BOSTON

September in Boston: Qponus Giveaway

2009-09-01T02:50:52Z

In a city as big as Boston, it’s hard to get a handle on the neighborhoods, restaurants, gym deals, and social scene when you first move. It can definitely be overwhelming when you are already dealing with school or work!

September has always been the unofficial marker of the “beginning.” Whether it is for school, a job, a new apartment, or simply the beginning of cooler weather, September is always a time for change.

So, if you are just moving to Boston, welcome! I know when I first moved to the city a year ago, I knew nothing about where to live, where to buy my food, and how ride the sometimes confusing T. But when Qponus Coupons contacted me recently, I thought what a more perfect opportunity to help a young Bostonian figure out the ropes of the city!

Qponus is a company that focuses on getting Bostonian deals on popular places, activities, and events in Boston. They offer percentage off popular restaurants, spas, gyms-whatever you can think of! Qponus is a great way to for the local gal on a budget to try out the hot places and activities in town.

September 2009 marks one year since I moved to Beantown. I’ve learned a lot about myself and met some fantastic people in the city. I’ve loved my time in this town, but I will be moving in September and starting a new adventure!

So, in the spirit of new beginnings and keeping life adventurous, Qponus and GG Boston have joined up to give away a Qponus Coupon. Leave a comment below with why you love fall in Boston by September 18 to be in the drawing to win the coupon.

Good luck!

-Carla

A Foodie's Heaven: August Restaurant Week

2009-08-11T16:39:48Z

Restaurant week must be one of the most celebrated weeks in Boston (minus any type of hometown sports win). And lucky us, we have two full weeks to enjoy all that Boston restaurants have to offer.

Boston’s August Restaurant week is from Sunday, August 9 to Friday, August 14 and picks back up from Sunday, August 16 to Friday, August 21. Restaurant week happens every March and August, so be sure to take advantage of the deals now.

So what’s the cost? A three-course prix-fixe lunch is $20.09 (hello year 2009!) and dinner goes for $33.09.

What I love about this week’s Restaurant Week in Boston is the online Unofficial Guide. You can simply choose the neighborhood you want to find a restaurant and the meal you would like to have there, and the site produces a list of participatory restaurants, tailored to your request!

You can also follow the hashtag, Twitter account, and Facebook page for suggestions on different meals.

See you foodies out on the town!
-Carla

A Housewarming Party For Dear Charlie

2009-07-30T12:33:23Z

Commuters, T-riders, and public transportation lovers rejoice! The MBTA announced that riders can now pay for CharlieCards online. By registering your CharlieCard in the MBTA online system, riders have the ability to cancel a stolen or lost card.

Want to know the best part? If you register with a MyCharlie Account, you can link your monthly card purchases with your bank account. Five days before the end of the month the MBTA will deduct the monthly cost of a CharlieCard without any action on your end. You will be thanking the MBTA when you get to work on time on the first of each month instead of standing in a long line buying your card. The online system also allows you to add cards for family members. Check out the MBTA web site for the full details on the card.

Thumbs up for technology saving us time.

Streamlining tasks that take time out of our day is a great plus for technology advancements. With Boston having such a large tech culture (remember when MIT students hacked the T?) I am sure the MyCharlie account will be adopted by many. In the mean time while you are buying your monthly pass online (remember August is at the end of the week), why not check out some new places to visit off of the T? Sooner or later the cold weather will be back, so make the time to do make trips with your friends now!

-Carla

Photo from here.

Your Boston - NYC Excursion

2009-07-20T11:51:39Z

As much as I love Boston in the summer, sometimes a gal has to get out and explore. One of my favorite places to visit is New York. NYC is a four hour trip from Boston, which is just short enough that you can squeeze the trip into a weekend getaway. Depending on your budget, however, there are several ways to get from Boston to NYC.

