Vacation Rentals by Owner

Great Boston apartment

Guest: Michelle S.
Date of Stay: 05/09/12 Review Submitted: 05/21/12

My husband and I stayed here for 6 days while on our 20th anniversary get away. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect place! The location was great; steps away from the Freedom Trail and lots of good food. It's also very close to the "T:; in fact we took it to Fenway! The apartment itself is clean and comfortable-we found it the perfect size for the 2 of us. We both thought it might get a little cramped with more than 2 for more than a few days, but for us it was just right. Customer service was excellent-keys delivered exactly on time, phone numbers in case of emergencies, lots of information about the area and very timely communication with the owners. Any time we had a question, the owners answered promptly.. The Neighborhood felt safe and friendly-things we look for when renting away from home. Locals that we talked to about the apartment all said we scored-both on the location and the price! We would most definitely stay here again if we return to Boston! Thank you to the Gaskin's for providing such an excellent place for us to enjoy our Boston stay!

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very good location for congres stay

Guest: Benedikt P.
Date of Stay: 04/27/12 Review Submitted: 05/06/12

I was in Boston for a congres at the convention center and found this location very convenient, being in the center of the city, next to public transport, easy to get to any location in the city. With fine whether, I had a 30-min walk to the convention center in the morning and afternoon and enjoyed passing some of the historical points of the United States. But the studio is also perfect for a touristic weekend, as it is located near all points of interest. This small studio has everything you will need for a short stay in Boston, and it was the cleanest condo I ever had!.

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Fabulous location!

Guest: AnnieB. (Claremont, California USA)
Date of Stay: 04/09/12 Review Submitted: 04/17/12

The condo is exactly as described and the location is better than I expected! The area is perfect for walkers and anyone who loves history. Having a kitchen means saving some money (markets and bakeries nearby). The best part of the whole thing is being able to come back to such a comfortable home after a very long day of sightseeing. The Gaskins made every effort to make me feel welcome.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Charming Studio in Perfect Location

Guest: amypi (Sacramento, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/31/12 Review Submitted: 04/16/12

We stayed here for nine nights in early April. We found it to be as advertised--location was great and convenient for tourists, and the studio was well stocked with kitchen items and linens. I was surprised and pleased that the murphy bed mattress was super comfortable, I think it was more comfortable than my own bed. And I can't say enough about the location. It was perfect. We were about a half mile from two subway stations and we walked to a Celtics game at the Garden. The subways in Boston are affordable ($15 for seven days) and very convenient, we went everywhere on them. We walked through the North End several times a day, and the neighborhood is lively and interesting. We felt completely safe. It wasn't as busy as the downtown area during the day, but it was more fun at night than downtown. The seafood and Italian restaurants in the North End are numerous and some were fantastic--we liked Giacomo's best (cash only and go at off-times!). We also stayed in and cooked a couple of times; the kitchen is tiny, but totally functional. The building itself is quite a bit older, but the studio has been remodeled and is modern. Somehow we missed the fact that it is a fourth floor walk-up. The stairs are a bit steep but a good aerobic workout. We never saw nor were disturbed by any of the building neighbors. The only negative I can identify is that one of the neighbors must be a smoker. I'm very sensitive to that due to asthma but it wasn't a deal breaker. Overall, it was an excellent experience, and we definitely saved money on being conveniently located, keeping our fridge stocked and cooking in for some meals. It was very comfortable and we didn't lack for anything. I would absolutely stay there again.

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

North End Nirvana!

Guest: Bruce A.
Date of Stay: 03/24/12 Review Submitted: 04/01/12

We have just returned from a delightful week on Henchman St. Could not be more pleased with the location and the condo. It provided everything we needed and was a welcome respite after our LONG days of sightseeing. Take heed the reviews about the stairs. They are steep and narrow and if you are an overpacker you will be sorry! We never cooked but enjoyed the North End's amazing restaurants every night. Of particular note were Bricco's (make reservations) and Ernesto's pizza (cheap and good). We went to Mike's Pastry 7 days in a row! We have rented through VRBO several times and this was the easiest and most straightforward. The murphy bed is very comfortable and our 13 year old loved the pullout couch. We would most definitely stay here again!

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Great Location

Guest: St Patricks Day Tourist (Cincinnati Ohio)
Date of Stay: 03/15/12 Review Submitted: 03/21/12

We came to Boston for St. Patricks Day. The apartment was everything we expected it to be. The only negative was the four flights of stairs you had to climb to get there. I highly recommend the North End for its convienance and Italian Flare. Don't rent a car, you won't need it to get around. Staying in the condo instead of a hotel makes you feel like a real part of the City. There is a great bar just steps from the front door called the Waterfront Cafe. Great bartendars and locals willing to give you some advice on what to see and do. There is also a Segway tour just across the way. Funniest way to explore by far! I would definitely return to Boston and stay in the apartment again.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Absolutely Perfect!

