Far away from the comforts of home, many of us are flabbergasted when confronted with the basic requirements of acting (and looking) like civilized human beings. This guide will serve as a roadmap to navigating the challenges of taking care of yourself in Cambridge.

In the first part of this four-part series, we will be covering barber shops and salons so you don’t scare your parents when you go back for Thanksgiving. (Note that we can't guarantee what the cost of a haircut will be at each of these locations, but these are our best guesses.)

BARBER SHOPS

La Flamme Barber Shop
21 Dunster Street
According to their Facebook page, they were once rated #8 on Playboy’s “Top Ten Barber Shops in the Country.” With impressive credentials like those, affordable haircuts, and the shortest walk from the Yard, this entry speaks for itself.

Haircuts: $15

Custom Barber Shop
49 Brattle St
Playing up every stereotype about barbershops down to the striped pole, Custom Barber Shop offers low-cost cuts in atmosphere that makes us nostalgic for suspenders and bowler hats.

Haircuts: $15

SALONS

Pyara Aveda Spa & Salon
104 Mt Auburn Street
Presenting guests with a wide range of services, eco-friendly Pyara not only cuts hair, but also gives you the opportunity to treat your feet to a pedicure before shoving them into your boots this winter.

Be sure to plan to make your appointment at least a week in advance.

Haircuts: $45-95
Manicures: $26
Pedicures: $45

Gino
20 Holyoke Street

Featuring a posh layout and a hair styling master who’s good enough to go by his first name, Gino offers everything from cuts to permanent waves. Featured in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle, Gino has been called the “only NY salon in Boston.” Manhattanites rejoice!

Haircuts: $50-150
Color: $75+