[Photo from bostonusa.com]

Just across the Charles River from Boston,Cambridge offers an exciting, multicultural setting where visitors from around the world come to enjoy classic art, pulsing jazz or street music, browse in bookstores andboutiques, or sip coffee-and the city is teeming with restaurants of everyethnicity. Just a bridge away from Boston, Cambridge is a must for alltravelers!

Boston'ssister-city, Cambridge, is named inhonor of the University of Cambridge in England, an important center of thePuritan theology embraced by the town's founders. Cambridge is home to two ofthe world's most prominent universities: Harvard University and theMassachusetts Institute of Technology. Both campuses are main attractions inCambridge and draw visitors of all ages to walk around the university groundsand enjoy the stunning architecture and carefully crafted landscaping.

Cambridge isseparated by unique neighborhoods that each offers their own feel for visitorsand locals. Harvard Square is home to Harvard University, but it is also hometo upwards of 30 book stores, hundreds of fascinating andunique shops, world-class restaurants, and a world-famous repertory theater.Inman Square hosts restaurants and coffee houses that some residents (and manyrepeat visitors) call the best in the country. Central Square is exactlythat-the center of Cambridge and host to the Chamber of Commerce, among many other things. Lastly,Kendall Square is the epicenter of Cambridge's technology and biotechnologyindustries and features one of the best panoramic views of Boston from itsprime location at the mouth of the Charles River.

The Head of the Charles Regatta is an annual event that is a must-see if youare in town. This is the world's largest two-day rowing event,first held on October 16th, 1965. Over the past 46 years, the Head of the Charles has grown tremendously. Today, more than 9,000 athletes competeand over 300,000 spectators come to watch.

Just like Boston, Cambridge hasplenty of museums to visit! Besides the Museum of Science, Harvard University itself has over 10different museums, including the famous Fogg Art Museum and the Harvard Museum of Natural History. The MIT Museum mixes art with technology to make for a fascinating andeducational trip.

Whether youare still a student or are in the working world, Cambridge is also well knownfor its nightlife. From the famous Regatta Bar to theatre performances of all kind at the American Repertory Theatre, there is always something to do during theevening hours. If shopping is what you like, Harvard Square or CambridgeSide Galleria are the spots to visit. Don't forget tobring the young ones by the World's Only Curious George Store.

Day1:

Wake up at one of the many hotels Cambridgehas to offer. Head down to Harvard Square and grab some breakfast at a cornerbookstore or café. Get an interesting historical Cambridge tour to see the sites of Old Cambridge and thehistory behind it or set up a Hahvahd Tour with a current Harvard Student through Trademark Tours and see what the beautiful campus has tooffer! Grab some classic New England fare for lunch nearby at Harvest. Stop by one or two of Harvard's amazing museums such as the Fogg Art Museum and the Harvard Museum of Natural History and check out the Evolution Exhibit. Enjoy the many other sites to see ofHarvard Square for the remainder of the afternoon. Don't forget to stop by the Curious George Store! Enjoy an amazing dinner at theever-so-unique restaurant, UpStairs on the Square, with its quirky décor and unforgettablefood.

Day2:

Plan a morning boat cruise on theCharles Riverboat Company. They offer sightseeing and architecture tours for all ages. When you're finished, headinto the CambridgeSide Galleria for some shopping. Do you like good finds?The Galleria features stores such as Macy's and higher-end retailers like ArmaniExchange. You can eat here at one of thedozens of restaurants located right in the Galleria or you can finish your dayoff with some dining on the outdoor patio at Dante and enjoy the river breeze and a beautiful sunset.

Day 3:

Head over to Kendall Square and MIT. The unique area ofCambridge is home to many major bio and tech companies. The architecture isinventive and awe-inspiring. Up for someadventure? Hop into some action with the Charles River Canoe & Kayak team for some on your own exploration, oralongside a guided tour. Head back to Harvard Square for a fabulous dinner atone of the cities best restaurants, Rialto. While still at the Charles Hotel, finish your evening off with some live jazzat the Regatta Bar.