One of my favorite places to visit is Newport, Rhode Island. It's a small city (population 26,475 - Year 2000 Census) with restuarants, hotels, bed and breakfast inns, boating nestled in a quaint setting that one expects from a charming New England town. The population of the city increases significantly in the summer vacation season as visitors from New York, New Jersey, New England, Canada and all around the world descend upon this wonderful place.

I had the pleasure of visiting Newport in Fall 2004 and it didn't fail to meet my expectations. Visiting Newport in the off-season, particularly in September/October can be very pleasurable as the weather is crisp and cool, and there is less traffic and thinner crowds. There's alot to see in Newport, but some of the highlights include: The Cliff Walk, Historic Mansions, Ocean Drive, Castle Hill Inn, Wharf Area (restaurants and shops).

The Cliff Walk is a 3.5 mile path providing fantastic ocean views on one side and magnificent mansions on the other. Wear sneakers for comfort. This is a very enjoyable trail, though some parts are rougher than others. The North End of the Cliff Walk trail is well paved, while the South End is a bit rougher so use caution. All in all, the Cliff Walk is a must see when visiting Newport!