July 10, 2025 • 35 mins
In this episode, Lea Rose & Betty chat all things Chicago! As a local, Lea Rose shares essential things to know about the city & how travelers should plan their visit.
They chat about the best things to do in Chicago (+ hidden gems), the best restaurants, where to stay, how to stay safe, and so much more. Lea Rose also shares the #1 tourist attraction she thinks is overrated.
Have a question about Chicago? Drop it in the comments 👇
📰 Articles from Travel Lemming.com
-All Chicago guides: https://travellemming.com/chicago/
-Where to Stay in Chicago: https://travellemming.com/where-to-stay-in-chicago/
-Best Time to Visit Chicago: https://travellemming.com/best-time-to-visit-chicago/
-Chicago Itinerary: https://travellemming.com/chicago-itinerary/
-Day Trips from Chicago: https://travellemming.com/day-trips-from-chicago/
-Things to Do in Chicago: https://travellemming.com/things-to-do-in-chicago/
-Safety in Chicago: https://travellemming.com/is-chicago-safe/
📰 Perspectives from Travel Lemming.com
-Chicago is the best major city in America: https://travellemming.com/perspectives/i-think-chicago-is-americas-best-major-city/
#chicago #chicagoTravel #TravelTips #Illinois
00:00:00 – Intro & Teaser
00:00:27 – Meet Lea Rose: Chicago Local & Travel Lemming Editor
00:01:50 – Why Visit Chicago?
00:04:21 – Top Attractions in Chicago
00:06:53 – Architecture & Neighborhood Charm
00:08:16 – Hidden Gems in the City
00:09:53 – Where to Stay in Chicago
00:13:33 – Best Time to Visit Chicago
00:16:54 – Getting Around: Trains & Public Transit
00:22:10 – Iconic Chicago Foods
00:25:24 – Nightlife & Safety Tips
00:34:09 – Final Tips & Etiquette
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
If you're planning a trip to Chicago,stick around for this episode.
Here's a 32nd teaser.
(00:27):
Welcome everybody to theTravel Leming podcast.
My name is Betty Herd.
I'm your host, this is the podcast wherewe help you become a better traveler
by giving you tips and tricks aboutdestinations all around the world.
my guest today is a Chicago local andplays a huge role at Travel Lemming.
Welcome to the show, Leah Rose Alba.
I will let you go ahead andintroduce yourself to our listeners
(00:50):
and tell us a little bit aboutwhy you're our Chicago expert.
Hi, I'm Leah Rose, and like Bettysaid, I'm travel lemmings, managing
editor and a Chicago local.
So I've lived in Chicago since 2022.
And I just really love the cityand I love exploring all the best
things to do in the neighborhoods.
And I've got tons of recommendationsfor visitors coming to
Chicago for the first time.
(01:11):
So, yeah, I'm excited to share allof that today and let you know what
to experience in the windy city.
Amazing.
Yeah, I'm really excited to hearabout your Chicago expertise.
I've only been there really one timein my life and I absolutely loved
it, so I know it's gonna be a greatepisode since you're our expert.
Leah Rose and I recorded an episodeon Italy a few episodes back, so if
(01:32):
that's a place that you've been planningon traveling as well, make sure to
check that episode out after this one.
So before we start, make sure tolike and subscribe to our channel
so you can follow along with everynew episode we post on Thursdays.
So my first questionis always a simple one.
Leah Rose.
Why should somebody visit Chicago?
I.
so I feel like there's a millionways I could answer that question.
(01:53):
I would just say overall, if you'relooking to plan some type of city
trip, and maybe you're thinking aboutlike New York City or la, but maybe
those places seem like too expensiveor you just, you know, want a little
bit something different I think.
Plan a trip to Chicago.
I think a lot of people are pleasantlysurprised when they come to Chicago
'cause I think a lot of people just havea certain idea about what Chicago is.
(02:15):
And the city definitely has acertain reputation, but I think
anyone who visits will be pleasantlysurprised, and realize that.
We have a lot more than people expect.
Like we have an amazing food scene.
Arts and culture, like amazing museums.
the sports are really big here.
I'm not a big sports person, but I meanwe've got like the bears for football.
The bowls, basketball, and then, theCubs and the White Sox for baseball.
(02:39):
So there's big sports scene here.
And then we also just have amazingarchitecture locally, just like
walking through random neighborhoods.
There's like reallybeautiful houses to look at.
And then we also have LakeMichigan, which is like right here.
And I think people don't realizethat we literally have a beach,
like right in front of the city.
And I know it's not like a beachbeach by a traditional standard, but
if you ask any local, it's a beach.
(03:01):
And yeah, there's just a ton todo for, I would say like lots
of different types of travelers.
I also think in general, Chicago isjust one of the best cities in the us.
And I get a lot of flack for sayingthis, I think especially when people
are like, oh, but New York City andLA and Miami, and that's true and
those places are great, but just visitChicago and you'll know what I mean.
It's just.
We've got a lot going on here, and nooffense to those places, but I feel
(03:24):
like we have less of the fanfare.
It's, it's more of like a downto earth type of city, there
are real people who are livinghere, like it's really authentic.
Again, no offense to New YorkCity or la No shade to you, Betty.
You live in la.
But,
so offended.
but, yeah, that's my,that's my take on Chicago.
No, it is super different.
I've been to all three cities.
In fact, I, I feel like LA Chicago andNew York are kind of like the three
(03:45):
main major cities in the United States.
Maybe, maybe Miami.
I don't
No, no, you're right.
'cause I think New York City'sthe biggest, and then LA and
then Chicago's the third, so.
Yeah.
Yeah.
And it's like you've got the westcoast, which is super, super different
from the east coast and then Chicagoright in the middle just has, like you
said, it's a very laid back feeling.
It's really gorgeous there.
And yeah, no, no offense taken at all.
(04:06):
But also I know you have an articleon the website about why you think
Chicago's the best city in the US so we'lldefinitely link that in the show notes.
I definitely check out LeahRose's article there after this
episode, if you wanna get into herreasoning there a little bit more.
A little controversial,but you can give it a read.
so controversial.
Yeah, so I wanna just go ahead and getstarted with the best things to do since
you already mentioned a couple of those,major attractions and draws to the city.
(04:29):
So what are some of the bestthings to do in Chicago?
I would say as far as attractionsgo, obviously like The Bean is up
there, everybody knows The Bean.
It's in Millennium Park.
It's this giant like sculpture thatmost people think looks like a bean.
It's actually supposedto look like a cloud.
And it's supposed to kinda,yeah, it's called CloudGate
(04:49):
is what it's actually called.
Oh my God.
It's not just the
It's not just the Bean.
Yeah, so it's called CloudGate andit has like a reflective surface
and it's supposed to like, reflectthe skyline and it's, it's cool.
Like obviously it's touristy,but you know, it's the Bean.
But yeah, obviously that's worth visiting.
And then we've got tonsof really cool museums.
Like the Art Institute is huge.
That's, like right downthe street from The Bean.
(05:11):
It's in the same park, but it's justlike basically a couple blocks down.
Amazing art like exhibits from.
Different eras, in art history,and we've got, it's got American
art, impressionism, an Egyptianexhibit, tons of different stuff.
And then there's Navy Pier,which is really big for families.
Then there's just a ton of other places.
Lincoln Park is the biggest park inthe city and we have a free zoo you
(05:34):
can visit, beaches right on the park.
There's beaches all along the city.
and then like comedy is anotherthing that's huge in Chicago.
So a lot of people might, mayhave heard of the Second City,
which is a famous comedy club.
A lot of famous comedians and actors of.
Come out of Second City.
And so there's a big comedy, scene here.
And so seeing a show isa really fun thing to do.
(05:56):
And there's also, you know, lotsof live music, blues and jazz are
really big in Chicago, so there'skind of something for everybody.
And also, you know, sports and everything.
Like going to see a Cubs gameis a classic Chicago thing.
So those are kind of like thetop attraction attractions.
And then as far as just like morelocal type things to do, honestly,
one of my favorite things to do inChicago is just walking along, like
(06:18):
walking around different neighborhoods.
And With my dog and looking at thedifferent buildings, because Chicago
has really, really cool architecture.
And I think even if you're notlike a big architecture enthusiast,
I think you can still appreciateall of the cool buildings we have.
After like the Great Chicago fire, along, long time ago, there was like a big
rebuilding in the city, and so there'sjust a lot of really beautiful buildings.
(06:41):
And it, the city attracted a lot ofarchitects at the time, so I would
say downtown in the loop, there'sreally cool architecture as far as
like big buildings and skyscrapers.
And then also just like neighborhoodsand homes, just really cool buildings.
A lot of character in them.
I think that's one of the reallyunique things about Chicago.
And when you get more west, really, thereisn't very interesting architecture on the
(07:03):
West coast except for San Francisco, whichwe just did an episode on San Francisco.
You should also check that outafter this with Laura McFarland.
She also talks a lot about the,the architecture bury European.
And I think that's like one of thereally unique things there because
you really don't see anything likethese beautiful streets in Chicago
at all on the west Coast really.
Yeah, I think it's such a gorgeous city.
And like you said, after the, everythingwas rebuilt after the Chicago fire,
(07:26):
which didn't that burn down like,
It burnt down like
percentage of the city,
the city.