1. Bolt Bus- Bolt Bus has the best service out of all the bus lines I’ve taken. The buses are clean and include outlets and wifi for computer use (techies rejoice!). The price is comparable to other bus lines, ranging from $13-$20 one way depending on the time and date of departure. The buses leave on time and the service is friendly and helpful. The bus drops off near Penn Station and neighboring subways. A+

2. Greyhound/Peter Pan- Unlike Bolt Bus, I have never had a positive experience on Greyhound or Peter Pan. Although the tickets usually run $2 cheaper, the punctuality of the buses is a far cry from Bolt. Scheduled times of departure on your personal bus ticket don’t hold clout as the line is first come, first served. I have waited two hours past my scheduled bus departure time because of a long line ahead of me. The bus drops off at Port Authority Bus Terminal. While the buses are usually well kept, the service isn’t. Go with Bolt if you can. C-

3. Lucky Star-I’ve never taken this line, but friends have told me that the buses are efficient and tickets are cheap. The bus is a straight shot to downtown Manhattan. B+ (from what I've heard)

4. Amtrak- Amtrak is the lone train service for Boston. The Northeast regional line travels from Boston to Newport News,VA making stops throughout Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York (Penn Station) Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington D.C., and Virginia. The ticket from Boston to New York ranges from $65-$140 depending on time and date of departure. It’s definitely a price jump from the bus options, but comes equipped with large seats, a snack car, and a more scenic, smoother ride. I suggest taking this option if you are leaving late at night or during the blistery winter if your budget allows. B+

5. Your Car!- I don’t have a car in Boston, but I can imagine driving between the two cities is pricey when gas and NYC parking expenses are included. Taking a bus may be your best bet. B-

-Carla

Picture from here.

Social Boston Sports: Your Key to the Young Boston Scene

2009-07-13T03:55:23Z

In college we lived in a relatively closed environment where sports, outings, and social events were prepared in advance for us. We were accustomed to sororities and fraternities, music groups, and the available budget for any type of club interest we had. Post-college is quite a different experience. Coordinating these activities can be difficult, especially when moving to a new city and managing the responsbilities of a full time job.

That’s where Social Boston Sports (SBS) comes in to play. SBS is an organization that coordinates sporting leagues, adventure excursions, classes, and social events throughout the year. SBS focuses not just on coordinating sporting events, but on the larger picture: developing a balanced lifestyle in our fast-paced lives.

SBS offers all types of sporting leagues throughout the year including dodgeball, kickball, softball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, and flag football. SBS also coordinates recreational trips, beach trips, nights out, and community service events throughout the year.

I was lucky enough to go to the SBS summer bash this past June. I met some great people and had a fantastic time dancing the night away. It was by far one of the best nights I've had since I moved to Boston. Even after one SBS event I knew that this organization and the people that belong are young professionals similar to me who enjoy an active lifestyle. It's hard to find these types of people, but SBS brings these young, passionate Bostonians together.

So if you are looking to join a sports league with some friends, are interested in meeting young professionals in the Boston area, or want to try a new experience, Social Boston Sports is the place to be.

For more info on SBS, visit their web site at www.socialbostonsports.com.

4th of July In Boston

2009-07-03T19:46:01Z

Happy 4th of July GG readers!

I am very excited to be celebrating my first fourth of July in Boston. From what I’ve heard, Boston is one of the best places to celebrate our nation’s holiday. From the Boston Pops at the Hatchshell and fireworks to the day long dance parties in the streets (no joke!), there will be plenty for us Gals to do!

Even on the days before and after the 4th there is plenty to check out. Here’s a mini schedule I pulled together for the next couple of days from several web sites. Be sure to check them out.

Friday, July 3

3pm-4pm – Beacon Hill’s Treasures

What: Meet at the Otis House Museum and take a guided walking tour of Beacon Hill. There are plenty of cute houses, apartments and shops in the area (especially on Charles Street).
Where: Otis House Museum (617-227-3957 x256)
141 Cambridge Street
Cost: Admission $6-12, reservations required
Check it: www.historicnewengland.org

3pm-5pm – Re-enact the Boston Tea Party

What: How cool is this? You can throw tea in the harbor and fire cannons!
Where: On the Liberty Clipper (617-742-0333)
Central Wharf at the New England Aquarium
Cost: Admission $20-$35 - the web site asks suggests reservations
Check it: www.libertyfleet.com

7pm-8pm – Family Folk Chorale

What: Folk songs celebrating the fourth of July Where: Faneuil Hall, Faneuil Hall Marketplace (617-227-1528)
Cost: Free! A donation is requested
Check it: http://familyfolkchorale.org/concerts.php
familyfolkchorale.org

8pm-9:30pm – Paul Revere Tonight!

What: A one-man show featuring Paul Revere recounting his life in Boston and the North End. He even worked in the church where the show takes place! Where: Old North Church (617-523-4848)
193 Salem Street, North End
Cost: $8 students, $12 adults
Check it: www.oldnorth.org

Best of all, check the Pops practicing at the Hatchshell (sans fireworks) from 8:30-10 pm.

