If the taste might seem peculiar to some in its un-orthodox mix of nineteenth-century and Chinese-inspired decor, the feeling of an aesthetic intention creates an undeniably cosy atmosphere. I thus felt very much at home in my Hyde Park base and hugely enjoyed staying there for the two months I visited MIT. The apartment is spatious and lush and equipped with everything you could dream of, from advanced television gear to washing machine and dryer, to dish washer, coffee machine and all kinds of kitchen equipment (the missing garlic squeezer was the infinitesimal blemish that only heightened the rest, and Barbara even offered to pay for a new acquisition). There are even a few well-used gym machines in the basement.

I was generously received with a bottle of white wine and amazing supplies of coffee, and Barbara and Martin reacted to all inquiries within minutes and would immediately fix any problem (the few I had were minor and mostly about technical instructions). Barbara can have a brash tongue and be a bit zealous, but that only keeps you awake. And suddenly she'll give you a bottle of red wine, so you won't be bored at Thanksgiving.

Linwood Street is placed in a nice and quiet neighborhood, with a big supermarket 7 minutes away, a gorgeous icecream place around the corner, and, especially attractive, a wonderful wood for walking tours just 5 minutes to the North. It's a bit distant from downtown Boston, but that's compensated for by a fast commuter rail just 3 minutes away, bringing you to the city center in 15-20 minutes. Just live with fewer connections in the weekend, or otherwise supplement with the slightly slower but more frequent 32 bus bringing you to the orange line T-train at Forest Hills.

In sum, I can strongly recommend this place if you appreciate comfort and want value for your money. I myself started out in Cambridge near Harvard with a much smaller and duller apartment for the same price. If you care about living and not only central location, this is truly a gem.