Trip Ideas

What Sports Fans Should Do When Visiting Boston

Boston has some of the most celebrated sports teams in the country. Fan or not, here’s how you can learn about their history.

Boston has arguably some of the best and loudest sports fans in the world. And it’s understandable, as the city has a team in every major pro sports league like the NFL, the NHL, the NBA, and the oldest, the MLB.

So if you want to go on a tour of sports history, Boston’s one of the best cities you can visit.

The city is accustomed to a winning culture through different periods. Although it experienced a semblance of a drought in the 70s and 80s, things have looked up since then. Since the turn of the millennium, 12 major American pro sports trophies have resided in Boston at one time or another, even simultaneously at times.

So how do you ensure you’ll make the most out of your trip? Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Consider Visiting in the Spring

If you want to experience sports madness, make sure to come for the Boston Marathon. It’s Boston for sports fans at its finest after all. This legendary 26.2-mile race happens every year on St Patriot’s Day. Go in early, sign up, qualify, and test your resilience.

But if that doesn’t appeal to you, at least check out the runners from multiple locations, particularly between Hopkinton and Copley Square.

Check Out the New TD Garden

Boston TD Garden — _{Wikimedia.org. (2023). Available at: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cf/Fleet_Center.jpg}

TD Garden replaced the old Boston Garden in September 1995. Although the old building hosted some amazing games over the years, the new arena looks more impressive. That’s even if it does not boast of all the amenities often found in the latest generation of US pro stadiums.

Today, TD Garden is the home stadium for the Celtics and the Bruins. The Garden also has memorabilia for both teams on display for everyone to check out – something no true sports fan should miss out on while visiting the city. As you may know, both the Boston Celtics and the Boston Bruins were among the founding teams in their respective league.

What’s even better about TD Garden?

It’s right next to North Station. This puts the venue in close proximity to public transportation and makes for very easy access from all over the city.

Book Your Ticket to the Beanpot Hockey Tournament

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Bostonians are hot for hockey, making you almost feel like you’re in Canada. That’s why another great idea for a stop on your Boston for sports fans tour is the Beanpot Hockey Tournament that starts every year in October and runs through March.

Hockey is Boston’s main college sport, quite unlike the South and the Midwest where football is king by a mile. What’s interesting is that the tournament features teams from all major universities in the city. So you can just tell that the rivalry is going to be fierce in the matches.

Visit the Iconic Fenway Park

You can’t plan a trip to Boston and not put Fenway Park on your itinerary. It’s the country’s oldest Major League stadium after all and the site of the first World Series.

The city was under the Curse of the Bambino for some 86 years until it was broken by the Red Sox in 2004. You could say that Red Sox fans have become even more crazed since then.

Finding a ticket on game day is probably among the hardest things to do in Boston unless you’re willing to shell out on Stubhub. But with a bit of planning, you can enjoy a Red Sox game on your next trip. Also, there are plenty of tours of the park available should you want to go beyond the stands.

While in Fenway, give bowling a try, too. The Lucky Strike complex features a full bar, a game room, and 16 bowling lanes. The on-site brewery is a massive hit with locals and tourists alike, and the vast amount of entertainment is perfect for a night out.

Feel Some Thrills at the Gillette Stadium

Boston Gillette Stadium — _{Wikipedia Contributors (2023). File:Gillette Stadium (Top View).jpg. [online] Wikipedia. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Gillette_Stadium_(Top_View).jpg}

Tom Brady may have left for fairer weather, but that doesn’t mean Boston sports fans stopped supporting their team.

Gillette Stadium in the Greater Boston area is something you don’t want to miss. A tour of this fairly modern football stadium is quite easy to arrange. But catching a game on your trip is definitely going to make for an amazing experience.

Don’t worry if the weather isn’t kind. The stadium is equipped with excellent heating, what with all the postseason games that the Patriots have hosted in the last couple of decades. Still, bring a blanket just in case.

