Reviews for Boston Vacation Rental - VRBO 383697 - 4 BR Greater Boston House in MA, Renovated Brownstone Near Symphony Hall

Family Graduation Celebration

Guest Mom & Dad of Graduate
Date of stay 05/01/13
Review Submitted 05/09/13

Our family celebrated the graduation of our daughter from Northeastern University in style in this beautifully appointed and spacious home. Grandma, Grandpa, Proud Mom & Dad, Sister, 2 Aunts, 2 Uncles, and 1 niece converged from all over the world to join friends of the graduate in celebration. We stayed at the house for 5 nights and enjoyed every minute. The owner was immediately responsive to all e-mails and queries, the pictures represent the house accurately (it is much bigger and prettier than the pictures can portray), all amenities were supplied and abundant, and the location could not have been better. There is no need for a car as this house is easy walking distance to stores and shopping (Prudential Center, Newberry & Boylston Streets), restaurants, and the Boston T for transport further afield. Google the address and you'll see there is more than can be listed within a short distance of the house. We held a graduation party for our daughter and at one point in time probably had about 50 people in the house - it never felt crowded! The patio, kitchen, dining room, front sitting room, and 2nd floor living room w/ game area are just the right size for hosting this kind of gathering. The sound system in the living room is remarkable. We used every bed and pull out sofa and even a bit of floor space - the entire crew was happy! The only part of the house that did not get any use from us was the well equipped work-out area in the basement - next time (and we hope there will be a next) we'll bring workout clothing for the gym AND for a jog/walk in the area. This is a fantastic house in a remarkable location. We recommend it to others with enthusiasm and no reservations.

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

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Great for Seven in Their Seventies!

Guest Jane
Date of stay 04/24/13
Review Submitted 04/30/13

8 Symphony gets rave reviews from my group of seven in their seventies! We probably should have spent more time enjoying the lovely house, but we had too much on our agenda to see and do. However, being able to return to this Brownstone in the evening, put our feet up and enjoy a glass of wine in our PJs is something no hotel could offer. The proximity to the Symphony “T” stop enhanced our desire to see Boston without a car. [Note that it’s the Massachusetts Ave. stop on the Orange Line that has an elevator for those with heavy suitcases. It’s just two blocks beyond the Symphony stop.] We bought MBTA LinkPasses and were on our way. We appreciated the second floor gathering space and the deck outside the kitchen to enjoy the first warm weather of the 2013 Spring. Additional comments would only echo comments already made—read them! We would certainly stay here again and can recommend it highly to those looking for ideal Boston lodging. Our thanks to the Hylands for the detailed information about the property and the area that was provided before our arrival.

Recommended for: Girls getaway, tourists without a car.

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Six Stars! Outstanding Rental

Guest Brandon E.
Date of stay 03/21/13
Review Submitted 03/26/13

Had an old boys reunion, and it couldn’t have been more enjoyable. The location was great, and provided so much to do and see by foot. Listing was spot on, but this place is really a must see to believe. Tim was always prompt and professional in his communications, and the house was immaculate. Already thinking about my next stay. If you want to stay in Boston, and truly feel like you are IN Boston, there is no better place than 8 Symphony.

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

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WOW!