Guest: Lisa M.
Date of Stay: 03/09/12 Review Submitted: 03/18/12

If you are looking for a place to stay in Boston's North End, you need look no further! My husband and I enjoyed 5 nights here, and we couldn't have been more pleased. The owners are very knowledgeable about the area and provided a wealth of information on the local areas - places to go, things to see, where to eat. The booking process was easy and our deposit was returned faster than one would expect - two days! The location is the absolute best. The North End is "Little Italy" with numerous restaurants, shops, and bakeries. We enjoyed the food so much, we ate dinner in that area three different nights and had a fantastic meal in all three restaurants. On our last day there, we finally made it into the infamous Mike's Pastry - we took the pastries with us when we left and received many comments from envious people when we were at the airport!! There is always a line, so be patient; it's worth the wait. Another bakery we walked by every night on our way back to the condo is Bova's. We bought pastries and a loaf of bread in there and made toast in the morning. The kitchen is fully stocked, so you can certainly make many of your meals in if you choose to. We did brave the 294 steps to get to the top of Bunker Hill. Really, not a bad walk to the top, and totally worth the view once you get there. The Freedom Trail is something not to miss - there is so much history in Boston! If you are considering any of the tours, we found that the "Super Tours" is the best one. It's encompasses 21 miles and 21 stops where you can hop off and on, and the ticket is good for three days. They also include a 45-minute harbor tour. You can definitely see much of the area this way. Make sure you get off in Cambridge and tour Harvard University - it's as beautiful as the rest of the city! We definitely enjoyed our stay in this condo and will stay there again if we ever get back to Boston. The owners, the sites, the food - all of it - couldn't have been any better. This beats a hotel in so many ways! You won't be disappointed if you stay here!

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Couldn't Have Been Better!

Guest: Rita K.
Date of Stay: 03/04/12 Review Submitted: 03/13/12

I felt compelled to pat myself on the back for making such a great decision in renting this 'property'. My daughter and I actually "high-fived" each other upon entering the apt. We had gone to Boston for our annual mother/daughter springbreak trip. Chicago,D.C., and the Poconos were our previous destinations and were wonderful, but having this condo in Boston made our stay there extra special. There were absolutely no surprises awaiting us upon arrival or throughout the week. Cheryl gave a rather detailed description of where to walk, the duration of the walks, activities or sites to see along the way, and of course, places to eat. We flew to Logan from Pittsburgh. The owners provided EXACT details on the shuttle and train and on foot to get us to their condo. It was truly stress-free. I would really NOT want to take a vehicle to Boston because the streets are very narrow, the parking--IF available--is expensive and inconvenient, and it is tremendously easy to walk to many destinations. We took the train to Cambridge to shop and to go to the Museum of Fine Arts (which is free on Wed. evenings btw). We ate out at times, but also ate in. The kitchen was stocked well. Sometimes after walking so much in one day, we would get take-out and go back to eat in the condo late at night. It was restful. We found that we would go to 'Going Bananas' on Salem St to buy our grocery things. They had great produce and pre-made salads that were perfect. Unfortunately, we had to pass 'Bova's' Bakery on the way back to the condo. They have breads and desserts to die for. So, we couldn't resist--AND they are open 24 hrs, 365 days a year! We loved Salem St and it is so so close to the apt. One thing we would say about other sites is, if you plan to climb the Bunker Hill Monument, beware! Walking there was simple. Going up and coming down were a 'piece of cake'. The next a.m., my calves were unhappy:) Advil was my friend. The owner's were great. They answered any question I had prior to and after booking. I never needed to contact them while we were there because everything was perfectly in order. The keys arrived on time and they made returning them extremely easy, also. I forgot my phone charger and contacted Carlos. He immediately assured me the 'cleaning' person had found it and would return it to me. We would definitely stay here again and have told several friends they should too! The property, the owners, the area, the food, the sites....couldn't have been better

Owner response:Rita, we are so glad that you and Lindsay had a fun mother/daughter spring break and hope you return to Boston again soon. It makes us happy to know that other people can enjoy Boston the way we do! I think it is totally understandable that one can not walk by Bova's or Mike's Pastry and not partake of the goodies on display there! We always walk it off when we are there. Yes, the Bunker Hill monument is impressive. The view is beautiful. And, yes, it is a strenuous walk to the top! Thanks so much for your review and we were delighted to have you as our guests. Cheryl

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Home away from home!

Guest: Guilherme M.
Date of Stay: 01/01/12 Review Submitted: 02/27/12

The condo was amazing! Everything was really clean when i arrived and the house looked mint! Couldn't have expected any better than that! The location is great! It's close to Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Station (TD Garden is a MUST for any hockey/basketball fan). There are LOTS of good restaurants around Hanover and Salem, which are really close to the . I couldn't ask for a better place to stay. It made my studies easier and it totally felt like home away from home. The wifi worked like a charm and never let me down! The house can easily accommodate 3 people (couple + kid) and it's perfect to share with someone. If you are looking for a place to stay in Boston, don't think twice: This condo is perfect. I had a really wonderful time here and so will you!

Owner response:Thanks so much for the outstanding review!! We, as landlords, always strive to make your stay the best possible. We are sure glad that you had an enjoyable experience.

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A fantastic way to experience the North End!

