We did enquire about what eating facilities they had for the evening and was told that there wasn’t any. Though there was plenty of diners locally. But when you have just travelled for more than eight hours the last thing you want to do is go out for something to eat. They did mention though that the local pizza delivery places deliver to the room so we took them up on this opportunity.

40 minutes later, our pizza was delivered to our door along with some chicken fingers and some diet Pepsi – all of which we were glad to see. I haven’t had a pizza delivered since 2007 and it felt like a real novelty and a treat. Portugal don’t do that kind of thing which is probably the same reason why they don’t sell plus size clothes. It was also the biggest pizza I have ever seen apart from the ones I have seen the movies and between three of us we didn’t even manage to eat it all. I think for our time in America we will have to share meals for us to get our money’s worth.

The hotel room at the Holiday Inn Express at Boston Logan airport was lovely. Large beds – actually so big that it felt like we got lost in it. Because of all the travelling we have done over the past couple of days we were fast asleep before nine and the lovely soft pillows of the hotel made it so worthwhile. The hotel room was very nice and as an internet marketer the idea of having free wifi was excellent and you can imagine how much I used it. I had a work crisis during the evening so I needed it then more than ever. It was also very fast broadband which for hotels is a real rareity.

The hotel also seemed really spacious and it was a shock to find a lift that could actually hold all of luggage plus us!

The big question is would I come back to the Holiday Inn Express for future holidays or stop overs?

Well in all honesty probably not. It was only $5 less a night that what we are paying in higher holiday season for the Hilton. It was also much further away from Boston Logan Airport than I thought it would be so next time I will look for something closer. There was nothing that I could possibly fault with the hotel it was just the location was not right for me. However if I was hiring a car I would come back. But with a $40 taxi to get there it would become rather expensive for us.

I also feel that I would prefer to stay somewhere like this for a holiday as the local area is fantastic and the other facilities it has are wasted on a stop over.

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So six years after my last attempt I have finally made it onboard a Virgin Atlantic flight and we are in the sky as I type this making our way across to Boston as I watch the latest Rachel McAdams movie.

We arrived at Heathrow Airport for your flight to Boston at lunchtime and had a couple of hours before our flight and I still cant believe how big it was. I was born very close by to the airport so its like returning home after all these years. I just cant believe the choice in shops and to be honest hardly noticed the restaurants in comparison. And I did sneak off for a little squirt of my favourite perfume – after all isn’t that what perfume shops are made for?

We soon headed towards the gate and what I liked about it compared to Easy Jet the night before is that we had already got our seat number so it no longer felt like we were all a load of bulls in a china shop. Our seats though were next to the staff unit so we had no one in front of us so it was like getting extra leg room without having to pay for it.

However there was someone doing surveys at the gates about the Heathrow facilities which lets face it do you really care how many restaurants there are when you are just using the transportation and I avoid airport food just because it is over priced. And the day before at Gatwick airport we bought a picnic in. You still have to pay for your drinks due to the liquids policy and after paying a huge amount for a very small Sprite, it made me very glad that I bought my own food.

However the downside to the seating which I was not expecting is that the seats were very short width wise and you feel like you are constantly rubbing elbows with the person next to you and god knows what you do if you are over twenty stone – I could see you getting stuck thats for sure. The worst thing for me personally is that they had a really stupid leather covering on the seatbelt so when fastened really digs into you and is rather painful. I just wish I had a pair of scissors handy so I could have chopped it off as it easily took another inch off your seat size. Leg room is no issue but being comfy in your seat isn’t just about your legs.

On the actual flight itself we were going to get Vodka cocktails which I was really looking forward to. Unfortunately the air stewardess failed to mention they were available and I ended up with wine instead. Me things they might have run out and it was a silly excuse.

Now what can I say about the food on the plane? Its one of those things like hospital food that we all moan about when we have to have it and rightly so, because with the way the food has to be prepared there is only so much you can do so it is unfair to expect restaurant standards. Though my issue with the food is not the quality but the lack of information available to me. With a food allergy in the family I need to know what is included. So when I asked I was told they didn’t know anything and couldn’t or maybe wouldn’t find out either. Which is very unprofessional for anyone serving food to the public. Even in pubs when they are serving pre-made food you still have this information to you. So the question is do you risk it or do you refuse food instead?

The best position to be in for quantities when it comes to food and drink seems to be to the middle or the right of the plane. We had three of the four seats in the centre of the plane and the trolley that was going up the right hand side had a much better service than those on the left. They had the food first, drinks first and as I type I am waiting on my sandwich which the right side received more than 25 minutes ago.

Our son Kyle was in his element though, as because of the difference between the two sides he received the puddings twice, drinks three times and a much more friendlier air stewardess – some how I think I sat on the wrong side. But I suppose you live and learn.

