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Author Topic: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel  (Read 18629 times)

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Offline Dennis

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Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« on: May 14, 2009, 12:29:46 pm »
Hello Everyone,

Realizing the economy is what it is, I have continued to research other hotel options in Boston; accomodations which offer a better rate.

I have come across the following...

Le Méridien Cambridge
20 Sidney Street · Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3253

The rate being offered to us is $125 per night. This is a $30 per night savings over the Chandler Inn. This hotel also offer more amenities such as a lounge and restaraunt on site.

Of course, this would mean those who have confirmed reservations at the Chandler would need to cancel and rebook at the Le Meridien.

Please discuss below. If would be great If someone who is familiar with the area could chime in about the location and it's relation to items of interest.




Arts & Culture
•Boston Museum of Fine Art  3.2 km/2.0 miles
•Boston Museum of Science  3.2 km/2.0 miles
Community
•Cambridge Hospital  1.6 km/1.0 miles
•Harvard University  1.6 km/1.0 miles
•Boston University  3.2 km/2.0 miles
•MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)  3.2 km/2.0 miles
•Boston College  3.2 km/2.0 miles
•Northeastern University  3.2 km/2.0 miles
•University of Massachusetts, Boston  8.1 km/5.0 miles
Corporate Offices
•Novartis  1.6 km/1.0 miles
•Mount Auburn Hospital  3.2 km/2.0 miles
Entertainment
•Fenway Park  3.2 km/2.0 miles
•Boston Symphony Hall  3.2 km/2.0 miles
Local Attractions
•Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market  4.8 km/3.0 miles
Nearby Destinations
•Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA  1.6 km/1.0 miles
Recreation
•New England Aquarium  4.8 km/3.0 miles
« Last Edit: May 14, 2009, 12:31:42 pm by Dennis »

Offline RAB

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #1 on: May 14, 2009, 03:39:40 pm »
Hi Mr. AMG Guy:

Looks o.k. to me.  (Assuming the location isn't some place way off in no where land.)

Another possible advantage is that Mum, Mini, and hubby could be in the same hotel as the rest of us. 

RAB


Offline Robert

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #2 on: May 14, 2009, 06:35:22 pm »

$30/night is significant.  I'm staying 4 nights; that's $120.00.  I'm not sure how many room nights we're booking but let's just say we book 10 rooms (2 people/room) at 4 nights, that 40 nights.  40 X 30 = $1200. We could have ourselves one hecka party at that rate.  And I'm sure the Grants Committee woujld be grateful.

Hotel sounds good to me.  We've got MTA passes so transportation is not a problem if the location is off the  beaten path.

 
..........

Offline bocker3

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #3 on: May 14, 2009, 07:30:39 pm »
The hotel is about 5 min walk (4 blocks or so) from the Central Square Station of the Red Line. (this is good for all coming into South Station on Amtrak, as the red line stops there too!). 

The fact that is it pretty close to a T stop is key -- in fact it might be as close or closer to a T stop as the Chandler Inn.  This hotel is in Cambridge -- vs. in Boston -- probably not a big deal -- I'm not quite as familiar with Cambridge, as I rarely went there during the years I lived in Boston.  Again, the subway is key -- add that to the $$$ saved and it seems like a no-brainer to me (I'm guessing all the room taxes, etc might be a bit less than in Boston too).  A trade off is longer back and forth trips to the places most people want to see in Boston -- except for Harvard, which will be much closer.

I'm also going to go out on a limb here and say that Le Meridian is likely to be a much nicer hotel (I"ve not stayed at either, so I could be wrong).

Will they be as accomodating with us around gatherings and that brunch we had planned? 

I'm good with the move -- it saves me at least $240.

Mike
(Who will also ask Sid his thoughts when he gets home -- he lived in Boston much longer than I did)


Offline Ric Wilke

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #4 on: May 14, 2009, 07:31:35 pm »
And the WI-FI charge is what?