I mean, you know, you can fact checkme here, but it was most of the city,
, especially downtown Chicago was prettymuch leveled except for a few buildings,
the water tower, that's still standing.
And, and some other buildings.
But it was like, I think 'causeeverything was made of wood and
nothing was made of steel at the time.
(07:46):
I've done an architecturecruise a couple of times, so I'm
like, oh, I, I've heard this.
But yeah, a lot of thecity was just like leveled.
So after that, basically a bunchof, there was like an architectural
boom and people were like, oh,well the city got flattened.
So like this is an opportunityfor like, architects to come
and rebuild a bunch of stuff.
And so there's just like alot of character for sure.
(08:07):
Yeah.
Well they did a good job.
Yeah.
I, I think so too.
I, I love just like walking aroundand there's tons of neighborhoods
I could go into, that are likehotspots for it, but yeah.
Yeah, of course.
Are there any hidden gems that maybesomebody who isn't a local would wanna
know about when visiting Chicago?
Ooh.
Definitely.
Off the top of my head.
This isn't like necessarily a local gem,but I think one that a lot of people just
(08:29):
miss when they're downtown in the loop.
So right across the street from the Beanand Millennium Park, is the cultural
center and inside they have the world'slargest Tiffany stained Glass Dome,
and it's really cool.
The building is absolutely beautiful.
They have a cool gift shop too.
Pro tip, if you need to use the bathroomwhile you're in the loop, you can use
it for free in the cultural center.
(08:50):
But I would say that's one thatpeople just like kind of skip over.
Another hidden gem, in downtown Chicagois, the poetry foundation and it's again,
just kind of like a hidden building.
Like you don't really realize it'sthere, but it's totally free to visit.
And they've got shelves, floor toceiling of all of these poetry books.
And it's just kind of a coolplace to walk around wander.
It's really peaceful.
They have a little courtyard.
(09:11):
So those are just like a couple ofrandom ones off the top of my head.
And then I would also say justgoing and visiting the beaches
while you're in Chicago is a must.
I kind of think people forget thatthat's a thing that you should do and
you get caught up just doing city stuff.
Yeah.
Do you have any topbeaches that you recommend?
Yeah, so, the ones that I usuallylike to go to are the North
Ave Beach and Montrose Beach.
(09:33):
Montrose is a little bit farther north,and tends to be a little bit cleaner
than North Ave, but north Ave Beachis right next to Lincoln Park, so it's
pretty accessible to a lot of people.
And there's like kind of a concrete pierthat you can walk out onto and there's
like really beautiful views of the city.
You can get like a perfect skyline shot.
So I would say those two aresome of my recommendations.
(09:53):
Lovely.
And you mentioned the loop before.
Can you tell us a little bit moreabout what exactly the loop is?
Yeah, so basically, the loop refersto downtown Chicago, and it's named
that because all of the, like thetrain systems, like all of the meet
in downtown Chicago forming likea loop with the, the train lines.
So that's like why it's called the Loop.
But when you hear peoplesay the Loop, they're just
(10:15):
talking about downtown Chicago.
And there's some other like downtownneighborhoods that, you know, we
will get really like specific,like, okay, that's not the loop.
This is like River North.
And yeah.
But you can just think of itkind of as downtown Chicago.
Okay, well on that topic, where are someof the best places to stay in Chicago?
I would say the Loop is probablythe most popular place to stay
for first time visitors and justlike the areas surrounding the
(10:37):
loop, again, downtown Chicago.
So I would say the Loop RiverNorth Streeterville and staying
along the magnificent mile, that'slike the famous shopping district.
Just staying in that general area is.
Best for first timers.
'cause you're gonna get,like the city experience.
There's tons of cool hotels.
You're gonna get the city views,and you're gonna be closest to all
of your attractions and everything.
And then I would say if you'recoming back for like a repeat visit
(11:00):
or you wanna experience a littlesomething different or just something
a little more local, there's abajillion neighborhoods to choose from.
But some of the more popular onesare like, Wicker Park is really cool,
especially with, younger travelers.
I used to live in Wicker Park andthere's just a ton of like, music
venues and coffee shops and like coolvintage shops and stuff like that.
And then like West Loop is really bigfor people who love like restaurants
(11:23):
and food and all that kind of thing.
And Lincoln Park is really big forfamilies so that those are just, you
know, some off the top of my head.
But yeah, there's definitelysomething for everyone in a million
neighborhoods to choose from.
where should budgettravelers stay in Chicago?
so we have some like chainhotels in downtown Chicago.
And I would say try to go for,you know, some more national
(11:44):
popular chains and you're probablygonna get some cheaper rates.
Chicago also has a couple ofhostels, and so that's a good way
to, you know, get a cheaper rate.
And then I would say like, as faras neighborhoods go, you could
probably find cheaper like Airbnbsand rentals up in like Lakeview,
maybe around the Wicker Park area.
But Wicker Park can actuallybe kind of expensive.
(12:04):
But I would say kind of spreadingout into the neighborhoods you
could find some cheaper rentals.
Okay, great.
Yeah, one of my best friends actuallystayed in a hostel in Chicago, just this
last year, and he said it was amazing.
He said it was really clean,super, like, it was very much like
European hostels where they hadbar crawls, pub crawls planned.
And, it was like $40 a night.
So if you're on
(12:24):
yeah, that's great.
can do that.
Yeah.
For sure.
I know I feel like a lot of majorcities don't have in the US at least,
don't have very many hostile options,
Yeah.
I, I know off the top of my headthere's high Chicago hostel.
That's the name of one.
Maybe it was that one, but there'sa couple others, but I know
that one off the top of my head.
Well, very cool.
Are there any other notable placesyou recommend staying in Chicago?
(12:45):
There are a ton of coolhotels to stay in Chicago.
I would say, one that's right onthe river is London House, Chicago.
Like I said, it's sits right onthe river and if you get a room
like facing the river, you'll getbeautiful views of the city all around.
And another one is the ChicagoAthletic Association, which is more
of a boutique hotel, but it's rightacross the street from the Bean.
(13:06):
And they also have a really cool rooftopbar that overlooks the entire park.
And you can see, lake Michigan in thebackground as well as just city views.
So those are a couple of cool hotelsthat I would say to check out.
There's a ton more in my where to Stayin Chicago Guide if you're looking
for, you know, different options ifyou're like a budget traveler, like
want something luxury, all of that.
So I would say that's a good resource.
But yeah, tons of cool places.
(13:27):
Awesome.
So now that we know where to stay,I wanna talk about when to stay.
So, when should somebody visit Chicago?
I'll say this with my chest, but summeris the best time to visit Chicago.
It's just like the best time in the city.
Any other local would agree with me.
I feel like people say that the wintersor the summers make the winters worth
suffering through basically in Chicago.
(13:47):
'cause our summers are elite.
basically, yeah, like it's really hot.
But again, we have Lake Michigan andeverybody's just like at the beach.
Patio dining is huge.
Everyone's just outside.
There's a buzz and an energy Ithink during the summer in Chicago.
And like I said, it is hot, but if you canvisit during the summer, absolutely come.
You'll, I think get to see Chicago atits very best with the skies are blue.
(14:11):
They aren't gray and sad anddepressing like they are in the winter.
Everything's green in the parks.
So you can enjoy the parksand swimming in the lake.
You can, take a boatout onto Lake Michigan.
You can kayak down the Chicago River.
There's also a ton of festivals and eventsgoing on in the summertime, so there's
something happening every single weekend.
So, it's just a great way to experiencelike the very best of the city.
(14:32):
Chicago Summers have a certain energyto them, so visit then if you can,
spring honestly, hit or Miss springin Chicago is super up and down.
Like it'll be 75 degrees one dayand then 45 degrees the next.
It's, it just kind of, it's inconsistent.
It's an okay time to visit, but.
Like inconsistent weather.
Fall is a nice time to visit if you wannavisit, when things are a little more
(14:54):
budget friendly or, and, you know, youwant fewer crowds and don't wanna deal
with the heat, like September is awesome.
October isn't too cold yet, soI would say those are a couple
of cool months to check out.
Winter, you know, it's,it's winter in Chicago.
It's sad and cold anddepressing sometimes.
But I mean, we have cool thingsgoing on during the holidays, so
(15:15):
you know, you won't totally suffer.
You'll also get cheaper pricesand can probably enjoy the
museums like without anybody.
So they're, yeah, that's what I wouldsay about the different seasons.
I've heard that thewinters are quite brutal.
I don't think I've ever beenthere during the winter.
Like I, I don't thinkI've had a layover there.
For those who don't know, I'ma flight attendant, so like.
I'm always at the Chicago airport, butI rarely actually get to stay there.
(15:38):
But yeah, I don't think I'vebeen outside during that cold.
I don't know what that feels like,but people are always like, stay
outta Chicago in the wintertime.
It's so tough to get through.
When I first moved to Chicago, it waslike January, and I stepped out of
the car and just for a split secondI was like, maybe I regret this.
But, but I, I survived, so
(16:00):
Yeah.
It takes some getting used to.
Yeah,
definitely.
I think I have my like Chicago coldgrit, like it takes time to get used to,
The one time I've been to Chicagowas in the summertime, and I just
remember the weather was perfect.
The skies were clear.
There were tulips blooming everywhere.
It was so gorgeous.
