A holiday in Chicago is a holiday in America’s heartland. Welcome to the Windy City, America’s third largest metropolis, straddling Lake Michigan at the very heart of the country’s mid-west. A vibrant, world class city, Chicago boasts all the cultural and artistic attractions of New York, while oozing a relaxed and informal attitude with a distinctive ‘Melbourne’ feel.
Chicago is a multicultural city, with small ethnic enclaves forming a lively melting pot. The main tourist areas of the city are very close together, making it easy to get around and explore. A leisurely walk, or a short bus or taxi ride will expose you to famous museums, breathtaking architecture, exclusive shops and delectable restaurants –all that Chicago has to offer.
A good way to start is to catch a cruise up the Chicago River where you’ll be amazed by the varied architecture and a great overall view of the city. For a more breathtaking view of the skyline, hop on a cruise on Lake Michigan, or catch a lift to the top of Sears Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the USA.
Considered the birthplace of modern jazz and blues, Chicago has a music scene that crosses all styles from arena-style concerts local pubs, clubs and bars nurturing a range of musical styles. Maybe retail therapy is more your speed? A stroll down the Miracle Mile of North Michigan Ave will delight the plastic junkie with top international brands aplenty, as well as malls and department stores such as Bloomingdales.
For a taste of the “old” Chicago when gangsters ruled, take a run down Wacker Drive. You’ve probably seen this iconic street in movies, the road beneath the rumbling El (elevated railway) that roars downtown past skyline buildings. Become Capone for a day, but leave the machine gun behind.
Chicago is blessed with over 100 different cuisines so the world is your prairie oyster. Gina’s Pizzeria is famous for its take on the Chicago deep-dish pizza, and should be included on any trip to the Windy City.
Chicago fun facts
The first Ferris Wheel made its debut in Chicago in 1893 at the World's Columbian Exposition
Hugh Hefner started "Playboy" magazine in 1953. The first issue sold for fifty cents and featured Marilyn Monroe
The Sears Tower is the world's tallest building with 110 floors
Majestic Canada
Sunday 8th August 2010
Travel Counsellor: Jake Bartlett
In August 2010, my partner and I travelled to Canada to explore the majestic Rocky Mountains, a trip we have wanted to do for many years. The spectacular scenery and abundance of memorable experiences we had on this trip will last a lifetime.
Our first stop was Vancouver, a very picturesque and great walking city offering a wide range of activities. We enjoyed Stanley Park, the Capilano Suspension bridge and Grouse Mountain which offered amazing views over Vancouver to name a few.
From Vancouver we boarded the Rocky Mountaineer, heralded as one of the world’s great rail journeys. On the “Journey Through the Clouds” route to Jasper, we experienced stunning scenery from the fresh green pastures, meandering rivers and rolling hills on day one to the majestic snow capped mountains and glacier filled rivers as we headed into the Rocky Mountains on day two. We enjoyed the journey in Gold Leaf. This service is recommended due to the open glass domed ceiling, the more spacious viewing... view full story
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