Don’t Forget About the Local Sports Bars

Boston Cask ‘n Flagon — _{Fineartamerica.com. (2023). Available at: https://images.fineartamerica.com/images/artworkimages/mediumlarge/1/caskn-flagon-and-the-citgo-sign-boston-joann-vitali.jpg}

Not everyone can get a ticket for the big game day. But don’t think that’s ever going to stop Bostonians and all other sports fans from rooting for their teams together.

Boston’s sports bar scene is amazing. And Bar Louie and the Scorpion Bar are two of the most popular locations. But you can also check out the massive screens in Foxboro. Meanwhile, Cask ‘n Flagon is a popular Fenway hangout, and Parlor Sports, Champions, and Tony C’s Sports Bar & Grill are also fan favorites.

If you’re traveling alone, hitting a sports bar is one of the best decisions you can make. Feel free to enjoy the atmosphere and endless beer on tap at any other sports bar near you. As long as you root for the home teams, Bostonites will show you a good time.

Respect the Tradition

It’s true that not everyone likes Boston sports fans. But the city’s rich sports history is the main reason why the city spawned generations of very loyal fans. And to the local teams, that means everything.

It also means that Boston can be a sports fan’s dream city. There’s a camaraderie around the city that’s hard to match anywhere else.

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Trip Ideas

Cancun on a Budget: How to Travel Like a VIP

Cancun is synonymous with turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and lavish resorts. But what if you could enjoy its VIP-worthy experiences without draining your savings? Contrary to popular belief, Cancun can be both affordable and indulgent. With smart planning and local secrets, you can sip margaritas by infinity pools, dine on fresh seafood, and explore Mayan ruins—all while staying within your budget. Here’s how to do Cancun like a high roller for less.

1. Time Your Trip Strategically

The key to scoring deals? Avoid peak seasons (December–April and spring break). Instead, visit during shoulder months like May, September, or early November. You’ll enjoy lower prices on flights and accommodations, fewer crowds, and perfect weather (just check hurricane season forecasts). Pro tip: Book flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays for the best rates.

2. Stay Like a VIP (For Less)

Puerto Juarez — Resortpass.com. (2025). Available at: https://assets.resortpass.com [Accessed 28 Feb. 2025]

Skip the overpriced Hotel Zone mega-resorts and opt for:

Boutique Hotels: Check out areas like Downtown Cancun (El Centro) or Puerto Juarez for stylish, affordable stays. Hotels like Hotel Kin Mayab offer charm at half the price.
All-Inclusive Deals: Look for promotions on sites like Booking.com or Expedia. Some resorts, like Iberostar Cancun, offer discounted rates with meals, drinks, and activities included.
Vacation Rentals: Rent a condo or Airbnb in neighborhoods like Playa Mujeres or Villas del Mar—many come with private pools and beach access.

3. Dine Like a Local (But Still Fancy)

Cochinita pibil — Gdaysouffle.com. (2022). Available at: https://gdaysouffle.com [Accessed 28 Feb. 2025]

Cancun’s food scene is a mix of street eats and high-end dining. Save money without sacrificing flavor:

Hit the Markets: Mercado 28 and Mercado 23 serve authentic tacos, ceviche, and fresh juices for under $5. Don’t miss cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork).
Lunch Specials at Fancy Restaurants: Upscale spots like La Habichuela or Harry’s Prime Steakhouse offer discounted lunch menus.
Street Food Bliss: Try elote (grilled corn), marquesitas (crêpes), and churros from vendors along Avenida Tulum.

4. Free & Cheap Activities

Playa Delfines — Myguide-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.myguide-cdn.com [Accessed 28 Feb. 2025]

Cancun’s best attractions are often free or budget-friendly:

Beach Hop: Public beaches like Playa Delfines and Playa Tortugas are free. Pack a picnic and snorkel gear!
Explore Mayan Ruins: Visit El Rey Ruins in the Hotel Zone ($5 entry) or take a cheap bus to Tulum or Coba.
Snorkel for Free: Skip pricey tours and snorkel at Playa Chac Mool or Puerto Morelos Reef.
Sunset Views: Head to Playa Langosta or the Cancun Sign for Instagram-worthy sunsets.

