After almost three years, it was time to be back in the USA. A trip over three weeks was distributed between Boston, New York, Tampa, Orlando, and Lakeland; yep, it was a long one!
The first stop was in Boston. It is one of the oldest cities in the USA and the capital of Massachusetts.
Fun Fact via Travel Trivia
Boston was once flooded by molasses. During World War I, molasses was used in making explosives. On January 15, 1919, a massive tank holding molasses ruptured, sending more than 2 million gallons of the substance spilling into the city. It submerged two city blocks and killed 21 people, making it one of the stranger events in Boston’s long history.
The city has a history that is still marked by many of its sites; it also has its renowned place in higher education, being home to Harvard and Boston University. It is also home to the Converse headquarters!
1- The flight
Converse team has taken charge of many parts of my trip, such as booking the ticket and the hotel. I was very happy to fly with Qatar Airways as they have THE BEST service I have ever witnessed during all my travels. It is a looooooooong flight: Around 4 hours from Beirut to Doha and 14 hours (12 on the way back) from Doha to Boston.
On-board service, meals, and entertainment are all designed to make the trip tolerable; it is highly recommended.
2- The sleep
Unfortunately, this part was out of my hands, and I did not enjoy the stay much in the Hilton Dedham Hotel: it is neat, but it is very far from the center. And though it is near a station, I did not feel safe taking the commuter back at night.
The hotel itself is not bad; the breakfast buffet is good. The front desk staff is helpful, and the rooms are clean and spacious.
We were happy to spend the last night in Hilton Back Bay at a different standard, nd it is right in the center of the city, 10-15 minutes away from the airport, 10 minutes walking distance from the Prudential Center, which was perfect.
I would advise making your search to find a good catch inside the city better than reserving in the suburbs and eventually paying the difference to taxis.
3- The drive
We were lucky to have an awesome friend in Boston, but when he was not available, we used Uber and Lyft, which are similar applications. We also used the commuter to get to the main station where you buy the ticket for less than 4 $ on board. There are passes if you are planning to take public transportation; here is a website that will help you.
4- When to go
It is one of the coldest cities, and two weeks before my arrival (which was on April 20th), there was a snowstorm! Though we were lucky to have sunny weather for most of the days, it turned rainy towards the end. I would recommend planning your trip between May and September.
5- Top things to see
Boston Commons and Public Garden: Spring calls for Parks, and in Boston you won’t be deceived. The commons Oldest Park, dating from 1643, and the Public Garden were founded in 183,7 andhaves different sorts of trees whose names are marked, as well as live entertainment and food trucks spread in the proximity. There are even boat rides!
Newbury Street: NYC has its Fifth Avenue, and Boston has Newbury Street. Enjoy a stroll, shopping from high-end brands to the more affordable ones. You can later enjoy a great meal in one of the many options all over the sidewalks.
Freedom Trail: An idea of the journalist William Schofield to build a pedestrian trail to walk linking 16 historical landmarks. You can book your guided tour to explore them.
Faneuil Hall: A historical building which is part of the Freedom Trail. It has 3 markets as well as restaurants where you can savor local specialties.
Fenway Park: which is the baseball park home for the Boston Red Sox, the city’s American League baseball team
Cambridge and Harvard Square: Home for the oldest American university, Harvard, this area is bustling with life, with many eateries, bookstores, and theaters.
Waterfront: Boston’s Marina, where different wharves are lined on the Harbor with hotels, public art, food trucks, nd parks alongside.
Prudential Center: Not only a shopping and dining destination, but it also offers 360-degree views of the city.
6- The food
I dedicated different posts to the awesome restaurants in which I enjoyed my meals, so Hubu can check them but here is a list:
- Whole foods: yes build your own salad!
- Atalianlianantic ftoh: the best tuna steLick
- Russel House : a great brunch destination
- Saltie girl: a seafood lover treat
- Top of the hub: Amazing jazz vibes with live bands in Prudential Center
- Cafe Nero: an italian touch of your cup of Joe
- JP licks: the BEST decadent ice cream flavors
- EATALY: Gelato mi amore!
- Market Kitchen and Dine Boston Cafe: great options at the airport
The best part of Boston, is its proximity to NEW YORK! You can reserve your return ticket for around 32 $ and 4 hours trip with Greyhound buses. They have the funniest drivers ever, on board wifi, the only inconvenience is the unannounced delays.
And now you know what the next destination was!
P.S. When I’m not exploring cities like this, I’m styling clients across
the US professionals, and anyone ready for a wardrobe that finally
feels like them. Curious? Check my Styling Packages
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With all my love and a well-curated wardrobe
La Petite, Hanine
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