Carlos Bueno

Boston is at its best early in the morning. I’m an early riser, so my perfect Sunday starts with a run along the Charles River Esplanade. There’s something about seeing the city from the Charles at that hour—the rowers, runners, and familiar faces—that reminds me how fortunate I am to call Boston home. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you’ll find me at Lynx Fitness Club.

Afterward, I’d head to Long Bar & Terrace at Raffles Boston for a light breakfast—or pick up the Donut of the Week from Café Pastel, a favorite of my two daughters. They always want to know the latest flavor, and I’m usually expected to bring one home. I’ve spent my career in hotels, so perhaps unsurprisingly, I love sitting on the terrace and watching the rhythm of the day begin. I’m fascinated by how hospitality can create a feeling, become part of someone’s memory, and come alive through the people behind it.

One of my favorite things about Boston is how walkable it is. Back Bay, the Public Garden, Beacon Hill. There’s history everywhere, but the city never feels stuck in the past. The Embrace on Boston Common is a place I often visit to pause and reflect.

The best days don’t need to be complicated. I’d finish with an early dinner at Willie’s: pizza, pasta, a great bottle of red wine—ideally a single-vineyard California Cabernet Sauvignon—and, most importantly, family or good friends around the table.