_

The Park Plaza isn't just a hotel—it's a historic landmark. The opulent lobby would not look out of place on the Titanic (pre-iceberg, that is), and with 950 rooms across 15 floors, it rivals the ocean liner in size. Rooms range from tasteful if tiny singles to 2-bathroom family doubles, some with scenic park views. Amenities include fitness and business centers, a beauty salon, a pharmacy, valet parking ($36), airport transportation ($12), and several restaurants, the most notable of which is Todd English's Bonfire, and a bar (Whiskey Park). Doubles $169+; suites $229-4749. Prices fall slightly in autumn but rise for Commencement. Reservations taken up to a year in advance. The hotel is in an ideal location - short walks to Boston Common, Newbury Street and Boylston. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

_

_

_

The former Ritz-Carlton was sold to Taj in 2006; in 2005, this hotel's 1927 glamour was updated with modern technology. The elegant European decor still recreates a historic, genteel Boston, and the wide array of guest services will have you feeling like a proper Brahmin. In addition to conventional modern amenities, 24hr room service includes a technology butler (in case your laptop fails you at midnight) as well as a fireplace butler. There's no pool, but your bath butler will see to all your water-related desires. The Taj also boasts a new fitness center, limousine service, and three dining and drinking establishments innovatively named The Cafe, The Lounge and The Bar. Deluxe singles and doubles generally $375-595, suites range from $475 to $3000. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard. Formerly The Ritz-Carlton, Boston, the hotel is located on the corner of Arlington and the always fashionable Newbury Street and offers visitors easy access to many of Boston's most popular sites. The Public Garden, Swan Boats, Boston Common, Hatch Shell, and many more are all within a short walk. Special room rates for the Boston Marathon available through Marathon Tours and Travel. Afternoon tea: served on Wednesday to Sunday at 2 pm and 4 pm sittings, and it's wise to make a booking. It is served on the first floor, so enter through the front door and take the grand spiral staircase up to the high-ceilinged lounge adorned with traditional artwork and bedecked with antique furniture. A harpist plays and the window seats look out over Newbury St below and the Gardens across Arlington St.

_

_

_