Guest Jenny
Date of stay 02/21/13
Review Submitted 02/24/13

Truly, I can't say enough good things about this home. I travel pretty extensively, and nearly always rent a home (rather than cram our large group into hotel rooms!), and this gorgeous brownstone was one of the nicest properties I've every rented. We chose this home for the location -- it's less than a one minute walk to the front door of Symphony Hall, where some of our group were attending a performance. The location is also convenient to the local T station, Prudential Hall, tons of great restaurants, Whole Foods, etc. Yes, the location was ideal, but the home itself ended up surpassing any expectations we could have had. The home has been thoughtfully and tastefully renovated, with an unbelievable attention to high-end detail. There is not a thing overlooked, from (full) shampoo/conditioner/bodywash dispensers in each shower, to a built in coffee filter in the coffee pot (I have often rented homes that offer coffee pots, but have no filters for them -- annoying!), to lovely thick towels and fabulous linens. There are tons of books for all ages, including the little ones, and cabinets full of board games. There is a lovely outdoor deck for warmer weather. There are multiple fireplaces, tons of cookware in the well stocked kitchen, and lots of homey touches. The multiple living areas make this home ideal for large groups! Our three teenaged boys camped out in the second floor great room, and had a blast in their "bro space", while the adults retreated to gorgeous, comfortable private bedrooms -- hands down, the best mattresses I've slept on any rental homes!! (Tim... do you know the brand/make? I want one -- my back hasn't felt this good in years!) Tim, the owner, was a delight to work with -- professional, yet very concerned that we had all the information we needed to not only make an informed choice in our final rental decision, but also following through to ensuring that our stay was perfect. From the multiple house keys, to detailed instructions about various aspects of the house (alarms, electronics, etc.), to restaurant recommendations, we couldn't have asked for more. We'll absolutely be back -- this was THE find in Boston! If you're considering this place, take the plunge. I guarantee you will be thrilled that you did!

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

Owner response: Thank you so very much for the kind words! The mattresses are from Stearns and Foster - and I agree - they are amazingly comfortable! Safe travels and we look forward to your return.

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Would Not Stay Anywhere Else In Boston!

Guest Lorne
Date of stay 11/15/12
Review Submitted 11/22/12

Once you stay here there really is no other option in Boston! Our group of 8 travelled to Boston for a short three night stay and we choose this home based on the overall description and photos. I can honestly say once we arrived our expectations were blown out of the water. Everything was exactly as described and then some. The house is much more impressive in person. From the location to amenities to both the owner and the manager in Boston our experience was with out a doubt unbelievable. I hope I will be welcomed back when I return.

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

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GO IRISH

Guest Go Irish
Date of stay 11/08/12
Review Submitted 11/13/12

7 guys stayed at the property, and everyone would highly recommend for anyone to stay there. Close to the train, restaurants, and other activities. No complaints.

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

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PERFECT!!

Guest Joey
Date of stay 11/01/12
Review Submitted 11/07/12

We could not have chosen a better place, It is in the most perfect location and the property was more than we had expected!! All of our family was able to stay with us and had everyting there. Whole foods around the corner did our flowers, cake and catering for the reception!! We ended up having our wedding in the GREAT room because it was so PERFECT!!

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

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Perfect location with comfort and amenities top-notch

Guest E from LB
Date of stay 10/09/12
Review Submitted 10/12/12

We had a family group of 7 adults staying very comfortably in this "spare no expense" brownstone. I can't recall one complaint from anyone. We all have traveled extensively in the world and stayed at many types of hotels and properties. . . . .8 Symphony Rd. is at the top of our accommodation list. Warning: The stairs could be a negative depending on age and ability of guests. I can't say enough about the owner's attention and quickness to any questions, concerns or problems. The property immediately felt like we were 'home' or welcomed into someone else's home graciously and in style. It was so well equipped in the kitchen as well as audio-visually: a flat-screen in every bedroom as well as every common seating area, except in dining room. We would definitely recommend this property to family and friends.

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

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Perfect Home Base for a Wedding

Guest Mark
Date of stay 09/19/12
Review Submitted 10/14/12

We had a great stay at 8 Symphony Rd when we came for our son's wedding in Boston. With family and friends from California, Colorado, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, and Virginia, it was the perfect home base where we could mingle and reconnect in a relaxed atmosphere. In addition to a beautiful wedding in Harvard Yard and a fantastic reception on Thompson Island in Boston Harbor, many of our guests said staying at 8 Symphony Road was the very best home away from home. We appreciated having room to spread out and took advantage of the space to do some serious wedding preparation. The dining room became a production center for the bagging of cookies for wedding favors, creation of reception place cards, and compilation of wedding programs. The second floor family room served as a dance floor for the bride and groom to practice with their parents. The family room also served as planning room for the pastor to meet with the bride and groom. When things in the house became hectic, the back porch became a welcome retreat for a quick nap. All in all, the house was everything we could have hoped for and enabled us to make many memories. We will check the availability of 8 Symphony for our next Boston visit!

