SAN FRANCISCO-
New England is a classic fall destination, and a new book called "Weekends for Two in New England" can help make it a romantic destination as well.
The guide lists 50 hotels and inns in Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. Author Bill Gleeson notes in his introduction that "romantic respites from parenting, dual careers, cooking and cleaning come all too infrequently," and he decided to write the book after "one too many unpleasant weekends in unappealing lodgings inaccurately portrayed by innkeepers and friends as romantic."
In choosing lodgings to be included in the book, he had a few hard and fast criteria, including private bathrooms; in-room fireplaces; tubs or showers designed for two; breakfast in bed; down comforters; canopied four-poster and king-size beds; couches, love seats or other nooks for sitting together; private decks, patios or balconies with a view; romantic decor, flowers and the like; and rooms where smoking is never permitted.
As a father of two, Gleeson says he has nothing against children, but he did seek to include inns and hotels that discourage younger visitors.
The author adds that few of the properties rent rooms for under $100 a night. They are categorized as moderate if they are under $200 nightly, expensive at $200-$300 and deluxe over $300.
Listings include recommendations for specific rooms or cottages at each property, along with photos.
Also listed are recommendations for a few restaurants in each state and some of the top attractions.
Listings for Maine include the 1802 House or Captain Lord Mansion in Kennebunkport; in Ludlow, Vt., the Andrie Rose Inn or the Governor's Inn; in Bradford, N.H., the Rosewood Country Inn; in Massachusetts, on Nantucket Island, The Wauwinet or Cliffside Beach Club; in Connecticut, Mystic's Steamboat Inn; and in Newport, R.I., the Vanderbilt Hall Hotel.
The book, from San Francisco-based Chronicle Books, sells for $19.95.
