COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT BOSTON CAMBRIDGE, Cambridge

The hotel sits right on the Charles River, providing direct access to the waterfront path for walking, running, or cycling. Harvard University is 3 km away, MIT about 2 km, and Boston University less than 2 km (around a 20-minute walk). The Red Line's Central Station is a 15-minute walk, offering easy rail access to downtown Boston, Harvard Square, and Logan International Airport (11 km). Trader Joe's is next door, Whole Foods is a 5-minute walk, and several casual dining options are within 0.5 km. The neighbourhood is quiet and safe, well-suited for both college visits and business travel. A car is useful for reaching some parts of Boston, but the river path and nearby T stop make car-free trips practical.

Rooms are generously sized and come with a comfortable bed - king or two queen beds - plus a seating area and desk. All rooms have a private bathroom with a shower (some also have a bath), free toiletries, a hairdryer, and a carpeted floor. In-room amenities include a 32-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels, a mini-refrigerator, a coffee maker, and an ironing board. River-view rooms on higher floors are notably brighter and quieter, while some street-facing or lower-floor rooms may experience noise. The furniture and decor show signs of wear, and the property is due for a refresh. Room cleaning is daily; a rollaway can be added to rooms with a king bed. A safe is available at the front desk, not in the room. The property also has rooms with two beds, though these are limited in number.

The Bistro serves a buffet-style American breakfast (available for $12) with eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, and Starbucks coffee. Breakfast is served until 10:00 AM on weekends. Bisuteki Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar offers Japanese cuisine for lunch and dinner, and includes a bar. A 24-hour market provides snacks and beverages. The $32 daily destination fee credit can be used at both the Bistro and Bisuteki. Many find the breakfast credit sufficient for a hearty meal, though the quality is described as basic. The steakhouse has a mixed reputation - some enjoy the experience, others find it overpriced. Nearby alternatives include Riverside Pizza, Surya Indian Kitchen, and the Trader Joe's and Whole Foods markets within a short walk.

The destination fee includes complimentary daily bicycle rental (seasonal, with a 3-hour window in warmer months and 1 hour in winter) and canoeing for two guests. The fitness centre is open and equipped with standard exercise machines. The Charles River path directly outside provides excellent opportunities for running, walking, or cycling along the waterfront. There is no swimming pool or spa on site. A public swimming pool is located across the road. The area is also popular for canoeing and cycling, with free gear available through the hotel.

The 24-hour front desk provides quick check-in and check-out, and luggage storage is available at no charge. Laundry facilities (coin-operated washer and dryer) are on-site for a fee. Meeting and banquet facilities can be arranged for an additional charge. A shared lounge and TV area offers a comfortable space to relax. The hotel also has an ATM on site. Car hire can be arranged, and a Sixt rental car office is located in the basement. The property is fully air-conditioned and heated, with family rooms available. Safety features include smoke alarms and a safety deposit box at the front desk. The building is older and the entrance ramp is uncovered, which can be challenging in wet weather for those with mobility concerns. Housekeeping is daily, and extra towels can be requested.