Offline anniebc

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #5 on: May 14, 2009, 08:29:46 pm »
Hi  there

It all sound good to me..with todays exchange rate I will be getting my six night at the hotel for NZ$1,272.00 instead of NZ$1,620.00, so I'm happy... and hopefully they will be able to accomodate us with the Meet and Greet at the hotel and at a price we can all afford.

As Robert mentioned we do have our MTA passes to get us around if needed

Hugs
Jan :-*
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Never knock on deaths door..ring the bell and run..he really hates that.

Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #6 on: May 14, 2009, 08:30:40 pm »
Complimentary.

And the WI-FI charge is what?

Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #7 on: May 14, 2009, 08:31:47 pm »
Unless I've missed something, I thought everyone was ok with the meet and greet at Cheers.

Hi  there

It all sound good to me..with todays exchange rate I will be getting my six night at the hotel for NZ$1,272.00 instead of NZ$1,620.00, so I'm happy... and hopefully they will be able to accomodate us with the Meet and Greet at the hotel and at a price we can all afford.

As Robert mentioned we do have our MTA passes to get us around if needed

Hugs
Jan :-*

Offline anniebc

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #8 on: May 14, 2009, 08:34:39 pm »
Oh sorry Dennis..that's great, I just assumed (my bad) because the Hotel was in another location things would be different..Cheers is still good with me...going to be fantastic as always.. ;)

Hugs
Jan :-*
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Never knock on deaths door..ring the bell and run..he really hates that.

Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #9 on: May 14, 2009, 08:35:22 pm »
I want to stress to everyone to please not cancel your reservation at the Chandler Inn yet.

Nothing has been confirmed at the Le Meridien yet.

Before moving forward I would need to hear from everyone who has a reservation already booked at the Chandler Inn.

Offline Jody

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #10 on: May 14, 2009, 09:53:16 pm »
Well I booked at the Chandler already but I can go with the flow I suppose.

Jody
"Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world".
 "Try to discover that you are the song that the morning brings."

Grateful Dead

Offline mjmel

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #11 on: May 15, 2009, 11:51:16 am »
Either hotel is fine. I completely understand about getting the best value for the dollar, or pound or  whatever it is those Zealanders use as monetary unit. ;)

Mike

Offline Basquo

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #12 on: May 15, 2009, 01:23:30 pm »
I'd be fine with the change. It would save me around $200.

Offline Lou-ah-vull

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #13 on: May 16, 2009, 02:43:50 pm »
Fine with me...Cambridge is really nice.  We can all pretend like we go to Harvard!  I had not yet made reservations.

Gary
Diagnosed Oct. 2005
10/05:  367 (26.2%), 24556 VL
01/06:  344 (24.6%), 86299 VL
04/06:  374 (22.0%), 87657 VL
05/06:  Began HAART 05/15/06, Combivir/Kaletra
07/06:  361 (27.8%), 1299 VL
10/06:  454 (32.4%), 55 VL
01/07:  499 (38.4%), UD
02/07:  Switched to Atripla 2/8/07
04/07:  566 (37.7%), UD
08/07:  761 (42.3%), UD
06/08:  659 (47.1%), UD
01/09:  613 (43.8%), UD
07/09:  616 (47.4%), UD
01/10:  530 (44.2%), UD
07/10:  636 (48.9%), UD
01/11:  627 (48.2%), UD
07/11:  840 (52.5%), UD
01/12:  920 (51.1%), UD
07/12:  857 (50.4%), 40
10/12:  UD
01/13:  710 (47.3%), UD
07/13:  886 (49.2%), UD
01/14:  985 (46.9%), UD
06/14:  823 (47.2%), UD
01/15: 1366 (45.2%), UD
07/15: 1134 (50.7%), UD
02/16: 1043 (55.1%), UD
08/16:  746  (55.4%), UD
08/16:  Switch from Atripla to Genvoya

