<p>If anyone still has any unanswered questions about RI-- general area, weather, etc., I’d be happy to help. I’ve lived here my whole life, so I’m a veritable expert.</p>
<p>WEATHER! what are some must-haves [i am oblivious to the east coast weather]... what do you suggest (such as 1 pea coat, 1 rain jacket). how often does it snow and how much?</p>
<p>do you feel generally safe in the city? any tips? (i know you have to use common sense :))</p>
<p>thanks... this is BIG help!</p>
<p>Okay, you definitely want to have a warm winter jacket. It doesn't get as cold here as it does further North, like New Hampshire or Maine, but the wind can be really biting. A rain coat is a good idea, but generally it is also really chilly when it rains, so you might just end up always wearing your winter jacket. Definitely bring a scarf, mittens, hat, etc., as I am sure you will end up using them. Also some boots because the snow can get kind of deep, and it's no fun to get it on your ankles.</p>
<p>It snows maybe a dozen times each year, but sometimes the snow sticks around for weeks. I'd say that there's some snow on the ground at least half of the winter. It doesn't often get deeper then about six inches.</p>
<p>I usually feel pretty safe in the city, especially on the Brown campus. Last year, however, some of the local high school students decided that they didn't like Brown students, and started hanging out on one of the nearby streets. I know they surrounded at least one Brown student and beat him up (in broad daylight!). I don't want to freak you out, but it's not always safe. I don't know if I have any real tips, just try not to look too out of place and scared. If you're nervous at first, just walk like you have somewhere to go and don't make eye contact-- then people won't generally approach you. Really, though, it's not that dangerous.</p>
<p>I hope I helped a little!</p>
<p>thanks!</p>
<p>do you have any suggestions of reliable [and affordable :)] places to buy a decent coat and boots [preferably near brown]?</p>
<p>The Providence Place Mall, the Army Surplus store on Thayer Street, Urban Outfitters on Thayer street, or maybe even the new sports store on Thayer Street.</p>