My husband and I are trying to become points members at one or two hotel chains, thereby earning free hotel stays and other perks. We've stayed at various hotels, from Marriott's high-end Renaissance to Hilton's Hampton Inn. We've tried Hilton brands from Sydney to London, and, considering the competition, have generally decided that Hilton's points program offers more value.

The Hilton Honors Program
Double dipping is the Hilton plan whereby, as a gold status member, you can earn both hotel points and airline miles. Gold status is also easier to achieve with Hilton, requiring only 36 nights (or 16 stays), as opposed to the 50 nights Marriott properties require. Often, HH will award Gold status to Marriott members in an attempt to steal their frequent travelers. This is how my husband came by the Gold Status. Perks include access to the Executive Floor. These rooms are nicer, geared to the executive traveler, and often include free internet access on in-room computers. The Executive Lounge offers free breakfast, snacks at lunch or tea-time, dinner hour happy hour with snacks, and free drinks day-round. Also, Hilton offers Husbands and wives a sharing system where the two can pool their points. Also, you can register online at their website.

We decided that Hilton's program is the one to chase. We've always liked the Hilton. In fact, several of the Hiltons we've stayed in are favorites: Hilton Sydney, Hilton Metropole in London.... Hampton Inn, Hilton's lower-scale model (think Fairfield competition) is usually nice enough. Cost-effective, widespread, and handy to a lot of major cities, Hampton Inn is usually a good choice.

Hilton's Hampton
I stayed at the Hampton Inn and Suites one night only, after attending my friend's baby shower in Newport. It was clean, convenient, and well priced. Less than $90 for the night is very reasonable, though I must admit it was the AAA rate. They also offer government rates and other discounts, so be sure to check online.

The room itself was clean, didn't smell of cigarette smoke, and had enough towels and toiletries. The mattress was comfortable, though the King-size bed made me lonely. The hotel was impeccably clean, with TV, coffee maker, water bottle, and free Oreo Cookies (for HH members). There is no in-room mini bar, but there is a small convenience store near the front desk.

I wish I'd received a room above the first floor, being that I was a woman traveling alone. Still, I heard no noises from outside, and was not disturbed by the noise from the front desk, which was far around the corner. Also, I had a view of the courtyard with indoor pool and fitness center, rather than the parking lot, which would have made me nervous.

The staff was friendly and polite. Express checkout was completed in minutes, with a smile. Pleasant.

Comps
I didn't have time to enjoy the complimentary breakfast, since I had to leave quickly for an early flight. One of the main attractions of this Hampton, I must admit, was its proximity to the airport. Less than a mile from Providence's TF Green Airport (PVD), I was able to drive to it, return my car, and check in within the half-hour. It's also worth noting that the airport's proximity did not interrupt my sleep. The hotel is well insulated from aircraft noise.

The hotel also offers a small self-service convenience nook near the front desk. Hampton offers light snacks and reasonably-priced sodas, as well as post cards, all of which can be added to your room bill.

Opinion
A great place to stay if you're in a hurry, but a little ways out from Providence's sights. Since that was not my purpose, I found the hotel to be convenient, clean, and safe. All in all, a great place to stay for short or long-term travelers.

Recommended: Yes