5. Affordable Transportation Hacks

ADO Buses — Cancunairporttransportations.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.cancunairporttransportations.com [Accessed 28 Feb. 2025]

ADO Buses: For just $5, take the comfortable ADO bus from the airport to downtown or the Hotel Zone.
Public Buses (Ruta 1 or 2): Zip around the Hotel Zone for less than $1 per ride.
Bike Rentals: Many hostels and hotels offer cheap daily rentals.
Uber: Avoid taxi scams—Uber is legal and affordable in Cancun.

6. Nightlife Without the Splurge

Señor Frog’s — Tacdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://media.tacdn.com [Accessed 28 Feb. 2025]

Cancun’s party scene is legendary, but cover charges and drinks add up. Here’s how to enjoy it on a budget:

Happy Hours: Bars like Señor Frog’s and Coco Bongo (yes, even Coco Bongo!) offer early-bird drink specials.
Free Entry with Dinner: Some clubs include free entry if you book a table for dinner.
Beach Parties: Look for free events at Playa Gaviota Azul or Mandala Beach.

7. Souvenirs That Don’t Scream “Tourist”

Skip the Hotel Zone gift shops and head to:

Mercado 28 — Tripadvisor.com. (2025). Available at: https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com [Accessed 28 Feb. 2025]

Mercado 28: Bargain for handmade jewelry, hammocks, and vanilla.
La Casa del Arte Mexicano: Authentic crafts like alebrijes (colorful folk art) and embroidered textiles.

Cancun doesn’t have to be a luxury-only destination. With these tips, you can enjoy VIP treatment—think beachfront cocktails, cultural gems, and unforgettable sunsets—while keeping your wallet happy. Whether you’re lounging in a hidden boutique hotel or dancing the night away at a budget-friendly club, Cancun proves that luxury and affordability can go hand in hand.

Waikiki

Surf, Sand, and Sunsets: Your Guide to Waikiki Beach

Picture this: golden sand between your toes, the sound of waves rolling in, and a sky painted in every shade of pink and orange as the sun dips into the Pacific.

That’s Waikiki Beach for you—an iconic slice of paradise where the surf is always up, the vibes are unbeatable, and the sunsets? Pure magic.

Catch a Wave (Even If You’ve Never Surfed Before)

Surfing in Waikiki — Hawaiitours.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.hawaiitours.com/ [Accessed 20 Feb. 2025]

Waikiki isn’t just a beautiful beach—it’s the birthplace of modern surfing. If you’ve ever thought about trying to ride a wave, this is the place to do it. The waves here are mellow and forgiving, making it perfect for beginners.

Sign up for a lesson with one of the many surf schools along the shore, and before you know it, you’ll be standing up on your board, feeling like a total pro. Well, maybe not Kelly Slater-level, but hey, everyone starts somewhere!

Lounge Like a Pro

Lounging at Waikiki Beach — Bathersbeachhouse.com.au. (2025). Available at: https://www.bathersbeachhouse.com.au/ [Accessed 20 Feb. 2025]

Not feeling the urge to get soaked? No worries. Waikiki is also top-tier for beach lounging. Lay out a towel, dig your toes into the sand, and soak up that Hawaiian sunshine. Need a little extra comfort?

Rent a beach chair and umbrella—trust me, you’ll thank yourself when that midday sun starts flexing. And if you get too warm, just take a dip in those crystal-clear waters. It’s basically nature’s air conditioning.

Sunset Strolls and Mai Tais

As the day winds down, Waikiki Beach transforms into a front-row seat for one of the most breathtaking sunsets on the planet. Stroll along the shore, camera in hand, or grab a beachfront seat at one of the legendary bars, like Duke’s Waikiki.

Order up a Mai Tai, let the island breeze do its thing, and just vibe. It’s the kind of moment that makes you forget about emails, deadlines, and that pile of laundry back home.

