Hotel Review: Hyatt House, Boston/Waltham

Not every trip is glam and posh. Certainly, my one-day whirlwind trip last Sunday from New York to Boston was to be anything but relaxing. After all, I was flying up to Boston with my father and would be joined by my sister upon arrival. We had a big meeting planned the next day, Monday, before my father and I would return to New York on a 5 pm flight.

A few days before the trip, I booked the flights for both my father and myself using my JetBlue TrueBlue points. I also made a hotel reservation for the three of us for the one night. This was a stressful time, so making this hotel reservation was about finding a welcoming and comforting home for the night with family.

our flight up to Boston on JetBlue

I reserved a one-bedroom suite at the Hyatt House Waltham/Boston. My sister lives nearby and suggested this hotel. This category 3 extended stay hotel is in an industrial park area but a minute or two drive from some good local restaurants.

photo: Hyatt Website

A day or two prior to my stay I phoned the hotel. I told the front desk clerk that I’d be traveling with two family members, including my 90+ year young dad. The clerk said that there was a two bedroom available and upgraded our reservation. I also told him that we’d need a room close to the elevator as walking distances was difficult for my father.

We arrived and found that the hotel was under construction. The makeshift front desk was a table. This was not a big deal, but I think there should have been some prior notification about the ongoing construction on the website. Samantha, at the front table, checked us in and was very warm and friendly. The room was wonderful, but it was a schlep – closer to the back service elevator, so, to make it easier for my father, we had to move the car to a rear parking spot.

The suite was just perfect for what we needed. It appeared to be newly renovated, with two bedrooms and 2 bathrooms as well as kitchen and living room areas.

photo: Hyatt Website

photo: Hyatt Website

photo: Hyatt Website

We went out for dinner nearby (Not Your Average Joe’s) and then returned to the room and settled in for the night.

In the morning, I squeezed a quick workout in at the hotel fitness center before breakfast. The gym, which is located on the first floor, is actually a little larger than I’ve seen at many other Hyatt House and Hyatt Place properties. It is clean and has sufficient space and working machines and equipment. It could use a refresh, but it was fine for my purposes.

The hotel breakfast was a great way to begin our hectic day. As always, the coffee was delicious (and I was thankful that the hotel serves almond milk). The dining area was clean and had plenty of sufficient seating. I enjoyed the yogurt and fruit salad, and my sister and father liked the eggs and sausages.

Overall, the family trip went well. I learned that traveling with an elderly person means different priorities and focuses than usual – such as getting wheelchair assistance at airports, ensuring a restful night’s sleep and proximity of a hotel room to the elevator.

I will be making more trips to this area in the future, and will gladly choose to stay here again.