Need a place to stay for a couple with 2 teens, for 3 nights in August. Rates seem really high. Have looked into Back Bay Hilton, Royal Sonesta in Cambridge or Doubletree Guest Suites onSoldiers Field. Are these too far out, appropriate places to stay, whatever...? I don't know why the thought of staying in Cambridge with a courtesy van to downtown appeals to me. less congested? Am I better to stay in Back Bay? Thanks, Annemarie

We've had terrific luck for Boston with www.180096hotel.com. Make sure you look at the maps (so you're not out in the burbs) and double check the rates by calling the hotels directly. Usually, they're much lower, but not always. Typically, the "courtesy vans" offered by the hotels in Cambridge do not run very frequently or very late at night, so do check on this. Be sure to check out the Midtown Hotel (actually more of an upscale motor inn, the king with connecting rooms at suite prices). Moderate rates, very popular with families, with a subway stop right outside the front door.

the Royal Sonesta is a very nice hotel. And its very close to the Science Museum and Omni Max theatre, which I'm guessing will be one of your destinations, since you are travelling with teens. I can't speak for the courtesy shuttle, we only used it once so I don't know how late it runs. Downtown is probably more convenient, but I don't think you will get as nice a hotel for your money.

Just stayed in Boston, on a Saturday night, at the Wyndahm Hotel(sp?)on Tremont Street. It is in the heart of the City, walking distance to almost everything.

It was only $109 per night. In my mind, a great value compared to everything else. The rooms were small but recently renovated.

Certainly worth a phone call. Have fun.

Our family just stayed this past Christmas at the Airport Holiday Inn. It was by far one of the nicest Holiday Inn's we have stayed at and the price was $129.00. This included park n fly, as we were flying out the next morning. As well, we have four children and they all ate free. This is for children 12 and under. I highly recommend it.

We stayed at the Lenox near Copley Square last year. It was very nice and fairly reasonably priced... We'd go back again in a second!

Are you going to have a car? Depending on driving conditions at home, Boston is scary or a piece of cake. If you are comfortable, Cambridge is a fine place to stay, and besides, there are things in Cambridge to see. I stayed at the Cambridge Mariott with a teenager a couple of years ago, and it was a fine base from which to drive to other parts of Boston.