Guest: Gavin M.
Date of Stay: 12/09/11 Review Submitted: 12/15/11

I used to travel to Boston quite often for business, but never saw this side of the city -- it was great. The North end is very convenient for restaurants, espresso, and walking to Charlestown, and not even a bad hike to Boston Common and Newbury St. The flat isellf was cozy and warm (sub-freezing temperatures outside). Very pleased.

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Excellent location - Recommend

Guest: PeteD (London, UK)
Date of Stay: 12/03/11 Review Submitted: 01/01/12

Nice cosy studio in an excellent location. Warm, quiet and comfortable. Nothing fancy but good value. Everything was fine.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Hidden Gem!

Guest: Lauren O.
Date of Stay: 11/18/11 Review Submitted: 12/26/11

The studio on Henchman Street was cozy, well appointed, and well located. I'd agree with previous reviews about the small stairwells, but that was only a small struggle when checking in and out however, we were aware of this in advance of the booking so it was expected. The bed was super comfortable and was a foam/tempurpedic type of material. The building is in between Hanover and Salem streets which are the main streets in the north end , the public transportation is about a 10 minute walk. The owner Carlos was always quick to respond to e-mails, and the deposit was returned quickly. Overall, this was a great stay in a quiet building and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this to anyone.

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Home from Home

Guest: norm (Haslemere Surrey UK)
Date of Stay: 10/23/11 Review Submitted: 11/08/11

We had a great four day stay in this comfortable, immaculate and extremely well equipped condo, with its homely atmosphere; and endless supply of hot water. The advertised description was accurate and information provided useful and practical. Arrangements for transfer of keys was entirely straightforward. Well situated within the Italian area in North End and its many restaurants (Hanover and Salem Streets), but also for small convenience stores close by. Ten minutes brisk walk to Haymarket T station, it felt entirely safe to us (in our sixties) returning on foot at night. Easy walking distance to State House, Quincy Market and also the adjacent Holocaust Memorial which we found very moving. Durgan Park (Quincy Market), and Union Oyster House (just around the corner) as well as Legal Seafoods (Long Wharf) all recommended for eating. Avoid the expense of the Sky Walk (Floor 50 of the Prudential) and spend the savings on a meal at the Top of the Hub on Floor 52. (Arrive just before sunset) Boston Fine Arts Museum (free on Wednesdays from 1600-2145) is stunning and not be missed. The Natural History Museum Glass Flower permanent exhibition is well worth the trip out to Harvard; and there is an excellent value Chinese restaurant on Quincy Square opposite. If you're interested in classical music, check out the Wednesday night free concerts at the Church of St John the Evangelist, 35 Bowdoin Street. We have rarely found such helpful, friendly people: whether the Post Office Manager in Hanover Street; the Police Officer who stopped in Beacon Hill and left his car to ask us where we were trying to find; a passing cyclist’s "are you lost?"; the kind lady who left her information booth at Copley T station to make sure we got on the right train; or Jeff, the Harbour Trolley driver/guide who shared his view of the wider world with us as he awaited his next customers. The Two day Old Town Trolley Tour with a Boston Harbour Cruise included was excellent value and worthwhile. The driver/guides have their own individual styles but if you get Ken (main tour) you're in for a treat, we really liked his laconic sense of humour. Purchase of a $15 Charlie Card allowing seven days free access to the T train and local buses is a must. We would strongly recommend this condo to our friends; and indeed to anyone else.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Relaxing stay...

Guest: Paul M.
Date of Stay: 06/28/11 Review Submitted: 07/14/11

We found the apartment to be comfortable (for two adults) and in a great location, convenient to all manner of eateries, cafes, bars, delis, and historical sites. In fact, we walked all over Boston and even Cambridge, though the North End itself provides more than enough entertainment. With adequate air conditioning, internet access, cable TV, and kitchen facilities, we could relax "at home" and wander out at our leisure. Overall, I have to say it was preferable to a week's stay in a hotel. The only word of warning would be to those who can't handle three flights of stairs... or who don't like Italian food (should such people exist!).

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect location!!!!

Guest: Carolyn F.
Date of Stay: 06/21/11 Review Submitted: 07/01/11

This property is in the heart of the North End. Walk out the door, turn right, and you can see the Old North Church. Our family of four (including a 14 year old and 9 year old), were very comfortable in this apartment. I am glad we did not bring my 78 year old mother! The stairs are narrow and winding to get to the 4th floor, and it is not an easy climb if you are elderly. That said, the stair climb was the only drawback. My 14 year old daughter ran to Quincy Market in the morning, we walked to Mike's Pastries for cannoli every day, took the trolley around town, toured Harvard, USS Constitution, Boston Public Library, Copley Square, and enjoyed all the restaurants in the North End. You can't go wrong with the food (except when you hit the scale at the end of vacation!). Unfortunately, we had rain every day! We went to a Red Sox game (highly recommend), and had three rain delays before we left in the 6th inning. Bring a rain coat. The people in Boston are the friendliest and most colorful people I have met. I grew up in the DC area, and could not get over how friendly and helpful everyone was that we met. One of our goals was to visit some colleges for my daughter to get an overview of Boston. It definitely tops our list for places to come for college! Enjoy!!! This apartment is in a fabulous location. If you have a lot of luggage, I wouldn't recommend the walk from the Aquarium T stop. We took a cab to the airport when we left, and it was only $15. You will not need a car at this location. We used the T for anywhere farther than Quincy Market.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great stay in the North End

