Boston Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local Mobile Services

Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile are the main mobile carriers in the U.S. Purchase SIM cards at airport kiosks or carrier retail stores. Prepaid plans suit visitors.

Digital Connectivity

eSIM options offer digital convenience for compatible devices. Visit Airalo for eSIM plans.
Portable WiFi devices keep you connected on the go. Explore options at Solis Wi-Fi.
Ensure your phone is unlocked for international SIM card use.

Internet & Postal Services

Free Wi-Fi is widely available at most hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public libraries. MBTA subway stations feature Wi-Fi connectivity.

Stay Connected

The United States Postal Service (USPS) operates post offices throughout the city.
FedEx and UPS also maintain spots for shipping services.
Public Wi-Fi exists in some outdoor spaces, with growing availability.

Language & Translation

English is the official language. Google Translate or similar apps prove helpful for non-English speakers.

Communication Aids

Service industry staff generally communicate clearly with international visitors.
Language learning platforms, like Rosetta Stone, can prepare you for local interactions.
Practice common phrases for a smoother experience.

Phrases & Local Talk

Basic English phrases smooth interactions. Familiarize yourself having some local terms to sound like a Bostonian.

Essential & Unique Words

"Hello," "Please," "Thank you," "Excuse me" are widely understood.
"The T" refers to the subway system.
"Bubbler" for water fountain (more common outside Boston proper, but recognized).

Local Vernacular & Common Phrases

Useful Expressions

"Wicked" means "very" (e.g., "wicked cool").
"Rotary" for a roundabout.
Ordering "regular coffee" often means coffee with cream and sugar.
Directions using "North Shore" or "South Shore" point to coastal regions.

Interacting with Locals

Bostonians appreciate directness but value politeness.
Engage in casual conversation about sports, especially local teams.
Don't be shy to ask for directions; most locals are happy to assist.
Acknowledge service staff with a friendly word.

Business Hours & Schedules

Plan your day effectively by understanding typical operating hours and holiday impacts.

Retail Stores

Generally opens AT 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM weekdays, with shorter weekend hours. Newbury Avenue and mall stores may stay open later.

Restaurants

Lunch from 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM. Dinner typically starts 5:00 PM and continues until 10:00 PM, some later.

Bars

Typically open until 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM, with closing times varying by specific license. Check individual venue schedules.

Banking & ATMs

Banks generally open 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday-Friday), with some branches featuring Saturday morning hours.

Accessing Funds

ATMs are widely available at banks, convenience stores, and many retail locations.
Most establishments accept major credit cards.
Small cash amounts useful for smaller sellers or tips.

Public Holidays

Federal and state public holidays like New Year's Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day affect business operations.

Holiday Impact

Banks, government offices, and lots of companies close.
Public transport may follow a modified (holiday) schedule.
Major tourist attractions typically stay open, but confirm hours in advance.

Seasonal Adjustments

Seasonal Closures

Some attractions that are seasonal, like Boston Harbor Islands ferries, operate only from spring through fall.
Swan Boats in the Public Garden are a spring-fall attraction.
Winter months (January-March) may see reduced hours for certain attractions due to lower tourist volume.

Planning Ahead

Be sure to check the official websites of attractions for their most current operating schedules.
Public transportation timings can change on holidays and weekends.
Summer features longer daylight hours for extended sightseeing.

Timing Your Visit

Awareness of business hours and holidays streamlines your itinerary, maximizing exploration time.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Familiarity with local customs makes for respectful and confident interactions in Boston's diverse and welcoming city.

Greeting Customs & Attire

Handshakes are common for formal introductions. Casual greetings vary, but "hello" or "hi" are standard. Eye contact is generally common.

Social Interactions

A firm handshake is a customary formal greeting.
A polite smile and making direct eye contact are common.
Attire is generally casual for daily sightseeing.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is customary and expected for service (refer to the Tipping Guidelines for detailed information). Table manners are generally standard American.

Mealtime Practices

A 15-20% tip for good service at restaurants is standard.
Avoid being overly loud in quieter establishments.
Smart casual attire is suitable for nicer restaurants or evening events.

Photography & Privacy

Photography is generally common in public spaces. Be respectful of privacy when photographing individuals; politeness suggests asking permission.

Visual Documentation

Some museums or specific exhibits may prohibit photography or flash.
Look for posted signs at attractions for specific guidelines.
Always prioritize individuals' privacy and comfort.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid discussing politics or religion with strangers unless they initiate the conversation. Historical sites and memorials warrant reverence.

Mindful Discussions

Keep conversations light and general with unfamiliar people.
Treat memorials and historical markers with respect.
Engage in respectful dialogue if sensitive topics arise in a comfortable setting.

Inclusivity & Awareness

Gender & LGBTQ+

Boston is a very progressive and inclusive city.
The city generally accepts and welcomes LGBTQ+ individuals.
No specific restrictions or taboos exist based on gender or sexual orientation.

General Awareness

Observe local queues and polite waiting practices.
Maintain quiet in public libraries and designated quiet zones.
Be mindful of personal space, especially on public transport.

Airport Services

Lounge Access

Enjoy independent airport lounge access globally. Learn more about Priority Pass.
Lounges often feature Wi-Fi, refreshments, and comfortable seating.
A relaxing pre-flight experience awaits with lounge access.

Flight Disruption Compensation

Claim compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
Compensair assists with receiving owed remuneration.
Understand your passenger rights in situations of flight disruption.

Engaging with Boston

Adhering to local norms and social graces makes for a more pleasant and harmonious visit.

Accessibility Information

Boston strives for accessibility, with continuous efforts to enhance infrastructure and services for all travelers.

Mobility Infrastructure

Many MBTA subway stations and all buses are accessible. Look for elevator or ramp access points. Commuter Rail and Ferries also feature accessible options.

Navigating the City

Sidewalks in central areas are generally well-maintained.
Historic neighborhoods may feature uneven cobblestones or narrow sidewalks.
Utilize accessible MBTA stations for smooth transit.

Accessible Attractions

Many major attractions (museums, modern buildings) are fully accessible. Older historic sites may feature limited access because of their age and preservation needs.

Inclusive Experiences

Museums typically have ramps, elevators, and wheelchair-accessible toilets.
Boston Common and Public Garden feature paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Paul Revere House, a very old building, has limited stair access.

Sensory Access

The MBTA delivers announcements on trains and coaches. Some stations feature tactile paving. Museums frequently offer sensory aids.

Visual & Hearing Support

Museums often feature audio guides, large print guides, or descriptive tours.
Check individual museum online resources for specific services before your visit.
Many public venues are equipped with assistive listening devices.

Resources

Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) delivers state-level resources. Access-Boston.org has an informal resource for accessible places.

Information Hubs

The MBTA website (mbta.com) has detailed accessibility information on routes and stations.
Contact specific attractions directly with some particular accessibility inquiries.
Travel agencies specializing in accessible travel offer tailored itineraries.

Accessibility Focus

MBTA Access

All MBTA buses are lift-equipped, and a majority of subway stations feature elevators or ramps. Check mbta.com for detailed station information.

MBTA Accessibility Info

Museum Services

Many museums deliver programs and accommodations for visitors with disabilities, including audio descriptions and ASL interpreters on request.

Public Parks

Boston Common and the Public Garden boast accessible pathways, which makes them enjoyable for everyone.

Inclusive Travel

Boston's commitment to accessibility allows all visitors to discover its charm and history.

Boston Travel Tips