Saturday, July 4- Happy Fourth of July!

9am-10am – Flag Raising Ceremony and Parade
What: A parade that starts Plaza at City Hall and heading to the Granary Burial Ground

10am-10:30am – Reading of the Declaration of Independence

What: Reading the Declaration from 1776.
Where: From the balcony of the Old State House, State and Devonshire Streets

1 pm- 1 am- Dancing on the Charles

What: Probably the COOLEST 4th of July celebration I've seen so far. A 12 hour dancing, eating, socializing, celebration. Local DJS will be playing all day and night.

Cost: $20 cash only

Check it: http://blog.soulclap.us/dotc/

Best of all- the Fireworks!
Since I was little I have always watched the Pops show and Boston fireworks. Defintely looking forward to checking it out in real life. I have a feeling if you want to sit near the Hatchshell, you should get there early! Here is the schedule I found from http://www.july4th.org/concert.htm. Check out the site for more detailed information!

9:00AM Oval opens
12:00PM Recorded music begins in Boston
4:30PM Recorded music begins in Cambridge
7:00PM WBZ News Radio 1030 simulcast begins
8:00PM WCRB 99.5 FM simulcast begins
8:00PM Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular broadcast begins on WBZ-TV Boston
8:30PM Boston Pops concert begins with the National Anthem and flyover
9:30PM 1812 Overture is played
10:00PM CBS Network national broadcast begins
10:30PM Fireworks begin
11:00PM Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular ends

Sunday, July 5

11am-6pm – 28th Annual Chowderfest

What: This seems like a fun time, especially if you are a chowder fiend! Sample chowder from New England restaurants and you can vote on your favorite. Where: Plaza at City Hall Cost:Admission $7-$10 Check it:www.bostonharborfest.com

PrettyCity.com: Join Us for Spa Night

2009-06-18T00:56:27Z

Prettycity.com is hosting a FREE event this Thursday, June 18 from 6-9 at Sleek MedSpa on 228 Newbury Street in Boston.

The "Summer Survival Safari" will have complimentary spa services with free cocktails, treats, and beauty goodie bags. I can't think of a better way to spend a Thursday evening! Grab some girlfriends and head over to Sleek MedSpa.

Make sure you register ASAP because space is limited.

I am gathering a group to go so feel free to send me an email to meet up! carla@carlablumenthal.com.

Moving to Boston? Launch Into Boston

2009-06-14T17:25:32Z

Thinking of moving to Boston but don't know where to start? Looking for a job or apartment and don't know who to call? Moving to the city can be difficult, especially right after graduating from school. That's why Stefanie Smith and Meg Helms, two Bostonian young professionals created Launch Into Boston- to help young people transition into life in the city.

A few weeks ago I met Stefanie and Meg at a networking event and talked with them about the services they offer through Launch Into Boston. Stefanie was kind enough to talk about Launch Into Boston's services with me in an interview for Gals' Guide. Check it out below!

Carla Blumenthal (Gals' Guide): What is Launch Into Boston?

Stefanie Smith (Launch Into Boston): Launch into Boston is a service designed to help recent college graduates and young professionals transition into Boston. We start at the college level and provide seminars to juniors and seniors. After students graduate, they can work with Launch on a one-on-one basis to accomplish their personal goals - finding a job, a place to live, and connecting to their community. We give our clients the tools they need to make a successful transition from student to professional while having a reliable place to go for questions, advice and referrals.

CB: Why did you start Launch Into Boston?

SS: I started Launch because I felt there was a dis-connect between college and the "real world." There are multiple resources to utilize after graduation, but I wanted to be a one-stop-shop where someone could go to find a place to work, to live, and feel connected to his or her community.

CB: Who can use your services?

SS:Colleges use our services to provide a resource to their students. We offer seminars throughout the school year covering topics such as corporate etiquette, living in Boston, networking and interview skills and resume and cover letter review. Students use our services after graduation to create an action plan and discover a network of connections to help themfind a job and become a successful professional. We also help these clients find neighborhoods, apartments and connect to their community.

CB: How have you helped previous clients?

SS: We have helped many clients find job opportunities through our resources and helped them discover their own connections. One of our clients came to us looking for a job right after graduation. We started with her resume and cover letter and explained the edits we were making and worked together until we were all 100% satisfied with the end result. We then created an action plan every week for our client and us to each complete. Each week, we added new people for our client to contact and taught her how to ask for informational interviews, follow up with contacts, write a business email and prepare for an interview.Our clientasked as questions throughout the process and we assured her we were there as a constant guide. After a short time, she was offered a job, and we walked her through the process of accepting a position. She continues to send us updates and recently was given a promotion.

