We're a San Francisco based couple in our early thirties who plan to spend three nights in Boston in early October (as part of a week long vacation in New England). Does anyone have feedback on the two hotels above? Is the XV Beacon worth $395/night? Many Thanks.

As a local, I've never stayed in either, but I know just enough about them.

XV Beacon is in an old building that has been renovated, whereas Nine Zero is ground-up all new construction.

Each has a good restaurant. The Fed is in XV Beacon (which, I believe, has the largest wine cellar in Boston), and Spire is in Nine Zero. Spire gets its name from its view of the steeple of the Park Street Church across the street.

They are a stone's throw away from one another, so neither has a much preferable location. I'd probably give the edge to Nine Zero if pressed to do so.

XV Beacon offers its guests free town car/Mercedes service in the city. Nine Zero offers its guests their own personal shopper at Louis, Boston on Newbury St.

here are their websites:

http://www.xvbeacon.com/

http://www.ninezero.com/?SEOP=boston_hotels&referrer=

Let us know which one you choose and how your stay was!

I got this Wed as part of the Top 20 travel deals from Travel Zoo. I haven't stayed there, but for this price I'm thinking about a weekend trip.


$129 -- Boston's Top-Rated Boutique Hotel at a "Wow" Price
http://www.travelzoo.com/Top20.asp?id=149112569
Source: NINE ZERO hotel

Sorry -- just rechecked the dates for the $129 price -- they're Nov and Dec so won't help you for an Oct trip

I'm staying at XV Beacon in early October and looked at Nine Zero as well. I chose XV Beacon because it offers a higher level of luxury and the style of the hotel leans more toward traditional luxury (though still has a contemporary flair, which I can do without actually) than straight contemporary, which is the emphasis at Nine Zero. After reading many reviews FB seems more my taste. I've usually stayed at the Four Seasons on the Common in the past and am looking for a change of pace this time.

We stayed at Nine Zero in August and really liked it. Everything feels brand new and clean, the bed was great with a duvet and good quality linens, and we had a nice view. The bathroom was spacious with a nice shower and fun bath products. The staff was really helpful when we needed directions or restaurant suggestions. I would definitely stay there again. (I think we paid $209 for a deluxe king)

One note though, if you are looking for a historic feeling hotel, this is definitely not it. It actually reminded me of the Palomar in SF, which is one of my favorite hotels there. I think it just depends on what you are looking for. Have fun!