Offline David_CA

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  • Joined: March 2006
Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #14 on: May 16, 2009, 05:55:48 pm »
Either way is fine for us.  I'd like to how the locations compare, etc.  Perhaps a call to the Chandler letting them know that we may have to switch due to the number of nights x $30 per night.  Maybe they'll match (or come close) the other hotel's rate.  I just want a nice hotel, in a good location, with free internet!
Black Friday 03-03-2006
03-23-06 CD4 359 @27.4% VL 75,938
06-01-06 CD4 462 @24.3% VL > 100,000
08-15-06 CD4 388 @22.8% VL >  "
10-21-06 CD4 285 @21.9% VL >  "
  Atripla started 12-01-2006
01-08-07 CD4 429 @26.8% VL 1872!
05-08-07 CD4 478 @28.1% VL 740
08-03-07 CD4 509 @31.8% VL 370
11-06-07 CD4 570 @30.0% VL 140
02-21-08 CD4 648 @32.4% VL 600
05-19-08 CD4 695 @33.1% VL < 48 undetectable!
08-21-08 CD4 725 @34.5%
11-11-08 CD4 672 @39.5%
02-11-09 CD4 773 @36.8%
05-11-09 CD4 615 @36.2%
08-19-09 CD4 770 @38.5%
11-19-09 CD4 944 @33.7%
02-17-10 CD4 678 @39.9%  
06-03-10 CD4 768 @34.9%
09-21-10 CD4 685 @40.3%
01-10-11 CD4 908 @36.3%
05-23-11 CD4 846 @36.8% VL 80
02-13-12 CD4 911 @41.4% VL<20
You must be the change you want to see in the world.  Mahatma Gandhi

Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #15 on: May 16, 2009, 06:40:05 pm »
I tried to renegotiate our contract with the Chandler Inn about a month ago. They weren't budging at the time time. However, if EVERYONE wants to move to the Le Meridien at the lower rate than the Chandler may change their mind when I actually call to cancel the contract.

Either way is fine for us.  I'd like to how the locations compare, etc.  Perhaps a call to the Chandler letting them know that we may have to switch due to the number of nights x $30 per night.  Maybe they'll match (or come close) the other hotel's rate.  I just want a nice hotel, in a good location, with free internet!

Offline aztecan

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  • 36 years positive, 64 years a pain in the butt
Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #16 on: May 17, 2009, 12:22:45 am »
I'm rooming with Jody, so where he goes, I will follow.

I have no problem with the new hotel and I like to save money.

HUGS,

Mark

"May your life preach more loudly than your lips."
~ William Ellery Channing (Unitarian Minister)

Offline David_CA

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #17 on: May 17, 2009, 12:24:13 am »
I tried to renegotiate our contract with the Chandler Inn about a month ago. They weren't budging at the time time. However, if EVERYONE wants to move to the Le Meridien at the lower rate than the Chandler may change their mind when I actually call to cancel the contract.


Or,  maybe you can point them to this thread.  That way they'll know you're not just BS'ing them!  If they still don't want to match the other rate, that's their decision. 
Black Friday 03-03-2006
03-23-06 CD4 359 @27.4% VL 75,938
06-01-06 CD4 462 @24.3% VL > 100,000
08-15-06 CD4 388 @22.8% VL >  "
10-21-06 CD4 285 @21.9% VL >  "
  Atripla started 12-01-2006
01-08-07 CD4 429 @26.8% VL 1872!
05-08-07 CD4 478 @28.1% VL 740
08-03-07 CD4 509 @31.8% VL 370
11-06-07 CD4 570 @30.0% VL 140
02-21-08 CD4 648 @32.4% VL 600
05-19-08 CD4 695 @33.1% VL < 48 undetectable!
08-21-08 CD4 725 @34.5%
11-11-08 CD4 672 @39.5%
02-11-09 CD4 773 @36.8%
05-11-09 CD4 615 @36.2%
08-19-09 CD4 770 @38.5%
11-19-09 CD4 944 @33.7%
02-17-10 CD4 678 @39.9%  
06-03-10 CD4 768 @34.9%
09-21-10 CD4 685 @40.3%
01-10-11 CD4 908 @36.3%
05-23-11 CD4 846 @36.8% VL 80
02-13-12 CD4 911 @41.4% VL<20
You must be the change you want to see in the world.  Mahatma Gandhi