Guest: Sandy (Washington, DC)
Date of Stay: 06/01/11 Review Submitted: 06/07/11

This was my first rental through HomeAway.com and I am extremely pleased. The owners were absolutely fantastic and provided us with way more information than we expected. Parking is tight, but we knew that going in. The North End is a fantastic central location for all things Boston. Once we parked the car, we didn't have to move it until we left. While it was great to have a fully stocked kitchen in the condo, we thoroughly enjoyed walking to fantastic North End cuisine - for meals and desserts. I will definitely consider this condo first for my next visit to Boston.

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

16 Henchman

Guest: Jen (Macomb, MI)
Date of Stay: 05/06/11 Review Submitted: 05/15/11

I recently stayed in this condo for 2 nights and it was FANTASTIC! I've lived in the North End before and was very excited to show my boyfriend the area (it is by far my favorite part of the city). The condo is clean, well maintained and has anything you need for a vacation in Boston. I do recommend packing light, though...there are a lot of steps up to the condo (I knew this and still packed way too much...I regretted it as I was climbing the four flights of stairs with a 40 lb suitcase). I highly recommend staying at this location. I hope to use it again in the near future!

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Great Spot in the North End

Guest: K2 (Madison, WI)
Date of Stay: 05/01/11 Review Submitted: 05/22/11

My wife and I had the pleasure of staying in the condo for 5 nights. A great spot in the North End, and can say we really enjoyed it even with the 4th floor walk up. Loved walking Salem and Hanover St. Ate great Italian food, and walked absolutely everywhere. The condo has all the comforts of home, including the new coffe maker we bought after I accidentally pushed the old one off the kitchen counter. Very quiet building while we were guests. Look forward to a return visit soon.

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Clean and Convenient!

Guest: Denise (Virginia)
Date of Stay: 03/26/11 Review Submitted: 04/11/11

I was pleased to arrive at the condo and find it immaculate and so welcoming. All the "little touches" made such a difference (all the helpful information that was emailed to me prior to my arrival, the ease with which I was able to contact Mr. Gaskin, Mr Gaskin's professional handling of all matters, all the extras in the condo...guide books, maps, extra towels and blankets...). In addition, the condo is conveniently located to shops, tourist attractions, and public transportation. When I return to Boston, I look forward to the opportunity to stay at the condo again.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Just what I needed

Guest: JM (New England, USA)
Date of Stay: 01/02/11 Review Submitted: 02/27/11

The apartment was cozy, well-equipped and impeccable. Even more important were Carlos and Cheryl's professionalism, responsiveness and integrity. I would not hesitate to rent from them again.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing.

The Perfect Escape To The North End

Guest: Nancy and Eben (Plymouth, MA)
Date of Stay: 12/29/10 Review Submitted: 01/12/11

This cozy condo was the perfect “home” for our four-day escape to the North End. We enjoyed having culture, sports, museums, and restaurants within walking distance. The clean, modern condo is beautifully decorated and well-stocked with everything that you’ll need. We were happy to return to it after our busy days. The bed and couch were both very comfortable. The owner of the condo was very helpful – even sending text messages when I had questions about the WiFi password. The building was very quiet. Although it was not a problem for us, it is important that potential renters note that there are fifty-two steps from the curb to the condo door. The climb would not be ideal for those with health problems of knee issues. While staying here, taking a walking tour of the North End is a “must”. The small-group tour introduced to shops, bakeries, and restaurants that most tourists miss. We loved the tour and lived like “locals” for the remainder of our trip. We look forward to returning to this condo again.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect location for a trip to Boston

Guest: Mel and Rich (Boise)
Date of Stay: 12/21/10 Review Submitted: 01/03/11

This condo is in the perfect location to explore and enjoy Boston! Don't be put off by the less than pristine common area or the steep staircase (just make a couple of trips up and down the stairs with your suitcases!). Only a block and a half from the Battery Wharf water taxi stop, and walking distance to all the North End is famous for: restaurants, bakeries, charming Italian groceries and butcher shops. Plus the Old North Church and the Freedom Trail. The Green Line T-stop is only a few blocks away (Haymarket Station) and this will get you anywhere else you want to go (Museum of Fine Arts, Symphony Hall, Newbury Street, Beacon Hill, Boston Common, etc.). In nice weather (we were there during "Snowmageddon"), it's a pleasant walk to the Aquarium, Faneuil Hall shopping mall, whale watching tours and the waterfront. Nice upgraded fixtures in the bathroom and kitchen (which is tiny, but fine for reheating leftovers and making coffee). The condo was actually larger than we thought and we ended up keeping the murphy bed open as a daybed for lounging between excursions and watching TV. Would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants to get the feel of a neighborhood and soak up sights, sounds, smells, and food of Little Italy! The owners are super responsive to emails and inquiries which is one reason we rented--we knew if there were any issues while we were in the space (which there weren't), they'd be taken care of!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

the british .... came

Guest: norm (Haslemere Surrey UK)
Date of Stay: 10/24/10 Review Submitted: 11/08/11

