Two short blocks from Central Station, this revamped contemporary hotel is near the evocative, traditional Meridien Gallia. The brash exterior of this building is just about as ugly as a hotel can be, with nine stories of 1970-ish fluted concrete encasing metal shutters. Inside, this hotel's California/Milanese-modern interiors continue to hold up in spite of its popularity with American and European tour groups and Continental commercial travelers. Apart from a little moldy grout in the older baths, maintenance is generally good. Its popularity with conventioneers and groups creates nonstop traffic in the lobby, though it is a colorful scene for people-watchers. The staff is used to Americans and language barriers are nonexistent. The interior is easier on the eyes, a stylish contemporary setting in tune with corporate tastes. The spacious marble lobby has a colorful new backdrops done in eggplant hues. A small conversation area and inviting bar flank the rooms. The renovated restaurant blends regional and international fare with a penchant for fresh seafood. The open kitchen encourages a fitting informality, and while buffets are popular, the a la carte menu is surprisingly affordable. An updated small gym (all new machines) lies downstairs from the lobby, 10 meeting rooms hold gatherings of up to 200 people, and recent technological advances include wireless Internet access beams throughout the guest rooms and public areas. The self-service business center is open around the clock. Reasonably priced parking (around US$23) is in a garage. The thoughtfully maintained accommodations show cool brown and pale yellow color schemes and have king, queen or paired twin beds, all with fluffy duvets. Sleek contemporary appointments include polished light wood headboards, upholstered armchairs, breakfast tables in sitting areas and plush carpeting. Desks, ample storage space, phones with data ports, trim new flat-screen TVs, minibars and safes are all in place. The baths, although small, are stocked with robes, hair dryers and toiletries. The brand new rooms on the executive floors have all new furniture, fabrics and fittings, with the exception of the baths. The latter are in good shape, but some of the marble in the combination showers could use a good scrubbing. The preferred Executive units are the key to a private lounge offering complimentary breakfast and other beverages and snacks throughout the day. Room service never stops. The hotel charges a fee to accommodate pets large and small (only one pet per room). Smoking is now prohibited in most rooms. The friendly, conscientious staff extends itself to meet most requests. Although it lacks the panache of the Sheraton and the pleasant residential nature of the Marriott, this hotel remains one of the better options for midrange commercial travelers and groups seeking a safe location and a familiar American-style hotel. For the money, this is a superior choice to the other establishments near the station, including the Excelsior Gallia, Michelangelo and Auriga hotels.