To my surprise, the Intercontinental Boston sits on top of many of the key categories in the luxury Boston hotel market.


Entry: I saw a bellman walk away with bags as my taxi pulled up. I knew I would be on my own and indeed I was. I removed my bags from the trunk and pushed the door open.

Check-in: Smooth and included escort to the room by front-desk staff.

Room: Easily the best among the Ritz, Taj (old Ritz) and Four Seasons. Looks very much like the US MOs in Miami and Washington. I had the lowest room type as I was on my own for just 1 night. Perhaps I got lucky, but the room was shaped like an L and included a seperate office area with desk and windows. Very impressive. 1 flat screen TV, no TV or TV audio in the bathroom. The bathroom has a seperate shower & bath and also echoed US MOs with a pass-through window like the MO Miami property. Very nice Frette towels and linens. Particulary nice bathroom throw rug too (super soft). The unbranded toiletries have a nice scent.

Location: I dont like the waterfront location. Perhaps it will be better when they finish the big-dig beautification.

Workout facilities: Beautifully done. Very high ceilings with equally high floor to ceiling windows overlooking the yet-to-be-finished parkscape. Most of the aerobic machines seemed to be positioned with direct park/city views. The pool was also quite nice.

Service: Very gracious with no glaring errors...though I did not test them in a any significant way.

This is a serious attempt by Intercontinental to reach the top of the BOS market. Although it is certainly not the best hotel any of us have stayed at, it is a legit luxury hotel that may be the best in Boston right now. It is certainly worth a try to see what you think.