Boston Chronicles

Boston is undoubtedly one of the coolest places I have visited. I am fully, unconditionally, and irrevocably a city person (wait, wait. Let's not rule out hiking yet). Naturally, the rich history, architecture, and public green spaces of Boston won me over.

Early in November, during the peak of Fall 2018 and a few days after the Red Sox won the World Series finishing off the Los Angeles Dodgers, I spent a weekend exploring Boston. Although my visit was primarily to see friends, I did manage to experience many of the sites that make Boston so appealing to visitors and locals alike.

Visiting Boston? Here are 10 things you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

1. Visit Quincy Market

Businesses span nearly every cuisine you can imagine. It is a great spot to hit with a group of people, but it is incredibly busy and can be overwhelming. Stop by one of the shops - perhaps the famous Magnolia Bakery and get yourself a delicious banana pudding.

2. Walk Little Italy

A few blocks from Quincy Market, Little Italy has over 80 restaurants and patisseries through its cobblestone streets. There is so much to discover including beauty salons and barber shops and the people of the North End. If you find yourself in the area, try the cannoli, tiramisu and a cup of cappuccino from Mike’s Pastry.

3. Walk the Freedom Walk

This self-guided trail is 2.5 miles long that begins in the Boston Common and winds its way past 16 historic landmarks. It is easy to walk the whole trail or portions of it following the explanatory markers, burial grounds and churches. You'll learn so much about the the compelling story that shaped America. You can find the map of the Freedom Trail here.

4. Grab a Cup of Coffee at Caffe Nero

This cafe has beautiful aesthetics with books lining the walls, exposed industrial pipes, and a long community table running down the center.

Cafe Nero has several locations in Boston. It is the perfect coffee house to go to while working away from the office on travel. I made this my office of the day and enjoyed their almond latte with a palmier on the side.

5. Mesmerize Over the Houses at Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is one of the most appealing (and posh!) neighborhoods in Boston.

The classically polished brick homes with intricate doorways and the coble-stoned streets are admirable. Wonder along the streets of Beacon Hill and you’ll also find cozy coffee shops and little bars for a quaint satisfaction.

6. Shop on Newbury Street

This street includes 8 blocks of local boutiques and shops, salons and dining for everyone. It also makes for the perfect place to people watch. It is a beautiful street lined with trees and brownstone homes.

Tip: Check out Prudential Center which is a block away from Newbury Street if time allows.

7. Eat at Committee

Committee is located in the up and coming Seaport District of Boston and is the destination for all things delicious Mediterranean food. The service was very good and the cocktails were thirst-quenching. It has a rustic and chic vibe that I absolutely love. All plates come as small portions to share.

I recommend the Keftedakia (chicken meatballs with smoked honey and warm hummus dip), and the Okra Horiatiki which is a vegetable salad (thank me later).

8. Get Glammed and Celebrate a Night Out

There are undoubtedly numerous bars in Boston to go to on a night out. The Grand, Bleacher Bar, and Top of the Hub are three of Boston's Best 2018 as listed by The Improper. Empire is also another exclusive Asian fusion restaurant and bar to go to. There is a line after 10pm and the bar side is extremely packed. They have really good drinks and the bartenders are highly efficient.

9. People Watching by Harvard Square

Harvard Square is one of those places where I could have spent a whole day sitting in a cafe watching people pass by. You see people in backpacks, briefcases, even rolling their luggage; in groups, and individually with their headsets on.

You can also power shop through the numerous retail stores and enjoy some outdoor entertainment.

10. Walk Across Charles River via the Longfellow Bridge

The Longfellow Bridge is the major artery that connects Cambridge and Beacon Hills in Boston. It was recently reopened after a major rehabilitation promising future generations a landmark that graces the Boston skyline. The bridge has MBTA's Red Line running over it throughout the day, and includes two bike lanes, sidewalks and three lanes for vehicle traffic.