Hard-pressed to find anything better
Review Submitted: December 30, 2010
Date of Stay: December 2010
Of course everyone's needs and expectations differ, but we'd have been hard-pressed to find anything better. This was not our normal travel, with family members flying in - and leaving - on different days, and mixing tourism with a family wedding. The location is just close enough to Boston (with a trolley stop behind the house) to visit the city and far enough out to make the south coast accessible. We were able to mix public and private transportation easily.
Overall, this is a very nice unit - well-maintained, clean, and supplied with most everything you need. The wireless is quick, and all appliances were working. I did find the creaking of the beautiful wooden floors bothersome (worried we'd irritate the downstairs tenant), but I have no complaints about the accommodations. The beds were comfy and warm, and we actually slept 6 comfortably 1 night. The single bathroom was a bit insufficient for 5 but workable for a vacation week. There is no tub, and the shower head is high, which could be a problem for younger children.
We were never cold even when outside was freezing. I didn't see a way to adjust the heating. It might have been more "green" to lower the heat when we were out. The photos do show that this unit is under the peak of the roof, so there are some angled walls which reduce the usable floor-space, but I'd rather look at that as giving the rooms "character." The spiral stairs are classy but could be an obstacle for some.
The neighborhood is quiet and well-insulated from the nearby Dorchester Av outer-urban, small-business district. Being unaccustomed to city sounds, I had to get used to the frequent rolling of the trolley cars. On-street parking is sufficient but tight as it is a narrow street. As another said, grocery shopping is more convenient by car.
You can walk north or south to the trolley, as there is a walkway beyond the last house on the street. It's one stop to the main subway line, which runs right to central Boston historical sites. First boarding was a bit awkward, as you can't buy tickets until you get to the station. (By the way, the McKenna's cafe at the Savin Hill stop, recommended in another review: Wonderful!)
The Interstate is handy, to and from north or south. There is one congested intersection on the outbound route where you'd be advised to avoid rush hour traffic. Another hint to driving in the Boston area is to invest in a GPS device!
All-in-all, renting here is worlds better than a hotel suite!
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Tourists without a Car,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: I am always glad to hear that a guest has enjoyed their stay at the rental. I would like to clarify that the staircase is not spiral, but is full-sized/standard, that doubles-back on itself.
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Helpful votes: 3/3