The question is – am I a fan of Virgin and would I use them again?

Yes, but not in economy. I feel like in economy after my experiences today that they treat you like cattle and if you were paying for premium economy or upper class the attention to service would be much better and the staff would be better trained for the more important Virgin customers. We had to even resorting to putting our rubbish on the floor because they wouldn’t take it and only then did they remove it. For me a big part of it is the size of the seats and I believe that is one improvement on other parts of the plane. But seriously why are the plane seats in economy so small on Virgin Atlantic and much better on Easy Jet after all Easy Jet is the budget airline and I always expect more from Virgin. Now I realised that I have never missed anything special all these years. I would still choose them over British Airways though as they don’t lose your bags!

Tonight we check into our hotel in Boston and I will let you know in the morning how nice it is and whether or not its worth a visit. And of course more flying tomorrow, something that feels like a normal part of life. I never thought I would be flying three times in 48 hours, I must have been mad!

The post Flying Across The Atlantic To Boston With Virgin Atlantic first appeared on Rediscover Boston.

With excellent culinary hotspots and various sights and famous attractions, Boston is a place of non-stop fun. Enjoy historic buildings, relax in the natural parks, visit the national landmarks, and see the birthplaces of the many famous patriots, presidents, and politicians. The city is a gem of architectural treasures including brimstone and cobble stone streets, gas lamps that light the way to the many neighborhoods of Boston. Each neighborhood has unique characteristics and various reasons to be explored:

Newbury Street

This glamorous upscale neighborhood is filled with shops, restaurants, and cafés. Stroll down the grassy mall to get a feel of the way people in Boston lived way back in the eighteenth century. You can roller blade through the Esplanade, or take a leisurely bike ride. There is fun within everything.
Waterfront
While strolling through Boston, near the Harbor Waterfront, it is important to make a stop along the Freedom Trail. Enjoy buying souvenirs for friends and family, or get quick photo opportunities.

Jamaica Plain

Known as the suburban neighborhood inside the city, the Jamaica Plain is the perfect place to have a picnic on the pond, wander through the botanical gardens at the Arnold Arboretum, or take in the picturesque displays of the ravishing Victorian style architecture. This is truly a place of elegance and charm.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a city within a city. Located just opposite of downtown Boston, it is best known as the home to the world-renowned Harvard University; the most prestigious school in the United States. With more vibrant colors, liberal opinions, and funky atmosphere, you are in for a real funky good time. This lively area features cheap ethnic restaurants, music clubs, exciting bars, fine restaurants, unique shops, and of course the Harvard Museum of Natural History, there is no time for boredom.

Boston is a whole bunch of cities within in the city of Boston. Be sure to visit each one. Each piece of history from each neighborhood creates the world-famous Boston!

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Places to See

While visiting Boston, Massachusetts, there are some key points of interest that you should include on your list of things to see. Plan a trip to the New England Aquarium, where you can see the thousands of species of marine life that are on display. Observe the relics and works of art at the many museums, including the Institute of Contemporary Art, the Museum of Fine Art and the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum. Make plans to see an awe-inspiring performance by the Boston Ballet or the Boston Opera. While you’re at it, add seeing a Broadway or Off-Broadway show in the famed Theater District to your list of things to see.

Things to Do

When making up your itinerary for a trip to Boston, Massachusetts, include some of the exciting things to do to turn your trip into an unforgettable adventure. Go on a literary tour of Boston and learn about the famous authors who wrote about and hailed from the city. Travel along the Freedom Trail and learn why Boston is often called the Cradle of Liberty. Explore the many neighborhoods that make up this city and soak up the local culture. Be a spectator and root on one of the famous Boston sports teams at one of the sporting venues. Enjoy a night on the town and experience the bars and pubs, restaurants and music scene that add to this vibrant city.

Places to Stay

Of course, you’ll want to book accommodations that suit your needs to add to your experience of Boston, Massachusetts, and there is an array of places to stay to choose from. For a luxury experience, book a room at one of the first-class hotels, such as the W Boston, the Hotel Commonwealth or the Ritz Carlton Boston Common. Stay in one of the historic hotel’s in this historic city; the Boston Park Plaza Hotel and Towers, the Kendall Hotel or the Omni Parker House, perhaps. For more budget-friendly accommodations, there are several economy hotels in the Boston area, including the Red Roof Inn Boston-Logan, the Super 8 Motel and the Suburban Extend Stay Logan Airport.

The post Boston Massachusetts first appeared on Rediscover Boston.

