| What to expect: Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Harvard Square span the snug lobby's south wall, illuminating stuffed gold chairs and twin purple loveseats that are often occupied by leisure travelers and families of college students. A seam of purple bricks along the floor accents a swirling, textured carpet of green, gold, purple, and orange, tempered by glass-topped wood tables and a sleek check-in counter. Amenity highlights: This four-story, smoke-free hotel provides guests with complimentary access to a nearby YMCA (1.5 miles), and staff can arrange in-room child care. High-speed Internet access is available for a fee in the lobby. Insider tip: Harvard Square, known for its spontaneous performance art, youthful energy, and hip hangouts, is reputed to offer some of the best people-watching in the city. Hotel guests are at the doorstep of numerous trendy boutiques, independent bookstores, ethnic restaurants, and historic Harvard Yard. |