Courtyard by Marriott Boston Cambridge

The hotel is widely recognized for its convenient location along the Charles River, offering picturesque views that many guests appreciate, particularly from higher floors. Its signature feature is the blend of urban accessibility with a serene riverside setting, making it an excellent choice for college visitors touring nearby universities like Harvard and MIT, as well as business travelers seeking proximity to key areas. Guests frequently highlight the hotel's overall cleanliness, the spacious rooms that provide ample comfort, and the consistently friendly staff who contribute significantly to a positive experience. However, a recurring point of contention is the presence of various additional fees that guests feel are not transparently communicated, impacting the perceived value. For an enhanced stay, it is advisable to clarify all potential charges upon booking and to consider utilizing ride-sharing services for more direct transportation to specific city attractions, as public transport access can be a bit of a walk for some. This hotel is also well-suited for sightseers and families looking for a comfortable base to explore the area.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities to enhance guest stays, though feedback is mixed on some aspects. The fitness center is generally well-regarded, with many guests appreciating its clean and modern equipment, providing a good option for maintaining workout routines. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests reported initial connectivity issues or unreliability, which could hinder productivity for business travelers. The elevators are a frequent point of concern, with multiple reports of slow service or one being out of order, leading to delays. Most rooms do not include a microwave, which is a notable inconvenience for guests, particularly those with children, as the single lobby microwave can be time-consuming to use. On the positive side, the availability of laundry facilities on-site is a helpful amenity for longer stays, though guests noted a lack of readily available change for the machines.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is largely positive, though some aspects of the room condition draw criticism. The cleanliness of the rooms is consistently praised, with many describing them as spotless and well-maintained, contributing to a pleasant stay. Most guests find the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few found the mattresses too firm or the pillows unsatisfactory. The spacious rooms are a significant advantage, providing ample space for relaxation and luggage. However, the dated appearance of some rooms, including peeling wallpaper, paint splatters, and worn furniture, is frequently mentioned, suggesting a need for renovation. Noise levels from the air conditioning and heating units are a common complaint, with loud banging or constant running disrupting sleep for some. Additionally, the bathroom condition receives mixed reviews, with some noting small size, poor lighting, and maintenance issues like peeling paint or faulty fixtures.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive varied feedback from guests. The breakfast service is a frequent topic, with many appreciating the variety of options available, including hot items, fruits, and pastries. However, some guests found the quality to be mediocre and the cost expensive, especially given the limited hours for hot breakfast. The on-site Japanese restaurant garners strong, polarized opinions; some guests highly recommend it for its quality and experience, while others describe it as unappetizing or even unsanitary. A significant theme revolves around the food vouchers provided, often linked to a mandatory "destination fee." While these vouchers can be used for breakfast or at the Japanese restaurant, guests often feel compelled to use them, and some report issues with the full value not being credited or the process being confusing. Complimentary coffee in the lobby is a welcome touch for many.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major highlight for many guests, offering excellent accessibility to key areas. It is particularly convenient for those visiting Harvard University and MIT, with many attractions and university campuses within walking distance. The proximity to the Charles River provides beautiful views and opportunities for leisurely walks or runs. While the hotel is well-situated for exploring Cambridge, access to public transportation like the subway can involve a significant walk, prompting many guests to rely on ride-sharing services for quicker travel to downtown Boston. Parking is available on-site and is generally considered convenient and easy to use, with a gated lot, but its high daily cost is a consistent point of concern for a large number of visitors, impacting the overall value perception. Nearby, the presence of stores like Trader Joe's is appreciated for convenience.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, standing out as a major strength. Guests frequently praise their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service, noting that employees go above and beyond to assist with requests and provide local recommendations. The quick check-in and check-out processes are often highlighted as smooth and efficient, contributing to a stress-free arrival and departure. Many guests feel genuinely welcomed and cared for, with staff members making a significant effort to ensure a positive experience. While overall service is excellent, there are some mixed comments regarding housekeeping, with a few guests reporting issues with timing or communication, such as staff attempting to clean rooms at inconvenient hours or requiring guests to leave the room. Despite these minor points, the dedication of the team is a recurring theme.

Additional Information
A significant and frequently cited point of contention among guests is the imposition of various additional fees, particularly the "destination fee" or "resort fee," which is often perceived as non-transparent and adds substantially to the final bill. Guests report being charged this mandatory daily fee, sometimes without clear prior notification, even if they do not utilize the associated amenities or food vouchers. Another alarming and recurring issue involves smoking charges; multiple guests report being erroneously charged substantial fees, sometimes up to $500, based on sensor readings that they claim were triggered by non-smoking activities like using a hairdryer. These guests express frustration over the hotel's refusal to investigate or refund these charges, despite their denials. These policies significantly impact guest satisfaction and are a major source of negative feedback.