STW'S Trip to Boston and New Hampshire: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Dec 15th, 2005, 02:31 PM
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STW'S Trip to Boston and New Hampshire: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
John and I were lucky enough to take a little winter wonderland vacation (the timing of the Northeast snowstorm was perfect). So, we (over)packed the car and took a jaunt up to Boston (for a quick visit to see our son) for one night, and then we headed up to New Hampshire for three nights. It was our first trip to New Hampshire - it won't be our last 
THE GOOD...
The Boston Holiday Pops and the Tanglewood Festival Chorus (what a treat)! What a festive evening - everyone dresses up for this event. Of course, I wore all black with a glittery scarf. Our seats were located in Row T, but I had an isle seat so it wasn't too difficult for me to see. However, I could see my husband's constant tilting of the head, although he denied any displeasure, he may have been lying (just a bit).
At each table there was an order card for drinks and such. We ordered sparkling water (see "The Ugly" for the reason) and fresh fruit and crudites as our appetizer. Afterwards, I commented to John that everything seemed very reasonable in price. I also remarked how odd it was that each food item only cost $5.00 a piece. He looked at me in a strange wasy, as the caption above his head shouted, "Woman, what's wrong with you?" Then he laughed and said, "Dear, those are dollar signs. Where are your glasses?"
All I can say is thank goodness they plastered the words to the sing-a-long up on big screens, or I would have been in BIG trouble, lol. Vanity. It will, no doubt, be my downfall 
Just a note about seating: While we had a terrific time sitting on the main floor at our table, the next time we probably would purchase tickets for the balcony. We like tiered seating. I'm a very visual person and get great enjoyment watching the musicians and singers perform (we are the parents of a musician - always get to concerts early for good seats!)
Stephanie's: After the concert, we met up with our son and his girlfriend for dinner. We had a 10:00 p.m. reservation and the restaurant was packed! We love this place - It has never let us down. My husband had the diver scallops served on a corn chowder and I had the macaroni and cheese (a variety of sharp and mild cheeses). The GF had ravioli stuffed with goat cheese and our DS had a chef salad.
THE BAD...
Parking near Symphony Hall. Not a lot of parking in this area, particularly if you wanted to avoid the nasty, slushy, icy sidewalks. The lot by Northeastern was an option and we were headed that way on our second pass through the area, when lo and behold, my husband got lucky with street parking! He would get lucky two more times that evening
(Parking on the corner near Stephanie’s and a spot outside the GF’s brownstone. What is it with free parking that gets a man excited?) 
THE GOOD...
The Boston Holiday Pops and the Tanglewood Festival Chorus (what a treat)! What a festive evening - everyone dresses up for this event. Of course, I wore all black with a glittery scarf. Our seats were located in Row T, but I had an isle seat so it wasn't too difficult for me to see. However, I could see my husband's constant tilting of the head, although he denied any displeasure, he may have been lying (just a bit).
At each table there was an order card for drinks and such. We ordered sparkling water (see "The Ugly" for the reason) and fresh fruit and crudites as our appetizer. Afterwards, I commented to John that everything seemed very reasonable in price. I also remarked how odd it was that each food item only cost $5.00 a piece. He looked at me in a strange wasy, as the caption above his head shouted, "Woman, what's wrong with you?" Then he laughed and said, "Dear, those are dollar signs. Where are your glasses?"
All I can say is thank goodness they plastered the words to the sing-a-long up on big screens, or I would have been in BIG trouble, lol. Vanity. It will, no doubt, be my downfall Just a note about seating: While we had a terrific time sitting on the main floor at our table, the next time we probably would purchase tickets for the balcony. We like tiered seating. I'm a very visual person and get great enjoyment watching the musicians and singers perform (we are the parents of a musician - always get to concerts early for good seats!)
Stephanie's: After the concert, we met up with our son and his girlfriend for dinner. We had a 10:00 p.m. reservation and the restaurant was packed! We love this place
- It has never let us down. My husband had the diver scallops served on a corn chowder and I had the macaroni and cheese (a variety of sharp and mild cheeses). The GF had ravioli stuffed with goat cheese and our DS had a chef salad.THE BAD...
