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Ritz-Carlton, Boston Common

COST: $$$$

<p>Boston's only Ritz (the Taj chain bought the famous Back Bay property in 2006) is an 11-story glass-and-steel monolith that looms above the Common's greenery. Opened in 2001, the hotel transports you—oddly—to 1985; the glitzy marble lobby, filled with giant potted lilies and a 10-foot fireplace, is pure Trump Revival. Thankfully, the 193 guest rooms are a bit more subdued, with velvety earth-toned upholstery, feather beds, and Frette bathrobes—appealing amenities after a workout in the adjacent 100,000-square-foot Sports Club/LA (where $15 gets you near-round-the-clock access).</p> <p><strong>Tip:</strong> Keep an eye out for baseball's best: Red Sox super-hitter Manny Ramirez frequents the bar, and the Yankees stay here when they're in town.</p> <p><strong>Room to Book:</strong> Any room above the ninth floor; these have the most direct views over the Common.</p>

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From Travel + Leisure , JUN 2006

Sleeping here is like collapsing onto a big soft pile of money, from the feather beds and Frette bathrobes to the Bang & Olufsen stereos in the suites. ...MORE>>

– Peter Jon Lindberg Boston Uncommon

Last updated June 2006