WATCH OUT FOR WHALES IN BOSTON!

Sister vessels Aurora and Nora Vittoria are the largest and fastest custom whale watch vessels in the United States. Each carries up to 400 passengers at speeds approaching 35 knots (37.5 mph) to the eco-rich environment of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. A high-speed catamaran is the fastest, most comfortable way to view the ocean’s leviathans. Spending less time traveling to and from the whales means more time actually watching them.

Powered by four Cummins engines and MJP water jets, BHC’s catamarans are fast but also environmentally friendly. Outfitted with all of the latest marine electronics and navigation systems, they represent the most advanced and safest passenger vessels in the country. Three outside decks offer optimum viewing. Inside: a climate-controlled cabin space with cushioned seating, broadloom, tables, state-of-the-art sound and video systems, and a galley with snacks and beverages for purchase. Professional researchers from the Whale Center of New England, the region’s foremost whale authority, accompany every trip to provide narration.

Of course your quest on this ultra-comfortable craft should be the whales. One you’re likely to spot during a Boston Harbor Cruises Whale Watch is the mighty humpback. These Northern hemisphere whales reach an average length of 50 feet, and weigh about 37 tons. Sadly, they’re also among the most endangered. It’s estimated only 8 percent of their original population remains. The humpback is so named because of the way its back arches out of the water when readying to dive.

Other whales you might see: Minkes, some of the most abundant in the world; sleek, small, dolphin-like baleen whales. Finback whales, at 45-70 feet long and 40 tons, are second in size only to blue whales. Atlantic white-sided dolphins are found only in the North Atlantic, generally from waters just south of New England north to Norway.

Departs from Long Wharf in Boston
Adults $45.00 Seniors $40.00 Child $35.00
For schedule and info: bostonharborcruises.com

WHERE TO STAY

Not far from the Harbor Cruises, the unmistakable arched building situated on Boston’s waterfront is one of the most photographed buildings in Boston. An architectural masterpiece, The Boston Harbor Hotel is conveniently located on the historic Rowes Wharf, one of the most scenic locations in the city. This 5 star hotel offers three upscale dining options overlooking the breathtaking Boston waterfront, and an on-property spa, fitness center, and pool.

Centrally located in the heart of Boston on 15 Beacon Street, the aptly named Fifteen Beacon Hotel is a 4.5 star boutique hotel residing in a historic 1903 Beaux-Arts building. Refined, sleek, and neutral tones are offset with fine artwork, and appointments are efficient, creating an upscale and sophisticated atmosphere.

Situated on Boston’s waterfront, the InterContinental Hotel Boston is a landmark luxury hotel in the most scenic area of the city. A sight in itself, the hotel’s prime location on the waterfront and its modern, reflective blue glass façade makes this hotel hard to miss and hard to ignore. You may just be lucky enough to see some whales and marine life from your hotel room window!

THE SWAN BOATS ARE SET TO SAIL AT THE BOSTON PUBLIC GARDENS

Begins April 14th, 2012

It’s easy to see why The Trumpet of the Swan, E.B. White’s children’s classic about a swan with no voice, was inspired by Boston’s Public Gardens. For the writer who claimed to own just one book, Thoreau’s pantheistic Walden, E.B. White must have been impressed enough by the Garden’s rich and unusual plants, the Lagoon, the monuments and fountains, to pen the book—or perhaps his true inspiration sprang from the improbable Swan Boats.

For over 130 years, the Swan Boats have been integral to the Boston experience. Harbingers of spring, they grace the waters of the Boston Public Gardens, the first of its kind in the United States. Made famous also in the picture book Make Way for Ducklings, the Swan Boats belong to a unique tradition preserved for over 100 years by the Paget Family. The Swan Boat story dates back to the 1870’s when Robert Paget, whose descendants still operate the business, received a boat-for-hire license from the City of Boston. The Swan Boat, a human-powered catamaran, can seat up to 20 passengers, with the pedals for the operator creatively hidden behind swan forms.

The pastoral and practical Boston Common was created in 1634, while The Public Garden, from its inception decorative and flowery, appeared in 1837. The Common’s walkways served for crosstown travel; the Public Garden’s paths for meandering. The Common was America’s first park, the Public Garden its first botanical garden—a style of park ushered in by Victorians who had techniques to collect, hybridize and propagate plants. They bedded-out the Garden in intricate floral patterns of blazing color and planted exotic imported trees.

These days the Victorian spirit is preserved if not its dazzling variety; plants used in bedding-out the Public Garden are grown in Boston Parks and Recreation Department’s greenhouses. Over 80 species of plants are cultivated there for future plantings in the Garden and more than 50 other locations around the city. Needless to say, the Garden’s romantic setting attracts many weddings. Upscale shops and cafés are a walk away on Newbury Street. Cheers Beacon Hill is also nearby.

