Review of Four Seasons, Boston, by The TI Review Team

By TI reviewer Jessica Brandi

Boasting the most desirable location and picturesque views in the city, The Four Seasons Boston is an institution. Overlooking the swan boats and green space of America’s first public garden, guests find themselves nestled between the city’s theatre and shopping districts and a brief stroll from the area's most upscale neighbourhoods. But it is attention to detail that elevates this urban hospitality giant to a new level of service and luxury.

The Four Seasons Boston retains the brand’s expected standards of excellence and amenities, while paying homage to the city’s vibrant culture. Paintings and photographs by local artists portray scenes of Boston life throughout the hotel. And subtle design touches, such as the centred knobs on guestroom doors, are reminiscent of Beacon Hill, one of the area's most charming historical neighbourhoods. The decor is elegant without being imposing or overly-opulent. The reception area is refreshingly sparse – all clean lines and sleek surfaces, with plenty of helpful staff on hand to assist at the first sign of need.

Aptly coined “Boston’s Living Room", the recently re-imagined Bristol Lounge is considerably cooler and more relaxed than its upscale predecessor Aujourd'hui, but still the perfect venue for strategic handshaking and all-business power lunches – a frequent afternoon sight at the Bristol. With a menu ranging from hand-rolled pastas, inventive steak and seafood dishes and the award-winning Bristol Burger (recently crowned the best burger in Boston); the atmosphere is accessible and inviting. Aside from business patrons, regulars come for high tea, casual drinks and date nights. Some simply come to enjoy the luxurious couches and an afternoon of people-watching in the park.

Guest rooms are as plush and tasteful as the rest of the hotel, but it is the suites that really make the Four Seasons shine. Available in seven configurations to suit almost any need and well worth the splurge, suites offer closed off bedrooms, comfortable living, dining or meeting areas, full marble bathrooms stocked with designer products, iPod docks, plasma televisions and plenty of legroom.

Keep an eye out for little extras from the housekeeping staff; whether it’s a new bookmark in dog-eared paperback or extra tissues when you’re feeling under the weather, they are thoroughly attentive. Blackout curtains and ultra-comfortable beds work like a sedative. Particularly well-rested guests have gone as far as purchasing a Four Seasons bed of their own in hopes of reliving such an undeniably relaxing experience.