Providence, Rhode Island

Richard Treich, partner in the Dallas branch of KPMG Peat Marwick accounting firm, travels to Providence frequently to visit his company's offices and always stays at the Providence Biltmore. "I like older hotels," he said, "and the lobby here is real pretty. In Providence this is the place to be."

The Providence Biltmore has been the place to stay since 1922 when the historic Art Deco landmark was built. The three-storied lobby with its grand staircase, glass elevator, curved gilded ceilings, massive crystal chandeliers and mahogany balconies is more than pretty. It's palatial and palaces never go out of style. The rooms, however, do look somewhat old-fashioned. But they are quite spacious and the refurbished marble bathrooms are larger than many in newer hotels. The amenities—telephone, television, magnifying mirror in the dressing rooms—are on a par with places whose rates are much higher than the Biltmore.

The clientele is a loyal one– businesspeople and Brown University parents and alumni–who stay here whenever they visit Providence. The hotel is downtown and close to the government buildings, financial center and the campus. New hotels are on the horizon, but the regulars will probably keep on returning to the Biltmore.

Providence Biltmore Hotel, 11 Dorrance Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903. Tel. 401-421-0700. Midweek corporate rates start at $139. Weekend rates are sometimes as low as $89. www.providencebiltmore.com

Winter 1994-95