Flying to London is a long journey. If you ever have the chance on this or any other long-haul trip, choose a layover in a city worth exploring. For example, this itinerary offered a red-eye into Boston, landing at 7am with the entire day free to discover the city before a 7pm red-eye into London. It’s a perfect way to stretch your legs and make the travel experience more enjoyable.
Did you know Boston was briefly considered to be the home of the United States? It’s true. Boston was hugely influential in the Revolution and early republic, but by the late 1780s it was seen as too far north for many states. Southern leaders especially wanted a capital located more centrally. Because of geography and politics, Boston was not formally proposed as the permanent national capital. Visiting here it’s easy to see all the elements which led to the formation of the country.
The Old State House, below, in Boston is one of the most significant Revolutionary-era buildings in the United States. Its importance comes from both its colonial role and its connection to key events leading up to independence. From 1713-1776, it was the center of British authority in Massachusetts, housing the governor’s offices and the colonial legislature.
Right outside the building, the Boston Massacre took place on March 5, 1770, when British soldiers fired on colonists, killing five. This event fueled anti-British sentiment across the colonies.
On July 18, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was first read publicly to Bostonians from its balcony, marking the formal break from Britain.
The Robert Gould Shaw and Massachusetts 54th Regiment Memorial on the edge of Boston Common honors one of the most important units of the Civil War. Colonel Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, one of the first official Black regiments in the Union Army. The 54th fought bravely, most famously in the 1863 assault on Fort Wagner in South Carolina, where Shaw and many of his men were killed. Their sacrifice helped prove the courage and capability of Black soldiers, strengthening the Union cause and advancing the fight against slavery.
Right across the street is the capital building. It’s a stunning gem in the heart of the city. Go inside, it’s free. In the center is this beautiful stain glass under the buildings gold dome. Here you can find all sorts of amazing history of the region and the nation.
Graveyards are everywhere in the city. a short 2-minute walk and you’ll find yourself in the Granary Burying Ground. Paul Revere, Samuel Adam, John Hancock, Robert Treat Paine, and Victims of the Boston Massacre are all buried here.
This large stone was installed to highlight the man which is buried under a tiny headstone, below, to the right.
All that walking is bound to build an appetite. If you enjoy seafood, Boston offers plenty of freshly caught options served the same day. If Italian food is more your style, head to the North End, where restaurants reflect the neighborhood’s deep immigrant roots and long culinary traditions. Either way, you’ll find some of the best meals in the city.
This trip is a first for me. Delta One, their first class option, had a screaming deal, one I couldn’t pass up. Join me as we both experience what it’s like to experience this level of flying.
To start, you are given a private baggage check area.
Are you thirsty or hungry from the long walk from airport front doors?
In LA and NYC, after dropping bags, you’re given an exclusive line to go through TSA. Sadly Boston doesn’t have that luxury. No worries. Past security, up a staircase and you get to the Delta lounge.
ONE passengers get their additional private club which holds an exclusive restaurant.
Here is the current menu for your free, three-course meal.
Weather started to turn in the late afternoon. Thankfully this terminal shows us the storm which is due anytime.
The lounge is part of a new airport terminal which was completed in 2023.
This is a beautiful restaurant, able to seat 120 people.
So many options for a meal. I’m going with the crab cake as my starter and the lobster roll for the main.
Not a fish fan? The wagu steak was quite delicious.
After a long day walking Boston you’re bound to get sweaty. Wouldn’t it be great if you could refresh before your next flight? Here you can. Showers are provided for guests. There are four of these shower suites. Everything is provided to relax and reset. And yes, it’s free.
After a great meal and a nice shower it’s time to board the second flight of this trip. Having this mid-trip pit stop not only provided a great opportunity to see a new city but it also ensured I’m tired and will sleep though the next 7-hour flight.
As it happens, this plane has lay-flat sleeper pods.
Another quick meal after takeoff then off to bed.
Next stop, London for a 7am arrival.