Boston Bound

Posted by Posh Mommy

Hello dearies - back in December of 2008 my husband accepted a position with a company based in Boston, MA.  Originally, the agreement would be that my hubby would telecommute from Portland and work 1 week a month in Boston.  However, as the business has grown and the demands of the job have increased we are in discussions about possible relocation to Boston.  Like all tough decisions - there are pluses and minuses about the move.  Currently we are a short 1 hour flight from my parents back in CA but a long 9 hour flight from his parents in England.  A move east would put is smack dab between both sets of parents.  Sounds fair, right?

Plus, we haven't really made any lasting relationships here in Portland - lots of friends yes, but no one we can really depend on so a move wouldn't be too devastating on the friendship front. Plus, from what I have heard Boston is an amazing city with tons to offer in regards to cultural enrichment, history, dining, nightlife - the list goes on and on.

So dear readers - we have some tough decisions ahead of us.  To start, I plan on visiting Boston for the first time next month, you know to check it all out.  Suss up the neighborhoods and try to get a general feel for the city.  In my research, I have narrowed our neighborhoods to the following.  Note - we want to live in the city, as most likely we will only be in Boston for a few years and our kids are young and can be confined to a smaller space (most likely a townhouse or condo).

The neighborhoods I have narrowed it down to are as follows:

Back Bay - Close to the Boston public garden and great shopping and dining.  Downsides - more expensive.

Image: Flickr

South End - I hear the neighborhood is relatively diverse which I like and popular with young families.  A vibrant art scene - as I would like to be surrounded by creative types.

Image: Flickr

Beacon Hill - Again, great shopping, dining, and close to parks and the Boston Public Garden. Downside - even more expensive then Back Bay.

Image: Flickr

If the moves happens we will be renting to start as we don't know how long we would be there. I have been diligently checking out all the rental sites and have found some fantastic rentals - but as I have never been to Boston who knows if they are actually as appealing when you get to the actual neighborhood.  So I ask - do any of you live in Boston, lived in Boston, have friends in Boston?  I would love to get the feedback of someone who is familiar with these areas.  Hit me up please - and I would love to get your recommendations for places to see, things to do, favorite boutiques, etc.  Have a great weekend!