Offline Cliff

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #18 on: May 17, 2009, 03:48:26 am »
I'm fine with either.  I'd rather stay in Boston, but am not fussed about going to Cambridge, especially if it saves a few quid.  So count me in the 'moving to Le Meridien is fine' camp.

c ya

Offline mjmel

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #19 on: May 17, 2009, 04:55:11 am »
I tried to renegotiate our contract with the Chandler Inn about a month ago. They weren't budging at the time time. However, if EVERYONE wants to move to the Le Meridien at the lower rate than the Chandler may change their mind when I actually call to cancel the contract.


Bound to raise an eyebrow or two at Chandler should our cancellations begin. Our group certainly will not make or break Chandler financially but it's still a nice chunk of change.

David_NC, you didn't comment on room service.  I know appreciate good service. :-X

Mike

Offline minismom

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #20 on: May 17, 2009, 05:10:07 pm »
Actually, we still won't be staying with you guys - sorry.  We do need to know where you guys are staying so that we can meet up with you in the mornings.

 I wonder though what a mess it will be if everyone cancels, the Chandler renegotiates, and then everyone has to recancel at the Meridien and rebook at the Chandler. If everyone agrees to the move, I would be hesitant to attempt a renegotiation with the Chandler.  I'm afraid someone will get lost or forgotten in the shuffle.

Mum ( who can't WAIT to see everyone in Boston!)
www.watoto.com
www.MotherBearProject.org
"Whichever way you throw me, i will stand"
"Don't worry about the world coming to an end today...it's already tomorrow in Australia"  Charles Schultz

Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #21 on: May 17, 2009, 05:19:48 pm »
Honest concerns. However, that is why I've stressed that no one should cancel their reservation, and I would only proceed if I had the go from everyone involved.

As mentioned before, the Chandler was not willing to renegotiate their terms. However, should they decide to match or beat the rate at Le Meridien, if and when I call to cancel our contract, then of course things would remain unchanged.

I normally would not have worried. However, the differences between properties and cost were significant and I realized people are trying to save money. And if we can get more for less, than why not?

Some have already expressed hesitation, so perhaps it is best to leave things as is.

Ciao,
Dennis

« Last Edit: May 17, 2009, 05:23:27 pm by Dennis »

Offline Lou-ah-vull

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #22 on: May 17, 2009, 08:19:20 pm »
The "others" must be expressing their reservations privately.  On here, it seems most think the switch is a good idea.  This is obviously a nice hotel and I know it is in a good neighborhood and very convenient to public transportation.  If the lower rate helps more come, all the better!  Based on everything I have read, I think switching is a good idea.

Gary
Diagnosed Oct. 2005
10/05:  367 (26.2%), 24556 VL
01/06:  344 (24.6%), 86299 VL
04/06:  374 (22.0%), 87657 VL
05/06:  Began HAART 05/15/06, Combivir/Kaletra
07/06:  361 (27.8%), 1299 VL
10/06:  454 (32.4%), 55 VL
01/07:  499 (38.4%), UD
02/07:  Switched to Atripla 2/8/07
04/07:  566 (37.7%), UD
08/07:  761 (42.3%), UD
06/08:  659 (47.1%), UD
01/09:  613 (43.8%), UD
07/09:  616 (47.4%), UD
01/10:  530 (44.2%), UD
07/10:  636 (48.9%), UD
01/11:  627 (48.2%), UD
07/11:  840 (52.5%), UD
01/12:  920 (51.1%), UD
07/12:  857 (50.4%), 40
10/12:  UD
01/13:  710 (47.3%), UD
07/13:  886 (49.2%), UD
01/14:  985 (46.9%), UD
06/14:  823 (47.2%), UD
01/15: 1366 (45.2%), UD
07/15: 1134 (50.7%), UD
02/16: 1043 (55.1%), UD
08/16:  746  (55.4%), UD
08/16:  Switch from Atripla to Genvoya