Parking near Symphony Hall. Not a lot of parking in this area, particularly if you wanted to avoid the nasty, slushy, icy sidewalks. The lot by Northeastern was an option and we were headed that way on our second pass through the area, when lo and behold, my husband got lucky with street parking! He would get lucky two more times that evening
(Parking on the corner near Stephanie’s and a spot outside the GF’s brownstone. What is it with free parking that gets a man excited?)
Dec 15th, 2005, 03:04 PM
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THE UGLY...
As I was getting ready for the symphony, I was horrified to discover that I forgot to pack my makeup bag.
I thought my life was coming to an end! It didn't help matters that I wasn't feeling very well - watery eyes and a red nose - I was in desperate need of cosmetic assistance. 
My husband calmly, but swiftly, placed me in the car and quickly drove to the nearest CVS for the essentials (no time for the makeup counter at a department store). I've always wanted to apply my makeup using that little mirror in the car, lol. My husband said I looked "Beautiful". Although he denied any displeasure, he may have been lying (just a bit).
The excitement of a free parking spot quickly fades as I step into a freezing foot of slush while exiting the car
Did I say I wasn't feeling very well?!?
NEXT...our trip to New Hampshire!
Things get even uglier as STW and hubby try to answer the burning question of "What exactly was going on behind those slamming doors?"
As I was getting ready for the symphony, I was horrified to discover that I forgot to pack my makeup bag.
I thought my life was coming to an end! It didn't help matters that I wasn't feeling very well - watery eyes and a red nose - I was in desperate need of cosmetic assistance. My husband calmly, but swiftly, placed me in the car and quickly drove to the nearest CVS for the essentials (no time for the makeup counter at a department store). I've always wanted to apply my makeup using that little mirror in the car, lol. My husband said I looked "Beautiful". Although he denied any displeasure, he may have been lying (just a bit). The excitement of a free parking spot quickly fades as I step into a freezing foot of slush while exiting the car
Did I say I wasn't feeling very well?!? NEXT...our trip to New Hampshire!
Things get even uglier as STW and hubby try to answer the burning question of "What exactly was going on behind those slamming doors?"
Dec 15th, 2005, 03:18 PM
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Yes, Monadnock (my son recently climbed that mountain and loved it!), this is Part I.
Part II will be on our trip to the New Castle/Portsmouth area. We stayed at Wentworth by the Sea. This is a fabulous property!
Cigalechanta, we LOVE Boston! We usually stay inside the city at either the Lenox or Eliott, but this time decided to economize so that we could splurge in NH.
Part II will be on our trip to the New Castle/Portsmouth area. We stayed at Wentworth by the Sea. This is a fabulous property!
Cigalechanta, we LOVE Boston! We usually stay inside the city at either the Lenox or Eliott, but this time decided to economize so that we could splurge in NH.
Dec 15th, 2005, 03:37 PM
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Hmmm, I just realized that part of "THE BAD" is missing from my post.
THE BAD CONTINUED...
Newton Marriott Hotel: Avoid at all costs! My husband stays there when he has business in Worcester – it has really gone downhill over the years. We were not happy to arrive and find out that "someone" cancelled our reservation. They wanted to charge the higher rate, but that didn’t happen.
We also ended up in what my DH refers to as the "basement". Apparently they put the rowdies down there, lol. And this night was no exception. The hotel needed to send security to take care of the matter. They also discounted our stay - $57 bucks and free parking – what an evening!
THE BAD CONTINUED...
Newton Marriott Hotel: Avoid at all costs! My husband stays there when he has business in Worcester – it has really gone downhill over the years. We were not happy to arrive and find out that "someone" cancelled our reservation. They wanted to charge the higher rate, but that didn’t happen.
We also ended up in what my DH refers to as the "basement". Apparently they put the rowdies down there, lol. And this night was no exception. The hotel needed to send security to take care of the matter. They also discounted our stay - $57 bucks and free parking – what an evening!
