Should I Stay at a Hotel or The Upton in Boston?

Choose the Boston Accommodation Best for You or Your Guest

The majority of people can say that they have stayed at a hotel before. By the time adulthood is reached, you probably stayed at a variety of different hotels in different cities and developed a few favorites. Through your experiences, you likely have established certain expectations for hotels and identified characteristics that determine a preferable one: location, service, quality, atmosphere, style, and experience.

On the other hand, not everyone can say that they have stayed at a short term rental before. Short term rentals are becoming increasingly popular however there is less of a shared set of expectations for furnished housing options, making it a bridge that some are reluctant to cross. Short term rentals can be associated with vulnerabilities: unpredictable consistency, limited reputation, and lack of experience. Short term rentals may have never even crossed your mind as a viable accommodation for your short or extended visit in Boston.

The Upton is different. We have been hosting guests for over 20 years and Laura and Olivia personally oversee every single reservation and ensure guest satisfaction. You can read our guests’ experiences here. We created this article as a frame of reference to help you decide if The Upton is right for your short or extended stay in Boston.

What qualifies as a hotel in Boston?

Massachusetts legislature defines a hotel as “a building used for the feeding and lodging of guests licensed or required to be licensed under section 6 of chapter 140.” Hotels are considered the top of mind accommodation for travelers visiting a new city for a short or extended stay. Hotels provide guests with the security of trained staff, peace and mind of a safe room, and shared amenities such as a gym or dining hall. Although the standard hotel room in Boston only features a sleeping space and rest room, hotels can be perceived by some to be the premium travel accommodation option that will provide the greatest likelihood of comfort when traveling. There are many hotels throughout Boston and adjacent to the South End neighborhood.  

What qualifies as a short term rental in Boston?

Short term rentals are defined by Massachusetts legislature as “an owner-occupied, tenant-occupied or non-owner occupied property including, but not limited to, an apartment, house, cottage, condominium or a furnished accommodation that is not a hotel, motel, lodging house or bed and breakfast establishment, where: (i) at least 1 room or unit is rented to an occupant or sub-occupant; and (ii) all accommodations are reserved in advance”. The Upton is considered a short term rental in Boston as it is a brownstone with 7 private apartments that each feature kitchens. Laura, The Upton’s owner, has an office on the first floor.

Choosing The Upton versus another South End Hotel

Everyone has different preferences and priorities when it comes to choosing an accommodation. We rounded up the distinguishing characteristics between staying at The Upton versus a hotel in Boston to help you evaluate which is the best suited to make you feel the most comfortable and at home in the South End neighborhood.

The Upton’s Superior South End Location

The Upton is located in the heart of the South End neighborhood. The South End is a protected historic district comprised and considered to be the largest Victorian intact neighborhood in the country. Demolition is prohibited in the region and all the property sizes remain as created beginning in the 1800’s. The scale of the neighborhood and protective zoning restrictions prevent the establishment of a hotel. When you choose The Upton you are choosing to live in the district, not walk to the district.

The Upton’s Turn Key Accommodations

We never compromise on quality and authenticity. A cohesive blend of stylish modern décor, fully equipped kitchens and high-quality products create a comfortable environment. Skip the disruptive aspect of travel that changes your daily routine and requires you to live out of a mini fridge and suitcase.

The Upton’s Team & Standards: Reliable & Personalized

The Upton is committed to enhancing guest experiences by providing consistent excellence and personalized communication. We personally oversee every single reservation and have been hosting guests for over ten years. You can read our guest experiences’ online. No automated robots here, we are accessible at almost all times (except when we’re sleeping.)

The Upton’s South End Experience

The Upton embraces and reflects the history of the South End location and architecture. We celebrate the beauty of our neighborhood’s past adapting historic elements and spaces to amplify contemporary living. Our apartments feature original Victorian architecture and detailing. Experience the historic charm of the South End. No hotel in Boston can can replicate the experience of staying in an original Victorian apartment (with modern amenities of course).

The Upton’s Availability: Long Term Stays Welcome

With larger room sizes and full kitchens, The Upton offers comfort you can not find at a hotel. The Upton accommodates stays of all lengths with pricing and leases for longer term stays. If you are a professional on business travel, temporarily relocating, or in town for professional development we provide a secure place where our guests can meet their goals. 

The Upton’s Atmosphere

The Upton cultivates an atmosphere that encourages positivity, creativity and productivity, and quiet in your daily life. An environment with a heightened sense of peace of mind for you and your loved ones. We maintain a sense of quietness at the property and the apartments were designed to accommodate working remotely. If you are booking on behalf of a guest, you can prepare the apartment in advance with all of their favorite items, photos, and things to make them even more comfortable.