It was like this utopiansociety, and I remember.
Telling some friends of mine who livedthere like, oh my God, I wanna move to
(16:23):
Chicago, like maybe I could work here.
And they're like, don't you dare thinkthat this is normal, because like you
don't know what the winners are like.
And for me, being from Arizona, I'venever experienced cold like that.
So I was like, oh, I'm sure it's fine.
And you know, the more I hear aboutit, the more I'm like, I don't
know how well I would handle that.
But yeah, the summers are gorgeous.
Yeah.
I always feel like when it, when I gothrough winter and then winter's like at
(16:46):
the end and it's about to become springand summer, and then we have our first
like warm, sunny day, I'm like, oh, Iforgot what it was like to feel alive.
But yeah.
Visit in the summer.
Awesome.
How much time do you thinksomebody would need to visit?
I would say a long weekend is solid.
That way you can do all of thehighlights and then also like check
out a couple of neighborhoods and, youknow, do some more local type stuff.
And then if you really wanna kind ofdive into the city, you could take a week
(17:09):
that'll give you like plenty of time to,explore different neighborhoods and, you
know, chill out a little while you exploreall the different parts of the city.
But I think if you could do along weekend that's, that's solid.
speaking of exploring, I wanna talk aboutthe best ways to get around Chicago.
I know you guys have a killer trainsystem, which is something I, it,
it's completely foreign to me.
(17:29):
So if you could talk a little bitmore about the best ways to get
around Chicago, that'd be great.
Yeah.
So, we do have a pretty big, like,public transportation system.
It's comprised of, youknow, trains and buses.
Something people should know isthat, you know, the trains are often
referred to as like the l which isa shortened version for Elevated.
'cause our trains aremostly elevated in the city.
(17:49):
They're not like underground,except for in a few spots.
But, yeah, so if you hear the L that'sreferring to the train, a lot of people
do call it the train though, so youwon't be crazy for calling it that.
We have like pretty good access as faras like you can get all around the city
with public transportation, you don'tneed a car, especially if you're visiting.
Like, it would be morehassle, than it's worth.
And yeah, we've got, I thinkit's about eight different lines.
(18:11):
They're like color coded, andall of them meet up in, the, the
city center, like in downtown.
So whatever line you're closest to, youcan get back to the loop, by taking the
train and then, yeah, and I mean, they're,it's pretty reliable, I would say.
Buses they're generally reliable, butI kind of think in the winter they tend
to be like, they'll be some missingbuses, but that's just anecdotally.
(18:33):
But yeah, it, we have a goodsolid, like reliable public
transportation system for sure.
So can you tell us a little bit moreabout how to navigate the train system?
If you don't know how the train systemworks, honestly, just use your phone.
It's, it'll be easy enough.
You can either use maps, likeApple Maps or Google Maps.
I guess Google Maps tends to be moreaccurate, like across the board.
(18:54):
I still use Apple Maps and it'slike, gets, gets many places fine.
But it'll tell you like what lineto take, what bus number to take.
and it's pretty easy and self-explanatory.
I, I know it can be overwhelming if youlike, aren't used to trains, like, 'cause
I, I didn't grow up taking trains, in acity, so it was like a learning curve.
I will say like Chicago has allof the lines are different colors,
(19:14):
so that should make it easierrather than like being numbered.
and also when you go to a train station,on the wall where the train runs past,
it'll show you the, all of the stops.
So you can be like, okay, I doneed to go that way because the
stop I need is going that way.
Okay, so pretty self-explanatory.
That's good to know.
Just 'cause I, I'm so not used to takingtrains and even in New York City, taking
(19:36):
subways is like such a confusing thing
yeah.
feel like Chicago, yeah, I feel likeChicago's a lot, it's a lot easier to
navigate because you're above groundso you, you can see where you're at.
Whereas
like when you're in a dark subway,it's like, I have no idea where I am.
I could be in a differentcity by now and not know it.
You know?
Like if you don't know what you're doing.
For sure.
Also, Chicago people are nice.
(19:57):
If you need to ask somebody fordirections, people are friendly,
someone will help you out.
You'll be fine.
That Midwest hospitality.
I love it.
During the wintertime, like thetrain, it doesn't really make a
difference in how the train runs.
Right.
No, no.
Yeah.
That's something that I learned likecoming from the South, 'cause I'm
originally from North Carolina, isthat things don't shut down when
(20:19):
it's like snowing and it's cold.
Yeah, everything's stilloperating like full capacity.
I, again, I would say like sometimesthe buses will be a little more
late in the winter, but that's justbeen like my experience with it.
But yeah, everything's still running.
Yeah.
'Cause I can imagine that likeif the roads are covered in snow,
the traffic's gonna be horrendous.
But if you can take the train instead,it seems like a way better option.
(20:40):
For sure.
You'll get places quickertaking the train sometimes.
So it's definitely worth doing.
I would just say, you know, I, thiswill probably lead into another segment
of the podcast, but, the train andbuses are definitely great to take.
I think you should avoidtaking the train at night.
Especially if you're by yourself.
just for safety reasons, you know,out of like an abundance of caution.
And if you are wanting to takepublic transportation at night, I
(21:02):
would recommend buses over trains.
They just tend to feel a little bit safer.
But yeah, other, but duringthe day, you should be fine.
we'll definitely talk a little bitmore about safety, very shortly here.
But definitely a very good tip.
And, I wanna talk about the airporta little bit too, Chicago O'Hare
is a massive airport with so manydifferent airlines coming in from
so many different destinations, notjust in the US but internationally.
(21:24):
So I think Chicago's one of those placesyou can really, pretty easily get to.
And hopefully for a decent fair asopposed to, you know, some really
remote, tiny, little airport elsewhere.
Yeah, I mean, O'Hare is huge.
And also just 'cause Chicago is such a bigcity, you can find like reasonably cheap
like regional flights just into the city.
(21:45):
There is a train, thatgoes directly to O'Hare.
It's the blue line, and whetheryou're coming from downtown and going
to the airport or vice versa, youcan just hop on the blue line and
it'll take you either, either way.
and it's really convenient and easy.
And same with, the other airportin Chicago, it's called Midway.
It's on, the south side.
You can take the orange line directlyto that airport so there's easy access.
(22:08):
Like wherever you're flyinginto, you can get to the city.
Okay, so moving right along.
I wanna get into food and drink.
So what are some of the Chicagostaples in the culinary realm?
okay.
So Chicago is a huge food town, amazingrestaurants all around the city.
I would say like West Loopspecifically is known as like
the foodie neighborhood, like theFulton Market District in West Loop.
(22:31):
There's just a ton of likeaward-winning restaurants, in that area.
But as far as like Chicago Staples go,obviously everybody knows of like deep
dish pizza and I think Chicago dogs.
If you wanna try a deep dish, feel free.
I don't think anyone's gonnashame you if you don't.
I honestly think, with locals, it'skind of split where it's like, no,
I actually don't like Deep Dish.
Or like, there's also tavernstyle pizza in Chicago, which I
(22:53):
think not as many people know.
And tavern style islike, has a thin crust.
It's like a cracker crust.
And I think a lot of people actuallyprefer tavern style over, deep dish.
Maybe I'm making acontroversial statement here.
But there you can try both.
And if you wanna try a deep dish, QuasPizza is like the popular spot to go.
It's a little more off the beaten pathfor tourists, but it's a local favorite.
(23:16):
You can definitely gothere for a good deep dish.
And then, like Lou Maltis is a goodplace to go if, there's locations
all over the city, so you could finda deep dish there pretty easily.
And then for like a Chicago dog, itbasically, it's a specific type of
like hot dog with certain toppings.
since you are our Italy expertand you've had Italian pizza, of
course, what are your thoughts onItalian like classic pizza versus
(23:39):
a deep dish Chicago style pizza?
I mean,
Be real.
I like a classic Neapolitan style pizza.
That's what I'll say about that.
That's my preference.
Or I really don't mind like atavern style, pizza in Chicago.
But yeah, deep dish is, likea monster of a pizza, so it's,
it's a lot going
yeah.
It's, it's not for everybody, but
I think everyone should definitely try it
(24:01):
Yeah.
Try it for sure.
If you haven't.
It's like the Chicago thingthat everybody knows, but Yeah.
I mean, but no one will hateyou if you don't like it.
It's fine.
And what about Chicago dogs?
Like I always hear about Chicago dogs.
What makes a Chicago dog unique
basically it's an all beefhotdog in a poppy seed bun.
(24:21):
It's topped with yellow mustard,tomato, white onion, sweet pickle
relish, pickled sport peppers, aspear of dill pickle, and celery salt.
So that is what is on a Chicago dog.
It's a busy dog.
Yeah, there's a lot going on on in there.
You can get a Chicago dog at like Red HotRanch or there's a place called Wiener
Circle that, apparently like the, thepeople working there are known for like
(24:44):
yelling at you when you order, a hot dog.
It's like a thing.
I, I don't eat beef, so I,maybe I'm not the best person
to ask about a Chicago dog.
'cause I, I haven't had one actually'cause I don't eat beef, but
those are the places that I alwayshear to go and get a Chicago dog.
Yeah.
And maybe Wiener Circle is a good oneif you want a full experience, so,
And there's like standson the street, right?
(25:05):
Like is that a thing?
Yeah.