Dec 16th, 2005, 01:55 PM
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My husband also does the head nod at Pops or any symphony, music, ballet, etc but music does that to some people.....soothes the soul...they are finally getting to sit still, don't have to talk, and the music lulls them - as long as they don't snore and do the head nod!
parking: sometimes we park at Colonnade Hotel/Brasserie Jo restaurant inside (120 Huntington) and they valet the car and after we go in for a little coffee plus; so that's an option if you are back in area for soemthing in that end of town. It isn't quite like finding an on street parking space, but good in a jam.
Glad Stephanie's didn't disappoint, we too love it there. mmmm mac and cheese. If you loved W by the Sea in winter, you would really love it in spring/summer - lots to do/concerts in nearby park and more.
parking: sometimes we park at Colonnade Hotel/Brasserie Jo restaurant inside (120 Huntington) and they valet the car and after we go in for a little coffee plus; so that's an option if you are back in area for soemthing in that end of town. It isn't quite like finding an on street parking space, but good in a jam.
Glad Stephanie's didn't disappoint, we too love it there. mmmm mac and cheese. If you loved W by the Sea in winter, you would really love it in spring/summer - lots to do/concerts in nearby park and more.
Dec 16th, 2005, 02:13 PM
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fun report STW. Love to read about my favorite city! Heading up Sunday to the Opera House for the Nutcracker, the 4 yr. old grandaughter'as first exposure!Hanover and Dartmouth is another favorite place. Brother-in-law taught in their Med School for awhile and such fun to visit.
Dec 30th, 2005, 06:09 AM
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Sorry folks for the delay...
In the morning, we headed to New Castle, New Hampshire and Wentworth by the Sea.
THE GOOD
Wentworth by the Sea is a very impressive property. As we headed up the driveway, the hotel shimmered against the brightness of the snow and in the background, a stunning view of the ocean came into sight. Truthfully, when we think of coastal living, New Hampshire doesn’t automatically pop into our minds – for us, it was a new and exciting discovery.
The Lobby: In a word, SPECTACULAR! Giant Nutcrackers adorned this public space with high ceilings and warm tones. A roaring wood fire and a fireplace mantle dressed in holiday splendor was the focal point. John and I would spend our evenings sitting by the fire drinking mulled cider and nibbling on homemade Christmas cookies and roasted chestnuts. The cookies were a very nice touch.
Brunch with Santa: We planned to arrive early (12:30ish) so that we could enjoy a leisurely brunch. Business casual was our attire and since it was a Sunday, most people were dressed the same. We waited for a table in the main dining room (the place was packed, not with hotel guests, but with families from the surrounding communities). A gigantic gingerbread house as well as other holiday decorations made for a very festive experience. There was a little stage (for lack of a better word) with a lovely sofa and antique tables where Santa would sit – of course we had our picture taken with him. It was lovely to watch all the little children, in their holiday attire, sitting with Santa.
I will admit that (to me) the SF Ritz Carlton has the best brunch in the universe, so all others pale in comparison. But I will say that this brunch was very nice and reasonably priced at $30.00 per person. Mimosas were complimentary, a very nice carving station, omelet station, king crab legs, shrimp, etc. The desserts were top notch with the Petit Fours and chocolate dipped strawberries as our favorites.
More Good to follow...
In the morning, we headed to New Castle, New Hampshire and Wentworth by the Sea.
THE GOOD
Wentworth by the Sea is a very impressive property. As we headed up the driveway, the hotel shimmered against the brightness of the snow and in the background, a stunning view of the ocean came into sight. Truthfully, when we think of coastal living, New Hampshire doesn’t automatically pop into our minds – for us, it was a new and exciting discovery.
The Lobby: In a word, SPECTACULAR! Giant Nutcrackers adorned this public space with high ceilings and warm tones. A roaring wood fire and a fireplace mantle dressed in holiday splendor was the focal point. John and I would spend our evenings sitting by the fire drinking mulled cider and nibbling on homemade Christmas cookies and roasted chestnuts. The cookies were a very nice touch.
Brunch with Santa: We planned to arrive early (12:30ish) so that we could enjoy a leisurely brunch. Business casual was our attire and since it was a Sunday, most people were dressed the same. We waited for a table in the main dining room (the place was packed, not with hotel guests, but with families from the surrounding communities). A gigantic gingerbread house as well as other holiday decorations made for a very festive experience. There was a little stage (for lack of a better word) with a lovely sofa and antique tables where Santa would sit – of course we had our picture taken with him. It was lovely to watch all the little children, in their holiday attire, sitting with Santa.
