So we are officially switching continents for the next little while, and getting to know places closer to home, for now.

Chicago is THE travel discovery of 2014 for me.

I booked this trip on a whim because I had enough points to escape for the weekend and play third wheel to one of my friend’s trips there. There was another third wheel so it was a balanced request, in my defense.

For starters, the CTA connects the city to the airport. Every major city in the world needs to catch onto this concept.

I hopped on the blue line and was immediately taken by the four story homes, just as highly elevated-then-underground subway, and the collection of skyscrapers in the distance.

The city’s best restaurants are crowded in the Loop and just across the canal.

 

We watched the Blackhawks force a game 7 in the western conference final at a sports dive and then had a to-die-for meal at Bavette’s, a speakeasy French spot perfect for dinner with friends or an out-of-town date.

Don’t miss out on Giordano’s deep dish pizza. The sauce, the cheese, the cheese, the sauce.

Stop for lunch at The Purple Pig, an classy, polished mix of food from all your favourite Mediterranean countries. A half bottle of prosecco can be ordered, if ever.

We shopped along Magnificent Mile, where you’ll find everything you need (or don’t).

Millennium Park is worth the trip, and save plenty of time for walking around, and gazing up at the insanely unique architecture this place has to show.

Bavette’s, 218 W Kinzie St
The Purple Pig, 500 N Michigan Ave
Giordano’s, 730 N Rush St