With an award winning university situated in the heart of town, Boston has an effortless charm carved into its historically quaint buildings. It’s one of the oldest cities in America and one spin around town will confirm just this. It has carefully nourished its roots and has slowly introduced modern day architecture alongside olden day overtones. Boston’s authenticity and old English character make it a much sought after city, with more than 18 million people choosing to visit every year. Tree lined streets with looming black light-posts propel you back to Britain as a nostalgic similarity seeps its way through town.
Beacon Hill’s red brick buildings emanate a patriotic fondness welcoming visitors with a home-like lure. Solemn shutters cover old-fashioned windowpanes, whilst delightfully twee window boxes add colourful notes to Boston’s cobblestoned streets. The city has earned its name from early settlers originating from Boston, Lincolnshire in England. Hints of traditional quirks and British foibles are embedded in the very building blocks of Boston’s history.
Boston’s inhabitants have done a fine old job by giving the city a facelift and bringing it up to modern day speed in the fast lane. The John Hancock tower is a perfect example with its sheeting blue glass; this is Boston’s largest building and a notable pillar of society. The city is an open arena for gay life and naturally LGBT residents have created a sophisticated network of embracing venues.
Gay bars are sprinkled like confetti and the jaw-dropping club scene leaves visitors stupefied. “Club Café” is Boston’s keystone, raising the bar for other such gay addresses. Inside you can enjoy a stimulating social scene as well as a restaurant, lounge and dance club, all under one roof. “Sister Sorrel” is a bite-sized gay watering hole on Tremont Street. Size isn’t everything, at least not where this little pearl is concerned. Have a drink at the marble toped bar before sliding back to the booths where you can snuggle up for some closer conversation.
On the tourist side Boston has its fair share to offer and more than most given its fascinating past. Kenmore Square is certainly worth a visit with some time-honoured pubs and funky record stores. Fenway Park heralds one of the oldest professional sports venues in America, and home to the world-renowned Boston Red Sox. Newbury Street is where you can rummage through some of the ritziest shops this side of the Atlantic. Fine dining is close by and a trip to “Stephanie’s” on Newbury is a perfect way to finish up a good shopping trip. With a warm fire and dark wood surround, this restaurant will make you feel snug as a bug with a rich interior and some extremely pro-active staff to hand.
The world’s oldest marathon takes place in Boston with the finish line just in front of the gothic inspired Public Library. To add to its annual wonders, Gay Pride ruffles residents in June. Banners and rainbow parades fill the streets with a momentous sentiment and some back-to-back parties behind the scenes.
Photos: Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau