Charlesgate Suites

Instead of the 505-square-foot design studio suite I paid an extra $400 for, with a stove and full-size fridge, we got a 300-square-foot comfort suite with neither appliance. The property blamed Expedia, but Expedia had been sent all the design studio details. The beds were comfortable, but this wasn't the room I paid for. Getting a timely response from the property about the room or even a partial refund was a nightmare. False advertising.

The room was adequate, nothing special, but a $125 cleaning fee showed up on our bill for a one-night stay. We left it immaculate and were only there long enough to sleep. Booking.com had said tax was the only extra charge beyond the room rate, with no cleaning fee mentioned upfront. When we contacted the owner thinking it was a mistake, he said he always charged this standard fee and refused to refund or reduce it. For what this booking cost, we could have had a much nicer downtown hotel without hidden fees.

Our hosts were very responsive, and we appreciated the thoughtful little things, like an umbrella to take out in the rain and a laundry basket beside the washer and dryer. The apartment was bright, airy, and clean, with a lovely river view. It was quiet above the traffic, though keep in mind it's on the fourth floor with a lot of stairs. The location was great, just a five-minute walk to the T and easy to reach the sights and restaurants. We'd definitely recommend it.

My daughter and I were in town for a few days to check out BU, and the location worked really well. Our fourth-floor room had a beautiful view of Cambridge and the Charles River. The room itself was gorgeous, and the coffee was delicious. I especially liked having real creamer instead of powder. Whenever we contacted the hotel, they replied within ten minutes and were kind and courteous. We'll definitely stay here again.