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

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Great Location and Accommodations for our Family of Six

Guest Cagecrew
Date of stay 08/25/12
Review Submitted 08/29/12

We were looking for a centrally located home for all six of our family members (5 of which are adults now and my son who is 16) to stay in and have some extra room to spread out yet still be able to stay together in one location. This beautiful, well appointed home at 8 Symphony could not have worked out better. The sitting/TV room on the 3rd floor of this beautiful brownstone was a great place to watch a movie, play games (there were plenty of board game options) or watch a sporting event. We could walk to Fenway and a number of local restaurants. You could visit shops and quaint restaurants along Newbury street which was also within walking distance. When we did want to travel further and visit the Freedom Trail, Harvard, MIT and other sites, we merely walked to the subway station just down the street as this site was conveniently located. This was the first time we used VRBO but will certainly use again. As for 8 Symphony --- if you get an opportunity to rent it you will not be disappointed.

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

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Outstanding option for 6 - 14 people; plus a FUN city

Guest LarryBoyColorado
Date of stay 08/15/12
Review Submitted 08/26/12

Our gang of 14 family members, ages 9 through 71 had an absolute blast in Boston with this beautiful home serving as our "home base". Everything was super-clean and in great condition. Lot's of upgrades: high-end exercise equipment, big flat-screens everywhere you go, well supplied kitchen (glasses, tableware, etc.), an *awesome* deck out back with a big shade tree, alarm system and more. Neighborhood felt very safe for a "big city" with steady flow of people (many college kids) even past dark. We took taxi from airport ($35 w/tip), and rode the subway ($18/head for 7 day unlimited pass), plus it was easy to walk around... Boston's very "dense". Owner and and on-site manager (Paul) were super easy to work with. Offered a nice planning document with everything from nearby recommended restaurants, to where to get a manicure. We even had one part of our group get into Boston too early, during a downpour, and Paul served as "guardian angel" and got them someplace dry and their luggage safe until check-in time; well beyond the call of duty! We had some of the best seafood (and desserts) ever at the Legal Seafood in the Prudential Mall nearby (they also have a site near the docs up north if you don't want to eat at the mall). Had a very nice Mango-Shrimp Curry at Bankok City that was nearby. Favorite entertainment was Freedom Trail Tours (see TheFreedomTrail.org); their "hop-on hop-off" trolley hits all the Freedom Trail spots and cuts walking (Grandma and Grandpa were greatful). You can "ride through" in probably 90 minutes, or get off and explore each site and fill up two days. Our guide was "Hannah Adams" and she's worth asking for. Knowledgeable, engaging and fun. We also took the "T" up to Revere Beach. Guidebook said it "wasn't pristine", but it was very clean, safe. A little bit of seaweed and a couple of areas with lots of broken sea shells (to kids delight), but LOTS of nice beach-sand to camp out and play in.

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

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Great Place, location

Guest Steve S
Date of stay 08/12/12
Review Submitted 08/20/12

This is an absolutely beautiful home and the owner was very helpful and easy to work with. We had 4 individuals traveling for a business meeting. The location was within easy walking distance to The Hyatt Convention Center, The Prudential Center, Fenway Park and many restaurants, etc. I would highly recommend this property.

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

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Wonderful base for our family

Guest Anonymous
Date of stay 08/04/12
Review Submitted 09/04/12

We just spent a great week at 8 Symphony while 2 of our children attended summer camp at MIT. The location was perfect and we were able to walk everywhere and the house was beautifully renovated with every detail considered. The whole booking process was a breeze and the owners were charming, helpful and very quick to respond. We will definitely book again if we visit Boston with our children.