CB: What do you think is the hardest part about transitioning into "real world" and a city such as Boston?

SS: I think the hardest part of transitioning into the real world is finding a clear path and direction to follow. In college you follow a schedule based on your major, class schedule and guidance from your advisor. Students are offered campus housing and a built in community. After graduation, it is difficult for many young professionals to transition into a schedule and create a plan of action.

CB:What is your favorite part of Boston?

SS: I love the diverse neighborhoods in Boston. Each one offers character, history and charm. I think Bostonians really appreciate this unique feature that the city offers.

For more information about Launch Into Boston, visit their website or email info@launchintoboston.com.

-Carla

A Trip to the Cape

2009-06-04T11:38:45Z

After a winter-long hibernation, Bostonians venture into the city to outdoor restaurants and sporting events in the summer months. Since I moved to Boston, the one place I repeatedly was told to visit was not a specific bar, restaurant, or museum (although Boston has some fantastic ones). I was told to visit a magical place called the Cape (aka Cape Cod).

I was lucky enough to visit the Cape with a friend last weekend and indulge in a taste of Massachusetts summer. My friend and I went for the day to Provincetown, MA, the very tip of the Cape. It is exactly a 2 hour drive from downtown Boston.

From capesearch.com.

If you live in Boston and are looking for a day trip or weekend vacation, a visit to the Cape is in order.

Here are a couple of activity suggestions for a trip to Provincetown:

- Walk along Commercial Street- Provincetown’s main shopping street has every type of shopping experience and product you're looking for. Within a 15 minute walk down Commercial Street, you will pass ice cream shops, surfing shops, tattoo parlors, fancy restaurants, and sex shops. Obviously a street that caters to all wants and needs.

The view during dinner of the bay- Find a restaurant and eat outside- Find a restaurant along the beach and plant yourself facing the bay. It is a fantastic view. Order New England’s famous sea food (my suggestion: salmon or lobster if you are in for it).

- Take a whale watching boat tour - By far, the thing to do in Provincetown. The Chamber of Commerce/Tourism Office in the city center (off of Commercial Street) has coupons for $3 off each ticket. Buy your Whale Watch ticket just three doors down from the Chamber office. Once you are on the boat, stand in the front so you can view either side of the boat. Standing front and center makes it easier to view whales on either side. Also, bring a coat on board because it can get chilly.

A whale sighting from the whale watch boat

- Walk to the top of Pilgrim Monument - The Pilgrim Monument is the large tower in Provincetown that can be seen for miles. We didn’t get to the monument in time before it closed (check for updated summer times), but it looked as if the view would have been spectaular. The Tourism Office also has $1 off coupons for the Pilgrim Museum

Provincetown is a great vacation spot. There is nightlife accompanied by quaint village-like atmosphere. It's definitely worth the trip.

Be a Tourist in Your Own City

2009-05-22T01:05:46Z

This maybe a familiar conversation:

Friend: “Carla, have you been to ______[historical site, sporting event, etc]”
Me: “Uhh..no I haven’t been there yet. I have always wanted to go, but it was too _______[cold when I moved here, cost too much money, excuse, excuse, excuse].”

I love doing the historical and tourist thing in town (heck, I event went on a Boston Duck Tour this past weekend and rode the duck in the water!). But sometimes life gets too busy to really enjoy our own surroundings. Not this summer, I say. Not this time!

As a tourist we often see more historical sites and city hot-spots than when we live in the city. It’s easier to put off seeing the sites when you live in the city. This summer, however, my personal goal is to be a tourist in my own town—and I urge you to do so as well!

How am I planning on doing this? I’m making a list of all the museums, sporting events, concerts, and historical sites in Boston I haven’t visited yet. Then I’m going to buy a Smart Destinations pass. I did a project for Smart Destinations this past semester for a class and learned about the fantastic product offerings (I haven't used the product yet, however).

Smart Destinations offers an “Explorer Pass” which allows users to visit up to 3 attractions on their designated list during a 30-day time period. While their other offering, the “Go Card” is specified for more intense tourist experience, with unlimited access to designated attractions within a specified time period.

Nothing is better than a summer in the city. It's time to get out there and enjoy what the summer has to offer!