There's some fans around the street,especially in like, I think if you,
you're down in like Millennium Parkand Grant Park, there are gonna be some
places where you can get a Chicago dog,but there's places all over the city.
Love that.
What about nightlife and like bars?
I. Are there some, are there some clubs orbars that you recommend in downtown area?
Maybe?
So nightlife in Chicago, itreally varies by neighborhood.
(25:27):
Honestly, some neighborhoodswill be dead and not have any
nightlife, like Lincoln Park.
But then some neighborhoods likehave really great nightlife.
I would say if you're near the loop,river North tends to be like the place
that has a lot of nightlife going on.
It does tend to be a little more rowdier,it's more like clubs and lounges and that
type of vibe, which isn't really my scene,but if you wanna, you know, go clubbing,
(25:49):
river North is a good place for that.
I would say some other areas like I,for nightlife, I like Logan Square.
It tends to be more like dive bars andjust like cooler, more eccentric places.
And yeah, I think it, it also tendsto feel a little bit more safer
going out in like Logan Square, andlike Westtown versus River North.
But, it just, it kind of dependson the vibe you're going for.
(26:11):
Well that's a good segue into our nextsegment, which is Safety in Chicago.
Can you go over safety in the city?
Yeah, so obviously safety isa big concern, I think when
people are coming to Chicago.
'cause Chicago has a not amazingsafety reputation, especially like
from people who have never been,I think they're like, oh my God,
Chicago's like, it's horrible city.
(26:31):
It's crime ridden.
And like, I'll be honest asa local that there is crime.
You know, it's a major city and Ihear like of incidents like muggings
and, you know, robberies and, andcarjackings and stuff like that.
I don't think much of thatis going to affect tourists.
If you're staying, you know, in.
Downtown and doing the touristythings, you'll be fine.
(26:52):
I would just say just havestreet smarts, like normal city
street smarts and you'll be fine.
there are some things that you shouldbe aware of when coming to the city.
So there are quite a few homelesspeople in the city and you know,
like, unfortunately a lot of theseindividuals have , mental health issues
and, wanna be like sensitive to that,but also it is important to, stay safe
(27:13):
and it's better to be safe than sorry.
And while this might sound kind ofinsensitive, it's better to kind of
like not engage with these people.
Especially like if you're on the trainand like, don't make eye contact.
A lot of people might come up andask for money and it's best to
just kind of say like, oh, sorry,I don't have any cash, and move on.
I would say that's kind of the best wayto approach that situation, but I, I think
(27:35):
people coming from like the suburbs Thatwould probably like surprise 'em and they
don't quite know how to deal with that.
so I would just say don't engage.
That's the best way tokind of deal with that.
So yeah, being aware of thehomeless population is one thing.
If you do have a car and likemaybe you're driving into the city,
don't leave anything, you know,valuable, like open in the car.
(27:55):
Just 'cause car robberies.
I think that's like one of the biggestcrimes in Chicago is like car theft.
or people like breaking into cars.
So just don't leave anything obvioussitting out and you should be fine.
There's gonna be some people, likeon the streets, whether it's like
a homeless person or someone, youknow, doing canvassing for something.
People will kind of just come up toyou and be like, oh, I'd like to talk
to you about blah, blah, blah, blah,blah, or like asking you for money.
(28:17):
It's totally fine to kind ofjust ignore it or be like, sorry.
No, thank you.
And just keep it moving.
I honestly think that'sthe, the best way to go.
I don't think pickpocketingis a huge thing.
I mean, maybe some people have experiencedthat, but like, I've always felt
generally safe when it comes to that.
Just like keep your bag, likein front of you and on you.
I don't think you needto do anything too crazy.
I mean, you know, if you're likenot paying attention on the train
(28:40):
and it's crowded, then yeah, Ithink some incidents can happen.
But just kind of keep your wits aboutyou keep your bag close to you if you're,
if you're in a crowded area, but justgeneral safety stuff should keep you safe.
All great tips.
Are there any specific areasyou recommend avoiding entirely?
Yeah.
I mean there are some neighborhoodsthat obviously do just have
like higher rates of crime.
Off the top of my head, like WashingtonPark, Garfield Park and Humboldt Park
(29:03):
are areas I would generally avoid.
Also just being in the loop at night, theloop weirdly is kind of dead at night.
And I would just, I don't know, it'skind of an eerie vibe, so I would just
avoid being there at night, like alone.
So
Yeah.
And you mentioned before thatthe trains, you don't recommend
just like as a general rule, Ithink being on the train at night, I
would say past around midnight ish.
(29:25):
Avoid it if you can just because therewill still be people on some trains, but
sometimes it's a little more, some ofthe cars will be empty and it's just a
better idea to like Uber home if possible.
Uber back to your hotel or take a bus.
Honestly, buses feel pretty safethroughout the day just because there's
like a driver literally in the bus.
So something to consider.
(29:45):
What times do the trains run?
Is it all the time.
Yeah, the trains runpretty much all the time.
There's more of like a lagbetween like two to 4:00 AM two
to 5:00 AM in between there.
But there isn't likea time they shut down.
yeah, I don't think they shut down,but they come less frequently in
between like about two and 5:00 AM
Are there any other tips peopleshould know before visiting Chicago?
(30:05):
Yeah, so, if you're coming to Chicagofor the first time, some things
you should know, before you visitare, I would say one pack layers.
Generally like winter and summerare really consistent as far as
like you're getting warm daysor you're getting freezing days.
But if you're visiting like spring,fall, kind of getting into either of
those seasons, like pack layers also,it does like, tend to sometimes get
(30:27):
cooler at night, like in the summer.
So like it's good to havea sweatshirt or something.
And yeah, just I think layers aresmart 'cause sometimes you don't
know how the weather's gonna go.
I would also say, going back towhat I was just talking about
with, public transportation,people are nice in Chicago, like.
We're known for Midwestern hospitality.
So like people aren't gonnabe snooty and, and mean,
So like you can talk to likeyour server at the restaurant
(30:49):
or like someone in a store.
People will be friendly if you'relost, someone will help you out.
Don't worry about it, we're nice here.
then, yeah, just like safety.
Like I said, you know, justtry not to like engage.
I think when there are likehomeless people on the train,
just kind of keep to yourself.
I feel like that's thebest, advice I can give.
and then also, you know, ifyou are trying to get into any
(31:10):
popular restaurants, definitelymake reservations ahead of time.
Especially some of the popular restaurantsin West Loop, like just make your
reservations before you come justto ensure that you're gonna get in.
' cause they tend to book up.
And, you know, bring a reusable bag.
It's a city.
We have a small bag fee, sothat'll save you a few bucks.
Yeah, yeah.
If you bring a reusable bag.
(31:31):
And then also, like a lot of restaurantswill have extra service fees that I
feel like restaurants in the suburbsdon't always tend to have, or smaller
towns like, so there, there will besome extra, fees, like on your receipt.
So don't be like totally taken abackif you see something like that.
And then I, I also mentioned thisearlier, but this was a random pro tip.
If you have to go to the bathroomand you're in downtown Chicago,
go to the cultural center.
(31:52):
Their bathrooms are free and cleanand you can just walk right in.
So
Oh, that's good
for you.
Yeah.
And you mentioned restaurants.
Did you have some top restaurants that you
Yeah, so I definitely have a bunch ofrestaurant recommendations for you.
Some of my favorites are justones I have to shout out.
Girl in the Goat is a big one.
It like consistently ranks as oneof Chicago's best restaurants.
(32:13):
It's in the West Loop.
Just really delicious food.
It's like New American, which that'sopen to interpretation, but you
know, they've got some differentthings from different cuisines.
But one of my favorite things, girlin the Goat is the green beans,
which I know sounds really random,but they have some type of sauce.
It, I don't know, it's just really good.
Just get the green beans, I've been afew times and every time I go I feel like
(32:36):
I'm like drunk off the food when I leave.
Yeah.
Another, really good restaurantto try would be, if you're wanting
dumplings, go to QXY in Chinatown.
I swear to God, they're thebest dumplings in Chicago.
They're so good.
They don't take reservations.
But so you just have to walkin and put your name down.
Usually the weight isn't morethan like 30, 45 minutes and you
(32:58):
can just walk around Chinatown.
But yeah, delicious dumplings.
They're actually opening a secondlocation in, I think like Wicker Park.
That's, that's coming.
But QXY, Some other personal favoritesare Sunda, I think it's called Sunda
New Asian, but it's specifically theFulton Market location in West Loop.
Delicious.
It's probably one of the bestmeals I've ever had in Chicago,
honestly, is at s Sunda.
(33:19):
Go there.
Everything's great.
Specifically the Brussels sprouts.
Salad salad again.
That sounds strange, but it's so good.
Just trust me.
And then, some other favorites arelike, bang, bang Pie is so good.
Best pie.
Torchello makes amazing pasta.
DOMA is really, really good.
It's in like, kind of a randomspot in like Old Town-ish.
And it's a cafe and they makereally, really good, like
(33:40):
pastries and dessert stuff.
As well as just like some cafe food.
So those are some of my favorites.
Recommendations sound amazing.
a ton of good places in Chicago.
I'll take you when you come, Betty.
Oh, I can't wait.
We're gonna do a food tour.
