Boston: Travel guide, prices and free housing · 2026

IEIEC Exchangeiec · Sep 3, 2026Read

Boston: where to start exploring the city? If you are planning a summer experience in the USA, Boston is one of those cities where it is easy to combine a study or work program with a clear weekend itinerary. A good first stop is Boston Common , the oldest city park in the USA. After your journey, you can take a relaxing stroll along the paths, have a picnic, and head out to the Freedom Trail to see the historic city center. Address: 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111, USA. Boston is particularly interesting because of the nearby university environment, museums, waterfronts, and short routes around New England. It makes for a packed, yet not overwhelming, seasonal plan. For those who have already been to Boston: what places would you add to the itinerary after Boston Common and the Freedom Trail?

KAKamshat Amangeldiyevaamangeldiyevak · Dec 3, 2019Read

One day, I got a message from the guys suggesting we go to a football match as a big group. At first, I thought for a long time whether to go or not; after all, the ticket was $75, not $30 or $45. Football, Liverpool, Sevilla—they meant nothing to me, just empty words. But I thought it was worth seeing a match with my own eyes at least once in my life, especially since these clubs are at the top of the football world. And as always, as it usually happens, the day before the game, I decided: I'M GOING. In the end, on the day of the match, we gathered: J-1 students and Boston University students. Meeting people, talking. It was fun. And when the match started, it was even more fun. The atmosphere, the fans in red, the shouts of "Liverpoooool" will stay with me for the rest of my life. The funniest part is that they lost to Sevilla 1:2. After the match, the J-1 girls from Hyannis headed back home, but I bought a ticket for the evening of the next day—it's Boston, after all, I had to see a lot, and I had big plans for the next day. I thought about sleeping at the station; it was a pity to spend $80 for one night. I arrived at the station, and instead of just sitting there, I decided to sort through photos from my camera, but I didn't have a pin for the memory card handy, so I started asking people sitting nearby. I ran into two of my compatriots and a guy from Kyrgyzstan. It turned out that the Kyrgyz guy studies in China, where I study, and it also turned out that we had applied through a mutual acquaintance, we are in the same group, and what's really cool—we had been messaging each other a month ago. What a small world. In the end, I didn't have to sleep at the station; the four of us went for a walk around the night city. A big city really empties out at night. There was no one around—well, actually, no. We ran into some black racists who were yelling at us, but we ran away*))) That's how, across the ocean, I was convinced once again that the world is really very small.

ASAlina Sivachevaalina_sivacheva · Nov 27, 2019Read

BOSTON Boston struck me with its resemblance to England in the smallest details. This city is amazing in how it harmoniously combines old buildings, churches, and cathedrals with centuries of history alongside modern glass buildings and offices. Boston possesses its own unique charm, its own atmosphere, and an inexplicable energy emanating from the ancient buildings of the 17th and 18th centuries. The capital of Massachusetts is not as noisy or crowded as New York or Chicago, but it is definitely full of life: interesting, mysterious, and filled with the secrets of past centuries. Must-visit places in Boston (with addresses): Boston Common Park (139 Tremont St, Boston) Charles River Esplanade — an incredibly picturesque place in Boston, offering a panoramic view of the city (Charles River Esplanade, Boston, MA 02116) Old North Church (193 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113) Trinity Church (206 Clarendon St, Boston, MA 02116) Boston Public Library (700 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116) Massachusetts State House (24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133) Old State House (206 Washington St, Boston, MA 02109) Quincy Market. The pavilion houses shops, market stalls, eateries, and souvenir shops. You can often see street performers and musicians here (4 S Market St, Boston, MA 02109) Granary Burying Ground — an old city cemetery founded in 1660. It contains the graves of famous figures of the American Revolution, including the graves of S. Adams, J. Hancock, and R. T. Paine (Tremont St, Boston, MA 02108)

LLLiubov Lopakovalyubalopakova · Dec 16, 2017Read

Last day of work, packing our bags and heading off on a trip! Boston, Washington, and New York are waiting for us. The route was budget-friendly. First, we took a 'Peter Pan' bus from Hyannis to Boston, paying $7 for the ticket. At the station, we left our suitcases with a guy who sells souvenirs. He has a dedicated room for luggage that is very popular. And he charges almost half the price compared to everywhere else. Traveling light, we hurried to explore the city. It's no wonder Boston is considered a youth city. This is exactly where the famous universities and schools are located. Naturally, Harvard was first on our list to see. We were incredibly lucky because we caught a student initiation ceremony. They were all so cheerful, beautiful, and neat. It felt like we had stepped into an American movie or TV show about students. The university itself consists of beautiful, massive red-brick buildings. I highly recommend visiting, because even photos cannot convey our impressions. Next, we went to see the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). They even let you inside! You really get to experience the atmosphere of future scientists, specialists, and inventors. There are laboratories for every field, equipped with everything necessary for research. Students were actually there during our visit, enthusiastically examining things and conducting experiments. Huge cafeterias, modern lecture halls, lounges, and classrooms. It's so great when everything is provided to make learning interesting. We decided to walk along the Boston waterfront. It had already gotten dark, and the lights from the houses created such a cozy vibe. You don't feel like an outsider here, and that is probably why this city made the biggest impression on us.

