For those who might be contemplating giving birth in Rhode Island, I thought I might do a little compare and contrast with my experience in Berkeley, CA... Shall we start off with the positives? Rhode Island: Air conditioning in August, very important. I was grateful not to have to leave the hospital too early. The nurses in the Alternative Birth Center and the postpartum section were very warm, tended to be knowledgeable, and didn't torture me with excessive velcro ripping while I was trying to sleep. We had one really helpful lactation consultant who helped determine that my baby was tongue-tied, and that was why he was doing so badly getting a good, non-painful latch. Food was not spectacular, but decent and edible, especially considering my dietary issues. Berkeley: The lactation consultants were very helpful, and came in immediately after the birth, and for the next two days. The midwife was super involved, competent, and active. I had complete confidence in her. No one ever p