HotelChatter

What's New
Since my last visit (in 2005) XV has added great services and updated existing ones. The stylish rooms are equipped with canopy beds doning 400-count Frette linens and state of the art technology like an iHome alarm clock and 42 inch flat screen tv. Forget the hanging door signs, each room has an electronic switch that lets the hotel know when to clean the room and when to not bother you.

The marble bathroom features a rain forest shower and high quality custom products, like an addicting lip balm, as well as crazy-comfortable Frette bathrobes. Awesome upgrades that everyone is sure to love are custom printed business cards that include your name and a private phone number to the hotel and complimentary WiFi!

Cool Concierges
The hotel's concierge can help you customizing your trip and they won't just give you a canned list of ideas or restaurants. These concierges know what's hot and what's over in Boston and will help you determine what's right for your tastes. They are even willing to share a few secret spots that only the locals know.

Sedan Service
One of my favorite guilty pleasures is the sedan service. Since XV is truly a small boutique hotel, with only seven guest rooms per floor (60 total), they have the ability to offer a courtesy in-town luxury sedan service to all guests. This means, many times without you even having to ask, they will arrange for the house car to drive you to and from your in-town dinner, shows and events. No taxis, no fees and the drivers are as friendly and fun, as they are knowledgeable about Boston's past and present.

However, with such a great location in Boston's historic and beautiful Beacon Hill you'll be able to walk to area hot spots like Newbury Street, Boston Common, The North End and of course Beacon Hill.

Jet Set Pets
If your pet like to jet-set as well, bring him or her along. The hotel offers healthy homemade dog bones, a plush doggie bed and turn down water service. Also, dog sitting and walking can be arranged. Your pampered pooch will not want to leave this luxury service behind.

Goin' Green
Keeping with the times, XV Beacon supports the environment by practicing water and energy conservation with third-day bed linen changes and offers guests to choose to reuse towels and monitor their own room temperatures. The hotel also recycles paper, glass and bottles; and uses non-aerosol cleaning supplies and eco-friendly products.

Bottom Line
With many new luxury hotels popping onto the Boston scene, I thought maybe the XV Beacon would get a run for its money. But after my last stay in Beantown, I'm positive that XV will always be ahead of the rest in this cool Northern city. Rates start at $295 a night.

Thanks Kimberly!

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[Photo: XV Beacon]