"Cheers " to Boston in the Fall.
On arrival at Heathrow, we were shown how the limo service for Business and First class passengers works and what a very efficient service it is. It cuts out all the queuing and is a civilised way to start your trip. As is the lounge! It has all you could need to while away the couple of hours before your flight, from a well stocked deli for a snack to a full blown dining experience. We sampled the Virgin signature cocktail, RedHead, and can say it certainly packs a punch!
The Upper class is split into 2 sections, the larger having the bar at the back of it and the quieter being only nine seats in three rows. The seats of course turn into beds and there was ample food and drink, films to watch and the service from Lynne and Michael, our cabin crew, was perfection. All too soon the flight was over and we arrived in Boston to a downpour that would make Yorkshire proud! 10 minutes later, through rush hour traffic and we were at our city centre hotel, The Taj.
This hotel used to be the Ritz Carlton and still retains a lot of the old grandeur of that era. The sales manager, Greg, was courteous and showed us around the hotel the next morning. They have a rooftop terrace (perfect for weddings) that has the most amazing views over the park and we were incredibly lucky to see all the colours of fall. Room wise the hotel has a range of room types but most have 2 queen size beds, flat screen TV, Molton Brown toiletries and all the usual mod cons. We had breakfast in the hotel and a meal on the first night - I would recommend dining there. They also do a very good value Club deal; 5 small meals a day including canapés and drinks for only 100USD per room per day. Excellent value.
The next day the sun was shining and we set off on the Duck Tour. This is a tour in an amphibious vehicle so not only did we drive around Boston but we went onto the Charles River as well! This was informative and fun at the same time. This allowed us all to get our bearings and so that afternoon after we had lunch we all split up and went to visit different things. I hasten to add at this point most of the girls hit the shops!
That evening we went to a trendy bar/restaurant called 28 degrees, and had a great night. As we were in Boston it had to end in the Cheers Bar! The barman eventually (but politely) asked us to leave as it was past closing time!
The next morning, Saturday, the sun was shining. Jerry and I decided to walk along the esplanade & over the river. Boston must be one of the healthiest cities in Maerica as it seemed like everyone was out jogging!
All too soon it was time to return home, we experienced the lovely Premium Economy seats. These seats are in a bigger cabin, but still have that little bit more room than economy and are well worth the extra, especially on the return overnight journeys. I admit it, I watched the last instalment of Harry Potter!
So, in conclusion I have to say Boston is perfect as either a gateway to New England for an extended fly drive holiday or as a mini city break, CHEERS!