[Travel Itineraries] Fall In New England

I’m sharing my travel itineraries to give you ideas for your own trip planning – where to go, what to see, where to eat, how long to spend, etc. Below is the general schedule that provides the  framework of the trip.  As we go, some stops are added or removed.  You’ll find more details in separate posts under Travel Destinations.    Most of the times the plans work out great.  Sometimes, they don’t.  Unexpected things, both good and bad, happen all the time in travel.  I’ve learned to be okay with it and enjoy the journey that unfolds before me.   

 

My good friend, traveling sister and fellow Viajera Filipina Cathy Babao, columnist for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, grief counselor and corporate communications specialist, turned 50 in October.  To celebrate this milestone, we planned a trip to New England where the leaves turn golden like her in the fall.

A trip to New England in the fall is best done with a driving tour.  We made our way around in a rental car that we picked up at the Bostan Logan aiport and chased fall foliage colors as we went.  Our stops included Boston MA, Newport RI, New Haven CT, the Berkshires MA, Montpelier VT, and Waterbury VT.

It was a journey filled with unexpected blessings and serendipitous discoveries.  It reminded me to allow for flexibility in travel plans – a little wiggle room to take in meaningful experiences when they present themselves.   We happened upon two exciting events completely by accident, the Head of the Charles Regatta in Cambridge, Massachusetts and a Seafood Festival in Newport, Rhode Island.  Making room in our schedule to take those events added a rich layer to our adventures, watching Ivy League hunks row down the Charles River and enjoying some of New England’s best catch in a jovial atmosphere with locals and fellow travelers.

 

 

We used Airbnb for all our accommodations and were rewarded with gracious hosts who welcomed us in their beautiful and warm homes.  Staying in a community made us feel like temporary New England locals.  We highly recommend each and every one of the properties we stayed at.

Airbnb accommodations and quick reviews:

1. East Greenwich, Rhode Island:  Michael, Serene Cottage by the bay – absolutely gorgeous style, great host, 5/5
2. New Haven, Connecticut:  Jennifer, Big Bath + BR Yale – close enough to Yale and restaurants, nice host, 4/5
3. Berkshires/Pittsfield, Massachusetts: Waterfall & Billy, Whimsical setting, comforts of home – beautiful place and hosts, 5/5
4. Northfield, Vermont: James, Farmstay Queen Bedroom and Private Bath – spacious, free breakfast, farm experience, 5/5
5. Chelsea (Boston), Massachusetts: Christian, Unique Industrial Loft – close to airport, excellent host, great place, 5/5

Need help tweaking your itinerary?  Send me a message or post it on our Facebook page and the Viajera Filipina community might have the feedback and advice you need.