Spectacular Views Of  Boston This Fall Season

This is one of my favorite times of the year. The city transforms itself into beautiful scenery of foliage that varies from shades of green, orange, red and yellow. It’s magnificent. This is clearly one of the unique advantages of visiting Boston during the months of October and November.

So I picked some locations to share with you.

Beacon Hill Area: 

On Beacon Hill you will be able to visit the Massachusetts State House and its Gold Dome.  It’s located at the top of Beacon Hill and overlooks the Boston Common (Train stop: the Red or Green Line at Park Street). Also at Beacon Hill you can find a beautiful residential area full of historical brick townhouses.  By the way, Beacon Hill is a prime Real Estate area in Boston. There you find streets such as the one shown in the picture above, traditional narrow streets with cobblestones that make you feel that you are going back in time. Also very close to the State House you will find on Washington Street  the Wang Theater where the Boston Ballet performs.

Boston Common and Boston Public Garden

Within walking distance of the Massachusetts State House is the Boston Common and right next to it is the Boston Public Garden. This is a place where you can walk and enjoy the views of this beautiful park. The Boston Common, almost 50 acres in size, is one of the oldest parks in the US This park was a place where numerous historical events happened prior to and after the America revolution. According to the City of Boston website, “Celebrities, including Martin Luther King Jr., Pope John Paul II, and Gloria Steinem (advocate of the feminist revolution), have given speeches on the Common.”

Both the Boston Common and the Boston Public Garden are places where people gather to have a picnic or even to play a game of Frisbee with their family or dog. Throughout the year you may find individuals and families getting professional pictures there and you may also find locals exercising at the parks. If you have children there is even a playground where children can play for a while as you appreciate the views of this beautiful park.

Additional Information about restaurants nearby: 

-       No. 9 Park is part of the Barbara Lynch Gruppo and has been one of the standards for celebrating special occasions among Bostonians and visitors. The menu includes $69 for three-course prix fixe and prices vary for a la carte. 

-       Teatro can be define as a casual and elegant restaurant in terms of the atmosphere and food.Teatro is in the heart of Boston’s Theater District. A great option before or after performances, it is also an Italian restaurant with a modern twist. Price of entries vary from $30-$61 per person.

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Haymarket - The Cheap Alternative for Eating Healthy!

Haymarket is a centrally located farmer's market where you can get almost any and all fruits and vegetables every Friday and Saturday 6AM to 7PM. What's unique about it is that unlike most farmer's market which are generally located outside city centers, Haymarket is right in the middle of downtown Boston! 

It's a great place for any urban Bostonian living downtown or any of the neighboring towns. It has its own T stop on the orange and green lines, it's also relatively close to the Park St stop on the red line and State St stop on the blue line. 

Living in the city we often find that fruits and vegetables at traditional grocery stores are incredibly expensive. Being a student it's much easier to go for the less healthy food because it is significantly cheaper than buying a whole bag of fresh fruits and veggies. Haymarket changes that completely, their prices are rock bottom cheap. While we were there I purchased a large bag of oranges for $3, three large bell peppers for $2, some garlic for a $1, and most shockingly a pound of strawberries for $1. Yes, one US Dollar for a pound of strawberries. If you're a bargain hunter I believe you can buy up to 3lb for $2, but I couldn't carry that much. I've seen strawberries at the store for at least $4, if not $5 per pound, and sometimes bell peppers will be $3 for one... I think you get the idea.

The deals are unbeatable, and on top of that, the fruits and vegetables are much fresher and this is very obvious once you start to consume them. If you have an unlimited T pass there is absolutely no excuse for not going down to Haymarket at least once a week and picking up fresh vegetables. Depending on how much you buy, even those without an unlimited T Pass may want to consider taking the trip. 

The variety of course depends on the season as different fruits and vegetables grow during different seasons. Most of the "necessities" are available year 'round though. On our way out we noticed that there was even a seafood section with prices much more reasonable than their grocery store counterparts. 

From the cheap prices to the smiling faces and kind attitudes of the vendors, we highly recommend that any local or visitor go check out Haymarket this weekend if you haven't done so already. It is the place to do your grocery shopping!

Fall Recipes That Will Have You Baking Up A Storm

As the weather starts to cool down, it becomes the perfect time to turn start putting your oven back to use. With so many different recipes to choose from, I am here to guide you all into choosing the right ones. You want a recipe that will give off an aroma of sweetness and will taste just as good. These ones will for sure have you drooling at the mouth before they're even fully done being baked.

Apple Zucchini Bread

Seeing as apple picking season is upon us it only seemed fitting to include a recipe where you can put those freshly picked apples to use. Mixing in apples to the ordinary zucchini bread adds a touch of sweetness to it. 