I will admit that (to me) the SF Ritz Carlton has the best brunch in the universe, so all others pale in comparison. But I will say that this brunch was very nice and reasonably priced at $30.00 per person. Mimosas were complimentary, a very nice carving station, omelet station, king crab legs, shrimp, etc. The desserts were top notch with the Petit Fours and chocolate dipped strawberries as our favorites.
More Good to follow...
Jan 2nd, 2006, 06:29 AM
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cmcfong, the "bad/ugly" for the mineral water was that I was sick and didn't want anything stronger
Funny, anonymous Without my glasses, everything appears free, lol. I think the water (for a small bottle) was $6.00, but I would have to double check with my accountant, LOL.
The GOOD continued…
The Reservation Details: Originally my husband reserved a King Room ($135/night), but then decided to upgrade to a King Palor Suite ($199/night). We did this for two of the three nights. The third night was a package deal which included breakfast and dinner ($299) -- this would be both a "good" and "bad" decision.
The Room: Room 426, overlooking the ocean. Beautiful, just beautiful – high ceilings, crown moldings, lots and lots of windows, warm jewel tones (golden rod, sage, blues, and wine), and an eclectic mix of traditional furniture. I knew immediately that I could be best friends with the decorator, lol.
The living room included a gas fire place, which we had running all of the time – even when we were warm, we would crack open the window and keep that thing running! It was very romantic. For seating there was a comfy club chair, an arm chair, and a loveseat (pullout bed). And there was lots of lighting and case goods. The loveseat was not comfy at all – those sofa beds are really never comfy to sit on. Although it really didn’t stop me from curling up and taking a little nap.
The bedroom (which had a separate entrance) was amazingly comfortable. The bedding was lovely and the double crisp sheets were very nice. There were two large bathrooms – one in the bedroom, and the other was located next to the living room. Huge showers with marble walls and floors. They were filled with lots of towels and other goodies.
All this suite needed was a little kitchenette, and we would have had no problem staying a couple of months…well, in a suite other than 426…but that story will have to wait for now, because there is still more good!...
Funny, anonymous
Without my glasses, everything appears free, lol. I think the water (for a small bottle) was $6.00, but I would have to double check with my accountant, LOL.The GOOD continued…
The Reservation Details: Originally my husband reserved a King Room ($135/night), but then decided to upgrade to a King Palor Suite ($199/night). We did this for two of the three nights. The third night was a package deal which included breakfast and dinner ($299) -- this would be both a "good" and "bad" decision.
The Room: Room 426, overlooking the ocean. Beautiful, just beautiful – high ceilings, crown moldings, lots and lots of windows, warm jewel tones (golden rod, sage, blues, and wine), and an eclectic mix of traditional furniture. I knew immediately that I could be best friends with the decorator, lol.
The living room included a gas fire place, which we had running all of the time – even when we were warm, we would crack open the window and keep that thing running! It was very romantic. For seating there was a comfy club chair, an arm chair, and a loveseat (pullout bed). And there was lots of lighting and case goods. The loveseat was not comfy at all – those sofa beds are really never comfy to sit on. Although it really didn’t stop me from curling up and taking a little nap.
The bedroom (which had a separate entrance) was amazingly comfortable. The bedding was lovely and the double crisp sheets were very nice. There were two large bathrooms – one in the bedroom, and the other was located next to the living room. Huge showers with marble walls and floors. They were filled with lots of towels and other goodies.
All this suite needed was a little kitchenette, and we would have had no problem staying a couple of months…well, in a suite other than 426…but that story will have to wait for now, because there is still more good!...
Jan 2nd, 2006, 11:57 AM
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More GOOD…
The Spa: Wentworth by the Sea has a lovely spa. I generally do not get a massage while away from home, but my DH said I was wound like a clock and needed one. Alex had magic hands – he knew exactly where my problem areas were and made those tight muscles melt away. The relaxation room, with lemon water, tea, and dried fruit was very peaceful. Afterwards, I stuck my head out the door to take a peak at Jacuzzi – the snow made it a pretty picture, but decided against it since I wasn’t feeling that well.