We both hugely enjoyed our four day stay in this compact comfortable extremely well equipped and beautifully clean condo with its homely atmosphere and endless supply of hot water. The advertised description was accurate; information provided was helpful and practical; arrangements for transfer of keys was entirely straightforward. Well situated within the Italian area in North End and its many restaurants (Hanover and Salem Streets), but also for small convenience stores close by. Ten minutes brisk walk to Haymarket T station, it felt entirely safe to us (in our sixties) returning on foot at night. Easy walking distance to State House, Quincy Market and also the adjacent Holocaust Memorial which we found very moving. Durgan Park (Quincy Market), and Union Oyster House (just around the corner) as well as Legal Seafoods (Long Wharf) all recommended for eating. Avoid the expense of the Sky Walk (Floor 50 of the Prudential) and spend the savings on a meal at the Top of the Hub on Floor 52. (Arrive just before sunset) Boston Fine Arts Museum (free on Wednesdays from 1600-2145) should not to be missed, especially the really lovely paintings in the section on American Art of the 18th/19th Centuries. The Natural History Museum Glass Flower permanent exhibition is well worth the trip to Harvard; and we treated ourselves to an excellent value Chinese lunch on Quincy Square. If interested in classical music, check out the Wednesday night free concerts at The Church of St John the Evangelist, 35 Bowdoin Street. We have rarely found such exceptionally friendly people: whether the Post Office Manager in Hanover Street; the Police Officer who stopped in Beacon Hill and left his car to ask us where we were trying to find; a passing cyclist's "are you lost?"; the Copley T station information booth lady attendant who went out of her way to show us how to find our destination; or Jeff, the Harbour Trolley driver/guide who shared his view of the wider world with us as he awaited his next customers. The Two day Old Town Trolley Tour (with a Boston Harbour Cruise included) was immensely good value and worthwhile. The driver/guides have their own individual style but look out for Ken (main tour) whose laconic sense of humour was perfectly pitched for us. Purchase of a Charlie Card for $15 allowing seven days free access to the T train and local buses is well worth considering. We would strongly recommend this condo to our friends; and indeed to anyone else.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

In the Heart of Boston

Guest: Marty (Federal Way, WA)
Date of Stay: 10/20/10 Review Submitted: 11/07/10

This nicely appointed condo is close to the major sites of Boston. Just steps away from the Freedom Trail, waterfront, Little Italy. Walking distance to the subway. Markets and excellent restaurants are abundant in the neighborhood. We enjoyed staying in a "real" Boston neighborhood. The unit itself is small, but efficient and, for us, a good alternative to a hotel room. Enjoyed the kitchen, living area and quality electronics. Fast wi-fi, HDTV and cable with DVD player. Carlos was very helpful and communicative. We left our camera battery/charger in the condo and he arranged to have it mailed to our home almost immediately. One factor to consider: this condo is for those who are able and willing to do a fair amount of walking. Not a bad thing at all in Boston, where most of the popular sites are easily accessed by public transportation or even on foot. We would not recommend planning to keep a car in this location, unless you are willing to pay $30+ per day to park a few blocks away AND then struggle to find parking at your destination. Local parking is limited to those with residential permits. Also, take the description of a "fourth floor walkup" seriously. There is no elevator, so any luggage must be hefted up four flights. The subway stop is .8 miles from the condo, either a 15 minute walk or perhaps a surface bus ride (we found the walk enjoyable.) Bottom line: this is a great unit for the physically able, but not for the mobility challenged.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great Condo!

Guest: Rob and Rachel (Liverpool, UK)
Date of Stay: 09/06/10 Review Submitted: 09/22/10

I was very impressed by this condo, it was exactly as described and it was great having a nice apartment to return to after a day of sightseeing (or a night of drinking!) and will definitely look to stay here again when we return to Boston. It was very clean and well supplied so it really did feel like home, so much so we didn't want to leave! The location in the North End is superb too, it's a couple of minutes from many restaurants, bars and coffee shops. I really did love this place, and the friendly, helpful owners meant it was hassle free. Thanks.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Everything they said it was, no surprises

Guest: Arlineg (Albuquerque)
Date of Stay: 07/31/10 Review Submitted: 08/05/10

We are on our last of 6 nights here in Boston. This rental is absolutely perfect. We cooked all of our meals here; the kitchen is FULLY equipped. We used the wifi, did laundry,and stored bikes in the basement. After a day of sightseeing it was nice to come back to a comfortable place. Everything is SO close. If you forget something cvs is close by.Every night we walked to Hanover street for a sorbet and coffee. The neighborhood is very safe. If you are planning a trip to Boston and you want a great place to stay this is it.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Enjoyable week stay in Boston!

