Short term rentals have become the new alternative, instead of a hotel. These fully furnished apartments offer a wide range of amenities for less than the hotel costs. They include linens, fully applianced and equipped kitchens, cable TV and free phone service. Many offer maid service at an extra charge.

Imagine walking into a warmly lighted home with a comforting couch and a cozy fire awaiting. This scenario can come to life with short term rentals. A home away from home where you make the decisions. You can choose to cook for yourself or other guests one night and decide to go out the next night, the choice is yours.

All of the apartments are located in very popular neighborhoods in Boston, such as Back Bay, Beacon Hill, North End/Waterfront and the South End. Being surrounded by the alluring city life, there are many entertaining venues just a few minutes away.

The agencies usually rent the apartments on a weekly and monthly basis, however there are the few that rent on a nightly basis. The rents range from $145 a night for a studio to $4800 a month for a two bedroom apartment. The price depends on the agency, the location, the duration and the size of the apartment.

"Most of our customers are business related," said Richard Stevens from Commonwealth Court Guest House. Whereas Mark LaBelle from The Copley House said that its main customer "were people who were relocating to Boston."

The difference between the customers shows the diverse outlets of this wonderful alternative.

Most of the agencies have a wide variety of one bedrooms and studios. Two bedrooms are available with all agencies, but there are only a couple of options.

Boston offers a broad range of short term rentals for every type of traveler. They are sporadically located throughout the city and each has their own unique quality.