And, for listeners, if you wanna do adeeper dive into all of these restaurant
recommendations, leah Rose has an articleon travel living, which will again, as
usual link in the show notes, so you cancheck all that out after this episode.
(34:04):
So we're coming to the end of the episode.
Is there any Chicago etiquette thatvisitors should know before they go?
I would say, aside from knowing likewhat the loop is and the l just,
you know, keep your wits about you,general city, smart city, like street
smarts will take you a long way.
And yeah, people are nice in Chicago.
There's I think a really biglike, local pride in Chicago,
(34:24):
like people love Chicago.
And yeah, just, you know, enjoy itand it'll probably surprise you,
like you'll probably end up likingit a lot more than you thought.
I feel like almost every one of myfriends who have visited me in Chicago
have been like, oh, I just wasn'texpecting it to be like all this.
And they're like, Chicago's amazing.
I had no idea.
So prepare to be pleasantly surprised.
(34:45):
And yeah, just enjoy it.
It's a great city and it's, I think ittends to be underrated, so just enjoy it.
lovely.
Well, thank you so much LeahRose, for being here and
sharing your Chicago expertise.
As I said before, listeners, we'regonna link all of these relevant
articles that, Leah Rose has writtenat traveling in the show notes.
So make sure if you want to do adeeper dive into all of these topics
(35:08):
that we've covered today, thingsto do, places to stay, places to
eat, how to get around, et cetera.
We'll have, all those links below and makesure to check it out on travel living.
And also make sure to like andsubscribe to the channel so you
can keep up with us on Thursdayswhen we post our new episodes.
Thank you listeners for being here.
We appreciate you so much and, we,we love getting to share all of
(35:29):
these different places with youand talk about them on the show.
Leah Rose, so lovelyto have you here today.
I hope you had
Lovely to be here.
Thanks for having me, buddy.
Yes, of course.
We will see you next time onthe Travel Loving Podcast.
Bye.
If you're planning a trip to Chicago,stick around for this episode.
Here's a 32nd teaser.
(00:27):
Welcome everybody to theTravel Leming podcast.
My name is Betty Herd.
I'm your host, this is the podcast wherewe help you become a better traveler
by giving you tips and tricks aboutdestinations all around the world.
my guest today is a Chicago local andplays a huge role at Travel Lemming.
Welcome to the show, Leah Rose Alba.
I will let you go ahead andintroduce yourself to our listeners
(00:50):
and tell us a little bit aboutwhy you're our Chicago expert.
Hi, I'm Leah Rose, and like Bettysaid, I'm travel lemmings, managing
editor and a Chicago local.
So I've lived in Chicago since 2022.
And I just really love the cityand I love exploring all the best
things to do in the neighborhoods.
And I've got tons of recommendationsfor visitors coming to
Chicago for the first time.
(01:11):
So, yeah, I'm excited to share allof that today and let you know what
to experience in the windy city.
Amazing.
Yeah, I'm really excited to hearabout your Chicago expertise.
I've only been there really one timein my life and I absolutely loved
it, so I know it's gonna be a greatepisode since you're our expert.
Leah Rose and I recorded an episodeon Italy a few episodes back, so if
(01:32):
that's a place that you've been planningon traveling as well, make sure to
check that episode out after this one.
So before we start, make sure tolike and subscribe to our channel
so you can follow along with everynew episode we post on Thursdays.
So my first questionis always a simple one.
Leah Rose.
Why should somebody visit Chicago?
I.
so I feel like there's a millionways I could answer that question.
(01:53):
I would just say overall, if you'relooking to plan some type of city
trip, and maybe you're thinking aboutlike New York City or la, but maybe
those places seem like too expensiveor you just, you know, want a little
bit something different I think.
Plan a trip to Chicago.
I think a lot of people are pleasantlysurprised when they come to Chicago
'cause I think a lot of people just havea certain idea about what Chicago is.
(02:15):
And the city definitely has acertain reputation, but I think
anyone who visits will be pleasantlysurprised, and realize that.
We have a lot more than people expect.
Like we have an amazing food scene.
Arts and culture, like amazing museums.
the sports are really big here.
I'm not a big sports person, but I meanwe've got like the bears for football.
The bowls, basketball, and then, theCubs and the White Sox for baseball.
(02:39):
So there's big sports scene here.
And then we also just have amazingarchitecture locally, just like
walking through random neighborhoods.
There's like reallybeautiful houses to look at.
And then we also have LakeMichigan, which is like right here.
And I think people don't realizethat we literally have a beach,
like right in front of the city.
And I know it's not like a beachbeach by a traditional standard, but
if you ask any local, it's a beach.
(03:01):
And yeah, there's just a ton todo for, I would say like lots
of different types of travelers.
I also think in general, Chicago isjust one of the best cities in the us.
And I get a lot of flack for sayingthis, I think especially when people
are like, oh, but New York City andLA and Miami, and that's true and
those places are great, but just visitChicago and you'll know what I mean.
It's just.
We've got a lot going on here, and nooffense to those places, but I feel
(03:24):
like we have less of the fanfare.
It's, it's more of like a downto earth type of city, there
are real people who are livinghere, like it's really authentic.
Again, no offense to New YorkCity or la No shade to you, Betty.
You live in la.
But,
so offended.
but, yeah, that's my,that's my take on Chicago.
No, it is super different.
I've been to all three cities.
In fact, I, I feel like LA Chicago andNew York are kind of like the three
(03:45):
main major cities in the United States.
Maybe, maybe Miami.
I don't
No, no, you're right.
'cause I think New York City'sthe biggest, and then LA and
then Chicago's the third, so.
Yeah.
Yeah.
And it's like you've got the westcoast, which is super, super different
from the east coast and then Chicagoright in the middle just has, like you
said, it's a very laid back feeling.
It's really gorgeous there.
And yeah, no, no offense taken at all.
(04:06):
But also I know you have an articleon the website about why you think
Chicago's the best city in the US so we'lldefinitely link that in the show notes.
I definitely check out LeahRose's article there after this
episode, if you wanna get into herreasoning there a little bit more.
A little controversial,but you can give it a read.
so controversial.
Yeah, so I wanna just go ahead and getstarted with the best things to do since
you already mentioned a couple of those,major attractions and draws to the city.
(04:29):
So what are some of the bestthings to do in Chicago?
I would say as far as attractionsgo, obviously like The Bean is up
there, everybody knows The Bean.
It's in Millennium Park.
It's this giant like sculpture thatmost people think looks like a bean.
It's actually supposedto look like a cloud.
And it's supposed to kinda,yeah, it's called CloudGate
(04:49):
is what it's actually called.
Oh my God.
It's not just the
It's not just the Bean.
Yeah, so it's called CloudGate andit has like a reflective surface
and it's supposed to like, reflectthe skyline and it's, it's cool.
Like obviously it's touristy,but you know, it's the Bean.
But yeah, obviously that's worth visiting.
And then we've got tonsof really cool museums.
Like the Art Institute is huge.
That's, like right downthe street from The Bean.
(05:11):
It's in the same park, but it's justlike basically a couple blocks down.
Amazing art like exhibits from.
Different eras, in art history,and we've got, it's got American
art, impressionism, an Egyptianexhibit, tons of different stuff.
And then there's Navy Pier,which is really big for families.
Then there's just a ton of other places.
Lincoln Park is the biggest park inthe city and we have a free zoo you
(05:34):
can visit, beaches right on the park.
There's beaches all along the city.
and then like comedy is anotherthing that's huge in Chicago.
So a lot of people might, mayhave heard of the Second City,
which is a famous comedy club.
A lot of famous comedians and actors of.
Come out of Second City.
And so there's a big comedy, scene here.
And so seeing a show isa really fun thing to do.
(05:56):
And there's also, you know, lotsof live music, blues and jazz are
really big in Chicago, so there'skind of something for everybody.
And also, you know, sports and everything.
Like going to see a Cubs gameis a classic Chicago thing.
So those are kind of like thetop attraction attractions.
And then as far as just like morelocal type things to do, honestly,
one of my favorite things to do inChicago is just walking along, like
(06:18):
walking around different neighborhoods.
And With my dog and looking at thedifferent buildings, because Chicago
has really, really cool architecture.
And I think even if you're notlike a big architecture enthusiast,
I think you can still appreciateall of the cool buildings we have.
After like the Great Chicago fire, along, long time ago, there was like a big
rebuilding in the city, and so there'sjust a lot of really beautiful buildings.
(06:41):
And it, the city attracted a lot ofarchitects at the time, so I would
say downtown in the loop, there'sreally cool architecture as far as
like big buildings and skyscrapers.
And then also just like neighborhoodsand homes, just really cool buildings.
A lot of character in them.
I think that's one of the reallyunique things about Chicago.
And when you get more west, really, thereisn't very interesting architecture on the
(07:03):
West coast except for San Francisco, whichwe just did an episode on San Francisco.
You should also check that outafter this with Laura McFarland.
She also talks a lot about the,the architecture bury European.
And I think that's like one of thereally unique things there because
you really don't see anything likethese beautiful streets in Chicago
at all on the west Coast really.
Yeah, I think it's such a gorgeous city.
And like you said, after the, everythingwas rebuilt after the Chicago fire,
(07:26):
which didn't that burn down like,
It burnt down like
percentage of the city,
the city.
I mean, you know, you can fact checkme here, but it was most of the city,
, especially downtown Chicago was prettymuch leveled except for a few buildings,
the water tower, that's still standing.