-- Ingredients

• 4 eggs
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 cups peeled, chopped zucchini

1 cup peeled, chopped apples

-- Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease 2 - 9x5 inch loaf pans.

2. In a large bowl, combine eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, oil and vanilla until well blended. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. Stir flour mixture into egg mixture. Fold in walnuts, zucchini and apple. Pour into prepared pans.

3.Bake 1 hour, or until top springs back when touched lightly in center. Let cool in pans 10 minutes before removing to wire rack to cool completely.

Pumpkin Chocolate-Chip Muffins

Who doesn't love pumpkin flavored everything?! These are so easy to make and are so good you will not be able to stop eating them. The muffins stay moist for at least a week and after that you can even freeze them! With very few ingredients and little prep work you can whip these up in a jiffy!

-- Ingredients 

• 1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1 cup chocolate chips

-- Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 12 cup muffin pan or line with paper liners.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves until smooth. Spoon equal amounts of batter into the prepared muffin cups.

3. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes in the preheated oven, until a toothpick inserted in the center of one comes out clean.

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By Spero Dimas

Topsfield Fair Fun!

Ever since the inception of the Cattle show in 1820, Topsfield Massachusetts has held a wonderful fair year after year (barring six occasions, during the Civil war and during World War 2) to celebrate the environmental spirit embellished somewhere in all people. Although it started with cattle, it has expanded to encapsulate all aspects of a modern day farm fair. Take the whole family to enjoy face painting, animal balloons, pet barns, fruit and vegetable gardens, beehives, pig racing, and wild entertainment rides to name a few.

While families are welcome there is plenty for young adults 18-30 do as well. Enjoy the day dancing away with friends and significant others to live music from the folk and alternative dance bands. You can perhaps even spend a romantic Ferris Wheel ride overlooking the quaint countryside, an arm around your back and a lover at your side. While you're busy swooning the kids are playing with balloon animals and petting the lovely sheep that beh in contentment.

The weirdest part of the fair includes unorthodox activities. One such is the feat of pig racing, where onlookers cheer on their favorite greased up hog to the finish line. Another is the pumpkin growing contests where farmers and growers alike bring in their prizes to be judged in weight and size. Likewise, there are prized rabbit growing contests where you can see rabbits three times the size of normal rabbits towering their kin.




The Topsfield field fair is an interesting place full of adventures for all the ages to enjoy. Whether a tourist or a local, its a stop worth making this lovely autumn season.

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Head of the Charles Regatta 2015

If you are in Boston October 17 and October 18 you can’t miss the opportunity to attend this beautiful and traditional Boston Event. 

So, what is the Head of the Charles Regatta?

This year marks the epic 50th anniversary of the Head of the Charles Regatta. If you are visiting Boston or even if you are a local resident looking for ways to enjoy some of Boston’s charm. The Charles River is a must! Since the beginning in 1965, the Head of the Charles Regatta has welcomed the world’s best crew teams to the banks of the Charles River for the ultimate two-day rowing competition, one of the biggest rowing competitions in the world.  The regatta attracts over 11,000 athletes and over 400,000 spectators. This event is organized by a 15 member board of directors, a team of 115 leading volunteers and 30 different committees to make sure that the event turns out to be a success both for spectators and for the athletes competing. 

What will I see there and what are the other attractions?

There will be plenty to see on the day of the regatta. The competition starts at 8am on October 17^th.  You might want to camp there for the day and have a picnic day depending on the weather. The event is free, so the earlier you arrive on the banks of the river the better view that you will get. Also note that it will get crowded but if you are the kind of person that doesn’t like to be around a lot of people you may purchase tickets in advance at more relaxed areas for spectacular views and distinctive dining experience. 

 Some of the premium locations that visitors can purchase tickets to are:

·         Elliot Bridge Enclosure

·        Reunion Village tickets can be purchased for $10 per day for adults and $15 for the weekend pass.

·        Rowing and Fitness Expo,  is retail space where visitors and athletes can find more than 70+ vendors showcasing rowing equipment, boat manufacturers, food, and so much more.

·        Another place you can’t forget to check out is the Weld Exhibition located near Harvard’s Weld Boathouse; this is one of the liveliest sites of the regatta. This is where you can find all the sponsors for the event,  You can also find local food and free giveaways offered by sponsors. There you can also check the programs and find the latest results for the race. 

Important information for spectators:

Don’t even think about driving to this event!  Parking will be a nightmare that day because Memorial Drive will be closed between Western Ave and the Cambridge Boat Club at the Memorial Drive/Greenough Blvd intersection. So the best options are either to take a taxi or ride the train to Harvard Square Train Station and walk to the Charles.

