Some things never change such as the absolutely incomprehensible traffic flows. Boston has some nice features and are readily enjoyed by many because boating is great fun almost anywhere but the nonsense about it being a great Athens is simply rot. I cannot stand going into the city for any reason other than work.
I could rant on and on about the negative aspects of my home town but the numbers take care of that regarding taxes and population trends. It is not the place or Mom, Dad, two kids and a dog. Most persons it seems to me, who refer to themselves as “Bostonians” have never actually lived in the city itself. The city is supported by suburbanites in virtually every way. Even the cops and firemen decline to be compelled to maintain residency and it has in the past been a key negotiating point in contract negotiations.
Great place for the LGBT whatever crowd.
Good summary. All the REAL Bostonians fled to the suburbs years ago.