More of this Feature • The First Five Reasons to Love XV Beacon • Five Final Reasons to Love XV Beacon

Join the Discussion "Does anyone have any advice on pleasant things to do for a day in Boston?" RAVIOLIKID

Related Resources • More Boston Hotels • Boston B&Bs • Boston Attractions • Boston Dining • Virtual Freedom Trail • Kim's New England Deal Sheet

Elsewhere on the Web • XV Beacon Web site • Boston Globe Review of The Federalist Restaurant • Boston Magazine Review of The Federalist Restaurant

VI. The Control Panel

Beside the canopy bed, I was delighted to discover a control panel that allows you to operate the gas fireplace and the room's surround sound stereo system... without having to wrest yourself away from the satiny comfort of being swathed within fabulous Italian sheets.

VII. The Rest of the Gadgets

XV Beacon can boast of its true technology superiority. I've already mentioned the control panel and each room's dedicated lines for fax and three phones (including a speaker phone and a cordless phone). Rooms also feature digital satellite music, a CD player and surround sound stereo system, a 27" television, in-room movies and direct, high-speed Internet access. There's also high technology in the bathroom, but I'm saving that for later.

VIII. The CD Collection

Didn't bring your own CDs? No worries--you can borrow them from the hotel's extensive library. Pick up a list at the front desk; you're likely to be amazed, as we were, by the eclectic selection of tunes to fill your room.

IX. The Bath

Believe me, being a travel writer does not often afford me with many moments of relaxation when I'm out and about in New England, but it's rare that I take my work into the bathroom with me. At XV Beacon, I simply couldn't help myself. I dreamed of recreating this perfect, elegant bathroom in my home as well--and thus needed to study every detail, from the raised sink, to the heated towel rack, to the whirlpool tub, to the mini TV set into the wall across from the commode! My most coveted fixture was the enormous, flat shower head that dispensed a steamy waterfall of water.

X. The Privacy

Once you've nestled within your accommodations, there's little of the real world to intrude on you if that's your disposition. After all, you don't have to flaunt your prestigious Beacon Hill address by passing out "in residence" cards and giving out your direct room phone number. There are no cheesy, plastic "do not disturb" doorknob hangers here. Instead, a dial near the door to your hideaway allows you to indicate to the staff whether or not you wish to be bothered.

Next page > Five Final Reasons to Love XV Beacon > Page 1, 2, 3