Kirsten J.

Boston Duck Tours

I decided that after 3 years of my being asked to go, that I'd get duck tour tickets for father's day. I figured I'd just fall asleep and let my dad have fun, but I genuinely enjoyed it! We had a great driver who kept us laughing the whole time.

Museum Of Fine Arts

The collection at the MFA is astounding - I didn't think that such a variety of pieces could be found right in the heart of back bay, but there it it! There's a great impressionist room covered with Monet's and Renoir's work, and a wonderful Asian Art section that I always wander into (the Buddhist temple room is my favorite!)

Northeastern University

Well, it's pricey (about 36k a year now), and there's quite a bit of run around on campus when trying to get paperwork done (we call it the NU Shuffle), but I wouldn't have gone anywhere else. It's a beautiful campus, and has tons of activities/clubs, good dining hall food, a GREAT gym (well, a few of them), and is in the perfect location. I recommend NOT living on camnpus after the first 2 years - off-campus housing is much cheaper.

I can't really sum up a 5-year education here, but it really is what you make of it. You can spend the whole time alone in your room and be unhappy, or you can go join a club and meet new friends. If you have specific questions, ask them on the Northeastern livejournal (just google it).

Sutton Real Estate

My roomie and I had a great agent, Milo, who was super friendly and respectful of what we asked for in an apartment. He found us the perfect place, and we were happy to pay the fee.

Dellaria Salon

I had a HORRIBLE haircut here given by a very flippant guy who had no clue what he was doing. I ended up leaving in tears, and called to complain after my friends gave me horrified looks at my hacked hair. Luckily they offered a free re-cut the next day with a different hair dresser, which helped somewhat, but I still won't go back there for hair styling.

Dellaria Tanning & Nails

If you're going there for any kind of waxing, this place is excellent. I've been going for 3 years and refuse to go elsewhere, as the staff is welcoming and do a fantastic job. I recommend Vicky over anyone else - she's the best!

HOWEVER - If you go upstairs for nails, beware. I went here for my first-ever manicure and was sorely disappointed. I was given an aloof girl that had to do my nails 3 times because she didn't check the polish first to see if it was too old. She wasn't very apologetic either. I'd steer clear of the nail salon here...

Back Bay Yoga Studio

This was the first place I tried for my foray into the world of yoga - it's incredible! The teachers are all so nice, and make you feel comfortable, even if you're a first-timer. Also, they offer a student discount (great considering all the colleges in the area).

PROS: Awesome atmosphere
CONS:

Planet Aid Incorporated

I've been hitting here for awhile - you can find some really cool random stuff right on Newbury, all for super cheap, and with the proceeds going to benefit third-world countries (so you can splurge without feeling guilty).

Jeannette Neill Dance Studio

I had a great time at every class I've taken here, from hip-hop to ballet, there's a class for everyone, and they're not too expensive (I think about $11 a class). The teachers are funny, and definitely know their stuff, so everyone has a good time.

Beadworks

I never leave this store unhappy - there's so much to look at (especially for a beading junkie like myself). The staff is very knowledgable and helpful, and they even offer classes for any level!