Guest: P and M (CA)
Date of Stay: 07/24/10 Review Submitted: 08/22/10

Fantastic time in this small studio apartment. Just big enough for two adults and two small children. The Murphy bed was new and very comfortable. The AC was a must during the summer and worked well. Couldn't beat the location! Perfectly located in the North End near the Freedom Trail and lots of Italian restaurants/bakeries close by. About a ten minute walk to nearest T station, a bit longer if traveling with little kids. Overall, we would recommend to our family and friends if they are ever in Boston! Tips: We purchased online the Go Boston Card before arrival. Found it to be very convenient and a big $ saver. Also got the 7 day Charlie pass, it paid for itself in two days. Also, were a bit disappointed in the lack of public transportation to Plymouth from Boston. You need to rent a car for day trips out of the city including Lexington and Concord.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with young children, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Excellent Condo

Guest: Debbie (LaSalle On)
Date of Stay: 06/18/10 Review Submitted: 06/27/10

My boyfriend and I stayed for 5 nights and we couldn't be happier with the condo. Everything was clean, plenty of supplies, pillows,blankets towels etc..Kitchen had everything we needed. Location was excellent, little grocery store right around the corner on Hanover. The instructions provided were very informative. Lots of Boston info found in books and flyers. Love that you can call home at no charge (I'm from Canada). Plus free internet! Felt like a home away from home.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great North End Location!

Guest: Michael (Tuscola, Illinois)
Date of Stay: 06/12/10 Review Submitted: 06/21/10

Wonderful studio apartment located in the North End. Close to great Italian food and pastry shops, be sure to walk down both Hanover and Salem. History around every corner; super close to the Old North Church and just a few blocks from Paul Revere's house. Easy walks to Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market and both the Aquarium and Haymarket T stops. Gaskins couldn't have been easier to work with and gave great recommendations. Stairs are somewhat tricky, especially if you overpack like we did, but nothing that can't be handled. Would recommend to anyone to stay here!

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great apartment and location

Guest: Tomas (Ireland)
Date of Stay: 06/03/10 Review Submitted: 06/25/10

This is a lovely property in a great area for visitors. The apartment is pretty, spacious (for two people) and has everything that you need for a visit of a week (we stayed for five nights). The location could not be better, being in a quiet part of Boston's North End but only a minute or two of a walk from tens of great restaurants and a number of great cafés, pastry shops, gelato shops, etc. In addition, it is walkable to downtown Boston without much hassle, and the nearest T stop is less than 10 minutes away. I can't recommend this property highly enough: the landlord, Carlos, was very helpful and attentive and quick to respond to any queries that we had.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great place to stay!

Guest: Fenway11 (Oklahoma)
Date of Stay: 05/20/10 Review Submitted: 05/26/10

This condo is the best way to experience Boston. The location is unbeatable, as you are one block away from many Freedom Trail sites, the best restaurants in Boston, and the Boston Harbor. The condo was very clean, and the owners were very good to work with. The stairs are not too difficult and are a great way to work off all the Italian seafood you will eat! The North End is a very busy neighborhood, especially at night. However, this condo is just far enough away from the major streets to where the noise shouldn't be bothersome if you're trying to sleep. We had some difficulty finding the street where the condo is located upon our arrival, but that's really the only issue we had.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great quiet location, well-equipped accommodation

Guest: gmurphy03 (San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 05/15/10 Review Submitted: 06/01/10

Near the North End action, but on a quiet side street. The condo itself was quiet. Enjoyed the well-stocked kitchen, even though it is small. Lots of personal touches in the unit, not usually encountered in such rentals. The fourth floor location might be a drawback for some. My deposit was refunded promptly. Would definitely recommend this place!

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

HISTORIC BOSTON LOCATION

Guest: Susie N. (Golden, CO)
Date of Stay: 04/26/10 Review Submitted: 05/14/10

Around the corner from the Old North Church, this studio is perfectly located for exploring the history of Boston. Although it was spring, it was quite chilly during our stay. We discovered the first night that we didn't have any blankets. I called Carlos the next morning to tell him about the problem. He called me back in 5 minutes and arranged to have some luxurious, warm blankets delivered to the condo before the day was over. As owners of two VRBO properties ourselves, we know that things like this can happen and were very appreciative of his quick response to solve the issue. We certainly hope to return to Boston and would rent this condo again and will recommend it highly to our friends and family.

Owner response:Thanks to Susie and Bill for the nice review. Our housekeeper had taken the blankets home with her to wash. We did not expect cold weather this late in April, but were more than happy to accommodate their need for blankets during the cold snap.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Fantastic studio and location!!

Guest: ScottAndTiff (Iowa)
Date of Stay: 04/17/10 Review Submitted: 05/01/10

We had a great time at the studio! I don't know how you could find a better location to stay at in Boston. It's within walking distance of two T stops (Aquarium and Haymarket), close to the Old Church, Copp's burial ground, and the bay...not to mention the best Italian restuarants and bakeries that you'll ever find! Be warned...weight gain is likely. :) The Gaskins were great to work with and sent a nice packet of info not only regarding the studio, but places in the area. The studio is small, but was perfect for my husband and I. The ony disagreement we had while there was when to come back!

