Discovering the heart of Boston

Yesterday, students had the opportunity to discover downtown Boston, a city with a fascinating history and a vibrant atmosphere. The day began at Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States, designed in 1634 as a space for enjoyment and community. There they enjoyed a unique experience: outdoor ice skating. Despite the cold Boston weather that allows these outdoor rinks to be maintained, the sun and the temperature invited us to take a walking tour of downtown.

From Boston Common, the students began a section of the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile (4 km) path that connects 16 historic sites relevant to U.S. history. This route begins at Boston Common itself and ends at the Bunker Hill Monument. Along the way, students visited landmarks such as the State House and learned about the history of downtown Boston.

The day ended at Faneuil Hall and with a food stop at Quincy Market, two iconic spaces that combine history and modernity. Faneuil Hall, known as the “cradle of liberty,” has been a place of meeting and debate since the 18th century. Quincy Market, with its stores and local cuisine, was the perfect setting for a lively, multicultural atmosphere.

Learning about the city’s history, streets and landmarks not only enriches our students’ cultural background, but also makes the JAF International experience unforgettable!