Boston Harbor Hotel

Boston’s got a reputation for being one of America’s most old-fashioned big cities — accurate or not, there’s no denying that it’s not exactly the trendiest city on earth. Of course that’s not a bad thing at all; and what Boston lacks in design fireworks it more than makes up for in old-world grandeur — which, if you’ll allow us some license, is basically what the Boston Harbor Hotel is made of.

The massive arched entrance is imposing enough for arrivals by land, but with Rowes Wharf right there it’s perhaps easier (and certainly less ordinary) to arrive by yacht or by water taxi direct from Logan airport. And if the interiors can’t quite live up to the drama of the entry, they don’t get anything wrong either — it’s five-star luxury, all rich fabrics, ornate woodwork and Italian marble, with just enough old New England character to remind you where you are.

Bay-side views are stunning, and priced accordingly, but of course to book the city side at the Boston Harbor would be a little bit perverse. The fitness facilities are comprehensive, including an indoor pool, and the restaurant’s chef is a James Beard award winner. At this end of the hotel market it’s almost impossible to go really wrong — what sets the Boston Harbor apart is its personality.