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

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Family Fun in Beantown

Guest Greg
Date of stay 07/30/12
Review Submitted 08/06/12

What a very special place! You can tell that the travel-savvy owners have carefully thought through every detail; the charm, character, and warmth of this 19th century brownstone are unbeatable. Great location. We walked to most sites and the handy subway stop was a 6 min walk when needed. Shared taxis are also quite reasonable. A comfortable and inviting home awaits you at the end of each site-seeing day. We enjoyed watching the Summer Olympics on the 'surround sound' entertainment system. The elevated deck off the kitchen is the perfect place to enjoy a cold beverage. You will be amazed by this delightful gem in Boston!

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

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Family Reunion

Guest Nicoletta
Date of stay 07/15/12
Review Submitted 07/23/12

We were three generations celebrating a family reunion. Two of us are native Bostonians, and if I lived in Boston again, this house is where I'd want to live. The photos and descriptions are so accurate that when you walk in the door, it's like being at a place you've been at before. The kitchen is well equipped. The bed linens and towels are of high quality; the beds very comfortable. The house is immaculate. Yet everything is comfortable. The T green line stop is around the corner. Groceries are nearby. The owner is very responsive to all inquiries and totally reliable and considerate. All information provided before arrival, and in the house, is 100% dependable. Not only would I recommend without reservation, I am already plotting my return.

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

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Boston summer vacation

Guest T-fam
Date of stay 06/26/12
Review Submitted 07/15/12

We loved 8 Symphony Rd.! It was in a great location (close to Fenway Park, restaurants, Whole Foods, the T, Prudential Center) and we walked all over, even with four young kids. Since we live in Southern California, the opportunity to stay in a brownstone was exciting. It was so nicely decorated, so well-organized, and very clean; we appreciated all the attention to detail. The bookshelf on the third level was well-stocked with children's books and the kids read as much as time allowed. The game table was a big hit, too. We definitely recommend this property, and we hope to return to it some day!

Recommended for: Families with young children, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

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Gorgeous family friendly brownstone; much better than a hotel

Guest GT
Date of stay 06/26/12
Review Submitted 07/08/12

This property exceeded our expectations. We are a family with 4 kids ages 4-11. The area was very safe and we were able to walk everywhere. The t-stop was only a block away as well as whole foods. The decor was fabulous, matching any high end hotel and was very clean. Having the space was great for the kids as well as the ability to cook and do laundry. The board games and plethora of books also was a big hit not to mention the large flat panel TV with surround sound! The home alarm system was also reassuring. Tim was very helpful and instantly available and runs the property like a pro. We will stay here again if/when we go back to Boston. We also stayed at the Taj Boston which was a nice hotel but to really get a "feel" for the city and immerse yourself with the Bostonians, this is the way to go!

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

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Outstanding family rental

Guest GT
Date of stay 06/26/12
Review Submitted 07/06/12

We are a family of four kids ages 4-12 and this was the perfect place for us. It was so much better than a hotel with lots of room for the kids and ability to eat there and do laundry. It is a very safe neighborhood with the T only a block away as well as whole foods and abundance of restaurants. We walked to Fenway, prudential center (duck boat tours), and again the T was so close. It also has so much character and with updated furniture and decor. We loved playing chess and checkers along with the many board games. The kids also loved all the books. The large flatscreen and surround sound was also of course a big hit. Having an alarm system was also reassuring since the place is so big! Tim was great; he was always in contact with me and easily accessible. We then took a trip down the cape and returned to stay at a hotel (Taj Boston) which was nice but not nearly as family friendly. I can't think of anything negative other than maybe the tight parking spot (but at least there WAS a parking spot since you can't park on the street without a permit). We will stay here again if/when we return to Boston.

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

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Beautiful Property in a Great Location

Guest Sutliff
Date of stay 06/13/12
Review Submitted 06/22/12

My husband and I and eight of our extended family stayed in this home while we were in Boston to celebrate our son's marriage. This may be the first time that we have stayed at a rental that was even more beautiful than the photos on the website. The home was very clean and very well furnished. I can't think of a single thing that was missing. The location was also great. We were able to walk everywhere we wanted to go. Most of us had not visited Boston before, but all of us would like to return. When we do return, we hope that we will be able to stay at 8 Symphony again!

