We've stayed at the Sheraton Harborside in our way home from Maine in previous summers, but this year there appear to be no rooms. Although the reservations desk offered the hope that some rooms now reserved by conventions in blocks might become available, we're thinking we need a backup. Can anyone recommend a place for the three of us -- my husband, myself and our 14-year-old? Our fourth might be a kayak strapped to the top of the car . . .

If you're looking for an upscale hotel, check out Wentworth by the Sea. Their webpage is www.wentworth.com. It's not actually in Portsmouth, but it's very close by.

I like the Hampshire Inn in Seabrook NH. It's not part of a chain. Most of the rooms are set up with beds and a pull out couch. It's right off Rt 95. It's not that far from Portsmouth if you planned on going to one of Portmsouth's restaurants but there are some nice choices in the Seabrook and Hampton Falls area.

We have stayed at the Best Western in Seabrook. It was fine for one night and only about $85/night.

The Wentworth is a great choice. But if you want to stay in town, there's a brand new Hilton Garden Inn that just opened up downtown. It's part of a new condo complex that's going up across from the parking garage.

Yes, I forgot about the Hilton Garden Inn. It just opened about 2 weeks ago. It's right at the ballpark and the balconies overlook the field. If your son likes baseball, he will LOVE this hotel!!

Wait, the Hilton Garden Inn at a ballpark? Are you thinking of a different location other than Portsmouth?

Ha, ha, ha...yes, for some reason I was thinking of Manchester. My inlaws are looking for hotels in Manchester right now so my brain is fried...sorry!!!

The Courtyard Mariott in Portsmouth is convenient. Just over the bridge into NH, take first exit, but bear right instead of left (as you would for the Sheraton). The hotel is tucked into the business park on your left. You can see it from Rt. 95, but it would be south of your exit. Clean, quiet, comfortable.

Thanks, all. It looks as though the Hilton is so new that they're not taking reservations until June 9. We like staying as close to town as possible so we can get a good spot in line for breakfast at the Friendly Toast!

I love the Friendly Toast! You'd be about a 1 minute walk from there at the Hilton. Have fun!