A sedate choice just right for visiting Williams alumni and parents, the Orchards has an upscale country-club atmosphere; it's the sort of place where afternoon tea is an event. Each of its public and private rooms enjoys a mix of antique and reproduction English-style furniture. Even standard units are sizeable, all with separate dressing cubicles, and those with working fireplaces have chaise lounges and deeply padded chairs. Some have fridges stocked with soft drinks; safes are hidden in places we can't divulge. A recent renovation benefited every corner, including the exercise room, and the kitchen, too, now surpasses the merely competent operation that preceded it. There is live piano in the lounge on weekends. Providing an international touch is an internship program that brings young people from all over the world to staff the front desk and dining room.