5-stars, for all the reasons others have cited. But I'd bet my experience was different than most.

Within hours of my arrival, I'd become ill. I tried to nap it off, then tried to stay away from the house as long as I could. I was concerned that my presence would be unwelcome. After all... I wasn't staying in a big, impersonal hotel. I was at somebody's *home* and I was getting more and more sick with each passing hour. I didn't want to call attention to myself. At some point, though, I was exhausted and needed to settle in.

Unable to sleep, I called a friend who was familiar with the area. He directed me to an 24-hour grocer (incl serve-yourself hot bar), a scant few blocks away. Alone, in a unfamiliar city, as a single female in her 50s, I braved the rain and late-night (11pm) walk. And... I felt completely safe.

Along that path, I noted (and the next day made use of) a nearby Minute Clinic inside a major chain pharmacy (2 are within a very short walking distance). Yes, there are cute boutiques, yummy coffee/bagel shops, a fun variety of neighborhood restaurants (Thai, Indian, Grill, etc), and subway access to tons of good stuff that others can tell you about. My vacation plans required something more basic. And Smack Dab's location delivers.

I soon learned that... for every hour of 'activity,' I needed 3 to recover. My itinerary became much less ambitious. I vaguely made it to both MIT and Harvard campuses, but completely gave up on any notion of aggressively touring museums and such. I couldn't really "process."

Instead, I opted to walk from Smack Dab to the beautiful Mt Auburn Cemetery (est 1831) for a 174-acres of quiet reflection. (Then I grabbed the bus, back). I leisurely strolled Connie's neighborhood and took pictures of the phenomenal homes and early blooming gardens.

I'm saving the best, for last. Connie.

When Connie became aware that I was ill. Her immediate reaction was to acknowledge the 'vulnerability' that one may feel when being away from home, let alone when unwell. [I'd braced myself for the possibility that I might be asked to take my germs elsewhere.] Connie's response floored me.] She assured me that my presence (and barking cough) wasn't a bother. She offered to help in any way possible.

Connie eased my worries about disturbing the gent who was staying in the adjoining room. She later reported that she had spoken with him, in an effort to look after *everyone's* comfort and restful sleep.

She offered me soup and quiet conversation. I felt grateful to know her. (Still do, of course.) Sure, the accommodations were lovely, wonderful bed, great pillows, beautiful streaming sunlight, and super cozy temperature.

Mostly though, the feeling of 'home' is Connie.