Travel

As one of the country s oldest cities, and the capital of Massachusetts, Boston s historical legacy is unmatched in the US. Strolling through a city founded in 1630 is like reading pages from a history book. Key moments such as the American Revolution to the abolition of slavery are celebrated and encapsulated in numerous buildings and monuments. But beyond its revolutionary past, Boston is a thriving metropolis with plenty to offer visitors.

It feels a bit like London, with each district having its own charms and attractions; in fact, many consider Boston to be one of the most European-feeling cities in North America. And the city is so compact that it s best to explore its sprawling streets and diverse neighbourhoods on foot, from upmarket Beacon Hill and studenty Harvard to the Italian North End, Irish-influenced Southie, and Back Bay with its shops and caf s.

Its setting couldn t be better with the Boston Harbour and Charles River, while there are many parks, whale-spotting cruises and bird-watching spots to be enjoyed among the city s 30-plus islands. An especially popular time to visit is autumn, when the legendary New England fall foliage bursts into fiery colours.

To get an overview (and a taste of modern Boston) ascend the Skywalk Observatory on the 50th floor of the towering Prudential building. It is one of many soaring glass-and-steel skyscrapers that reflect the city s contemporary face, which also boasts fabulous museums, edgy art galleries and sophisticated restaurants.

Then there s baseball to be seen at Fenway Park with the Red Sox, boutique shops on Newbury Street to peruse, along with more luxury options in Copley Place, and delicious food to be sampled at Quincy Market in the city centre. Don t miss the local speciality, clam chowder or freshly-caught lobster for that matter.

Boston isn t cheap, with both restaurants and hotels ranking amongst the most expensive in the country. But you ll find it to be worth every dime.