Being on twitter as a blogger allowed me not only to actually start this blog, but also to meet some amazing people from all over the world, with whom I share many things in common. One of the most special people I have met, actually in person, and loved is the fab @loladimarco who has since become a good friend of Mr. and Mrs. O. I love her blog, her style and her way of thinking and of course I had to ask her to write a guest post for me, while I am away. Lola *just happens* to live in Boston.. which *happens* to be one of my favourite cities in the world. She’s sharing her favourite places with us. Love xo Mrs. O
Boston
One of the United State’s oldest cities, Boston makes a perfect weekend getaway destination for so many. It is a short drive for many United States East Coast cities and a short flight from some further away US destinations. From the US West Coast or Western Europe, the flight is a bit longer but still worth the trip as you can see and do so much in a long weekend’s time frame.
Where To Rest Your Head
There are many lovely options in Boston. You could go with an iconic institution like The Ritz or Four Seasons or you could try a newer kid on the block like The Liberty Hotel or Ames. Obviously, you know the standards you are receiving along with the price tag at The Ritz or Four Seasons. The Liberty Hotel and Ames are potentially more affordable and the service there is exceptional too. All have unique things to offer amongst them. And, this is just the tip of the iceberg. There is everything else in between. No lack of property options here, however, Boston is a popular destination so plan to book your stay ahead.
Good Eats and Dining Treats
Ideal dinner options are among any of the Barbara Lynch restaurants. Lynch is an institution in Boston dining and for a good reason. All of her restos are wonderful and the staff is some of the most knowledgable around. In the South End, there’s B&G Oysters or The Butcher Shop which are both unique in their approach and delicious. In the Fort Point Channel area there’s Barbara’s Sportello, a modern interpretation of the classic lunch counter, and Drink, a unique cocktail lounge. These two, one on top of the other, are amongst my favorite Boston hotspots. Though not in the Lynch family, I am quite fond of Island Creek Oyster Bar. The decor is fantastic, service fabulous and the food to die for. ICOB also has a great cocktail menu and serves wonderful drinks.
Some wonderful lunch spots are The Met Bar off of Newbury Street. A perfect stop during a shopping spree as well as Towne Stove & Spirits on Boylston. If you’re planning to take in some art during your visit, the Museum of Fine Arts has the New American Cafe as well as the nicer Bravo restaurant.
My ALL TIME favorite breakfast spot is Paramount in Beacon Hill. A comfortable bistro, Paramount’s breakfast is cafeteria style but made to order for you. You go through the line, place your order, watch it be prepared and then pay and take your delicious breakfast to one of their open tables. It is worth any wait! Brunch options are aplenty in the South End. A recent fabulous discovery, Kitchen, presents food with a take on historically inspired foods which is a burgeoning trend right now. With every dish on the menu, Kitchen tells you how old the recipe is.
Drinks and People Watching
With Boston being such a walking city, people watching is fantastic all over. Another place I enjoy the “see and be seen scene” is a great hotel bar and many of the “where to rest your head” options are perfect for cocktails and people watching. Four Seasons’ Bristol Lounge is a great place to kick off an evening as is Ames’ Woodward. Recently, I’ve enjoyed post-dinner drinks at Red Lantern, a relatively newer hotspot. Liberty Hotel’s Clink is a perfect place to close out a night on the town!
Strolling, Shopping & Culture
It depends on your preferences, of course, but in Boston there’s something for everyone. You could just stroll the Esplanade along the Charles River or choose to take in some history on The Freedom Trail. Self-guided tours make these easy options to do at any point during a long weekend. Personally, I love the Boston Public Garden – it’s so enchanting. Shopping options also abound in Boston. There’s the notoriously stylish Newbury Street but wonderful boutique shops can also be found in the North End or South End or Beacon Hill – even Cambridge. New discoveries and favorite-finds await you. And for culture – well, I’m not one to wish to spend all day indoors on a quick getaway but I would say it’s worth checking out what is the visiting exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts. They often have the most amazing shows and an audio tour typically only takes about an hour out of your day. Other cultural things you might consider partaking in could be a symphony at the Boston Symphony Orchestra or a concert at the many different music venues around Boston. Then there’s the legendary Boston professional sports alternative for the die hard sports fans. Bottom line, you won’t run out of options for things to do in the ole “Hub of the Universe”.
Who is Lola?
Lola’s Travels – lolastravels.com
A sassy, fun-loving, and flirtatious traveler, Lola has a flair for finding adventure and making new friends. A typical Lola trip is only a few days, so she’s a master at getting the most out of her getaway. A Frommer’s guide this is not, but Lola does spotlight exceptional places to stay, eat, shop and play in a playful, yet informative way.