you ever heard of these B&Bs: in Providence- C.C. Ledbetter B&B, The Cady House B&B?? They are both 1 block from Brown. And in Boston- 82 Chandler Street B&B??

Thanks!

Jane Brown

Jane, I rented a car in Providence last year and was shocked to learn of so many taxes. You can avoid a 7-10%25 tax by doing what we did. I found out that if your car rental company is off the airport property, DO NOT take the airport shuttle bus to their office. Hop in a taxi, which costs about $5 to take you one half mile and let them know that you did not take their shuttle bus. You will save up to 10%25 , whatever the airport fee is. Good luck.