Holiday Inn Boston at Beacon Hill

If you’re traveling to Boston by way of plane, arrange to stay at the Holiday Inn Boston at Beacon Hill. This Holiday Inn Boston hotel is located in the Beacon Hill neighborhood, just 3 miles from Logan International Airport. The hotel offers comfortably-appointed guest rooms that boast all of the comforts of home, as well as an array of amenities, including a fitness center, a heated outdoor swimming room, an on-site restaurant and lounge, meeting rooms and full business services. Here, you’ll also be within close proximity to the many attractions of the city of Boston, including the Charles River Plaza, the New England Aquarium, Harvard University, Fenway Park and Gillette Stadium. For more information, or to book online, visit hisboston.com.

Holiday Inn Boston – Somerville

Located in the heart of downtown Boston, the Holiday Inn Boston- Somerville is close to all the sites and attractions that the cities of Boston and Cambridge have to offer. Nearby featured points of interest include the Museum of Science, Fenway Park, the Bunker Hill Monument, the USS Constitution Museum, Harvard Square as well as the many restaurants and shops of both areas. When you’re not out exploring the surrounding area, take comfort in the accommodations and amenities that the Holiday Inn Boston- Somerville has to offer. Work out in the 24-hour fitness center. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool. Dine on the gourmet cuisine at the on-site restaurant. At the end of the day, rest your head in one of the well-appointed guest rooms. To learn more about this Holiday Inn Boston hotel, visit holidayinn.com.

The Holiday Inn Boston – Brookline

Nestled amongst the charming brownstone buildings that the city of Boston is famous for is the Holiday Inn Boston- Brookline. Whether you’re traveling to the area for business or for pleasure, you’ll appreciate the accommodations and amenities at this hotel. Kick-start your day with breakfast at the on-site restaurant. Unwind in the hotel’s swimming pool and enjoy libations at the lounge. Get a restful night’s sleep in your comfortable guest room. Don’t forget to explore the nearby sites and attractions, including Copley Square, the New England Aquarium and Boston University. For more information, visit holidayinn.com.

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Fenway Park

Fenway Park is the home to Boston’s baseball team and one of the most beloved baseball teams in the country, the Boston Red Sox. Opened in 1912, this sports venue in Boston Massachusetts is the oldest operating baseball stadium in the United States and is as much of an icon as the Boston Red Sox, themselves. To learn more, visit boston.redsox.mlb.com.

Gillette Stadium

Located just 21 miles south of Boston in Foxborough, Gillette Stadium is consider one of the famous sports venues in Boston Massachusetts and is the home of the Patriots, the city’s football team, and the New England Revolution, the city’s soccer team. The stadium was built to replace the old Foxboro Stadium and was open in 2002. In addition to being one of the sports venues in Boston Massachusetts, this stadium is also a popular site for concerts. For more information, please visit gillettestadium.com.

TD Garden

Home to the Celtics, the city’s basketball team and the Bruins, the city’s hockey team, TD Garden is among the top sports venues in Boston Massachusetts. The venue is named for its sponsor, TD Bank, but you may also hear it being referred to as the Boston Garden or simply The Garden. The venue opened in 1995 under the name the Shawmut Center and has since been called the FleetCenter and now TD Garden. To learn more about the events that occur at this sports venue in Boston Massachusetts, visit tdgarden.com.

The Agganis Arena

The Agganis Arena, located at Boston University, is another one of the featured sports venues in Boston Massachusetts. This multipurpose arena serves as an venue for several functions, including conferences, ceremonies, performances, but is most famed as a sports venue, serving as the home for Boston University’s hockey team, the Terriers. Agganis Arena is a part of Boston University’s John Hancock Student Village, which also features a fitness and recreation center and student dorms. To learn more about the Agganis Arena, please visit bu.edu.

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Originally called Boston Chicken, the idea for these restaurants started in Newton, Massachusetts in 1985. The tastiness of the convenience of the homestyle food was different from the fast food chains that the United States was familiar with and during the 1990s, the popularity of these restaurants soared throughout the Northeast and eventually the country. The original concept featured rotisserie chicken and several side dishes, but when the menu expanded to include meatloaf and turkey, the restaurant changed its name to Boston Market.

Menu Items

Boston Market specializes in a variety of homestyle dishes, most of which are staples on the menu. The original featured menu item, rotisserie chicken, is still one of the most popular items on the menu; however, instead of just begin able to dine on traditional rotisserie chicken, you can also enjoy it on a variety of sandwiches and in several salads. Meatloaf and turkey are also among the popular main dishes that are featured on the menu. If you prefer a salad or a sandwich, Boston Market certainly can accommodate your palate. There are many different types of salads and sandwiches available, including a Chicken Caesar salad and a Mediterranean salad, as well as rotisserie chicken salad sandwiches, brisket sandwiches and meatloaf sandwiches.

Pair your main dish with one of the gourmet sides offered at the Boston Market restaurants. Gourmet side dishes include creamy macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, almond green beans, sweet potatoes and creamed spinach.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at the end of your meal with one of Boston Market’s tasty desserts, including apple pie, chocolate cake and chocolate brownies. There are also several soft drinks available to quench your thirst.

