NEWS

WIRES

OTHER

Retired "Diplomat" Finds Marriott's Lodging in Providence, RI a Perfect Fit

Providence Hotel's Services Match Up to Former Legislator's Daily Routine

Matching its services to the needs of the people it serves, the Providence Marriott Downtown Hotel prides itself in providing an exceptional Providence, RI lodging experience for both business and leisure travelers. And then there's Al.

Al Vanasse, resident "diplomat" at the Providence Marriott Downtown, is an exception to the rule of guests, but a perfect example of the fine services found at one of the most impressive of hotels in Providence, Rhode Island. At the age of 92, Vanasse is the hotel's sole resident and because he spends so much time as an unofficial greeter, historian and local tour guide of the nearby State House, he was fondly given the title out of respect for his 10-year history as a colorful and independent state legislator.

A regular guest of the Marriott during his tenure in the legislature, Vanasse has now called the stylish lodging in Providence, RI home for the past five years, blissfully keeping watch over happenings at the State House thanks to pristine views offered from the hotel. Visiting with hotel guests he shares insights of local history, especially of the State House, and when prompted will give personal tours of his former seat in the legislature, where he served from 1972-1982. Often referred to as a "born politician," Vanasse's personal history is filled with eventful highlights such as growing up during the Great Depression as the 11th of 13 children; serving his country as a Marine and wounded on the island of Peleliu in the Pacific during World War II; being visited by Helen Keller while he was a Naval Hospital patient in Dublin, GA; sharing ice cream with the girl who became his wife of 60 years, and later caring for her as an Alzheimer's patient until her death in 2006. These excerpts being the short side of a long, eventful and successful life, Vanasse now maintains a steady schedule from his Marriott home, sharing his excitement for life with Marriott guests and strolling the neighborhood as he ventures out on a routine schedule for lunch at neighboring restaurants. Keeping in shape at this young age, Vanasse "works out" daily with 30 minutes of dancing to Frank Sinatra music. Other daily routines to which Vanasse credits his happy and energized life at the Marriott include an evening meal at AQUA, this Providence hotel's stylish oasis for fine dining, enjoying room service for breakfast and clean sheets everyday!

About the Providence Marriott Downtown
The Providence Marriott Downtown Hotel is an exciting destination for Rhode Island travelers whether visiting for business or leisure. Conveniently located among hotels near Providence College, Brown University and the Rhode Island Convention Center, this distinctive full service hotel is the only hotel in Providence to offer guests pet-friendly accommodations, complimentary onsite parking and a refreshing indoor/outdoor swimming pool. Fully equipped with 11,000 square feet of state-of-the-art event space, this premier venue offers functional conference space, full-service catering and professional event managers to assist planners in hosting inspirational business events and grand social affairs.