Winter Warmth at Rhode Island Oceanfront Resort from $139/N Family of 4

There’s nothing like anticipating the sight of endless blankets of snow surrounding a New England landscape in winter. New Englanders are famous for their intimacy with this scenic season and their stern acceptance of the cold. Yet that may not be what your family is after.

New England offers a variety of ways to enjoy winter, whether you’re an avid skier or favor the warmth of a burning fire, while sipping hot cocoa with your loved ones. And if you prefer to do the latter -- with a little less cold and much less (if any) snow -- then Newport Rhode Island on the Atlantic coast may have the temperate climate and New England charm that you seek.

If so, the Hyatt Regency Newport, located on Goat Island off the coast of Newport, is an ideal place to indulge in all of your winter fantasies.

Many of the resort's 257 rooms have ocean views, and the whole place has been transformed by a rencently completed $37 million makeover. In summer, you can hang out by the saltwater pool and watch the sailboats and yachts go by, a very Newport activity.

In winter, you can do much more than enjoy your luxurious accommodation at this popular, contemporary resort. If you’re a guest during the month of February, you and your family can partake in the annual Newport Winter Festival that lasts from the 12-21 of the chilly month. You can also take advantage of the Hyatt’s complimentary transportation to and from “New England’s largest winter extravaganza.”

This celebrated gala offers a unique winter experience that combines a variety of food, music and entertainment that's fun for all ages. Gaze at the intricate Sand sculptures (yes, there's a beach!) and participate in the Ice Sculpting competition. Also, the festival will offer a chili and pizza cook-off, along with a city-wide Scavenger Hunt, a children’s fair and an indoor concert series that features a diverse array of musical talents.

If you and your family decide to partake in this can’t-miss-celebration, the Hyatt is offering a discounted room rate of $139 per night along with many other parent-friendly amenities. While Mom warms her feet up with a complimentary peppermint pedicure at the Stillwater Spa, Dad can entertain the family by the lobby fireplace then present a romantic "kiss cocktail" to his refreshed mate.

For more information and bookings, you can contact your travel agent, or visit the Hyatt Regency Newport website. For families driving to the area -- and you'll want to drive because the coastal route lined with mansions is so great -- the resort is located at 1 Goat Island, Newport, Rhode Island, USA 02840 and their phone (if you get lost) is  401/851-1234.