АБАлександр Борисовtdr241 · Dec 13, 2017Read

The trip to Provincetown was our last trip on Cape Cod. There were a few days left before our main trip along the US East Coast. We decided to follow this route: Boston - Washington - New York. We bought the cheapest tickets we could find, and two companies helped us with this: Peter Pan bus and MegaBus. So, for a ticket from Hyannis to Boston we paid $5 each, and for a ticket from Boston to Washington about $30. In Boston, we decided to stay for one full day, as we had already been there when we flew to Miami; in Washington we had 10 hours, and in New York three days. Arriving in Boston, we faced a problem with our suitcases. They were very large and heavy, and the luggage storage at the bus station was very expensive and only worked until 10 pm (our bus was at 0:00). We started looking for another way out and accidentally stumbled upon an ad at some newsstand at the train station that they accept luggage for storage. The kiosk is located near the escalators in the main waiting room. The prices there turned out to be much more reasonable and they worked around the clock. Leaving our things there, we bought a 1-day subway ticket and went for a walk around Boston. Our first stop was Harvard. We were very lucky, and on the day we were in Boston, student meetings were held at all universities, where the leadership read congratulatory speeches in a solemn atmosphere, and some universities were open to visitors. Arriving at the "Harvard" station, we immediately headed to the main building. It was very beautiful, an orchestra was playing, everyone was in formal attire, parents had arrived, students were meeting and laughing. There were a lot of teachers who, by the way, turned out to be very friendly. The atmosphere of celebration and joy was felt in the air. There was no arrogance from the students, and everyone we asked was ready to take a minute and help. Unfortunately, we never got into the university, as they only let people in with passes, but this in no way spoiled our mood and we were very happy that we visited this beautiful place. The university itself is located in a park surrounded by a fence, so entering the gates, it feels like you are entering another world. Students sit with MacBooks on the grass under the trees and discuss something, someone is slowly riding a bike, someone is running and barely holding their open backpack, guys are arguing about solving a problem - in general, a complete immersion in student life. But leaving the university and the park, you do not leave the area of numerous "Harvard" signs that are found at every step. On the opposite side of the park is the official university store, selling "Nike" sportswear made specifically for the university, casual clothing with branded merchandise, books by famous graduates, pens and other school supplies. The prices are not very cheap, but the average J-1 student can afford it. The quality of the clothes depends on the price. In addition, there are numerous unofficial shops where Harvard merchandise is also sold, but, admittedly, ordered from Aliexpress. The prices here are significantly lower, but the quality is a complete disaster, so I do not recommend it. Of course, there are a huge number of different bars, restaurants and other establishments aimed at students nearby. After visiting Harvard, we headed to another world-famous educational institution - the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Unlike Harvard, it is not located as conveniently. We arrived at the subway station closest to the main building, from which, according to maps, a shuttle to the university was supposed to run; after waiting for it at the stop for 15 minutes, we decided to walk. The university itself is 20 minutes from the subway, and the path to it runs along the beautiful Boston waterfront. It is really very beautiful there: boats with MIT logos are in the water, people who have gone for a run are constantly running along the embankment, someone is sitting on a bench and just

