7 Reasons to Take a Staycation in Boston: Part I

 

Though I stayed and dined at the establishments mentioned in this series free of charge, my opinions and thoughts are always unbiased authentic accounts of my experience. 

 

Sometimes we want need to get away and other times we just want to feel like we are getting away from the day to day trivialities.

Boston can seem quite small but not so small that you can’t take a staycation and feel blissfully removed. I recently experienced staycations in three different parts of The Hub, including two of our hottest new hotels and left each with very different experiences.

Staycations can offer a relief from roommates, a romantic retreat for couples or provide a host of new perspectives.

While it was fun playing tourist in my own backyard, below are the 7 reasons why every Boston girl should take her own staycation to refresh and leave with a renewed appreciation for where she lives.

 

 

The Opportunity to Rediscover the Same Boston You Know and Love

I won’t beat around the bush, the best experience from start to finish was at the newly renovated Charles Hotel in Cambridge. There was no detail was missed and service was absolutely flawless.

Having arrived from a stressful day at the office, I headed right into dinner with my friend Gianne of Organic Bath & Co and lovely photojournalism intern An at Henrietta’s Table.

Tucking my weekender next to my seat, several feet away were some of the most adorable pups (another reason I knew I’d love it there.)

 

 

 

Starting with a light and seasonably appropriate heirloom caprese, I sat back to assess the demographic, enjoying the live music under the white lights. There wasn’t one. People of all ages and backgrounds were enjoying the evening just as much as I was.

The Charles is located in one of the best locations our city has to offer. Steps away from Harvard, a stones throw from Brattle and The Charles River, its even accessible by the Red Line.

It just so happened that Roma (yes Italy’s professional soccer team, they play at Harvard every Summer) was also staying there and I was fortunate to spend some time with a wonderful guy from the team.

 

Checking In

Always one to be frank, I know my experiences are never typical of the normal traveler — having even been told after the fact that staff are usually provided my photo before I arrive.

However while I checked in with an incredibly friendly young fellow Justin, I sneaked looks at the other patrons being checked-in, guided to their rooms and being provided directions.

The service was equal in quality and there was no shortage of smiles from either side. Interesting.

 

 

The Moment of Truth: The Rooms

If you follow my Snapchat you were able to experience my first moments taking it all in. Somehow The Charles was able to provide ultra-modern amenities like the a television built into the bathroom mirror while maintaining it’s notable New England charm we all know and love.

Above the beautiful wooden desk was a massive flat screen television that welcomed me by name that evening.

The bed, heavenly and outfitted in Frette came complete with a robe and slippers (an essential in my mind) and delicious chocolates provided a sweet ending to my long day.

An entire wall offered floor to ceiling views of Cambridge, equally stunning during the evening as sunrise.

 

 

Nightlife

I actually had one of my best dates at Noir a few years ago, The Charles beautifully seductive bar. Serving one of the best extra dirty martinis, their cocktails are artful with spunky names and expertly paired with the small plates on menu.

To my left were two couples dressed well, enjoying a muted conversation while a handsome 30-something male searched the bar and glanced back at his phone several times. First time internet date? She wouldn’t be disappointed.

An ultra-glamorous woman who had aged with grace chicly sipped a cocktail I wouldn’t even know how to order without stuttering.

My group; a table of successful young females clinked our glasses together with gratitude for the experience, for each other.

 

Relax

When it was time to turn in it was an experience that far exceeds my nightly routine at home.

Subtleties like allowing guest to select in room dining for complimentary ice delivery, a deliciously thick rug in front of the vanity, even a glass bathroom scale makes you feel like you’re still home, just an upgraded version.

Multiple hooks hang against the bathroom wall whereas most hotels provide one for a towel or robe (I always hang up the dress I plan to wear the next day for an extra steam while I shower.)

I enjoyed the best sleep I have had in a long time, not wanting to get out of bed when the time came. The only thing that motivated me was the breakfast that awaited.

 

 

Breakfast in Bed

My meal was the perfect ending to my perfect stay. The table having been placed right by the windows I enjoyed eggs, bacon, a homemade hash and strong coffee with soy.

Okay, I had pancakes too. Airy and melting on the tongue, they were done well arriving with recently melted butter on top.

 

Pro Tips

If you’re traveling from out of state, Cambridge is doing wonderful things with their conservation efforts, so if you plan on shopping bring your own reusable bags (for everything, even food at the food court.) It may get wearisome having to buy them time and time again.

The snack/candy selection in the room mini-bars are on point and in my mind, not grossly overpriced for the quality.

The Charles Hotel also has a bike share and Cambridge/Boston is perfect to explore by foot or bike, so be sure to check in with the front desk staff to reserve a set.

Parking: a scarcity in our city, The Charles makes it easy with a garage right below the hotel, also offering valet.

Looking to get pampered? There is a French spa & salon (Corbu) on premise for all facial, body, hair and nail needs (even waxing and makeup application!)

Fitness enthusiast? All guest enjoy complimentary access to the Wellbridge Athletic Club that offers state of the art machines, lap pool, personal trainers, yoga and a host of fitness classes.

 

I do want to note again, as my experiences may not always be typical of a standard business traveler or local needing a bit of R&R, my keen eye tells me The Charles truly takes care of each and every guest.

Each man and woman is welcomed as if they are returning home and whereas bloggers can become accustomed to being treated differently, it was refreshing to see this uniformity.

Thank you for such a wonderful, authentic experience.

 

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