I narrowed down my search to this particular neighborhood in Boston (centrally located and adjacent to the Boston Common) and chose this particular hotel based on reviews. Not only was I not disappointed, but this hotel knocked our socks off!
I was given a corner room on the 18th floor in response to asking for a room that was suitable for proposing marriage. The panoramic view of the Boston skyline from our room was breathtaking, and we were perfectly positioned immediately above the Boston Common (which was decorated and lit up for Christmas). I really felt like the staff treated my request with importance and enthusiastic support.
I was contacted prior to my stay and asked to provide a photo of something important to me. When I checked in, not only was the photo on display but the room was specially decorated with some extras to go with my photo. The photo I provided was a picture of a card I wanted to use to propose marriage -- a plate of drizzled chocolate and fresh flowers was custom-made to recreate the picture, and depicted a female proposing marriage to another female... it was so nicely done and completely unexpected. There were also rose petals leading from the door to the bed, and rose petals arranged in a large heart formation on the bed. In addition to all of this there were chocolate dipped hearts decorated very romantically, champagne, and edible fruit displayed artistically. I've never had any other hotel work so hard to go the extra mile. It was a magical experience.
The room was quiet and felt very private. Lighting was unique and perfect for relaxing in bed at night while gazing at the view. The bathroom was very modern and the shower had fantastic water pressure. The furniture, bed, window coverings, and wall decorations appeared to be new... as did everything in the hotel (lobby, hallways, gym, etc.). Top notch amenities.
I was surprised that free wi-fi is only available after signing up as a Kimpton Karma member, but the Raid the Mini Bar card is an excellent benefit and well worth being a member.
Customer service was warm, friendly, and professional. Upon arrival, the valet offered to keep our car out front while we checked in without charge (and didn't make us feel at all like we needed to rush or were inconveniencing him). I felt like the charge for overnight parking was really high, but I don't live in a big city and parking is definitely at a premium in Boston so I didn't shop around for a parking garage and I assume the fee was in-line with all hotels in the area.
Both check-in and check-out were easy and efficient. Every time I left or returned to the hotel, front desk staff welcomed me warmly. I only called the front desk once to find out what the hours of operation were for the gym -- they answered quickly and had the answer on the tip of their tongue.
The hotel is very unique and the experience was unforgettable. I'm now sold on Kimpton and I'll definitely look for Kimpton hotels wherever I travel. And I'll definitely choose this hotel for any future trips to Boston! This place is a must-stay.