Toronto: A Seamless Start
My trip to Toronto was nothing short of spectacular. Arriving in the bustling city was a breeze, and getting to downtown was even easier. I had booked a stunning apartment with an incredible view from the 48th floor, which set the perfect tone for my stay.
The Rogers Centre Experience
One of the highlights was the close proximity of my Airbnb to the Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays. It was just a seven-minute walk—a straight shot to the stadium. The stadium itself is a marvel of modern architecture with ample space, making it easy to navigate and find exactly what you need. The atmosphere at the Blue Jays game was electric, and I thoroughly enjoyed the vibe.
I must say, the Rogers Centre had the best snacks! Maybe it's the Canadian in me—I really just want some licorice!
I even took a chance on the 50/50 draw, which, for the Blue Jays, is expected to reach around half a million dollars. This was a stark contrast to the Yankees' 50/50 draw, which averages around $30,000. It's fascinating to note that 50/50 raffles have only been legal in New York for two years, so many fans are still getting accustomed to it.
New York: Yankees Stadium and Beyond
Yankees Stadium was another great experience, although it had its quirks. The stadium itself is beautiful, and the crowd was fantastic. However, I was baffled by the lack of phone charging stations both in the stadium and throughout the city. This proved to be a significant inconvenience during my stay.
The Baseball Hall of Fame: A Must-Visit
My visit to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown was unforgettable. I could have spent the entire day there, losing myself in the rich history and exhibits. One notable observation: parents, please keep an eye on your children in such places. I witnessed an elderly woman struggling to enjoy the exhibits due to unruly kids. This brings me to a broader point about behavior in public spaces, especially stadiums. It's crucial to ensure children are close by and not disturbing others' enjoyment.
A Tale of Two Hotels
Staying in the Bronx was a mixed bag. The first hotel I booked, supposedly near Yankee Stadium, was actually miles away. After a long walk, I arrived at a disappointing hotel room with a mirrored ceiling and stained comforter. Needless to say, I quickly booked another hotel closer to the stadium, which was much better.
For anyone visiting Yankee Stadium, I recommend booking a hotel in Manhattan and being prepared to pay for a taxi. It's worth the convenience. Alternatively, if you're up for it, you can walk around the city—just ensure your phone is charged!
The Charging Saga
Speaking of phones, my phone died while navigating to Yankee Stadium, which led to a series of frustrating encounters trying to find a place to charge it. Surprisingly, even Starbucks and the subway station didn't have available outlets. Eventually, a kind police officer allowed me to charge my phone enough to access my game tickets.
Boston: A Relaxing End
After the chaos of New York, arriving in Boston was a breath of fresh air. The drive was smooth, and I reached my hotel without any issues. The hotel, called The Vibe, lived up to its name. It was a fantastic place with record players in every room and a vast catalog of records available in the lobby. The amenities, including a pool and weight facilities, were top-notch, and the hotel's proximity to Fenway Park was unbeatable.
Fenway Park: A Classic Venue
Fenway Park in Boston was the final stop on my baseball road trip. While the Red Sox might be the least exciting team to watch compared to the Blue Jays and Yankees, the experience was still enjoyable. The historic charm of Fenway added to the overall atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
This trip was a whirlwind of incredible experiences, from the ultra-modern Rogers Centre in Toronto to the historic Fenway Park in Boston. Each city had its unique charm and quirks. Despite the few hiccups, such as the hotel fiasco in the Bronx and the phone charging debacle, the journey was worth every moment. I'm now relaxing in my amazing hotel room in Boston, reflecting on an epic adventure filled with baseball, beautiful views, and memorable experiences.
Stay tuned for more detailed posts about my visit to the Baseball Hall of Fame and the fascinating history of the Negro Leagues. Until then, peace out!
Comments