Boston

Boston is a historic city, with old colonial buildings, a long history, and a city important to the founding of the country. Bostonians are very proud of their city and show their Boston pride any chance they can. I grew up in this city and even with all my world travels, Boston is still one of my favorite cities in the world. Though one of the biggest cities in the country, it has more of a large town feel to it than that of a metropolis. In this college town, you’ll find friendly locals, die hard sports fans, great bars, good restaurants, and a ton of American history. Don’t miss out.

Typical Costs

• Hostel Prices: Hostels in America aren’t cheap and Boston is no exception. For the downtown hostels, expect to pay $30 or more per night for a dorm room.
• Budget Hotel Prices:The budget hotels are located outside the city center and many are near the train Prices begin around $50 per night.
• Average Cost of Food: Eating at restaurants you should expect to pay around $15-$20 for a meal with drinks. But, you can always find some local spots for cheap pizza and sandwiches and stay around $5-8. Cooking for yourself will cost around $50 per week.
• Transportation Costs: Boston is said to be a walking city, and no matter where you stay, you’ll be able to get around easily. The subway is also very easy to use. The “T” will costs $2.50 per trip.

Top Things to Do

• Walk Boston’s Freedom Trail – Spend a day outdoors, put on comfortable shoes, and walk this 2 1/2 mile route full of historical information. This trail takes you to all the must see historical sites throughout the city.
• Visit Coit Observatory at Boston University – You can pick out your favorite constellation at the Coit Observatory. They offer free stargazing Wednesdays after 8:30pm throughout the spring and the summer, of course pending clear skies.
• See Bunker Hill Monument – There are 249 steps to the top of Bunker Hill Monument. It is certain that this is the best view of the Boston skyline.
• Drink at Sam Adams Brewery = The Sam Adams Brewery offers tours of the facility and insight into how founder Jim Koch brews the beer. Tours and tastings are on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from noon until 5:30pm. Saturdays 11:00-3:00, starting every half hour.
• Stroll the Museum of Fine Art – This museum is worth visiting, and even has six different days of free admission during 2010. You also get in for free on your birthday.
• Take in a game at Fenway Park – Boston Red Sox players and fans call this home. It is one of the smallest and oldest baseball parks in the major leagues. Built in 1912, this park still has real grass on the field as well as the famed Green Monster. Guided tours are offered year round as well.
• Picnic at Boston Common – One of the nation’s oldest existing parks, Boston Common is nearly 50 acres and was once reserves as pasture land by Puritan settlers.
• Shop or eat on Newbury Street – Newbury Street is Boston’s classy shopping street. Here’s you’ll find expensive designers mixed with great boutiques. It’s not a cheap place to shop. But it is a delicious place to eat. Great restaurants and cafes line this street at an affordable price.
• Hang out at Fanueil Hall - Fanueil Hall is a popular place for locals to hang out. During the day, a lot of people go shopping. At night, the restaurants are filled with people and the are is one of the big bar destinations in the city. The cheap Irish pubs that fill the area are widely popular. Make sure you eat at Quincy Market, an indoor food hall with over 20 types of food.
• Visit Harvard University – Harvard University was the first school in the country. They offer tours through the grounds and buildings. After wards, go grab a coffee and people watch in the alternative and arty Harvard Square.

Budget Tips

• Eating at Quincy Market-The Quincy market food colonnade offers a wide range of food at low prices.
• Take walking tours – Because Boston is such a historical area, you are able to take advantage of plenty of free walking tours including the most famous, The Freedom Trail.
• Drink outside downtown - Experience Boston nightlife in Brighton or Allston for cheaper drinks and a more relaxed environment.
• Enjoy the free parks - You can experience nature for free at the Arnold Arboretum. More than 260 acres of free public space, open from sunrise to sunset. There are running trails, gardens, open lawns, and lots of flowers from all over the world. Relax among the plants and take a step back from the fast pace of the city.
• Enjoy free concerts - During the summer, you can find free concerts on the Charles River.