Don't be worried during the first time you walk up the stairs - the room itself is very nice. It can get a little stuffy on a hot day - I was there on one particularly warm day - but is perfectly fine most days of the year in Boston. It's ideal for grad students/postdocs. But if you are a more mature person, you may find the staircase a little difficult to negotiate with a suitcase. Overall, I enjoyed my stay! Sophia herself is a wonderful hostess and I was very happy to meet her.