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Excellent location

Guest: Yorkshire Girl 57 (Yorkshire, England)
Date of Stay: 04/10/10 Review Submitted: 05/06/10

An immaculate studio flat. Well maintained, equipped and decorated. The location is brilliant and the owner is helpful and a real pleasure to deal with. I would have no hesitation in recommending this place to anyone. There are quite a few stairs which are quite steep, but caused me an unfit 50+ no problem.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Best Way to Visit Boston

Guest: Kath & Scott (Vacaville, CA)
Date of Stay: 04/05/10 Review Submitted: 05/26/10

This was our first trip to Boston and we were delighted to find such a clean, high quality rental in the North End. The location is so convenient to several historical sites and so many eating establishments. We dropped off the rental car and walked or took the subway...it was just that simple. The Gaskins make the rental process so easy. The information they send when you make your reservation is priceless! We toured every historical site they listed and frequented several of the restaurants they suggested...included Mike's Pastries three times in 5 days! We walked every inch of the Freedom Trail and enjoyed the dawning of spring in Boston Public Garden. One highlight was when our daughters discovered that the Old North Church was a mere 200 paces from the studio. The studio had everything we wanted and more. We couldn't have been happier if we had stayed in a fancy hotel!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Truly deserves its

Guest: gui (Saint Paul)
Date of Stay: 03/15/10 Review Submitted: 03/25/10

Me and my friends stayed at the condo for 4 nights. Everything is just the same as in the description except for that the blankets are less than satisfying. The location is wonderful. Loved the cafes and restaurants on Hanover and Salem. approx. 10 min walk to the nearest T-stop. In general the experiences was great.

Owner response:Thanks for your comments. We have blankets for each bed and very warm heat in the condo, but will add additional blankets. Hope you return to Boston soon! Have added four new blankets!

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Guest: Mary Martino (Montreal Quebec)
Date of Stay: 03/09/10 Review Submitted: 03/09/10

My family and I went to Boston during our spring break and we were so lucky to find this amazing studio condo. The condo was clean, cozy and very charming. Our 5 day stay was made all that easier, as Mr and Mrs Gaskin ensure that their condo is fully equipped down to the smallest of details. The location of this very charming condo couldn't be better. For all you sports fans the condo is just a couple of blocks away from the TD Gardens. For all of you that enjoy good food you're just a couple of minutes from Hanover Street with a great choice of restaurants. We will be definitely staying in this charming condo our next trip down to Boston. Thank you to Mr and Mrs Gaskin. It was an absolute pleasure dealing with you both.

Recommended for:

Cozy Christmas Getaway!

Guest: MJ & AJ (Media, PA)
Date of Stay: 12/23/09 Review Submitted: 01/12/10

My husband and I stayed here for a week over the Christmas holidays and had a wonderful time! The condo was immaculate, every detail exactly as described. The kitchen was stocked with cooking essentials, linens were plentiful and answers to any questions we may have had were carefully explained in the e-mail we received prior to arrival. The location of the condo was perfect! The North End is full of markets and delicious, small, family-owned restaurants! We made numerous stops to Salumeria Italiana for cheese, fresh bread & salami. Mercado del Mare was right down the street as well and had a fresh selection of fish & other seafood. The condo was also a quick walk from Faneuil Hall and Haymarket Station. All in all, this was a perfect place for a couple wanting to experience the North End and the rest of Boston just as the locals do!!!

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Todd & Emily Boswell (Moline, IL)
Date of Stay: 11/05/09 Review Submitted: 11/05/09

We stayed at this condo for our honeymoon, and can honestly say this is the ONLY way to truly experience Boston! Literally around the corner from major historic sites, you couldn't ask for a better location, and the condo is very well kept and has that old world charm you come to expect from being in the North End. We loved every minute of our stay, and can't wait for our next visit! Thanks Carlos & Cheryl!

Recommended for:

Guest: Tom & Debra Wilson (Grants Pass, OR)
Date of Stay: 10/18/09 Review Submitted: 10/18/09

You could not find a better location! Right in the middle of little Italy and only a block and half from the Old North Church and the Freedom Trail, and a block from Hanover Street with some of the best Italian restaurants and bakeries. You can walk to everything. The Haymarket T station and North Station T are only blocks away. The apartment was perfect too. Comfortable beds, full bathroom with a tub, complete kitchen, lots of windows that open and let in fresh air, and QUIET!! We never heard traffic or neighbors. We are in our 50's and felt very safe out walking at night. This is the best place to stay in Boston. Yes, there are stairs to the fourth floor so pack accordingly. Excellent, would recommend to anyone!

