THE HOTEl: The Mandarin Oriental, 776 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02199, USA. The new-build hotel opened last October in Boston’s fashionable Back Bay district with 188 luxury guest rooms and suites. The hotel is located just four miles, or 15 minutes, from Logan International Airport.
THE CHECK-IN: With a pre-arrival check in the usual formalities were skipped. I was warmly welcomed by the front-desk staff, who addressed me by name (as they did throughout my three-day stay). Lobby artworks include pieces by David Hockney and American minimalist artist Frank Stella.
THE ROOM: My large executive suite, the third most lavish of 11 room categories, had a ‘residential’ feel. Custom-made furnishings included a king-size bed, sofa and writing desk. The bathroom featured a soaking tub and walk-in shower. All rooms come with a 42-inch HD TV, Aromatherapy Associates spa products, and 400-thread count sheets and duvet covers.
THE BUSINESS: Wireless and wired internet connection is available throughout. A lobby-floor business centre has three free terminals available 24 hours. A courtesy car is available to take you to meetings and events.
THE FACILITIES: The spacious lobby area, with lots of crannies filled with sofas, and the stylish M bar and cocktail lounge are both ideal for an ad hoc meeting. Several meetings rooms take advantage of natural light and come equipped with high-speed internet access and advanced audiovisual systems. Meetings and conference rooms are free to hotel guests. There’s also a spa – the most Asian-inspired element of the hotel.
THE RESTAURANT: Asana serves up fusion cuisine with both American and Asian influences – such as Nobu-inspired blackened cod. The Mandarin also ‘manages’ a bistro and a French cuisine-inspired restaurant.
THE VErDICT: With a nod to the days of the Silk Trade, when ships plied the ocean between Boston and the Orient, classic touches from the East – such as Japanese art works – meets refined New England elegance in a stylish union. With its location, personal touches and service delivery this is a luxury-minded hotel with no peers in Boston.
THE DETAILS: Executive Suite Back Bay rooms start at $875 a night in August 2009. ‘Delight Rates’, available on certain days, start from around $300 a night. Tel: +1 866 526 6567; www.mandarinoriental.com Steve Hartridge
