With the exception of one problem, we absolutely loved our stay at Jovielle's place. We lived in Jamaica Plain in the early 2000's, and it is even more hip and fun now that it was then. The apartment is very well located for visiting Boston by car or public transit, and is in an ethnically mixed neighborhood. If you're comfortable with a diverse urban vibe, you will love staying here. We stayed with our three kids (ages 14, 11, and 7) and felt perfectly safe.
PROS: Great location, walkable to T station, a slew of great restaurants (see below), and one block from the Sam Adams brewery (brewery tour!). A very short drive (or healthy walk) will take you to the glorious Arnold Arboretum or Jamaica Pond. Location made it simple to take the T into Boston for the day, or quickly make our way our way out to other parts of the area (e.g., North Shore) by car. As for the apartment itself, it is clean, spare but comfortable, has a very nice kitchen, and can sleep 5 adults plus a toddler (2 bdrms + futon in living room). Lots of natural light, very little traffic to contend with, and a quiet neighborhood. We slept really well.
CONS: Only one -- mice. We spotted several mice in the kitchen during our stay, and Bonnie (the landlord) trapped four while we were there. Jovielle was clear about the problem in her description, but despite making sure all our food was stored properly, there was substantial mouse-traffic in the kitchen area. Bonnie was very apologetic about the problem and is working hard to solve it, but you may want to check with her before booking.
TIPS: Heating/cooling -- The apartment has baseboard heating and two main AC window units. No central AC, but the units cool the apartment fine if you keep bedroom doors open at night. Groceries -- There is a Whole Foods on Center Street. It's walkable in a pinch and a breeze by car. Also a Stop & Shop about a mile away. And there's a wine store just beyond the T-stop on Boylston.
Dining -- Some awesome restaurants in JP, several of which are just yards from each other on Center Street. Here's our list:
Bella Luna -- great pizza, Italian fare, and cosmic vibe -- two blocks from apt.
Bukhara Indian Bistro -- great Indian food (Center Street)
Center Street Cafe -- fantastic brunch/lunch
Chilacates -- Mexican street food! -- two blocks from apt.
Doyle's Pub -- historic pub, not to be missed
The Haven -- Scottish pub we didn't get to try but looked good
JP Licks -- original store of Boston's best ice cream! (Center Street)
Purple Cactus -- amazing burrito stop (Center Street)
Sorella's -- another amazing brunch/lunch place in North JP
Wonder Spice Cafe -- great Thai food (Center Street)
We had a great time at Jovielle's place, and would consider renting again. Enjoy!