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

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MIT Graduation Stay

Guest Karyn
Date of stay 06/07/12
Review Submitted 06/18/12

Our extended family stayed here when we were in Boston for our son's MIT graduation. We couldn't have been happier with the house - the location, the amenities, the responsiveness of the owner. There was plenty of space for everyone so we didn't feel like we were on top of one another; there were features that normally aren't offered in a vacation property, such as the fitness room and the use of the laptop & printer and the A/C was a plus when the temperatures (& humidity) were close to 80. We were able to walk to many sites like Fenway Park, the Christian Science Mother Church, the Prudential Center, even to MIT. Our son is continuing at MIT for his doctorate; I sincerely hope the house will be available when we come back to Boston with a group for that graduation!

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

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Awesome Stay

Guest Jeannie
Date of stay 06/01/12
Review Submitted 06/11/12

I can not say enough good things about this house. My family of nine throughly enjoyed our stay there. It is well decorated, up to date and charming and perfect in every way. The masterbed room was fabulous. Great backporch with wonderful tree. Kitchen bright, friendly and inviting, great gathering place. Nice furniture, fresh luxurious linens, great appliances and kitchen gadgets. Good selction of books and games that my youngest enjoyed. Lovely street, great location. We walked to Whole Foods, the liquor store, Boston Pops, the Duck Tour, MFA... and the subway is also convenient. This is the best place to stay in Boston. It was so much better than three hotel rooms (which is what we would have needed). I would highly recommend it to all my friends. It was great.

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Great for the whole family

Guest CA Traveler
Date of stay 04/14/12
Review Submitted 04/25/12

This house is simply amazing. Pictures can't do it justice. Every detail was thought of when remodeling this Boston brownstone. We stayed during the Boston Marathon heat wave, and were surprised to discover central air. After living in Boston for more than a decade, we can say that's a first. Our family includes everyone from toddlers to senior citizens, and the house had comfortable space for all of us. We made breakfast every morning, ate most lunches out, and cooked some family dinners. Whole Foods is just around the corner. We used the parking spot, but didn't need a car. The location is unbeatable. Everything you want to see in Boston is either walking distance or a quick trip on the T. The owners and their local staff are great work with. This was our first VRBO experience. The bar for future rentals has been set very high.

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

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Rental for a Boston Convention Group

Guest David
Date of stay 04/05/12
Review Submitted 04/11/12

A group of seven of us rented this property over Easter weekend and were extremely pleased. For any groups of more than seven people, the property is less expensive than the hotels in downtown Boston while providing a markedly better experience. The property was in immaculate condition, was spacious and comfortable, and afforded us a great place to socialize and enjoy each other's company. Small touches like a fully filled spice rack, soap and shampoo dispensers in the showers, and a well-stocked game closet were much appreciated. The location also made it very accessible to the whole downtown via the MBTA transportation systems. I also want to note that the owner was very helpful and responsive to questions leading up to the rental. Almost the minute we arrived, multiple members of my group suggested that we should make this rental an annual destination. After searching for months for a rental that could meet our needs, I can say that this renovated brownstone is a unique property in downtown Boston that is absolutely ideal for groups traveling to the city. (One note: the house does have four floors, so it is less than ideal for people with limited mobility. This is somewhat countered by the fact that the ground floor has a full bedroom and bathroom.)

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

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Great living on four levels

Guest Ben
Date of stay 03/29/12
Review Submitted 04/02/12

We enjoyed the place very much. I lived in Cambridge for a number of years, and know the city well, but staying at your place gave us a different orientation that was new and fun. The place is terrific, and really fit our three generation group very well. You obviously place high importance on having high quality furnishings, appliances and electronics, as well as warm and comfortable spaces to gather, or to be alone. The only problem is that when my kids get their first student apartments, they are going to wonder why it can’t be as nice as Symphony Rd.

Recommended for: Families with teenagers

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Girl's weekend in Boston!