Recommended for:

A Comfortable and Convenient Way to See Boston

Guest: Texan Senior Citizen (Georgetown, TX)
Date of Stay: 10/16/09 Review Submitted: 10/25/09

We found the condo just the way it was described on its website. It is spotlessly clean and the small kitchen is equipped well enough that it is possible to prepare a simple meal or two if you would like. Though you wouldn't want to miss the opportunity too often to enjoy the neighborhood and wharf restaurants. In short, we enjoyed our stay immensely and felt that we were getting good value for our money. Be warned about the stairs however. Anyone not wanting to tackle four flights of steep stairs at least twice a day probably shouldn't consider it, but we, fairly fit 70 year olds, managed without too much problem.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Guest: Bill & Martha (Jacksonville, OR)
Date of Stay: 10/14/09 Review Submitted: 10/14/09

The condo is clean, well maintained, cute and convient. The information provided by the owners was extremely helpful. The store and restaurant owners were friendly and we felt welcome and safe. Thanks!

Recommended for:

Cosy stay in Boston

Guest: NYSM (New York)
Date of Stay: 09/28/09 Review Submitted: 10/18/09

My friend I thoroughly enjoyed out stay at the North end Condo. When you make a trip to a new place you are going in blind but this little place was just perfect and suited us so well. Admittedly there are a some musty stairs to climb but once you are inside the Condo you find yourself saying " what stairs". We stayed for 4 days and it really gave us the freedom to eat in or out. The location was fantastic only a 5 minute walk from bustling Hanover St which is the Italian heart of Boston. The main city area of Boston seemed quite dead but Hanover street was full of life and fabulous food. The other great thing about the location is that it is close to some of the major attractions on the Freedom trail. As far as the facilities go the day bed pulled out into two very comfortable twin beds and there was also a fold out if needed. All the amenities were good and the kitchen had everything we needed. It was also very quiet in the neighbourhood. The owners were also very kind and posted a lost pair of earings back to us. I guess the bottom line with this little condo is that it is value for money and just perfect for a quick visit to Boston.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Guest: Roseann & Ken (Goose Creek, SC)
Date of Stay: 09/04/09 Review Submitted: 09/04/09

We really enjoyed our stay at the condo. Very well appointed. The stairs were a bit of a challenge. There's a very convenient 7/11 store around the corner. We bought Italian sausage from a butcher on Salem St. that was excellent. The location of the condo couldn't be better.

Recommended for:

Guest: Tiffany18 (McLean, VA)
Date of Stay: 08/24/09 Review Submitted: 08/24/09

We stayed at this condo for one week in August 2009. We had the best time! You can walk everywhere, felt very safe. The condo is very well located to everything, my kids knew their way around quickly. Walk to Faniul Hall, Aquarium, Charlestown and more. We even walked to Fenway and back! Very clean very well maintained, can't say enough! Thanks!

Recommended for:

August stay

Guest: Bobster (London)
Date of Stay: 08/22/09 Review Submitted: 10/04/09

Myself and my new wife booked the flat in Boston for three nights as part of our honeymoon. It is clean and well-appointed and extremely conveniently situated in the North End of Boston; there are plenty of places to eat within only a few minutes walk, and the stroll into the centre of town takes only about 10 or 15 minutes. Boston itself is well worth a visit; plenty of colonial history, Harvard University, the Kennedy museum and library and a vibrant nightlife among the reasons to visit. I'd certainly recommend the city and this property is an ideal base from which to explore.

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

City break in Boston

Guest: Mon and co (Brighton, UK)
Date of Stay: 08/05/09 Review Submitted: 08/25/09

This property is perfectly placed for a easy to manage city break in Boston. It is within walking distance of many great Boston attractions and having an Italian 'feast' happening while we were there, in the next street made the whole experience all the more memorable with nightly street concerts, parades and stalls. Despite all this, the property is a quiet, get-away-from-it-all experience. It is comfortable and well-equipped in every way. A slight problem resulted in a speedy solution from the owner. I would thoroughly recommennd this apartment and would consider returning myself one day!

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing.

THE PERFECT BASE

Guest: AnnD (Scotland)
Date of Stay: 07/31/09 Review Submitted: 09/07/09

We were here at the beginning of August and just had the most wonderful time. The weather was great, the sighseeing, the food and festivals (especially in the next street) There was so much to see and do. The condo just made everything perfect. It is small but cozy and has everything you'll want. The galley kitchen was well equipt, coffee filter etc. The bathroom has been recently updated and everthing is very clean. We didn't make up the beds until last thing so that was no problem in the living area. The little extras were appreciated - the telephone, dvds available, helpful information/leaflets. The information provided by Carlos (pre- stay) is very informative and helpful. The condo is ideal for two people but it worked for us with our son (15). We will be coming back to Boston and hopefully we will be able to stay here again.

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Like a home from home.

Guest: Laurafrance (Normandy, France)
Date of Stay: 07/26/09 Review Submitted: 08/14/09

The condo was exactly as described, clean, tastefully decorated, close to the restaurants and tourist spots in North End and very comfortable. It's a short walk from the subway and the Freedom Trail, so it's a great base for a sightseeing visit and the kitchen is useful when you don't want to spend lots eating out every day. The kitchen's equipped with everything you need and so is the bathroom. The condo was very easy to find and the keys arrived well before the holiday so arrival couldn't have been easier. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a small place to stay during a sightseeing trip to Boston.

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.