Best Time to Travel
With its glittering harbor, and parks splashed with blooming colors, the best way to experience Boston is to get outside and breathe in its salty ocean air. Summer's warm weather makes it the ideal season to visit – and you'll get the chance to watch the Independence Day fireworks exploding over the waves of the city where American liberty was first fought for. The New England scenery may tempt you to come later in the year, however, as the parks and sidewalks transform into auburn-colored works of art, and a dusting of snow adds a beautiful sheen to the city.
Not to Miss
This city, which constantly seems to change color, goes emerald green in March, as the St Patrick’s Day celebrations get into full swing. The city was home to America's first ever St Patrick’s Day parade – which according to the old tales took place in 1737 – and the tradition is still alive and kicking. Afterwards, toast the date with a Guinness and a song, in one of the city’s many Irish pubs. Fenway Park is another unmissable Boston institution, and you have to catch a game at Major League Baseball's oldest stadium at some point. Grab some mustard-smothered Fenway Franks hotdogs, and take your seat to cheer along with the locals as the Boston Red Sox crack another home run. The Ball Park’s humble capacity means you’ll be in the thick of the action - but be quick, this is the hottest ticket in town, so you'll need to book tickets early.
Getting around
Boston’s simple to reach thanks to its large airport, which receives flights from right across the globe. Europe and Asia are just a plane ride away, or you can soar into domestic destinations – New York City is just an hour away. The city’s South Station links Boston with the Big Apple by train in 4 hours, or you can settle in and ride to destinations like Washington D.C. and Philadelphia. Getting around Boston is easy thanks to its effective public transport system, which lets you travel by tram, bus or ferry, with one simple ticket.
Cuisine
Its position on the Atlantic's coast means Boston’s cuisine has been heavily influenced by seafood - and the smell of steaming lobsters is never far away. You’ll also get the chance to taste the best clam chowder – a kind of thick and wholesome broth. Round off your culinary tour of Boston with a generous wedge of Boston Cream Pie - overflowing with custardy filling.
Customs and etiquette
Boston’s a friendly and welcoming place, and a healthy mix of students, tourists, and natives keeps the city feeling lively and energized. Boston’s bar staff make their living off tips, so don’t forget to add on a little extra when you're looking at menus and prices. Most people tip between 15-20% for a meal in a restaurant, and add $1 per drink when ordering at a bar. Taxi drivers and hotel porters will also expect a tip of between 10% and 20%. Fast Facts
• Population: 646000
• Spoken languages: English
• Electrical: The USA runs on 120V, 60 Hz current
• Phone Calling Code: +1 617911
