An H2O Weekend

I would like to begin this post by reconfirming the title of my previous post. At dinner on Saturday night in Newport, there were 3 large tables occupied by all females.. and when inquiring about the occasion, each answer was the same.. including ours: BACHELORETTE PARTY.

From Poland Spring, to drops from the sky, to a coastal view and even to the site of our delicious meal on Saturday night, this weekend was all about water.. and alcohol too, of course. I was all excited on Saturday night to come back and share our experience at H20, an oceanside restaurant with a modern and contemporary edge to it. From the cocktails and appetizers through the meal, atmosphere, service & DJ, everything was exceptional. Dining with a crowd of 20+ isn't always the easiest task, especially when it comes to finalizing the check, but this experience turned out to be smooth from beginning to end.

Most of the entrees were under $30, and I can only speak for my selection specifically, but the Pan Seared Tuna was deliciously prepared and beautifully presented. Not that I'm a qualified food or restaurant critic, but I feel very comfortable recommending H2O for larger parties, fancy gatherings and even a romantic dinner for two. It seemed to cater toward a younger crowd, but was also family-friendly. In any case, we each spent well under a "benjamin" for essentially a three course meal (excluding dessert, but adding many rounds of drinks) that, in essence, extended into an all night affair.

In my opinion, dining seaside is one of the finest ways to share a meal with friends. I'm always looking for new places to try and explore, so feel free to send along one of your favorite oceanside eateries for the rest of us to enjoy!

Newport, RI: Bachelorette Heaven

I'm going to take a small break from the international travel talk, and bring it back home for a moment.. err, post. This weekend, I have the pleasure of partaking in the bachelorette festivities for a childhood friend in good ole Newport, RI.

I had not initially thought of this destination as what my title suggests, until it was brought to my attention yesterday by a couple of fellows. They claimed that every time they've gone down there, they've run into 10+ girls dressed in the same shirts & all liquored up.. I suppose there may be some truth to this theory.. and I might be living proof. I'd go so far as to say that 75% of the times that I've been to Newport have been for bachelorette parties. Either way, it's a gorgeous place.

Below is a picture of my college roommates, a.k.a the crew that I was most recently guilty of being in Newport with for Nic's bachelorette (back row, furthest left). I'm not sure why I resemble Patch Adams here, but I swear that's still better than I look on the average day.


Boasting a Nantucket or Cape Cod-like atmosphere, Newport is not just another coastal beach town. It's rich in history too. In different eras, it was a port for pirate activity, naval operations, and the center of slave trade in New England. While it has obviously changed in certain facets, Newport's economy is still flourishing today. Perhaps most notably associated with the Newport Mansions, the city has evolved into more of an upscale vacation spot with chic strip malls, luxurious condos, and great karaoke & beach bars!

My two hot tips on the social scene in Newport, RI:

• The Pelham: Or as it is more formally known, One Pelham East. Great live rock bands, songs you know and love, and fine company.. or at least, it will be by the end of the night - if you hear what I'm saying. Located on Thames Street - the happening strip of Newport.
• The Red Parrot: Restaurant spanning multiple stories and boasting multiple bars [also located] right on the heart of Thames Street. Enjoy Jazz music, food with a hint of Caribbean flavor at reasonable prices, and an overall relaxing atmosphere.

Oh, and also courtesy of The Red Parrot website, I've learned that Newport was home to the first roller rink! Rollerworld anyone?