Offline Razorbill

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #23 on: May 17, 2009, 08:20:06 pm »
Hey.  Just caught this thread.  I understand the $$ issue for some.  I've been to Boston many times and it's a nice walking city.  I would be great to be staying in it.  I've been to Cambridge, nice place, home of Harvard and MIT.  It is across the Charles River and a bit up river from Boston proper.  Most of the great things to do and see are in Boston itself.  Although I'm sure Cambridge has it's highlights, restaurants etc., it is not Boston.  I remember riding out to the Alewife station on the red line - 20-30 min?  Hazy on that.  If the hotel is on the green line then it's maybe a bit closer.  Lechmere station?  Anyway, just putting out there that staying in Cambridge adds a subway to and from everything you may wish to do.  As for night life - that's mostly in Boston proper, last trains between 12 and 1.  Staying in Cambridge is like going to NYC and staying in Northern Jersey.  Cheaper and doable, but not NY.  I'm fired up about Boston - it's a great place, with so much to do within walking distance for everyone and anyone.  Aquarium, State House, shopping on Newbury St., Fine Arts and Isabella Gardiner Museums, 150 beers on Tap at Sunset Grill, lots of Starbucks for a recharge, Italian North end for dinner.  Great place!

Offline Razorbill

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #24 on: May 17, 2009, 08:36:05 pm »
PS - I'll wait to see what all is decided before making any reservations.  I'll check back to see what's decided.  Thanks.

Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #25 on: May 17, 2009, 10:23:42 pm »
Thanks for your feedback regarding location!

Hey.  Just caught this thread.  I understand the $$ issue for some.  I've been to Boston many times and it's a nice walking city.  I would be great to be staying in it.  I've been to Cambridge, nice place, home of Harvard and MIT.  It is across the Charles River and a bit up river from Boston proper.  Most of the great things to do and see are in Boston itself.  Although I'm sure Cambridge has it's highlights, restaurants etc., it is not Boston.  I remember riding out to the Alewife station on the red line - 20-30 min?  Hazy on that.  If the hotel is on the green line then it's maybe a bit closer.  Lechmere station?  Anyway, just putting out there that staying in Cambridge adds a subway to and from everything you may wish to do.  As for night life - that's mostly in Boston proper, last trains between 12 and 1.  Staying in Cambridge is like going to NYC and staying in Northern Jersey.  Cheaper and doable, but not NY.  I'm fired up about Boston - it's a great place, with so much to do within walking distance for everyone and anyone.  Aquarium, State House, shopping on Newbury St., Fine Arts and Isabella Gardiner Museums, 150 beers on Tap at Sunset Grill, lots of Starbucks for a recharge, Italian North end for dinner.  Great place!

Offline Dwayn20

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #26 on: May 17, 2009, 11:18:29 pm »
I will do what ever the grant committee or who ever makes the decision I have been trying to get Mark,s company to pay for the other four nights.
Scooter

Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #27 on: May 17, 2009, 11:48:02 pm »
Glad to see you're coming this year, Cliff. Can you place yourself in the arrivals thread. This is where I look for an official count of attendees.

I'm fine with either.  I'd rather stay in Boston, but am not fussed about going to Cambridge, especially if it saves a few quid.  So count me in the 'moving to Le Meridien is fine' camp.

c ya

Offline David_CA

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #28 on: May 18, 2009, 09:48:22 am »
As for night life - that's mostly in Boston proper, last trains between 12 and 1.  Staying in Cambridge is like going to NYC and staying in Northern Jersey.  Cheaper and doable, but not NY. 