And, and some other buildings.
But it was like, I think 'causeeverything was made of wood and
nothing was made of steel at the time.
(07:46):
I've done an architecturecruise a couple of times, so I'm
like, oh, I, I've heard this.
But yeah, a lot of thecity was just like leveled.
So after that, basically a bunchof, there was like an architectural
boom and people were like, oh,well the city got flattened.
So like this is an opportunityfor like, architects to come
and rebuild a bunch of stuff.
And so there's just like alot of character for sure.
(08:07):
Yeah.
Well they did a good job.
Yeah.
I, I think so too.
I, I love just like walking aroundand there's tons of neighborhoods
I could go into, that are likehotspots for it, but yeah.
Yeah, of course.
Are there any hidden gems that maybesomebody who isn't a local would wanna
know about when visiting Chicago?
Ooh.
Definitely.
Off the top of my head.
This isn't like necessarily a local gem,but I think one that a lot of people just
(08:29):
miss when they're downtown in the loop.
So right across the street from the Beanand Millennium Park, is the cultural
center and inside they have the world'slargest Tiffany stained Glass Dome,
and it's really cool.
The building is absolutely beautiful.
They have a cool gift shop too.
Pro tip, if you need to use the bathroomwhile you're in the loop, you can use
it for free in the cultural center.
(08:50):
But I would say that's one thatpeople just like kind of skip over.
Another hidden gem, in downtown Chicagois, the poetry foundation and it's again,
just kind of like a hidden building.
Like you don't really realize it'sthere, but it's totally free to visit.
And they've got shelves, floor toceiling of all of these poetry books.
And it's just kind of a coolplace to walk around wander.
It's really peaceful.
They have a little courtyard.
(09:11):
So those are just like a couple ofrandom ones off the top of my head.
And then I would also say justgoing and visiting the beaches
while you're in Chicago is a must.
I kind of think people forget thatthat's a thing that you should do and
you get caught up just doing city stuff.
Yeah.
Do you have any topbeaches that you recommend?
Yeah, so, the ones that I usuallylike to go to are the North
Ave Beach and Montrose Beach.
(09:33):
Montrose is a little bit farther north,and tends to be a little bit cleaner
than North Ave, but north Ave Beachis right next to Lincoln Park, so it's
pretty accessible to a lot of people.
And there's like kind of a concrete pierthat you can walk out onto and there's
like really beautiful views of the city.
You can get like a perfect skyline shot.
So I would say those two aresome of my recommendations.
(09:53):
Lovely.
And you mentioned the loop before.
Can you tell us a little bit moreabout what exactly the loop is?
Yeah, so basically, the loop refersto downtown Chicago, and it's named
that because all of the, like thetrain systems, like all of the meet
in downtown Chicago forming likea loop with the, the train lines.
So that's like why it's called the Loop.
But when you hear peoplesay the Loop, they're just
(10:15):
talking about downtown Chicago.
And there's some other like downtownneighborhoods that, you know, we
will get really like specific,like, okay, that's not the loop.
This is like River North.
And yeah.
But you can just think of itkind of as downtown Chicago.
Okay, well on that topic, where are someof the best places to stay in Chicago?
I would say the Loop is probablythe most popular place to stay
for first time visitors and justlike the areas surrounding the
(10:37):
loop, again, downtown Chicago.
So I would say the Loop RiverNorth Streeterville and staying
along the magnificent mile, that'slike the famous shopping district.
Just staying in that general area is.
Best for first timers.
'cause you're gonna get,like the city experience.
There's tons of cool hotels.
You're gonna get the city views,and you're gonna be closest to all
of your attractions and everything.
And then I would say if you'recoming back for like a repeat visit
(11:00):
or you wanna experience a littlesomething different or just something
a little more local, there's abajillion neighborhoods to choose from.
But some of the more popular onesare like, Wicker Park is really cool,
especially with, younger travelers.
I used to live in Wicker Park andthere's just a ton of like, music
venues and coffee shops and like coolvintage shops and stuff like that.
And then like West Loop is really bigfor people who love like restaurants
(11:23):
and food and all that kind of thing.
And Lincoln Park is really big forfamilies so that those are just, you
know, some off the top of my head.
But yeah, there's definitelysomething for everyone in a million
neighborhoods to choose from.
where should budgettravelers stay in Chicago?
so we have some like chainhotels in downtown Chicago.
And I would say try to go for,you know, some more national
(11:44):
popular chains and you're probablygonna get some cheaper rates.
Chicago also has a couple ofhostels, and so that's a good way
to, you know, get a cheaper rate.
And then I would say like, as faras neighborhoods go, you could
probably find cheaper like Airbnbsand rentals up in like Lakeview,
maybe around the Wicker Park area.
But Wicker Park can actuallybe kind of expensive.
(12:04):
But I would say kind of spreadingout into the neighborhoods you
could find some cheaper rentals.
Okay, great.
Yeah, one of my best friends actuallystayed in a hostel in Chicago, just this
last year, and he said it was amazing.
He said it was really clean,super, like, it was very much like
European hostels where they hadbar crawls, pub crawls planned.
And, it was like $40 a night.
So if you're on
(12:24):
yeah, that's great.
can do that.
Yeah.
For sure.
I know I feel like a lot of majorcities don't have in the US at least,
don't have very many hostile options,
Yeah.
I, I know off the top of my headthere's high Chicago hostel.
That's the name of one.
Maybe it was that one, but there'sa couple others, but I know
that one off the top of my head.
Well, very cool.
Are there any other notable placesyou recommend staying in Chicago?
(12:45):
There are a ton of coolhotels to stay in Chicago.
I would say, one that's right onthe river is London House, Chicago.
Like I said, it's sits right onthe river and if you get a room
like facing the river, you'll getbeautiful views of the city all around.
And another one is the ChicagoAthletic Association, which is more
of a boutique hotel, but it's rightacross the street from the Bean.
(13:06):
And they also have a really cool rooftopbar that overlooks the entire park.
And you can see, lake Michigan in thebackground as well as just city views.
So those are a couple of cool hotelsthat I would say to check out.
There's a ton more in my where to Stayin Chicago Guide if you're looking
for, you know, different options ifyou're like a budget traveler, like
want something luxury, all of that.
So I would say that's a good resource.
But yeah, tons of cool places.
(13:27):
Awesome.
So now that we know where to stay,I wanna talk about when to stay.
So, when should somebody visit Chicago?
I'll say this with my chest, but summeris the best time to visit Chicago.
It's just like the best time in the city.
Any other local would agree with me.
I feel like people say that the wintersor the summers make the winters worth
suffering through basically in Chicago.
(13:47):
'cause our summers are elite.
basically, yeah, like it's really hot.
But again, we have Lake Michigan andeverybody's just like at the beach.
Patio dining is huge.
Everyone's just outside.
There's a buzz and an energy Ithink during the summer in Chicago.
And like I said, it is hot, but if you canvisit during the summer, absolutely come.
You'll, I think get to see Chicago atits very best with the skies are blue.
(14:11):
They aren't gray and sad anddepressing like they are in the winter.
Everything's green in the parks.
So you can enjoy the parksand swimming in the lake.
You can, take a boatout onto Lake Michigan.
You can kayak down the Chicago River.
There's also a ton of festivals and eventsgoing on in the summertime, so there's
something happening every single weekend.
So, it's just a great way to experiencelike the very best of the city.
(14:32):
Chicago Summers have a certain energyto them, so visit then if you can,
spring honestly, hit or Miss springin Chicago is super up and down.
Like it'll be 75 degrees one dayand then 45 degrees the next.
It's, it just kind of, it's inconsistent.
It's an okay time to visit, but.
Like inconsistent weather.
Fall is a nice time to visit if you wannavisit, when things are a little more
(14:54):
budget friendly or, and, you know, youwant fewer crowds and don't wanna deal
with the heat, like September is awesome.
October isn't too cold yet, soI would say those are a couple
of cool months to check out.
Winter, you know, it's,it's winter in Chicago.
It's sad and cold anddepressing sometimes.
But I mean, we have cool thingsgoing on during the holidays, so
(15:15):
you know, you won't totally suffer.
You'll also get cheaper pricesand can probably enjoy the
museums like without anybody.
So they're, yeah, that's what I wouldsay about the different seasons.
I've heard that thewinters are quite brutal.
I don't think I've ever beenthere during the winter.
Like I, I don't thinkI've had a layover there.
For those who don't know, I'ma flight attendant, so like.
I'm always at the Chicago airport, butI rarely actually get to stay there.
(15:38):
But yeah, I don't think I'vebeen outside during that cold.
I don't know what that feels like,but people are always like, stay
outta Chicago in the wintertime.
It's so tough to get through.
When I first moved to Chicago, it waslike January, and I stepped out of
the car and just for a split secondI was like, maybe I regret this.
But, but I, I survived, so
(16:00):
Yeah.
It takes some getting used to.
Yeah,
definitely.
I think I have my like Chicago coldgrit, like it takes time to get used to,
The one time I've been to Chicagowas in the summertime, and I just
remember the weather was perfect.
The skies were clear.
There were tulips blooming everywhere.
It was so gorgeous.
It was like this utopiansociety, and I remember.