For more information about the event please  Click here

Map of the course of The Head of the Charles Regatta.

There are many desirable locations along the Charles River from which you can view the regatta. I would say the closer you are to the starting line of the competition the closer you would be to the activities and amenities of this event. 

The Head of the Charles Course Map

The schedule for the event can be found at:

                                                    www.regattacentral.com

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Walking tour of Harvard University and Oktoberfest

As I am an exchange student over from the United Kingdom, I have also been looking for activities to do at the weekend now that fall is here. So far my favourite has been the walking tour of Harvard University, if you’re looking for a day of wondering around a picturesque campus with a lot of history and historic buildings, then a trip to Harvard University will not disappoint you. The best time of year to go would be fall as you can really appreciate the beauty of the surrounding areas and nature.  

Harvard University is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States. Since the late 19th century it has been one of the most prestigious schools in the world and is best known for its Medical, Law and Business schools. 

The 60 minute tour is a theatrical journey through Harvard's historic campus from the perspective of a current student. Enjoy hilarious tales of Harvard history and culture! Beginning in the heart of Harvard Square, you'll be led by your tour guide into the beautiful Harvard Yard by a charismatic Harvard student. 

You can enjoy and take in the sights while your guide entertains and inspires with tales of Harvard history and their own personal experience at the University they now call home. You'll get an up-close insight at major Harvard landmarks including Johnston Gate, the John Harvard Statue, Memorial Hall, and Widener Library. 

If you go at the right time in fall, usually the first of second Sunday in October, you can also go to the Harvard Square Oktoberfest and gain a taste of Germany for yourself. Since 1979, the Harvard Square Oktoberfest celebrates the traditional bavarian festival with a selection of parades, dancing, live music, beer gardens, street performances and a selection of foods from across the world. Its is also free to attend the even meaning it is the perfect day out for everyone from families to students.  

FALL STARBUCKS DRINK FOR THE BASIC BOSTONIAN

By: Mikayla Wyman

People love coffee. The average person drinks over 2 cups a day. Why not switch it up when possible? Starbucks provides a seasonal selection of coffee and non-coffee beverages that people can substitute for their usual dark roast or vanilla lattes, which have helped them gain a massive seasonal following (not to mention their new fall hot cups – cute). So I’m here to give you the run down on delish fall-ish options to switch up your regular coffee order.

1.     The old stand by – PSL (Pumpkin Spice Latte)

This one has been around for ages, but this year they enhanced their old recipe. Starbucks says, “Our signature espresso and milk are highlighted by flavor notes of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove to create this incredible beverage that's a fall favorite. Enjoy it topped with whipped cream and real pumpkin pie spices.” Basically an explosion of fall-ness in your mouth. Get excited. Can be served hot or iced.

2.     The rookie – Carmel Flan Latte

This created a bit of buzz in the coffee world (pun intended). This new drink is kind of a spin on the crème brulee latte, except flan is just custard and brulee has a burnt sugar crust. Starbucks says, “Espresso with steamed milk and caramel flavors of creamy flan. Topped with caramel-infused whipped cream and caramel flan drizzle.” Now I haven’t tried this one myself yet, but I hear its delicious. Maybe just adjust your sugar addition..

3.     The Salted Caramel Mocha

I don’t know about you, but I do not like mocha. Therefore this one is not my drink, but all of you chocolate and coffee lovers out there behold! Salted Caramel has the tendency to make everything better. Starbucks says, “Mocha sauce and toffee nut syrup are combined with coffee and milk, then topped with sweetened whipped cream, caramel drizzle and a blend of turbinado sugar and sea salt. Enjoy the flavors of fall in every sip.” Sounds delicious, but to be honest, I have no idea what turbinado is. So I used everyones BFF, Google. Apparently its sugar from pure cane extract, which is kind of what I thought regular sugar is. Anyway, enjoy one for me!

4.     The Toasted Graham Latte

This one sounds delicious – and sweet. Based on a cookie and with added sugar and steamed milk, definitely not for those of you who like your coffee black. Starbucks says, “Graham and sweet cream meet steamed milk and our signature espresso, then are finished off with a sprinkling of cinnamon graham crumbles for a less sweet perfect treat.” This will be the next one I try, and I hope its not too sweet!

That seems to wrap it up! I’ve heard talk about a secret menu, so maybe we can figure out ways to finagle a pumpkin spice frappuccino or a flan mocha something or other. Fancy!

 *Quotes and pictures from starbucks.com

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