Hmmm... If I was going to NYC, I def. wouldn't want to stay in Jersey (no offense to anybody who's from NJ)!  One thing I really liked about Montreal and SF was that we could go downstairs to the street, turn right or left, and be at any number of bars, restaurants, and shops.  Taxis and public transportation were only needed for going to specific destinations, not for day to day things.  Will the hotel in Cambridge offer us this?  Hopefully, somebody that's more familiar with Cambridge and Boston can give a bit of insight into this.


David (who likes to be right in the middle of everything)
Black Friday 03-03-2006
03-23-06 CD4 359 @27.4% VL 75,938
06-01-06 CD4 462 @24.3% VL > 100,000
08-15-06 CD4 388 @22.8% VL >  "
10-21-06 CD4 285 @21.9% VL >  "
  Atripla started 12-01-2006
01-08-07 CD4 429 @26.8% VL 1872!
05-08-07 CD4 478 @28.1% VL 740
08-03-07 CD4 509 @31.8% VL 370
11-06-07 CD4 570 @30.0% VL 140
02-21-08 CD4 648 @32.4% VL 600
05-19-08 CD4 695 @33.1% VL < 48 undetectable!
08-21-08 CD4 725 @34.5%
11-11-08 CD4 672 @39.5%
02-11-09 CD4 773 @36.8%
05-11-09 CD4 615 @36.2%
08-19-09 CD4 770 @38.5%
11-19-09 CD4 944 @33.7%
02-17-10 CD4 678 @39.9%  
06-03-10 CD4 768 @34.9%
09-21-10 CD4 685 @40.3%
01-10-11 CD4 908 @36.3%
05-23-11 CD4 846 @36.8% VL 80
02-13-12 CD4 911 @41.4% VL<20
You must be the change you want to see in the world.  Mahatma Gandhi

Offline pozniceguy

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #29 on: May 18, 2009, 12:33:58 pm »
I am a little torn....I am all for a reduced rate but at what real cost??/   My recollections of Cambridge revolve around all the University activities.....Harvaardd, MIT, and others...most of the "attractions " center around the students at the  colleges.....lots of cheap( relatively)  bars, shopping , little  shops catering to the same crowd....."cute" restaurants.....a lot of factories and commercial buildings around the area..... train/ bus into Boston is relatively easy but time consuming, you will get to use that Metro pass quite a bit.....virtually all major attractions are in Boston and the connections for Salem/ Providence and other places originate in the city...

so I will go along with the group....but prefer a Boston location

Nick
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Offline RAB

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #30 on: May 18, 2009, 04:25:56 pm »
Hi Dennis

I've been thinking about this alot.  While I would love to save the $180.00 + tax (6 nights @$30.00), maybe we should (as Nick said) think about what the cost would be.

As David, Cliff, and Razorbill mentioned, I too would prefer to stay in Boston. 

YET  there is the issue of the money we could save.  And I'm all for saving where we can because Boston is going to be pretty expensive.

Considering the amenities that would be available at Le Meridien, considering the cost savings, weighed against the inconvenience ( ????) of being in Cambridge (and to be honest, I'm so naive, I thought Cambridge was simply a section of Boston [like Georgetown is a section of DC], I didn't know it was an entirely separate municipality), I'm up in the air on this one.

Do you think there is any chance the Chandler would meet us halfway?  Meaning they wouldn't have to match the price of Le Meridien, but perhaps reduce our rate by $15.00?

If they would then this would seem like a good way to go.

RAB

(Who hates indecision!   >:()

Edit to add:  I'm waiting for my map of Boston and vicinity to arrive from AAA so that I can actually have a better idea as to what it is we are looking at.

