Forget Newport or Jamestown, staying with Spence and Alex in Saunderstown is the quintessential Rhode Island Shore setting: Plum Beach is a best kept secret.

I've been traveling to and from Rhode Island for nearly 25 years after having spent a few years living in Newport out overlooking the Ocean Drive for 3 years and staying in Spence's house was one of the most pleasant and restful accommodations I've had since...Don't tell my friends!

Alex was there to show me the house and get me settled: I was invited to share their dinner, during which we had great conversation along with the great food.

After that?

I was free to keep my own schedule, the bed and bath were spacious and well furnished. There was absolutely no noise other than birds chirping and breezes blowing. Surrounded by open space and lush landscaping. For some reason the seem to think the house is not fancy: if you like understated elegance, genteel surroundings and the comfort of a well built family home, this is it.

They may be new to Airbnb but they are not new to being gracious hosts and knowing exactly how to put people at ease and make them feel welcome. Between the two of them, I don't think there is anything about Rhode Island that they couldn't talk about and help you sort out.

Did I mention the outdoor shower?