Frequently Asked Questions

+ Why should I choose a Bed & Breakfast for my stay?

• Parking is typically provided on site or nearby – at little or no cost.
• Internet (Wi-Fi) access is provided free-of-charge.
• Homes may be architecturally interesting, have yards or patios, or feature other amenities not usually found in a hotel (except at a premium).
• Guest houses and bed & breakfasts, particularly in the “high” season, are generally priced much lower than the large hotels – and are also competitive with smaller hotels and inns. Private homes are typically rented by the week or month – again, making them much less expensive than a hotel or inn. (Note: In most residential areas of Newport (i.e., non-commercial zones), rentals of private homes, apartments, or condos may NOT be rented for less than 30 days duration.)
• While breakfast is increasingly provided in hotels, some bed & breakfast establishments also provide kitchen access or outdoor grilling areas – others may provide private in-room continental breakfast.

+ Why should I choose a PRIVATE HOME for my stay?

• Private homes have equipped kitchens and often include decks, yards, outdoor grills, etc.
• Parking is typically provided on site or nearby – at little or no cost.
• Internet (Wi-Fi) access is provided free-of-charge.
• Homes may be architecturally interesting, have yards or patios, or feature other amenities not usually found in a hotel (except at a premium).

+ What makes our properties unique?

Our travels have taken us to many lovely places - but our fondest memories are of the people who made an extra effort to be kind, to be helpful, and who were genuinely warm and welcoming. We hope to provide that same experience for you. If there is anything we can do to make your stay more comfortable or convenient, please do not hesitate to let us know!

We designed both houses specifically with guests in mind. In fact, we asked our Hawthorne House guests to tell us what they wanted - and we incorporated their suggestions into the design of the guest suite! For Gooseberry House, we designed it specifically for accessibility.

Both Hawthorne and Gooseberry accommodations are as private as you would wish. Or, if you are looking for sight-seeing or dining suggestions or if you would like to chat, we are happy to oblige! This is a beautiful residential neighborhood - close to parks and a family-friendly beach. And yet, you can easily access Newport's dining, shopping, the famous mansions, Cliff Walk, and night life!

We began welcoming guests to the original Hawthorne House in 1996. We then built the current Hawthorne House in 2002 . . . followed by Gooseberry House in 2011. We look forward to your stay with us!

+ What is the difference between a bed & breakfast, a guest house, an inn, a private home, etc… ?

In general, the terms "bed & breakfast" and "guest house" are interchangeable. Both are private homes with five or fewer rooms and the owner or a manager must reside on site. Inns are generally larger with many more rooms – and some may have on-site dining facilities. These terms are not the same from one city or town to another and may have different connotations in various regions of the country. Private homes (including apartments, condos, boats, campers . . . you name it) are stand-alone properties. Newport allows such rentals – for short-term or long-term stays – in commercially zoned areas only. In other residential areas, such properties can only be rented for 30 days or longer and must be registered with the city.

+ Are bed & breakfast establishments suitable for long-term vacation rental?

Of course! Many post lower rates for longer-term stays, such as a week or two. Some guest houses have suites or small apartments to offer – these may have kitchenettes, a yard, or a patio or deck. Some may have a second bedroom or a private entrance. Unless you are traveling with a large group, it isn’t necessary to find a single home – and it may be significantly less expensive.

+ How do I know if I am choosing the best accommodation?

• Apart from choosing your accommodations based on amenities, price, or location of the home, you could consider the following
• Is this property legally registered by the city as a bona-fide guest accommodation (thereby also meeting fire code regulations and having legal permission to rent to visitors)?
• Does the web site and literature reflect attention to detail and a professional appearance?
• Do your hosts answer your questions, are they friendly and helpful?
• Are there good reviews on the Internet or on their website or other listing sites?
• When comparing prices, consider fees for children, parking, cleaning, booking fees, merchant fees, etc.

+ Must I pay a booking fee?

With the proliferation of rental options on major booking sites, travelers will find that there are likely to be booking fees (sometimes referred to as a traveler’s fee). That is the current business model – and it appears to be here to stay. However, travelers are welcome to do their own research and may find the very same guest accommodation listed elsewhere – for example, on the city’s tourist information website or on Google maps. You are certainly free to contact the owner and book directly. Also, should you wish to return to this same guest facility in the future, you are always free to book directly with the owner and avoid booking fees.

+ What is the best way to pay for my accommodations?

• Most establishments accept credit cards. Using your credit card provides a guarantee by your card provider.
• If your hosts require in-person payment upon arrival in cash or traveler's checks, they should be happy to provide a receipt for your records.
• What you should NOT do is: send cash in the mail or send a check made out to cash. No, no, no!
• Do NOT use an instant money/wire transfer such as Western Union or Money Gram - these payment methods are preferred by fraudsters. Again, never wire funds. Never. Period. And, while we are on the subject of scams . . . be SURE you are dealing with the owner or manager! The fraudsters are adept at copying bona-fide listings and posting them on Craig’s List as their own! You could also do a “Google” search and then call the owner or the establishment directly. Or check for the listing on the city’s tourist information website or on Google maps.
• Also, look to see if the photos match the listing. For example, does the listing mention a two-bedroom unit, but the photos show four different bedrooms? Or there are no photos at all?
• Is it too good to be true? Does the home’s description mention a pool and a gourmet kitchen for only $100.00 a night? If it sounds too good to be true, beware!

+ Are children allowed?

Some do allow children, some don’t. Although yours are likely the world's best-behaved children, other guests may not appreciate their natural enthusiasm. Some lodging establishments happily welcome children. The layout of their facility may accommodate the needs of children without disturbing other guests.You will find that lodging establishments are generally quite specific about their policy regarding children. If you are traveling with small children you should consider a facility with a yard or nearby playground.

+ Are pets allowed?

Several do allow pets! Those guest houses that allow pets will generally impose some restrictions: the pet might be limited in size or type, the pet must be crated if left unattended in the room. There is typically an additional fee or a refundable damage deposit.(Note: Dogs must be leashed at all times (this is a city ordinance), Dogs are not allowed on beaches between Memorial Day and Labor Day.)

+ Which lodging establishments can accommodate wheelchairs or meet other accessibility or mobility needs?

Many of Newport’s older homes were built long before accessibility was a consideration; re-building is generally not feasible. Newer homes – or larger inns – or hotels – are most likely to provide access. Ask your innkeeper to provide details to you such as parking, measurements and bath access, and remember to check entry access as well as patio or yard access.

+ What if I have additional questions?

Feel free to email or call us at any time with your questions. We will respond promptly. If we are unable to accommodate your request, we are happy to recommend other local lodging options to you! We are proud of our hometown and its attractions. We would like you to enjoy your stay in Newport – whether with us or with another equally lovely establishment.