If you’re visiting Boston and are have a hankering for Boston Market, visit one of the two area restaurants; on Massachusetts Avenue in Boston and on Morrissey Boulevard in Dorchester.

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Boston is the capital city of Massachusetts and sits on the state’s eastern seaboard and hugs the shores of Boston Bay. The city was founded in 1630 and played a major role in the development of the United States of America. It was here that many of the events that lead to the Revolutionary War transpired and in a town neighboring the city that the war began. It is for these reasons that the city is often referred to as the Cradle of Liberty.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, Boston Massachusetts became the landing point for several immigrant groups, most notably the Irish. During this time, thousands of Irish settlers made their home in Boston and the strong heritage of this group still dominates the culture of the city. Many other immigrant groups inhabited Boston, including the Polish, the Lithuanians and the Chinese. Like the Irish, the culture of these immigrants still shapes the city of Boston today.

In addition to being famed for its notable role in the shaping of the United States of America, Boston, Massachusetts is also regarded as a city of firsts. It is here that many firsts occurred and later spread throughout the country, including the nation’s first public park – the Boston Commons – the first public library and the first subway.

This diverse city is also known for its many distinct neighborhoods and each of these neighborhoods is made up of a distinct population. The Back Bay is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the country and features renowned shops and restaurants on Newbury Street. Dorchester is perhaps the most diverse, as it is made up of an array of ethnic subpopulations. The South End is hailed as the trendy neighborhood in the city.

With many sites, attractions, cultural centers and activities, you’ll surely appreciate this city, but knowing a bit about the facts of Boston Massachusetts may make you appreciate it even more.

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The city was founded by Anglo Saxon’s and for a long time, the culture of these people defined the culture of Boston Massachusetts. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the culture began to shift, as the influx of Irish immigrants to the city rose. With the soaring influx of Irish immigrants, the culture started to become primarily associated with that of the Irish people. As new immigrant groups began to populate the area, there cultures, too, started to spread throughout the areas these groups inhabited. Today, the culture of Boston Massachusetts still reflects the proud heritage of those ethnic groups that filled the city, including Irish, Polish and Lithuanian. There is also a devoted Chinatown in the city, which celebrates the rich heritage of the Chinese immigrants.

The diverse heritage that makes up the city isn’t the only culture found in Boston. This New England city is a hub of culture, including museums, art galleries and performing arts centers. While visiting the city, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for absorbing the culture that defines the city. Among the many museums of the city, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Science, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and the Harvard University Art Museum, you’ll be able to observe many priceless and fine works of art and historical and scientific relics and artifacts. In addition to the many museums of the area, the performing arts centers make up an important part of the culture of Boston Massachusetts. At theaters such as the Colonial Theater and the Citi Performing Arts Center, you can take in live Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. The Boston Opera and the Boston Ballet also provide cultural opportunities in the city. If you want to catch performances from some modern day musicians, the TD Garden often holds concerts of present-day performers.

The different sports teams and sporting venues also play a big part in the culture of Boston Massachusetts. The city is home to the Boston Red Sox, the Celtics and the Patriots and one of the most famous sporting venues in the world, Fenway Park. Bostonians are proud supporters of their sports teams and these teams are as much a part of the culture of the city as the ethnic heritage and the cultural centers.

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The construction of the Boston Massachusetts Temple was met with aversion. Residents living in the surrounding area of the site of the temple were outraged by the size of the structure, indicating that its grand stature was a violation of the state of Massachusetts zoning laws that separated church and state and filed a suit against the Church of Latter Day Saints. The church won the suit and the Boston Massachusetts Temple was dedicated, though without a steeple, as there was a second suit filed against the church for the proposed height of the steeple. The church also won the second suit against it and the steeple was added.

At the top of the Boston Massachusetts Temple sits a statue of the angel Moroni, an icon among those who celebrate the Church of Latter Day Saints. The statue was added to the top of the Boston Massachusetts Temple on September 21, 2001 to pay tribute to the 178th anniversary of the appearance of the angel to Joseph Smith, the prophet of the Church of Latter Day Saints.

The Boston Massachusetts Temple is a grand structure. The temple rests on eight acres and has a floor area of an impressive 69,600 square feet. The structure consists of four ordinance rooms and four sealing rooms. The outside of the building is covered with Olympia white granite, adding to the beauty of the temple. Between the size and the stark white color of the building, it is something that cannot be missed while driving along the Concord Turnpike.

If you’re a member of the Church of Latter Day Saints, you’ll surely want to plan a visit to the Boston Massachusetts Temple during a visit to the Boston area; and even if you aren’t a member of this church, you can tour the temple and appreciate the beauty of this landmark Boston monument.

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