I like Boston/Cambridge and have visited the city a lot. The Charlesmark is in a great location. However, I have paid much less or the same for much nicer accomodations also located in great locations. The Charlesmark is NOT worth what I paid: $200.00 approximately for each night. This price includes tax.
1) The rooms are very very small. They are clean but it is difficult to move around in them. Again, if the price had been less, I would have adjusted. The showers are tastefully tiled and the bathroom, overall, is quite nice. Warning: If you require a tub and are not handicapped, you will be sent to the rooms on the floor where the hotel restaurant's bathroom, laundry, and vending machines are located. Not visually appealing!
2) The hallways are narrow and the carpet (outside the rooms) is stained and worn. The elevator has seen better days; I usually took the stairs. Overall, the hotel's appearance is slightly shabby. I do not refer to the rooms but to the lobby and hallways.
3) The staff is a mixed lot. There are those who are helpful and those who are not. You will know them when you meet them.
Bottom line: I stayed at the Inn at Harvard (lovely) after I left the Charlesmark. The difference in rooms, lobby, and atmosphere is stunning. Ironically, both places charged almost the same price. If you can get this place for a bargain rate, go for it. Otherwise, I wouldn't waste my time. There are so many better places to stay.
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