Swan Boats Public Garden Lagoon Arlington Street & Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA | 617-522-1966  www.swanboats.com

WHERE TO STAY

Taj Boston boasts one of the most scenic addresses in Boston’s Back Bay. Bordered on one side by the Public Garden and on the other side by fashionable Newbury Street, the 4 star Taj Boston Hotel promises to create a luxury hotel experience like no other. This 1927 Beaux-Arts landmark is surrounded by upscale boutiques, galleries and restaurants, and for an authentic Boston experience, the swan boat rides at the Public Garden are steps away.

Since opening in 1912, The Fairmont Copley Plaza has retained its status as one of the most elegant luxury hotels in all of Boston. Located on James Avenue in the historic Back Bay area of Boston, the Copley Plaza Hotel Boston is swathed in history and style like no other. This 4.5 star historic landmark is the recipient of the coveted AAA Four Diamond Award every year since 1997, a true testament to the hotel’s refined elegance and gracious service.

Formerly the headquarters of the Boston Police Department, The Back Bay Hotel is situated in Boston’s epicenter. Suitably named, the Back Bay Hotel is a one-of-a-kind 4 star boutique property in Back Bay, one of the most sought after locations in all of Boston. With nearby attractions including Newbury Street, Boston Common and the Public Gardens.

Boston: Les Misérables

March 13 – April 1, 2012

Composer Claude-Michel Schönberg’s passionate musical adaptation of Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel Les Misérables returns to the stage for two weeks at the Boston Opera House. One of the longest running shows in Broadway history, Tony and Olivier Award winning, this poignant tale of French convict Jean Valjean remains a crowd favorite with multi-generational appeal. This is the 25th anniversary revival of the Boublil and Schönberg masterpiece, re-orchestrated and brought back onstage by acclaimed producer Cameron Mackintosh.

Les Misérables is a larger-than-life epic that recounts the tribulations and triumphs of Jean Valjean. After doing 19 years of hard time for stealing a loaf of bread, Valjean leaves the chain-gang only to find that freedom is equally brutal and remorseless. Shown unexpected kindness by a bishop, he builds a new life and false identity under the scrutiny of the villainous policeman Javert, one of the more compelling stage antagonists of recent years.

 

This anniversary production has been retooled: story sharpened, music tweaked, staging reconsidered. A new set design inspired by Victor Hugo’s artworks projects a bruised colour-palette bleeding into shadow, evoking a grim industrial slum. Claude-Michel Schönberg and lyricist Herbert Kretzmer are masters at building soaring ensemble numbers, as the inspired finale of Act I, ‘One Day More,’ attests.

Relive the show tune standards that made Les Misérables famous, such as ‘I Dreamed a Dream’, ‘On My Own,’, ‘Do You Hear the People Sing?’, ‘Empty Chairs at Empty Tables’ and of course ‘One Day More’.  The New York Times calls it an “unquestionably spectacular production from start to finish.”

Catch ‘Les Mis’ this spring at the Boston Opera House, March 13 to April 1, 2012. 539 Washington Street  Boston, MA 02111, (617) 259-3400

WHERE TO STAY: The Taj Boston Hotel boasts one of the most scenic addresses in Boston’s Back Bay. Bordered on one side by the Public Garden and on the other side by fashionable Newbury Street, and only a short walk away from the Opera House, the 4 star Taj Boston promises to create a luxury hotel experience like no other.

Awarded with the coveted Green Seal Silver Certification, the luxury Nine Zero Hotel has met a rigorous set of environmental standards including recycling, energy and water conservation and much more. Situated in the heart of downtown Boston, Nine Zero Boston, a Kimpton Hotel is a stunning 4 star boutique property and the ideal getaway for any traveler whether visiting for business or leisure.

The Fairmont Copley Plaza, also close to The Opera House, boasts 21-foot high gilded coffered ceilings and beautifully ornate detailing.  This 4.5 star landmark has been the recipient of the coveted AAA Four Diamond Award every year since 1997, a true testament to the hotel’s refined elegance and gracious service. Stay with us for fantastic rates.

THE BOSTON MARATHON IS WORTH YOUR BUCKET LIST!

The only prize that used to be awarded to the winner of the Boston Marathon was a wreath woven from olive branches. These days the winner of one of the world’s great road racing events gets a fat cheque from corporate sponsors and nice chunk of change from endorsements. Of course, you’ll have to run the 26.22 miles in two hours and a bit to contend for victory, but that’s another story.

Begun in 1897, the Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon, and attracts 500,000 spectators each year. Originally a local race, its current fame and status draws runners from all over the world and has become a rite of passage for serious and recreational runners alike. Whether you intend to shoot for the wreath or merely push yourself to complete the race without keeling, the Boston Marathon offers a unique and challenging course with the beautiful city of Boston as a backdrop.

The Boston Marathon also ranks as one of the best races in the world to spectate. Viewing along the course is on a  first-come basis. On-street parking in Boston’s Back Bay is limited, but the Charles River (north) side of Boylston Street is open to the general public. Many fans arrive before dawn to secure choice spots. The corner of Hereford and Boylston Streets, adjacent to the Boston EMS Medical Tent and the fire station, has been designated for people with disabilities. A Family Meeting Area is located on St. James Avenue and Stuart Street.