Telling some friends of mine who livedthere like, oh my God, I wanna move to
(16:23):
Chicago, like maybe I could work here.
And they're like, don't you dare thinkthat this is normal, because like you
don't know what the winners are like.
And for me, being from Arizona, I'venever experienced cold like that.
So I was like, oh, I'm sure it's fine.
And you know, the more I hear aboutit, the more I'm like, I don't
know how well I would handle that.
But yeah, the summers are gorgeous.
Yeah.
I always feel like when it, when I gothrough winter and then winter's like at
(16:46):
the end and it's about to become springand summer, and then we have our first
like warm, sunny day, I'm like, oh, Iforgot what it was like to feel alive.
But yeah.
Visit in the summer.
Awesome.
How much time do you thinksomebody would need to visit?
I would say a long weekend is solid.
That way you can do all of thehighlights and then also like check
out a couple of neighborhoods and, youknow, do some more local type stuff.
And then if you really wanna kind ofdive into the city, you could take a week
(17:09):
that'll give you like plenty of time to,explore different neighborhoods and, you
know, chill out a little while you exploreall the different parts of the city.
But I think if you could do along weekend that's, that's solid.
speaking of exploring, I wanna talk aboutthe best ways to get around Chicago.
I know you guys have a killer trainsystem, which is something I, it,
it's completely foreign to me.
(17:29):
So if you could talk a little bitmore about the best ways to get
around Chicago, that'd be great.
Yeah.
So, we do have a pretty big, like,public transportation system.
It's comprised of, youknow, trains and buses.
Something people should know isthat, you know, the trains are often
referred to as like the l which isa shortened version for Elevated.
'cause our trains aremostly elevated in the city.
(17:49):
They're not like underground,except for in a few spots.
But, yeah, so if you hear the L that'sreferring to the train, a lot of people
do call it the train though, so youwon't be crazy for calling it that.
We have like pretty good access as faras like you can get all around the city
with public transportation, you don'tneed a car, especially if you're visiting.
Like, it would be morehassle, than it's worth.
And yeah, we've got, I thinkit's about eight different lines.
(18:11):
They're like color coded, andall of them meet up in, the, the
city center, like in downtown.
So whatever line you're closest to, youcan get back to the loop, by taking the
train and then, yeah, and I mean, they're,it's pretty reliable, I would say.
Buses they're generally reliable, butI kind of think in the winter they tend
to be like, they'll be some missingbuses, but that's just anecdotally.
(18:33):
But yeah, it, we have a goodsolid, like reliable public
transportation system for sure.
So can you tell us a little bit moreabout how to navigate the train system?
If you don't know how the train systemworks, honestly, just use your phone.
It's, it'll be easy enough.
You can either use maps, likeApple Maps or Google Maps.
I guess Google Maps tends to be moreaccurate, like across the board.
(18:54):
I still use Apple Maps and it'slike, gets, gets many places fine.
But it'll tell you like what lineto take, what bus number to take.
and it's pretty easy and self-explanatory.
I, I know it can be overwhelming if youlike, aren't used to trains, like, 'cause
I, I didn't grow up taking trains, in acity, so it was like a learning curve.
I will say like Chicago has allof the lines are different colors,
(19:14):
so that should make it easierrather than like being numbered.
and also when you go to a train station,on the wall where the train runs past,
it'll show you the, all of the stops.
So you can be like, okay, I doneed to go that way because the
stop I need is going that way.
Okay, so pretty self-explanatory.
That's good to know.
Just 'cause I, I'm so not used to takingtrains and even in New York City, taking
(19:36):
subways is like such a confusing thing
yeah.
feel like Chicago, yeah, I feel likeChicago's a lot, it's a lot easier to
navigate because you're above groundso you, you can see where you're at.
Whereas
like when you're in a dark subway,it's like, I have no idea where I am.
I could be in a differentcity by now and not know it.
You know?
Like if you don't know what you're doing.
For sure.
Also, Chicago people are nice.
(19:57):
If you need to ask somebody fordirections, people are friendly,
someone will help you out.
You'll be fine.
That Midwest hospitality.
I love it.
During the wintertime, like thetrain, it doesn't really make a
difference in how the train runs.
Right.
No, no.
Yeah.
That's something that I learned likecoming from the South, 'cause I'm
originally from North Carolina, isthat things don't shut down when
(20:19):
it's like snowing and it's cold.
Yeah, everything's stilloperating like full capacity.
I, again, I would say like sometimesthe buses will be a little more
late in the winter, but that's justbeen like my experience with it.
But yeah, everything's still running.
Yeah.
'Cause I can imagine that likeif the roads are covered in snow,
the traffic's gonna be horrendous.
But if you can take the train instead,it seems like a way better option.
(20:40):
For sure.
You'll get places quickertaking the train sometimes.
So it's definitely worth doing.
I would just say, you know, I, thiswill probably lead into another segment
of the podcast, but, the train andbuses are definitely great to take.
I think you should avoidtaking the train at night.
Especially if you're by yourself.
just for safety reasons, you know,out of like an abundance of caution.
And if you are wanting to takepublic transportation at night, I
(21:02):
would recommend buses over trains.
They just tend to feel a little bit safer.
But yeah, other, but duringthe day, you should be fine.
we'll definitely talk a little bitmore about safety, very shortly here.
But definitely a very good tip.
And, I wanna talk about the airporta little bit too, Chicago O'Hare
is a massive airport with so manydifferent airlines coming in from
so many different destinations, notjust in the US but internationally.
(21:24):
So I think Chicago's one of those placesyou can really, pretty easily get to.
And hopefully for a decent fair asopposed to, you know, some really
remote, tiny, little airport elsewhere.
Yeah, I mean, O'Hare is huge.
And also just 'cause Chicago is such a bigcity, you can find like reasonably cheap
like regional flights just into the city.
(21:45):
There is a train, thatgoes directly to O'Hare.
It's the blue line, and whetheryou're coming from downtown and going
to the airport or vice versa, youcan just hop on the blue line and
it'll take you either, either way.
and it's really convenient and easy.
And same with, the other airportin Chicago, it's called Midway.
It's on, the south side.
You can take the orange line directlyto that airport so there's easy access.
(22:08):
Like wherever you're flyinginto, you can get to the city.
Okay, so moving right along.
I wanna get into food and drink.
So what are some of the Chicagostaples in the culinary realm?
okay.
So Chicago is a huge food town, amazingrestaurants all around the city.
I would say like West Loopspecifically is known as like
the foodie neighborhood, like theFulton Market District in West Loop.
(22:31):
There's just a ton of likeaward-winning restaurants, in that area.
But as far as like Chicago Staples go,obviously everybody knows of like deep
dish pizza and I think Chicago dogs.
If you wanna try a deep dish, feel free.
I don't think anyone's gonnashame you if you don't.
I honestly think, with locals, it'skind of split where it's like, no,
I actually don't like Deep Dish.
Or like, there's also tavernstyle pizza in Chicago, which I
(22:53):
think not as many people know.
And tavern style islike, has a thin crust.
It's like a cracker crust.
And I think a lot of people actuallyprefer tavern style over, deep dish.
Maybe I'm making acontroversial statement here.
But there you can try both.
And if you wanna try a deep dish, QuasPizza is like the popular spot to go.
It's a little more off the beaten pathfor tourists, but it's a local favorite.
(23:16):
You can definitely gothere for a good deep dish.
And then, like Lou Maltis is a goodplace to go if, there's locations
all over the city, so you could finda deep dish there pretty easily.
And then for like a Chicago dog, itbasically, it's a specific type of
like hot dog with certain toppings.
since you are our Italy expertand you've had Italian pizza, of
course, what are your thoughts onItalian like classic pizza versus
(23:39):
a deep dish Chicago style pizza?
I mean,
Be real.
I like a classic Neapolitan style pizza.
That's what I'll say about that.
That's my preference.
Or I really don't mind like atavern style, pizza in Chicago.
But yeah, deep dish is, likea monster of a pizza, so it's,
it's a lot going
yeah.
It's, it's not for everybody, but
I think everyone should definitely try it
(24:01):
Yeah.
Try it for sure.
If you haven't.
It's like the Chicago thingthat everybody knows, but Yeah.
I mean, but no one will hateyou if you don't like it.
It's fine.
And what about Chicago dogs?
Like I always hear about Chicago dogs.
What makes a Chicago dog unique
basically it's an all beefhotdog in a poppy seed bun.
(24:21):
It's topped with yellow mustard,tomato, white onion, sweet pickle
relish, pickled sport peppers, aspear of dill pickle, and celery salt.
So that is what is on a Chicago dog.
It's a busy dog.
Yeah, there's a lot going on on in there.
You can get a Chicago dog at like Red HotRanch or there's a place called Wiener
Circle that, apparently like the, thepeople working there are known for like
(24:44):
yelling at you when you order, a hot dog.
It's like a thing.
I, I don't eat beef, so I,maybe I'm not the best person
to ask about a Chicago dog.
'cause I, I haven't had one actually'cause I don't eat beef, but
those are the places that I alwayshear to go and get a Chicago dog.
Yeah.
And maybe Wiener Circle is a good oneif you want a full experience, so,
And there's like standson the street, right?
(25:05):
Like is that a thing?
Yeah.