The Food Scene: Aloha for Your Taste Buds

Poke Bowl Waikiki — Tn-cloud.net. (2025). Available at: https://wpcdn.us-east-1.vip.tn-cloud.net [Accessed 20 Feb. 2025]

You can’t visit Waikiki without indulging in its food scene. Start your day with a massive plate of fluffy macadamia nut pancakes or a refreshing açai bowl. For lunch, poke bowls are the way to go—fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-Hawaiian. And dinner?

You’ll find everything from casual beachside food trucks to high-end seafood spots serving up the freshest catch of the day.

Final Thoughts: Just Go Already!

Waikiki Beach is more than just a vacation spot—it’s an experience, a feeling, a little slice of heaven you won’t want to leave.

Whether you’re surfing, sunbathing, sipping on tropical drinks, or just taking in the scenery, one thing’s for sure: this place knows how to deliver a good time. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen and get yourself to Waikiki—paradise is calling.

Trip Ideas

NYC Bucket List: 10 Must-Do Experiences in the Big Apple

New York City—the city that never sleeps—is a vibrant, bustling metropolis filled with iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, there’s always something new to discover in the Big Apple. To help you make the most of your time in NYC, we’ve put together a bucket list of 10 must-do experiences that capture the essence of this incredible city. Let’s dive in!

1. Take in the View from the Top of the Empire State Building

No trip to NYC is complete without a visit to the Empire State Building. Head to the 86th-floor observatory for breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. For an even more unforgettable experience, visit at sunset and watch the city transform as the lights come to life.

2. Stroll Through Central Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by exploring Central Park, an urban oasis in the heart of Manhattan. Rent a bike, have a picnic by Bethesda Terrace, or simply wander through the winding paths. Don’t miss iconic spots like Bow Bridge, the Central Park Zoo, and the picturesque Sheep Meadow.

3. Catch a Broadway Show

Broadway is synonymous with New York City, and seeing a live performance is a must. From timeless classics like The Phantom of the Opera to modern hits like Hamilton, there’s a show for everyone. Pro tip: Check out the TKTS booth in Times Square for discounted same-day tickets!

4. Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

A symbol of freedom and hope, the Statue of Liberty is one of NYC’s most iconic landmarks. Take a ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island, explore the museum, and climb to the crown for stunning views. On your way back, stop at Ellis Island to learn about the history of immigration in America.

5. Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met is one of the world’s largest and most prestigious art museums, housing over 2 million works of art spanning 5,000 years of history. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern masterpieces, there’s something for every art lover. Don’t forget to visit the rooftop garden for a stunning view of Central Park.

6. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

For one of the best views of the Manhattan skyline, take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. This iconic suspension bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, and the pedestrian walkway offers incredible photo opportunities. Once you reach Brooklyn, grab a slice of pizza at Grimaldi’s or Juliana’s.

7. Experience Times Square at Night

Times Square is the epitome of NYC’s energy and excitement. Visit at night when the neon lights are shining bright, and the atmosphere is electric. While it’s a tourist hotspot, it’s a must-see for the sheer spectacle of it all.

8. Indulge in NYC’s Food Scene

New York City is a food lover’s paradise. From bagels with lox at Russ & Daughters to a classic New York slice at Joe’s Pizza, the options are endless. Don’t forget to try a hot dog from a street vendor, enjoy a pastrami sandwich at Katz’s Deli, or treat yourself to a cronut from Dominique Ansel Bakery.

9. Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial, where two reflecting pools stand in the footprints of the Twin Towers. The accompanying museum offers a moving and educational experience, honoring the lives lost and the heroes of that tragic day.

10. Explore the Neighborhoods

NYC is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe. Wander through the trendy streets of SoHo, explore the artistic enclave of Chelsea, or immerse yourself in the cultural diversity of Chinatown and Little Italy. Don’t forget to check out the brownstone-lined streets of Brooklyn’s DUMBO and Williamsburg neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts

New York City is a place like no other, offering endless opportunities for adventure, discovery, and inspiration. Whether you’re ticking off these bucket list items or creating your own, the Big Apple promises memories that will last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your NYC adventure today!