Another edit:  I was just looking at the Arr/Dep list and I estimate we're going to be booking more than 100 nights total.  That's a good negotiating point I'd bet.
« Last Edit: May 19, 2009, 09:35:09 am by RAB »

Offline Jody

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #31 on: May 18, 2009, 07:52:25 pm »
I think some very good points have been made about being able to leave the hotel in Boston and go anywhere as opposed to having that option in Cambridge, particularly at night.  Unlike New York, I believe most transportation stops just after midnight in and around Boston, save a bus or two.  So I understand folks wanting to save some money but I vote The Chandler and hopefully they could come down in price a bit.

Jody
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Offline Curtis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #32 on: May 20, 2009, 03:34:09 am »
I was fairly galled by total damages for a week in Boston at first, but that was a long time ago and I've gotten used to the idea now.  For a very brief period I was considering staying about five miles from The Chandler at an apartment I found just to save $40-$50, and then decided mostly on Creighton's wisdom that I would really rather be where everyone else is.  So I'll go with the crowd.

In the end I don't even really remember what the hotels in Mexico City and San Francisco cost, just that I enjoyed running into everybody and making spur of the moment plans so easily. 

Curtis   :)
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Much time passes.....

Worst labs in 2009: CD4 20, CD4% 3, VL 9000.
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Offline anniebc

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #33 on: May 20, 2009, 06:16:16 am »
virtually all major attractions are in Boston and the connections for Salem/ Providence and other places originate in the city...

Like Nick I'm a bit torn now.

AMG to me is meeting up with old friends, always was always will be, but I have to say that travelling from NZ the above statement is also an important part of it for me..I would like to see the best of Boston and not just the outskirts....I will go with the majority, but like Nick and Jody I think I would prefer Boston if possible.

Hugs
Jan :-*

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Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #34 on: May 20, 2009, 06:41:22 pm »
To give us a clearer picture regarding location, I've inluded a map detailing the two hotels in relation to each other. They are 2.46 miles apart from each other.

I didn't realize how close they were to each other until now. I'll let this discussion go for another week or so.



[attachment deleted by admin]
« Last Edit: May 20, 2009, 06:48:26 pm by Dennis »

Offline mjmel

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #35 on: May 20, 2009, 10:04:54 pm »
People are leaning towards Chandler in Boston proper. I'd be inclined to think likewise now.
I'm staying put at the Chandler and will keep in touch via phone if everyone moves to another hotel.

Mike

Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #36 on: May 20, 2009, 10:17:05 pm »
Mike,

From the posts I've read as well as the private messages I've received people are leaning towards saving money AND staying at the Chandler.  Unfortunately, we can't have both.

In my last post I included more information to assist others make an informed decision. Based on the feedback I've received it appears peoples concern was being out in the boondocks. The information I supplied shows that indeed was not true, with both hotels being less than 3 miles apart from each other.

I did state that if ONE person came out and opposed moving than I would drop the pursuit of alternate lodging. Thank you for your forthrightness. Topic closed.

Offline mjmel

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #37 on: May 21, 2009, 09:26:16 am »
Hold up. Just in this morning via email notice: My partners diving group announced the new trip dates of Äug 1-8th which interferes with my AMG dates. The group cancelled their May trip due to swine flu scare and these new dates were voted on.

He enjoys his diving so much that I'd rather forego this AMG and catch next year. So, the ONE is having to cancel, anyway.

Mike

Offline minismom

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #38 on: May 21, 2009, 03:00:10 pm »
Mike - NOOOOOOO!!  You simply MUST find a farm-sitter.  Now I'm sad :'(

Mum
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Offline RAB

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #39 on: May 21, 2009, 04:52:42 pm »
Mike - NOOOOOOO!!  You simply MUST find a farm-sitter.  Now I'm sad :'(

Mum

MJ:

I think Mum has made an excellent suggestion.  I don't know exactly how one goes about finding someone who "sits on a farm" (goodness that sounds naughty   ;D), but you're a resourceful man!