BSBulat Shaydullinbulat8801 · Feb 1, 2015Read

I arrived in Boston and was met by the mother of my acquaintance, Brendan, whom I had met in South Carolina. After a rather chilly welcome, she drove me home and showed me where everything was. On the way, we stopped at Family Dollar, where I stocked up on snacks and got ready to take this wonderful city by storm with my camera. It was evening, and we made it just before closing. After telling her about my summer and my trip, and how the WHOLE summer was planned just to see Boston, I think I broke the ice. It turned out that Brendan's mom used to be a tour guide and loved Boston too! She even gifted me a bus tour of the city, so I didn't have to spend money on transport (or accommodation, by the way). Boston is magnificent. Whether you like it or not, it's just a fact. And it doesn't matter what time of year it is: in winter, it's a magical city with a Christmas spirit; in spring, it's a romantic port city where sea breezes blow; in summer, the city is full of greenery and cool; in autumn, it's mysterious and calm in its golden cloak of leaves. Every day in Boston is beautiful. "The Pearl of the North," as they call it. Stone Catholic churches and green parks give it an atmosphere of the Middle Ages and magic; tall glass buildings emphasize the city's high status; the protection of cultural monuments indicates that the residents of this city honor their history. Boston accepted two huge waves of migrants: the Irish and the Germans. Even now, people walk around the center with "Proud to be an Irish" or "Celtic Pride" badges, and the basketball team is called the Boston Celtics. I also met a woman who only spoke German. I asked her which part of Germany she was from, to which she replied that she had lived here her whole life. In 4 days, I walked downtown and the Charlestown area up and down. It's been over half a year, and I still don't know how much time needs to pass to believe it wasn't a dream. The most economically successful and rapidly developing city in the USA. A stronghold of scientists, atheists, and artists. The Pearl of the North! The city that started the War of Independence. The city that first broke stereotypes about Black people. The city that sheltered thousands of Irish and Germans. A city full of history and stories. A city of winners and champions. Boston! Tip: A bonus to the trip can be great deals! In the Charlestown area, on the outskirts of the city, there is a huge outlet (a store where branded clothing is sold at a discount). It's worth the trip; only in New York can you find more and cheaper options.

ARAnna Rutmanrutman-anna · Dec 12, 2014Read

A long road... We got some sleep :) We were ready for our last stop) We found the nearest restroom again to freshen up. By the third day, dry shampoo came in handy :D And so, refreshed, we continued our journey) First, we walked around the city, visited the old part of town, and just soaked in the city's vibe) Then we headed to the place that everyone surely visits – Harvard)) It was very interesting to see it with our own eyes, go into the university store, and just see the life of an elite university. Most of the students at this university are Asian, as they are very diligent and smart! Getting in there is really very difficult. Freshmen live on campus, while upperclassmen live in apartments) We liked it there a lot, spent a long time taking a good photo in the background)) After Harvard, we enjoyed the street hustle and bustle. People were painting pictures, dancing, and singing on the street. The city is very lively and dynamic. We had coffee at Starbucks with a view of this beauty. Next, we headed to a very beautiful park (Boston Common). An amazing place! We spent a lot of time there. We fed ducks, chased squirrels, watched the lake and the people passing by. We saw a stroller with 6 children)) that was something)) Definitely, when you are in Boston, go there. In general, Boston is a very green city, very beautiful. Then we walked along the Freedom Trail. By the end, we were tired. We walked a lot. So we didn't really go anywhere else, just walked around. Boston captivated me like no other city. I felt so good, so cozy, so soulful in it. I felt like I merged with this city. For me, it was magical... Boston – you are like a stuffed toy to me, which I wanted to hug and not let go... You beckon... You seem so familiar... Thank you.... Then we ran for the bus because we were late. It was a race that I still remember to this day... We ran with all our might. First, we looked for the station itself, then the place where the bus departs. As a result, we made it. Around 2 AM we were in Hyannis. We were home around 3. We went to bed almost immediately, we had no strength left at all. The only horror for us was that we had work tomorrow. But... ta-da-da... it rained in the morning!!! We were the happiest and slept until the very evening, and then crawled out of our burrows to share our impressions with our friends. The people we worked with became real friends to us) So we returned to our work atmosphere... But what it was like for me... my job... Before I tell you about crazy Miami, I want to share a little bit of my feelings, emotions, and sensations from my home place, West Yarmouth... Soon...

ANAknur Nursalbekaknurcht1 · Dec 12, 2025Read

Chasetop1 on Instagram: "In 2024, I participated in the Work and Travel program for the second time, spending the entire summer immersed in this incredible experience. I celebrated two of my birthdays during this journey—when I turned 19 and 20—making these moments even more special❤️ This program gave me invaluable experiences, lifelong memories, and the opportunity to form meaningful friendships. It helped me grow, broaden my perspective, and create unforgettable stories that I will cherish forever💙. In the video, there was a small mistake—what should have been written as “NYC” was mistakenly shown as “NYS.” Apologies for the oversight, and thank you for understanding! @iec.kazakhstan as a bridge on this path🔥🙌🏻 You can find IEC on TikTok http://tiktok.com/@iec_1989 and on YouTube http://youtube.com/@IECRiga. After finishing my work part, I traveled to Boston , Washington DC, New York, and Niagara Falls. Last year, I explored the western U.S., visiting Los Angeles, Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, San Francisco, and Sequoia National Park. There wasn’t enough space to put all of those videos, but I enjoyed 😂. W&T, literally, the best program for students🔥" Видео: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDkeJTAIXc2/?igsh=MXg2bGplZDdnNWF1OA==