Guest Annette Nielsen
Date of stay 03/23/12
Review Submitted 03/27/12

Eight of us visited Boston -- and had an absolutely lovely time -- and the accommodations at this house were absolutely perfect. Even the most discerning were impressed with the appointments, details, and quality of the furnishings -- even if we went on our own during the day, we all gathered each morning around the beautiful dining room table for breakfast -- so nice. Thank you, thank you, for making our trip one to remember -- can't wait to visit again!

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

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Wonderful place to stay

Guest matthew
Date of stay 03/19/12
Review Submitted 03/25/12

A large part of my family (eleven of us) came to Boston to hear my daughters senior recital at Boston Conservatory. I stumbled across this property on vrbo.com and everyone is glad that I did! I cannot recommend it too highly - the owners have done a lovely job of getting the house renovated, set up, and stocked with everything you might need to make your stay comfortable. I am a dedicated cook, and once i saw the set of razor sharp henckells in the kitchen I was sold ;) - Kudos to the Hylands!

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway.

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Kate's Freshman Year - Family Birthday Weekend

Guest Tucker
Date of stay 02/29/12
Review Submitted 03/09/12

This is by far one of the nicest properties that our family has ever stayed in. We had family in from Hawaii, Vermont, Wash DC and California. The location is excellent in a safe part of Boston, close to a T Stop, with lots of shopping and dining opportunities within a 5 minute walk. The place is in wonderful condition and every small detail has been thought of and provided for by a very responsive owner. It is user friendly, clean and very comfortable.I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this property. We have nothing but great memories of the trip and the experience.

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

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Family Friendly

Guest comment entered by owner

Family Friendly

Guest Mona, Andrew and Cara
Date of stay 02/20/12
Review Submitted 02/25/12

We visited with our grown children and several cousins. It is everything shown in the pictures and more. Everything needed for comfortable living was there with a fully stocked kitchen. We utilized the dining table for a huge family dinner. The LR was so comfortable as we listened to music and played a game - included in the library cabinets! The house is convenient to everything, so very clean and sunshine streams through each floor. Had a great time and hope to return. Thanks Tim and Natalie.

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Five stars aren't nearly enough

Guest Laura
Date of stay 02/09/12
Review Submitted 02/16/12

Seven of us stayed in this home for a girls' weekend, and seven of us were absolutely blown away. From the gorgeous layout to the well-stocked kitchen to the thoughtful touches -- i.e. a laptop and printer provided for printing out boarding passes -- all we had to do was show up and congratulate ourselves on renting the best place in Boston. (One of our group is currently looking for a new home, and she photo-documented the place so she can show her husband exactly what she wants.) Suffice it to say, we are already talking about renting the place out again next year. The owners and their team were very responsive and friendly, and the location is as convenient as advertised. Thanks for an unforgettable stay!

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

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Wonderful! The perfect home away from home...

Guest Robb Forman D.
Date of stay 01/25/12
Review Submitted 01/29/12

My husband and I stayed at the Hyland house for the celebration of our 44th wedding anniversary, during which we were looking forward to a concert of the BSO and the Tanglewood Chorus at Symphony Hall. But we also wanted to simply spend some time wandering around Boston without having to carefully plan every activity. The Hyland house was a wonderful retreat where we could spend some lazy time reading, have a meal if we preferred not to go out, and where we didn't have to deal with the intrusive atmosphere of even the very best hotels. The Hylands are wonderful owners and have anticipated every possible need of any guest, plus they had the foresight to set their house up so that each guest can have an intimate and private space of his or her own. We're hoping to return in April when we will be joined by our two sons and one daughter-in-law, and a favorite cousin and her granddaughter who will be looking at colleges. My husband and I have tickets for the BSO's performance of the Brahms Requiem, and some of our party will be attending a wedding, but we will all be able to gather for plenty of informal time together at the house. Each couple or any one of us will also be able to retreat to watch one of the eight TV's, or work at a computer, or simply enjoy a nap. I really don't think there is a better location anywhere in Boston. It is a remarkable bargain for an extended family, and an affordable escape even for a luxury vacation for two. Thank you, Tim, for your attention to detail, and for your kindnesses (we loved the anniversary libations) and your always courteous and immediate response to any question we had--no matter how seemingly frivolous. We are so delighted to have found your house, and we're almost hesitant to spread the word of its existance for fear we'll never find it available again! But it's a place that ought to be shared!

