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Resources & References

Resources & References

Rhode Island, USA

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • Google Maps / Apple Maps

    For navigation, including public transit. Download offline maps.

  • Uber / Lyft

    For ride-sharing services throughout Newport.

  • Yelp / OpenTable

    For finding restaurants, reading reviews, and making reservations.

  • The Newport Mansions App

    A must-have for self-guided audio tours of the Gilded Age mansions.

  • RIPTA App

    Real-time bus tracking, schedules, and mobile ticketing for public transport.

Useful Websites

  • Discover Newport

    The official tourism site for comprehensive information: Discovernewport.org

  • The Preservation Society of Newport County

    Authoritative source for mansion information and tickets: Newportmansions.org

  • Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA)

    For detailed bus routes, schedules, and fares: Ripta.com

  • Newport Chamber of Commerce

    Information on local businesses, events, and community: Newportchamber.com

  • National Park Service

    Search the Rhode Island DEM website for information on Fort Adams State Park tours, history, and events.

Social Media & Digital Content

@DiscoverNewport

Official tourism accounts for daily inspiration, event announcements, and beautiful photos of the city.

Visit Instagram

@NewportMansions

For updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and event information related to the Gilded Age mansions.

See Facebook

Podcasts & Documentaries

Search for podcasts on "Newport Gilded Age" or "Rhode Island history" for historical context and stories.

Explore Podcasts View Documentaries

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

  • Local Newport-specific guidebooks: Available at bookstores, gift shops, and the Newport Gateway Visitors Center.
  • Detailed street maps of Newport: A physical map aids orientation, especially in historic areas.
  • Physical maps complement GPS where signal precision is less.
  • Great for exploring without constant phone reliance.

Books about the Destination

  • The Gilded Age in Newport: A historical overview of Newport during its most opulent era.
  • Newport Mansions: The Gilded Age: Detailed information and beautiful photographs of the famous estates.
  • Fiction: Many novels set in Newport, especially during the Gilded Age, offer insights into social dynamics.
  • Works by Edith Wharton, though not solely set in Newport, capture the spirit of the time.

Local Publications

Newport Daily News

  • The local daily newspaper.
  • Provides current events and local news.
  • Community information.

Newport Mercury

  • A local weekly newspaper.
  • Often with in-depth features on local issues.
  • Covers arts and events.

Free Tourism Brochures

  • Widely available at the Newport Gateway Visitors Center.
  • Also at hotels and attractions.
  • Contain maps, event listings, and advertisements.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

Emergency Numbers

  • Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911 (dial directly, free from any phone).
  • This is the main number for all life-threatening emergencies.
  • Newport Police (non-emergency): (401) 847-1333.
  • Newport Hospital: (401) 846-6400.

Hospital Locations

  • Newport Hospital: 11 Friendship Street, Newport, RI 02840.
  • The main hospital serving the city.
  • Offers emergency services and comprehensive medical care.

Urgent Care

  • Several urgent care clinics exist in Newport and nearby Middletown.
  • For non-life-threatening medical issues (e.g., minor injuries, colds, flu).
  • Search online for "Urgent Care Newport RI" for current locations and hours.

Lost Documents

Passport & Visa Procedures

  • Lost/Stolen Passports: Report to the local police immediately for a police report.
  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate for a replacement passport or emergency travel document.
  • For international travelers, embassies or consulates in major U.S. Cities assist with lost documents or emergencies.

Other Documents

  • For lost driver's licenses, credit cards, or other important documents, contact the issuing authority.
  • Contact your credit card company immediately to report the loss and arrange replacements.
  • Keep your specific embassy's contact information readily accessible.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Stay Informed

  • Monitor local news and weather alerts (local radio, TV, or phone notifications).
  • Especially during hurricane season (June-November) or in winter for Nor'easters.
  • Remain vigilant for updates.

Follow Instructions

  • Always follow instructions from local authorities (police, emergency management officials).
  • Regarding evacuation orders, shelter locations, or safety precautions during a natural disaster.
  • Hotels often implement emergency plans.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries and Films

  1. Search for documentaries on the "Gilded Age" or "American industrial history," which often feature Newport and its prominent families.
  2. Several films have been shot in Newport mansions, offering a visual glimpse into their grandeur.
  3. "The Great Gatsby" (the 1974 version filmed at Rosecliff).
  4. "Amistad" (filmed partly at the Marble House).
  5. "True Lies" (also filmed at Rosecliff).

Music and Art

  1. If visiting during the Newport Jazz Festival or Newport Folk Festival, listen to jazz and folk music to immerse yourself.
  2. Explore local art galleries in Newport.
  3. They display works inspired by the city's coastal beauty and history.
  4. This can provide a contemporary artistic perspective.

Online Communities & Language

TripAdvisor Forums

Active forums for travelers to ask questions, share tips, and read about experiences in Newport.

Reddit Communities

Online communities (e.g., r/RhodeIsland, r/Newport) where locals and visitors discuss various topics.

Language Resources

Not applicable for an U.S. Destination where English is universally spoken.

Helpful Tip

Before you travel, save important phone numbers (hotel, travel insurance, family) as favorites in your phone.

Also, consider setting up an "In Case of Emergency" (ICE) contact on your phone's lock screen, accessible by first responders.

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