The Indoor Pool: The indoor pool, located in an atrium with a powder blue tiered ceiling and floor to ceiling windows, was one of the nicest indoor pools I have ever seen. My husband loved swimming laps there in the morning – he was the only soul around.
FOOD…only three dinners to enjoy and they all took place at the hotel…
The Bar: A large, yet cozy place to have a casual meal and listen to the piano player. Sofas and chairs, very English (there were a couple of TVs too) and nicely decorated. We’re usually not big on eating in the hotel, but we did because by the end of the day, I didn’t have a lot of energy to go back out. We were pleasantly surprised by how good our burgers were. The atmosphere also added to our enjoyment.
Room Service: As hard as I tried, I was not able to get myself together to go out to dinner. We wanted to try the Flying Fish Cafe, but I didn’t think they would let me in my robe and slippers, lol. So we ordered room service. I will say this, it was good and hot. During our stay, there were only 40 occupied rooms – this could have contributed to such prompt service.
The Restaurant: Besides Sunday brunch, we had dinner (as part of our last night package) at the hotel. Both food and service were exceptional. The restaurant at the Wentworth was very crowded – with lots of large parties for the holidays. It must be a very popular place, because it was also crowded for the brunch. So, it shouldn’t surprise me that it was so good. Our appetizers included diver sea scallops and lobster bisque. We both had surf and turf as our main course and for dessert, one fruit and one chocolate cake.
The Overall Property: We ventured down to the outdoor pool which is located near the harbor. There is a very nice boardwalk that runs along the water – we only took a brief stroll along the water as it was frigid. There is also a restaurant by the pool, which was closed for the winter. Everything is well-maintained on this property. Our room and the public spaces were spotless. The people were very friendly, courteous and helpful.
NEXT, the fishing village of Portsmouth and a little trip to Kittery, Maine…
The Spa: Wentworth by the Sea has a lovely spa. I generally do not get a massage while away from home, but my DH said I was wound like a clock and needed one. Alex had magic hands – he knew exactly where my problem areas were and made those tight muscles melt away. The relaxation room, with lemon water, tea, and dried fruit was very peaceful. Afterwards, I stuck my head out the door to take a peak at Jacuzzi – the snow made it a pretty picture, but decided against it since I wasn’t feeling that well.
The Indoor Pool: The indoor pool, located in an atrium with a powder blue tiered ceiling and floor to ceiling windows, was one of the nicest indoor pools I have ever seen. My husband loved swimming laps there in the morning – he was the only soul around.
FOOD…only three dinners to enjoy and they all took place at the hotel…
The Bar: A large, yet cozy place to have a casual meal and listen to the piano player. Sofas and chairs, very English (there were a couple of TVs too) and nicely decorated. We’re usually not big on eating in the hotel, but we did because by the end of the day, I didn’t have a lot of energy to go back out. We were pleasantly surprised by how good our burgers were. The atmosphere also added to our enjoyment.
Room Service: As hard as I tried, I was not able to get myself together to go out to dinner. We wanted to try the Flying Fish Cafe, but I didn’t think they would let me in my robe and slippers, lol. So we ordered room service. I will say this, it was good and hot. During our stay, there were only 40 occupied rooms – this could have contributed to such prompt service.
The Restaurant: Besides Sunday brunch, we had dinner (as part of our last night package) at the hotel. Both food and service were exceptional. The restaurant at the Wentworth was very crowded – with lots of large parties for the holidays. It must be a very popular place, because it was also crowded for the brunch. So, it shouldn’t surprise me that it was so good. Our appetizers included diver sea scallops and lobster bisque. We both had surf and turf as our main course and for dessert, one fruit and one chocolate cake.
The Overall Property: We ventured down to the outdoor pool which is located near the harbor. There is a very nice boardwalk that runs along the water – we only took a brief stroll along the water as it was frigid. There is also a restaurant by the pool, which was closed for the winter. Everything is well-maintained on this property. Our room and the public spaces were spotless. The people were very friendly, courteous and helpful.
NEXT, the fishing village of Portsmouth and a little trip to Kittery, Maine…
