How to get there

From September 29th, Aer Lingus flies direct to Boston from Dublin and Shannon daily. Four airlines fly direct to Boston from the UK: British Airways and American Airlines from Heathrow; Northwest and Virgin Atlantic from Gatwick.

Best shops

Filene's Basement, 426 Washington Street, is a must. For more than 75 years, it has provided shoppers with incredible bargains on everything from designer underwear to fur coats. The Basement (motto: "It's not beautiful unless it's a bargain") has an automatic mark-down system that guarantees shoppers the best possible prices - the longer the item remains on sale, the greater the discount. Faneuil (pronounced Fan'l) Hall, close to the Waterfront in the North End area, is an open air, designer-led marketplace that makes Covent Garden look like Moore Street. Eight blocks long, Newbury Street is designer shopping at its best (and most expensive).

Best tour

The Old Town Trolley Tour, (612) 269 7010), is a fully narrated, continuous loop service tour of Boston and Cambridge that allows you to embark and disembark at stops conveniently located throughout both cities. 100 per cent money back guarantee if not completely satisfied. Historically significant and very amusing, the improbable drivers/narrators are student comedians trying out material.

Best food/drink

There are far too many to choose from. If the sun is shining, try Upstairs At The Pudding, 10 Holyoke Street, Cambridge (617) 864 1933, a breathtaking roof garden restaurant. For a heart-stopping thirst quencher, you can't beat a Frappuchino (coffee of your choice, cream, crushed ice, and sugar mixed in a blender) from Starbucks coffee houses city-wide.