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

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Great house, excellent location -

Guest shop local traveler
Date of stay 01/05/12
Review Submitted 01/10/12

This is an excellent rental for large groups (professional retreats, family reunions, group getaway). I hosted a professional workshop and this space proved to be more intimate than a hotel or conference room. The location is convenient to public transportation and not far from many of the historic attractions of the city. It is an excellent value over staying in a hotel in the same area. As the property has recently been renovated–all of the furniture, appliances, and fixtures are brand new, and everything is in excellent condition. The owners are helpful and were attentive in case of any potential issues (of which there were none). The house has several attributes, including a large living room area, an equipped kitchen, a high capacity washer / dryer, and enough bathrooms for multiple housemates. As a frequent VRBO renter, I can say this is the best property I have seen to date. Recommended -

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

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Brilliant location for conference at Hynes Convention Centre

Guest Hannah
Date of stay 05/26/11
Review Submitted 05/03/12

We had a brilliantly comfortable time while at this property in Boston. Really well equipped and clean, a home from home in a great location. It was easy to walk everywhere from the house - we didn't need to get public transport once! We are a team of 7 research medics and were attending a big medical conference with our Professor. We wanted a more affordable option than the hotels near the conference centre and this worked out to be so much more. It's spacious layout allowed us all to relax and we easily had our "own space" in the evenings after a busy day at the conference without having to be confined to our bedrooms. There was never a queue for the bathrooms either. Would definately recommend this to any group, professional, friends or family. Thanks very much for a great place.

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

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Vacation Rentals by Owner

Renovated Brownstone Near Symphony Hall [#383697] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (32)

Family Graduation Celebration

Family Graduation Celebration

Great for Seven in Their Seventies!

Great for Seven in Their Seventies!

Six Stars! Outstanding Rental

Six Stars! Outstanding Rental

WOW!

WOW!

Would Not Stay Anywhere Else In Boston!

Would Not Stay Anywhere Else In Boston!

GO IRISH

GO IRISH

PERFECT!!

PERFECT!!

Perfect location with comfort and amenities top-notch

Perfect location with comfort and amenities top-notch

Perfect Home Base for a Wedding

Perfect Home Base for a Wedding

Great Location and Accommodations for our Family of Six

Great Location and Accommodations for our Family of Six

Outstanding option for 6 - 14 people; plus a FUN city

Outstanding option for 6 - 14 people; plus a FUN city

Great Place, location

Great Place, location

Wonderful base for our family

Wonderful base for our family

Family Fun in Beantown

Family Fun in Beantown

Family Reunion

Family Reunion

Boston summer vacation

Boston summer vacation

Gorgeous family friendly brownstone; much better than a hotel

Gorgeous family friendly brownstone; much better than a hotel

Outstanding family rental

Outstanding family rental

Beautiful Property in a Great Location

Beautiful Property in a Great Location

MIT Graduation Stay

MIT Graduation Stay

Awesome Stay

Awesome Stay

Great for the whole family

Great for the whole family

Rental for a Boston Convention Group

Rental for a Boston Convention Group

Great living on four levels

Great living on four levels

Girl's weekend in Boston!

Girl's weekend in Boston!

Wonderful place to stay

Wonderful place to stay

Kate's Freshman Year - Family Birthday Weekend

Kate's Freshman Year - Family Birthday Weekend

Family Friendly

Family Friendly

Five stars aren't nearly enough

Five stars aren't nearly enough

Wonderful! The perfect home away from home...

Wonderful! The perfect home away from home...

Great house, excellent location -

Great house, excellent location -

Brilliant location for conference at Hynes Convention Centre

Brilliant location for conference at Hynes Convention Centre