To all attendees: 

Now to the issue of changing hotels, I've decided that even though it's going to cost more, I'd prefer we just stick with our original choice of the Chandler.  Like others, I'll go with what the group decides, but given my druthers I want to be in Boston.

RAB



Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #40 on: May 21, 2009, 05:25:59 pm »
I have advised The Le Meridien we are sticking with our current accomodations. No need to discuss any further and cause more AMG drama.
« Last Edit: May 21, 2009, 05:28:28 pm by Dennis »

Offline WillyWump

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #41 on: May 31, 2009, 01:13:44 pm »
Please pardon the hijack...but have been reading the posts and would like to attend, sounds like a great event!

Questions:
 -Do you have to be a "member" of something to attend this event? ie. do I qualify to attend??

- I do not know anyone so would there be someone to "take me under their wing" If I were to attend?

-Will :)
POZ since '08

Last Labs-
11-6-14 CD4- 871, UD
6/3/14 CD4- 736, UD 34%
6/25/13 CD4- 1036, UD,
2/4/13, CD4 - 489, UD, 28%

Current Meds: Prezista/Epzicom/ Norvir
.

Offline Dennis

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #42 on: May 31, 2009, 01:37:01 pm »
Hey Will,

All members of AidsMeds and their friends and family are welcome to attend. This will be my third year. I didn't know a soul the first year; over 50 people. Last year I met a few more and expect the same this year.

A proposed itinerary with information on accomodations can be found here...

http://forums.poz.com/index.php?topic=23826.0

Peace,
Dennis

Please pardon the hijack...but have been reading the posts and would like to attend, sounds like a great event!

Questions:
 -Do you have to be a "member" of something to attend this event? ie. do I qualify to attend??

- I do not know anyone so would there be someone to "take me under their wing" If I were to attend?

-Will :)
« Last Edit: May 31, 2009, 03:45:13 pm by Dennis »

Offline Robert

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #43 on: May 31, 2009, 03:38:08 pm »

Questions:...  do I qualify to attend??

-Will :)

Hi will.

It specifically states in the bylaws that "... any and all  'WillyWumps' (sic) shall be allowed to partake and participate in any matter or form whatsoever...."  So, yes, I think you qualify.  

If you need financial assistance, please send a note to the Grants Committee.  They just might be able to help you with transportation or lodging.

Please come.  YOu'll have a great time.

robt
« Last Edit: May 31, 2009, 03:59:05 pm by Robert »
..........

Offline WillyWump

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #44 on: May 31, 2009, 06:07:09 pm »
Hi will.

It specifically states in the bylaws that "... any and all  'WillyWumps' (sic) shall be allowed to partake and participate in any matter or form whatsoever...."  So, yes, I think you qualify.  

If you need financial assistance, please send a note to the Grants Committee.  They just might be able to help you with transportation or lodging.

Please come.  YOu'll have a great time.

robt


YAY ME! I quallify!

Awesome, Im going to put a pencil to it and Ill confirm with yall as soon as I have flight and room reserved! I am SUPEr excited to meet you guys!
POZ since '08

Last Labs-
11-6-14 CD4- 871, UD
6/3/14 CD4- 736, UD 34%
6/25/13 CD4- 1036, UD,
2/4/13, CD4 - 489, UD, 28%

Current Meds: Prezista/Epzicom/ Norvir
.

Offline Dwayn20

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Re: Unique Situation Regarding AMG Hotel
« Reply #45 on: July 02, 2009, 09:47:34 pm »
Hey Guys wanted to let you all know I made the first step and have my round trip greyhound bus ticket to New Orleans then catch the Amtrak to Boston.The only problem I see right at this moment is will have to stay in the New Orleans Bus station for between 8 and 16 hours not sure yet don,t have the info when the train is leaving.But it is looking good and the trip is a go and I need this.Call it a much needed Vacation have not gone anywhere since three months before Katrina so long over due.
Dwayne

 


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