The Charles Hotel Harvard Square

This is the first time I've encountered a hotel booking through Ctrip that I couldn't check in. The hotel refused to check me in because they couldn't settle the charges with Ctrip. I waited for over an hour with my child and missed dinner, with no compensation. Ctrip paid the entire bill, but the hotel also charged me the same amount as the room rate as a deposit, plus an additional $50 for incidentals. The next day, they inexplicably charged me another $250. After check-out, none of the charges were promptly refunded or held. I asked the front desk for a receipt, which they promised, but ultimately couldn't provide, so I had to contact Ctrip. While the hotel was well-maintained, the lack of a washing machine, dryer, kettle, microwave, or vending machine was extremely inconvenient. I couldn't find a place to buy water, and the water heater downstairs wasn't hot enough to even make instant noodles. The refrigerator was incredibly small and locked, requiring a key to open the door. Parking was $50 a night, and the garage attendant lied about a discount when I parked for a long time, but he couldn't find me. The hotel is no longer the warm place I remembered. The staff are completely indifferent and snobbish.