When industry insiders talk international travel in Rhode Island, they really don’t. more

This year you have read in this column about many contributors to the state’s successful restaurant community, from chefs and restaurateurs to winemakers and farmers. All can be considered stars of the industry. more

A thriving nightlife scene plays an often under-appreciated role in ensuring a city’s economic health. That’s especially true in a place like Providence, where restaurants are among the leading attractions. more

Like many Rhode Island businesses, The NYLO Providence/Warwick Hotel has learned from the string of storms that have caused flooding, power outages and other damage in recent years. This year the Warwick hotel posted warnings, including the one pictured above, cleared and sandbagged its deck and put in place an emergency-communication system for guests that included evacuation plans. Staff members also stayed in rooms there to limit unnecessary travel. more

One of the great things about chefs and restaurateurs here in our state and across the nation is the never-ceasing giving that is part and parcel of their everyday lives. The food-service industry is at the forefront of good works, in times of trouble and more importantly every day helping people you and I never hear of. more

The South County Tourism Council was recognized Monday by the North American Travel Journalists Association for travel reporting “excellence” in its publication, the South County Style Guide. The guide won first place for working under a marketing budget of $400,000 or less. more

Everyone has had a Rhode Island “moment.” You’re in a faraway city, don’t know a soul, and you find yourself in a café on some crowded street. You strike up a conversation with a total stranger at the bar and find that the person you’ve just become acquainted with is a nephew of the daughter of your next-door neighbor in Rhode Island. more

A survey of nearly 17,500 brides from TheKnot.com and WeddingChannel.com found that Rhode Island is the fifth most-expensive place in the United States to get married. more

Rhode Island charter-boat captains have had a difficult time making ends meet for the last few years. Most agree their problems stem from too many governmental regulations and a still-sluggish economy. more

WaterFire Providence has been selected as one of 817 nonprofit organizations nationwide to receive a National Endowment for the Arts grant, the national organization announced Friday. more