In most of the twenty-seven States that I have visited, there are three things that I always consider before booking a ticket. First, the history of the State and/or the City; second, academic symposia and conferences during the time of my visit; and third, political component of the State legislature and population of the area. Let me explain myself.

Whenever I decide to travel to a State or City, I will always consider the historical significance of the place in terms of its contribution to American culture and politics. What are the museums, monuments and parks available to me to learn and enjoy. Second, “striking two birds in one stone” is the principle that I’ve always adhered to in traveling. I always find it fulfilling when I get involved in international conferences while at the same time enjoying the beauty of American countryside landscape and city nightlife. I always find it necessary for young professionals to build their resume while their brains are just starting to spark. Third, it is important to me (in most cases) that Democrats dominate the City or State legislature because it will give me an idea of the nightlife and lifestyle of the place. I don’t want to have a vacation in a very conservative State least I might end up in a monastery.

While I have these thoughts at the back of my head, I did not entertain an ounce of these criteria when I went to Boston. The reason of which is my great admiration and desire to see Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). These two universities in the North have always fascinated me and I dearly adore not only their academic programs but also the alumni of these Ivy League institutions.

While in Boston, I feast myself with clam chowder at Quincy Market, which is adjacent to the historic Faneuil Hall Marketplace and New England Holocaust Memorial. The street performers at the historic market were almost professional in their execution that passers-by were greatly astonished and entertained. While the Newbury Street has an amazing collection of expensive designers’ clothes, jewelries and shoes (not to mention the upscale restaurants within the area), I am more attractive to the River Walk and park near MIT. While Boston is famous for the 1773 Boston Tea Party that turned into the American Revolution, the city has evolved into one of the melting pot of students because of the presence of big colleges and universities belonging to the best top 50 schools in the United States. I cannot statistically say with certainty that Boston has the great number of student population but I can empirically assume that it is.

While in Boston, I was honored to stay at the beautiful house of KASAMA (Kapatiran sa Massachusetts) President, Rose Candaza and her warm-hearted husband Teodoro (Boy) Candaza. I could not have done my Boston adventure without them driving me around the city. Their hospitality goes far beyond good food and free ride within Boston but a remarkable tour at the historic Mansions of Newport in Rhode Islands built in the late 1800 and early 1900.

While in Boston, I was not only pampered with Seafood and Thai restaurants but I got the chance to relax and unwind from academic pressure I have had the week before. As a matter of unspoken rule, shopping is always part of the itinerary. Shopping is always fun but a pain in the wallet.

POSTSCRIPT: I would like to warn my readers for my “Verizon nightmare”. This company has the worst customer service and its representatives are almost idiots. I was sick and tired of these people that I decided to cancel my Verizon Fios TV and telephone service. I could not get away from the internet service because of the contract but given the choice I want this company to get lost. I am ready not to do business with Verizon at all. The company’s customer service representatives have no idea what they’re talking about and at one point I get transferred from one person to the other, a total of nine people. I spent almost my entire day waiting and talking to them yet not being able to resolve my problem. The following day was a total of six representatives. What is so frustrating is that every time I get connected to a representative I have to tell the entire story, what a waste of time. Finally, a supervisor called me and assured me that she will review my case and will definitely get in touch with me within the next 24 to 48 hours. More than five business days have passed and I never got a call from anyone at Verizon. I will never be surprised if the company files for bankruptcy. If you have the same “nightmare” with Verizon service, please e-mail me at rene19va@yahoo.com, I want to collect as much complains as possible and send them to the President of the company. Gratias.