The big city edition : Chicago

There is a special corner in my heart for Chicago.

An icy one....brrr. But it's there.

This corner has my Chicago things.

Sam's Club (a U.S. grocery store), floor-to-ceiling windows, trudging to parking spaces in knee-deep snow, and the smell of vanilla.

Seemingly random things. And yet they occupy space.

I find myself back in the windy city when I encounter these things.

With the same doe-eyed excitement, I had as a young immigrant.

As a F.O.B. - 'fresh of the boat.'

An acronym generously given to immigrants unfamiliar with the lay of the American land.

Chicago was the place where my 'how to lose the F.O.B status?' journey began.

While this education took me to many other U.S. cities, Chicago remains a favorite.

And over the years, I have returned to it for various reasons.

Each time a little more sure. Each time a little more familiar.

So it was fitting to share this wonderful city with you.

In keeping with traditions and the spirit of brevity, I've picked 5 things to do here.

But if you'd rather see it all and do it all, click here.

#1 Check out 'The Bean'

'The Bean' or Cloud Gate (it's official name) is one of Chicago's most famous icons. Located in the Millenium park, this one of a kind outdoor sculpture reflects the Chicago skyline and its countless visitors with equal enthusiasm.

I've marvelled at it’s uniqueness with both family and friends. And as you can tell,  insta worthy pictures are a given here.

See: Crown fountain and other attractions at Millenium Park.

Do: Stand under 'The Bean' and watch it distort you into a fluid and elastic mass.

For more detailed information on the Millenium Park and The Bean, click here.

#2 Meander around Downtown

Chicago has a gorgeous downtown with sleek modern buildings mixed in with older architecture. It can be explored walking or along the river.

An architecture boat cruise is a great way to get insights into the famous buildings lining Chicago's impressive skyline.

See: The Wrigley building, Art on theMART, a digital art projection, displayed on the riverwalk-facing facade.

Do: Explore the riverwalk, enjoy a drink by the waterfront.

For a weekend itinerary exploring downtown, click here.

For more information on boat cruises, click here.

#3 Watch the fireworks at Navy Pier

Navy Pier, another Chicago must-see, has a little bit of everything - live music, theater, special events, cruises, and rides.

While away a lazy summer evening watching the fireworks over Lake Michigan or catch an outdoor movie at the park.

Winter activities are also available at the Pier. Though, I highly recommend staying away from Chicago when it's cold :)

See: The fireworks over Lake Michigan,  a live music concert.

Do: Take a spin on the Centennial Ferris Wheel.

For more information on Navy Pier, click here.

#4 Drive around Lake Shore Drive

Lake Shore Drive is a scenic roadway that stretches for about 16 miles along the western shore of Lake Michigan. It offers stunning views of the lake and the city skyline.

Once a year, this road is opened to bikers - seasoned or novice, to ride along and enjoy the scenery. For 2023 information on the bike ride, click here. Biking on Lake Shore Drive is a bucket list item for me. We just might rub shoulders here someday.

See: Lake Point Tower (from your car window), a private residential high-rise with celebrity residents. It stands alone on the east of Lake Shore Drive.

Do: Walk or bike along the Lakefront Trail. The trail is a pedestrian-friendly pathway that runs parallel to Lake Shore Drive.

For more information on the Lake Shore Drive, click here.

#5 Treat yourself to a panoramic view of the City

Wrap up a visit to Chicago by visiting either the Willis Tower or 360 Chicago Observation decks.

These are iconic buildings with spectacular sights from an elevated vantage point. They also have restaurants for a sit-down immersive experience.

360 Chicago is on The Magnificent Mile - a popular shopping destination. So, if shopping is on your mind, look no further.

See: Panoramic views of Chicago

Do: Shop at the The Magnificent Mile, dine at one of the high-rise restaurants.

Random Associations

Let's go back to my Chicago things for a minute.

Chicago Sam's Club was the first big box store I had set foot into in the U.S.

And in true F.O.B. style, I was fascinated by it - the overflowing aisles, the consumers, and the entire shopping experience.

The floor-to-ceiling windows were in my brother's apartment. Many an evening was spent admiring Lake Shore Drive from there.

And the scent of vanilla was from a chapstick bought at a local Chicago drugstore.

Why I remember these particular things, I do not know.

Perhaps because they belong to a time of awkwardness and coming of age.

And for that, Chicago I am forever grateful.

Since you,

The journey has been onward ever. But backward.....

Never.