BOSTON: The Colonnade Hotel

Though the exterior looks like your average chain hotel (especially in comparison with the quaint brownstone neighborhoods nearby), The Colonnade Hotel offers plenty of delightful surprises that make it a destination for any Boston traveler.

First of all, one of the prized gems of the property is their rooftop pool- a unique feature in the midst of a bustling metropolis. Though the combination of green turf and potted plants may sound like odd additions to the decor, the effect is simply charming. The small space dotted with chairs and tables, coupled with some cocktails from the poolside bar, really makes you feel like you are on vacation. It brings Cape Cod to the center of Boston.

Speaking of the center of Boston, the location can't be beat. The hotel is across the street from great shopping and a block from some fantastic restaurants and nightlife spots. Your options are endless. A bonus for the rooms facing the street: you can see the famed stadium of the Boston Red Sox from your window.

Want to eat-in? On the ground floor is the hotel's restaurant Brasserie Jo which is another escapist dream. Reminiscent of a classy Parisian bistro, the service is impeccable and the desserts are to die for. When serving the profiteroles, the server brings out an adorable ceramic carafe filled with creamy chocolate which is dripped over the delectable pastries. Delicious!

One test of any hotel is the bed and the Colonnade passes with flying colors. The linens are buttery soft and the pillows are fluffy marshmallows of comfort. All of the amenities were classic and well-done. In our bathroom we did have one odd quirk. There was a bidet as well a traditional toilet and one word of advice for other curious travelers: take it easy on the bidet since the water can sprout as high as Old Faithful if you are not careful!