Winter

How To

Boston is a beautiful city all times during the year, but the holiday season brings an extra sparkle to your visit. However, with this comes the cold New England weather.  This is why I decided to compile the top items you should bring for a memorable (and warm!) trip to the Northeast in the winter.

  1. Pack a versatile coat

This one seems obvious, because it is, but it is also very important. A coat will be the item you wear every day, therefore making it a priority in your packing. Bring a coat that is not only warm, but also versatile. Since coats take up a lot of space, it is easier to just pack one. So this one coat should be one that will go with whatever you are wearing and whatever occasion the day brings. This usually yields a neutral coat that can be dressed up or down.

Me pictured in Boston bundled up in my puffy coat.
Me pictured in Boston bundled up in my puffy coat.

2. Pack winter accessories

Again, this is a no-brainer, but I draw attention to it because alongside your coat, this is a make it or break it factor of your trip. Who wants to wander around a city absolutely frigid? Not me, and I don’t think you do either. To save your hands and face, I recommend bringing solid gloves and a cozy scarf. Similar to the coat, bring neutrals that will go with the rest of your outfit.

Enjoying a latte inside a coffee shop, while wearing my winter hat.
I decided to leave my hat on while enjoying a latte inside- it was too cozy!

3. Pack a variety of sweaters

From turtlenecks, to crewnecks, to light weight, to sweatshirts, a variety of sweaters will prepare you for the differing temperatures and activities during your time in Boston. I suggest bringing a nicer sweater for if you have a fancier evening planned, light weight sweaters for if the sun is out and you just need a thin layer under your coat, and sweatshirts are great for more casual outings.

I wore a turtleneck under my coat for ultimate warmth on this chilly day.
I wore a turtleneck under my coat for ultimate warmth on this chilly day.

4. Pack comfortable and thick denim

No matter what you decide to do with your time in Boston, you will want to have at least a couple of reliable pairs of denim. I find denim bottoms are the simplest staples to pack as they can be worn multiple times on your trip. Comfort and thickness is key since it will be cold and you’ll be glad to have your legs warm. Try to bring pairs that are stretchy or not too tight so you will remain comfortable doing whatever the day brings.

A shot taken after grabbing a midday coffee in my most comfortable black jeans!
A shot taken after grabbing a midday coffee in my most comfortable black jeans!

5. Pack warm and durable shoes

Lastly, don’t forget about your feet! I suggest bringing at least one pair of sneakers and one pair boots. Sneakers are great for your more active days, and boots will be good for a day when you are not walking as much, but may be outside in the inclement weather. Best to be safe and pack both!

A photo of a hilly street in Boston, you will want to be comfortable!
Comfort is key while walking the hills in Boston!

Enjoy your trip to Boston and stay warm!

Informative

 

New York City has an overwhelmingly large list of activities, stays and restaurants to choose from. While this often makes for an exciting vacation, it can sometimes be daunting for a non-city dweller. Below is a list of three worth-while things for anyone to do while in the Big Apple, to get your trip itinerary started.

The Ludlow Hotel: The Ludlow is a quirky hotel that will keep anyone entertained, comfy and trying to extend their trip just one more day. The modern yet warm decor is beautiful from the first floor lobby area to the top floor gym which has a panoramic view of the city. The rooms are tiny, as most things in New York City are, but sport the most luxurious beds in the city, and a bathroom outfitted to perfection. Every detail from the key tag to the complementary lotion bottles enhance the time you spend in this hotel.  Attached to the Ludlow is a restaurant called Dirty French, which is perfect for a croissant and a coffee before you hit the town, or a beautifully prepared dinner when you return at night.

Friend of a Farmer:  Friend of a farmer is an approachable farmhouse restaurant that has something on their menu for everyone. They serve brunch to dinner, and hit the mark every time.  The moment you walk in the door you are greeted by a friendly staff who is always happy and willing to help with anything you may need. The restaurant is a tight two story building with a rustic farmhouse feel that makes you warm and excited every time you see something come out of the kitchen. Their simple yet delicious menu, friendly faces, and stellar atmosphere make for an amazing meal for anyone.

Edwin, Abbie and I at the MET

The MET: The MET is one of the most visited places in the big city, and for good reason. Tourists and locals alike will enjoy a magnificent afternoon wandering the long hallways that lead to endless rooms filled with art.  The first thing you notice when approaching the massive building is the incredible staircase leading up to the multi door entrance. This grand entrance sets the pace for the interior of the building and all it houses. As you walk further in you start to realize it would take days to see every piece of art in the museum, and try to squeeze it all in. The MET has ginormous amounts of space and is filled with bold and curious art, a place that will absolutely blow your expectations out of the water. There is something for everyone to enjoy, and can make for an unforgettable afternoon.

Though this is a list of only three places to add to your itinerary they each provide a jumping off point in a new part of town. New York City is chalk full of opportunity for fun, but can sometimes be directed specifically at certain groups of people. These three places are inclusive of everyone’s interests, and get your trip started in the right direction.