We know there are a million travel guidebooks out there, but we’ve created a handful of destination miniguides designed specifically for working girls on the go. So whether it’s a quick stopover for a meeting or a weeklong conference, here’s everything you need to know about…
Providence, Rhode Island
Where to Stay
Expense Account: Providence Biltmore Hotel. The Biltmore was opened in 1922 in an attempt to mimic the grandeur of the Vanderbilt Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, and this emphasis on luxury is still a hallmark of the hotel. Rooms come equipped with either King or California King beds, wireless Internet access, and cable TV. A Red Door by Elizabeth Arden spa and Starbucks coffee shop are both on the premises, and a full-service business center is available to all guests in the lobby. Rooms start around $150 and IDs are required at check-in. 11 Dorrance Street; 401.421.0700; providencebiltmore.com
Romantic Weekend: Old Court Bed and Breakfast. The Old Court offers just 10 guest rooms, so privacy is guaranteed at this 19th-century house. Originally a rectory, the B and B now offers a distinctive mix of modern convenience and old-world charm. Antiques fill the rooms and guests sleep in modified Victorian beds, but Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, televisions are located in each guest room, and some rooms come equipped with wet bars. For added romance, ask for the Empire room with its private bath and orange marble fireplace. Rates vary per room, per season, and depending upon whether it’s a weekday or weekend. 144 Benefit Street; 401.751.2002; oldcourt.com
On the Cheap: Radisson Hotel Providence Harbor. If you’re willing to move just outside of the city, then the Radisson will provide you with not only clean, comfortable rooms but a free shuttle service back downtown. You’ll also gain a chance to explore neighboring India Point Park, an 18-acre park that encompasses the point at which the Seekonk and Providence Rivers meet the Narragansett Bay. Parking and Internet access in public areas are included in the room rate. Prices start around $115, and low rates can always be found online. 220 India Street; 401.272.5577; radisson.com
Where to Eat
Business Dinner: Capital Grille of Providence. The Capital Grille is a dark, rich restaurant that makes you feel as though you’ve just stepped into your own special club. Ask for the private dining room if you’re going to be making a serious pitch, and even customize your own menu if you want to stay in total control. Just make sure to include the steak: It’s what the Grille is known for. One Union Station; 401.521.5600; thecapitalgrille.com
Hot Spot: Union Station Brewery. Part of the regional John Harvard’s Brewery chain, Union Station Brewery is housed in the old freight house of the Providence Train Station. The informal environment lends itself to a good time, and the beer samplers don’t hurt either. Settle in for a lazy lunch or dinner, and start off with the famous spinach and artichoke dip. Function menus are also available for big groups. 36 Exchange Terrace; 401.274.2739; johnharvards.com
Eating Alone: Café Paragon. Located on fun and trendy Thayer Street, Café Paragon is permanently popular with Providence’s college students, which makes it a great place to sit back and soak up the surroundings. Try the lobster club and peruse the martini menu whether or not you’re going to order a drink—it’s bound to make you smile. 234 Thayer Street; 401.331.6200; paragonandviva.com
Coffee Klatch: Coffee Exchange. The Coffee Exchange still roasts its coffee on the premises, and with 95% of it being both organic and fair trade, there are few reasons why java addicts would go anywhere else (as evidenced by the always bustling atmosphere). Looking for something unique? Peruse the walls—the public notices will no doubt keep you amused, and may even point you toward hidden treasures. 207 Wickenden Street; 401.273.1198; coffeexchange.com
Where to Shop
Business Critical: Providence Place Mall. Packed with over 170 stores, the Providence Place Mall should be able to sort out any business-wear emergency in a flash. Whether you need a new briefcase (Coach), shoes (Nordstrom), manicure (Fancy Nails), or something to take your mind off your big meeting (the IMAX theater), you’ll find it on these three levels. providenceplace.com
Date Night: Oop! It might seem like a bad omen to get ready for a date by heading to a store named like an accidental sound, but Oop! is more than just a quirky, crafty shop. Their range of handcrafted jewelry will add charm to any outfit, and showing up with a little something special may just help you weed out a date with no sense of humor. Crazy Cat Lady doll, anyone? 109 Providence Place; 401.270.4366; oopstuff.com
Techie: CompUSA. While the Providence Place Mall does house a number of good electronic stores (Apple, Sony Style, Radio Shack, etc.), if you’re really looking for a superstore with a vast range of techie goodies, you’ll need to find a branch of CompUSA. Warwick, RI, and North Attleboro, Mass., are both within a half-hour drive. compusa.com
Where to Play and Primp
Best Yoga Studio: Breathing Time Yoga. Just a smidge outside the city in neighboring Pawtucket is Breathing Time Yoga, a full-service studio that runs general classes, specialty workshops, kids’ classes, classes for those suffering from MS, pre- and post-natal yoga, and even a book club. If you can’t find something to suit you at Breathing Time, you may as well give up. Drop-ins are welcome and prices run around $15 per class, including mats and props. 541 Pawtucket Avenue; 401.421.9876; breathingtimeyoga.com
Best Day Spa: Spadyssey. This full-service day spa was named one of the best spas in the state by Rhode Island Magazine, but once you get inside you won’t need to take anyone else’s word for it. The soothing music, fragrant aromas, dim lighting, and warm welcome by the experienced staff will help you unwind before you even hit the treatment room. For a sweet treat without the calories, try the Bella-Lucce Strawberry Wrap ($95). 75 Dorrance Street; 401.273.9777; spadyssey.com
Best Blow-Dry: Squires Salon. Whether you want your hair to be poker-straight or sticking out in a Mohawk, Squires will follow your instructions perfectly. Parking is limited but free if you can snag it. If you’re really getting all dolled up, consider a manicure and makeup application as well. 10 Euclid Avenue; 401.274.5660;
How to Get Around
Preferred Airport: T.F. Green International Airport. Green Airport calls itself “New England’s Hassle-Free Gateway,” and that’s not a lie. Green is small enough to cut out huge lines but big enough to be served by major airlines like Continental, United, Delta, American, and Air Canada. Downtown Providence is only 15 minutes away. pvdairport.com
Weather and Wardrobe: Providence enjoys four distinct seasons, but it sees its fair share of storms throughout the year, so throw in an umbrella just in case. Temperatures are usually mild but can be changeable, making layering a must.
Where to Do Business
Host a Meeting: Rhode Island Convention Center. The RICC houses 23 meeting rooms, has banquet facilities for up to 1,400, and is attached to a 2,400-space parking facility. Decorating, security, and floral services must be contracted from an approved vendor list. For something really special, reserve the Rotunda Room, an all-glass function space overlooking the city. One Sabin Street; 401.458.600; riconvention.com
Best Place for Printing and Copies: FedEx Kinko’s. This Wi-Fi hot spot offers all the regular print, copy, and mail services and is open 7 a.m.–11 p.m. on all weekdays. Perfect for calming any last-minute panics. 236 Meeting Street; 401.273.2830; fedex.kinkos.com