Families, friends and athletes should plan prior to race day on where to reunite. It may take your athlete some time after crossing the finish line to meet you, so be patient.

WHERE TO STAY: Taj Boston, only 1 mile away from the finish line, this 4 star historic hotel built beside the beautiful Boston Gardens and famous for their Afternoon Tea in The French Room, also a pet friendly hotel.

Back Bay Hotel is also only 1 mile away from the race’s finish line. This downtown boutique hotel was once a police department building this historical hotel offers 2 on-site restaurants and free wifi.

The Nine Zero Hotel is located in the heart of downtown steps from the Financial District, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market and directly across from the Boston Common and only 2 miles from the finish line. Complimentary wine receptions are held every evening.

2012 RACE DAY SCHEDULE
9:00 a.m. Mobility Impaired Start
9:17 a.m. Push-Rim Wheelchair Division Start
9:22 a.m. Hand cycle Start
9:32 a.m. Elite Women’s Start
10:00 a.m. Elite Men’s Start & Wave One
10:20 a.m Wave Two
10:40 a.m. Wave Three
5:00 p.m. Awards Ceremony Fairmont Copley Plaza,138 St. James Ave.
7:30 p.m.–12:00 a.m. Post-Race Party: House of Blues, 15 Lansdowne St.

The Boston Marathon
Sunday, April 15, 2012
8:00 a.m.EDT
Starts and finishes near Copley Square Park in Boston’s Back Bay.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY BOSTON 2012

March 17th, 2012

Besides Dublin itself, you couldn’t pick a better city than Boston to observe St. Patrick’s Day. With its deep Irish roots and resonant Irish mythos, Boston remains one of the top destinations around the world for St. Patrick’s Day. From the South Boston parade to pub crawls, Irish music, the Irish Heritage Trail, no Celtic stone is left unturned in Beantown’s full-blooded St. Paddy’s Day celebrations.

Get into the mood with The Chieftains on Wednesday, Mar 14 8:00 p.m. at Boston Symphony Hall. The six-time Grammy winners have garnered world fame playing traditional Irish music. Paddy Moloney and band return for a pre-St. Patrick’s Day bash and a prelude to the Guinness tsunami.

Speaking of which, this year the World’s Largest Pub Crawls hopes to make history yet again in Boston. Up to the challenge? Join the Luck of the Irish St. Patrick’s Day pub crawl, enlisting some of Boston’s best bars, and offering great drink specials. With its surfeit of pubs, cocktail lounges, and hotels, Boston’s bar scene is considered one of the liveliest in the U.S. and exploring it on your own is an option. Compact, walkable, culturally rich, metropolitan Boston offers an A-Z of quality drinking establishments.

Start with ALIBI, a smooth lounge bar housed in the stylish Liberty Hotel (215 Charles Street). The hotel was once the Charles Street Jail, and Alibi retains remnants of its earlier incarnation with prison bars and floor outlines of old cells. And, as the name suggests, DRINK (348 Congress Street) is a bar that celebrates the wet stuff in all its variations, and tops the list for creative cocktails in Boston. Want to dress up? Try the elegant Bristol Lounge at the Four Seasons (200 Boylston Street), or the low-lit Vox Populi (755 Boylston), appointed with with inviting banquettes. Later, walk on the wild side to The Franklin Café (278 Shawmut Avenue), a cultish late-night neighbourhood café bar where local chefs and waiters wind down—so it has quality grub too.

And what would St. Patrick’s Day be without a parade? The City of Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes place on Sunday March 18 1:00 p.m. at Broadway MBTA Station. Bring your shamrocks and shillelaghs. And if you’re in town for the week don’t miss the 13th Annual Irish Film Festival, taking place March 22 – March 25, 2012 at the Somerville Theater, Somerville and the Brattle Theater, Cambridge.

WHERE TO STAY: The Back Bay Hotel is a historical landmark in the city of Boston. Once a former Police Station, the Back Bay Hotel is a one-of-a-kind 4 star boutique property in Back Bay, one of the most sought after locations in all of Boston with nearby attractions including Newbury Street, Boston Common and the Public Gardens.

The Onyx Hotel offers contemporary style, complimentary wine receptions every evening and is a pet-friendly hotel. Only minutes from Faneuil Hall and the North Station, the luxury Onyx Hotel Downtown Boston has been awarded with the coveted Green Seal Silver Certification. Book with us for incredible rates during the month of March.

Enjoy a 5 star stay at the Boston Harbor Hotel. An architectural masterpiece, The Boston Harbor Hotel is conveniently located on the historic Rowes Wharf, one of the most scenic locations in the city. Inspiration from its surroundings and of the area’s colonial past, filters seamlessly in to the hotel and is visible in both the public spaces and spacious guestrooms.