There's some fans around the street,especially in like, I think if you,
you're down in like Millennium Parkand Grant Park, there are gonna be some
places where you can get a Chicago dog,but there's places all over the city.
Love that.
What about nightlife and like bars?
I. Are there some, are there some clubs orbars that you recommend in downtown area?
Maybe?
So nightlife in Chicago, itreally varies by neighborhood.
(25:27):
Honestly, some neighborhoodswill be dead and not have any
nightlife, like Lincoln Park.
But then some neighborhoods likehave really great nightlife.
I would say if you're near the loop,river North tends to be like the place
that has a lot of nightlife going on.
It does tend to be a little more rowdier,it's more like clubs and lounges and that
type of vibe, which isn't really my scene,but if you wanna, you know, go clubbing,
(25:49):
river North is a good place for that.
I would say some other areas like I,for nightlife, I like Logan Square.
It tends to be more like dive bars andjust like cooler, more eccentric places.
And yeah, I think it, it also tendsto feel a little bit more safer
going out in like Logan Square, andlike Westtown versus River North.
But, it just, it kind of dependson the vibe you're going for.
(26:11):
Well that's a good segue into our nextsegment, which is Safety in Chicago.
Can you go over safety in the city?
Yeah, so obviously safety isa big concern, I think when
people are coming to Chicago.
'cause Chicago has a not amazingsafety reputation, especially like
from people who have never been,I think they're like, oh my God,
Chicago's like, it's horrible city.
(26:31):
It's crime ridden.
And like, I'll be honest asa local that there is crime.
You know, it's a major city and Ihear like of incidents like muggings
and, you know, robberies and, andcarjackings and stuff like that.
I don't think much of thatis going to affect tourists.
If you're staying, you know, in.
Downtown and doing the touristythings, you'll be fine.
(26:52):
I would just say just havestreet smarts, like normal city
street smarts and you'll be fine.
there are some things that you shouldbe aware of when coming to the city.
So there are quite a few homelesspeople in the city and you know,
like, unfortunately a lot of theseindividuals have , mental health issues
and, wanna be like sensitive to that,but also it is important to, stay safe
(27:13):
and it's better to be safe than sorry.
And while this might sound kind ofinsensitive, it's better to kind of
like not engage with these people.
Especially like if you're on the trainand like, don't make eye contact.
A lot of people might come up andask for money and it's best to
just kind of say like, oh, sorry,I don't have any cash, and move on.
I would say that's kind of the best wayto approach that situation, but I, I think
(27:35):
people coming from like the suburbs Thatwould probably like surprise 'em and they
don't quite know how to deal with that.
so I would just say don't engage.
That's the best way tokind of deal with that.
So yeah, being aware of thehomeless population is one thing.
If you do have a car and likemaybe you're driving into the city,
don't leave anything, you know,valuable, like open in the car.
(27:55):
Just 'cause car robberies.
I think that's like one of the biggestcrimes in Chicago is like car theft.
or people like breaking into cars.
So just don't leave anything obvioussitting out and you should be fine.
There's gonna be some people, likeon the streets, whether it's like
a homeless person or someone, youknow, doing canvassing for something.
People will kind of just come up toyou and be like, oh, I'd like to talk
to you about blah, blah, blah, blah,blah, or like asking you for money.
(28:17):
It's totally fine to kind ofjust ignore it or be like, sorry.
No, thank you.
And just keep it moving.
I honestly think that'sthe, the best way to go.
I don't think pickpocketingis a huge thing.
I mean, maybe some people have experiencedthat, but like, I've always felt
generally safe when it comes to that.
Just like keep your bag, likein front of you and on you.
I don't think you needto do anything too crazy.
I mean, you know, if you're likenot paying attention on the train
(28:40):
and it's crowded, then yeah, Ithink some incidents can happen.
But just kind of keep your wits aboutyou keep your bag close to you if you're,
if you're in a crowded area, but justgeneral safety stuff should keep you safe.
All great tips.
Are there any specific areasyou recommend avoiding entirely?
Yeah.
I mean there are some neighborhoodsthat obviously do just have
like higher rates of crime.
Off the top of my head, like WashingtonPark, Garfield Park and Humboldt Park
(29:03):
are areas I would generally avoid.
Also just being in the loop at night, theloop weirdly is kind of dead at night.
And I would just, I don't know, it'skind of an eerie vibe, so I would just
avoid being there at night, like alone.
So
Yeah.
And you mentioned before thatthe trains, you don't recommend
just like as a general rule, Ithink being on the train at night, I
would say past around midnight ish.
(29:25):
Avoid it if you can just because therewill still be people on some trains, but
sometimes it's a little more, some ofthe cars will be empty and it's just a
better idea to like Uber home if possible.
Uber back to your hotel or take a bus.
Honestly, buses feel pretty safethroughout the day just because there's
like a driver literally in the bus.
So something to consider.
(29:45):
What times do the trains run?
Is it all the time.
Yeah, the trains runpretty much all the time.
There's more of like a lagbetween like two to 4:00 AM two
to 5:00 AM in between there.
But there isn't likea time they shut down.
yeah, I don't think they shut down,but they come less frequently in
between like about two and 5:00 AM
Are there any other tips peopleshould know before visiting Chicago?
(30:05):
Yeah, so, if you're coming to Chicagofor the first time, some things
you should know, before you visitare, I would say one pack layers.
Generally like winter and summerare really consistent as far as
like you're getting warm daysor you're getting freezing days.
But if you're visiting like spring,fall, kind of getting into either of
those seasons, like pack layers also,it does like, tend to sometimes get
(30:27):
cooler at night, like in the summer.
So like it's good to havea sweatshirt or something.
And yeah, just I think layers aresmart 'cause sometimes you don't
know how the weather's gonna go.
I would also say, going back towhat I was just talking about
with, public transportation,people are nice in Chicago, like.
We're known for Midwestern hospitality.
So like people aren't gonnabe snooty and, and mean,
So like you can talk to likeyour server at the restaurant
(30:49):
or like someone in a store.
People will be friendly if you'relost, someone will help you out.
Don't worry about it, we're nice here.
then, yeah, just like safety.
Like I said, you know, justtry not to like engage.
I think when there are likehomeless people on the train,
just kind of keep to yourself.
I feel like that's thebest, advice I can give.
and then also, you know, ifyou are trying to get into any
(31:10):
popular restaurants, definitelymake reservations ahead of time.
Especially some of the popular restaurantsin West Loop, like just make your
reservations before you come justto ensure that you're gonna get in.
' cause they tend to book up.
And, you know, bring a reusable bag.
It's a city.
We have a small bag fee, sothat'll save you a few bucks.
Yeah, yeah.
If you bring a reusable bag.
(31:31):
And then also, like a lot of restaurantswill have extra service fees that I
feel like restaurants in the suburbsdon't always tend to have, or smaller
towns like, so there, there will besome extra, fees, like on your receipt.
So don't be like totally taken abackif you see something like that.
And then I, I also mentioned thisearlier, but this was a random pro tip.
If you have to go to the bathroomand you're in downtown Chicago,
go to the cultural center.
(31:52):
Their bathrooms are free and cleanand you can just walk right in.
So
Oh, that's good
for you.
Yeah.
And you mentioned restaurants.
Did you have some top restaurants that you
Yeah, so I definitely have a bunch ofrestaurant recommendations for you.
Some of my favorites are justones I have to shout out.
Girl in the Goat is a big one.
It like consistently ranks as oneof Chicago's best restaurants.
(32:13):
It's in the West Loop.
Just really delicious food.
It's like New American, which that'sopen to interpretation, but you
know, they've got some differentthings from different cuisines.
But one of my favorite things, girlin the Goat is the green beans,
which I know sounds really random,but they have some type of sauce.
It, I don't know, it's just really good.
Just get the green beans, I've been afew times and every time I go I feel like
(32:36):
I'm like drunk off the food when I leave.
Yeah.
Another, really good restaurantto try would be, if you're wanting
dumplings, go to QXY in Chinatown.
I swear to God, they're thebest dumplings in Chicago.
They're so good.
They don't take reservations.
But so you just have to walkin and put your name down.
Usually the weight isn't morethan like 30, 45 minutes and you
(32:58):
can just walk around Chinatown.
But yeah, delicious dumplings.
They're actually opening a secondlocation in, I think like Wicker Park.
That's, that's coming.
But QXY, Some other personal favoritesare Sunda, I think it's called Sunda
New Asian, but it's specifically theFulton Market location in West Loop.
Delicious.
It's probably one of the bestmeals I've ever had in Chicago,
honestly, is at s Sunda.
(33:19):
Go there.
Everything's great.
Specifically the Brussels sprouts.
Salad salad again.
That sounds strange, but it's so good.
Just trust me.
And then, some other favorites arelike, bang, bang Pie is so good.
Best pie.
Torchello makes amazing pasta.
DOMA is really, really good.
It's in like, kind of a randomspot in like Old Town-ish.
And it's a cafe and they makereally, really good, like
(33:40):
pastries and dessert stuff.
As well as just like some cafe food.
So those are some of my favorites.
Recommendations sound amazing.
a ton of good places in Chicago.
I'll take you when you come, Betty.
Oh, I can't wait.
We're gonna do a food tour.
And, for listeners, if you wanna do adeeper dive into all of these restaurant
recommendations, leah Rose has an articleon travel living, which will again, as
usual link in the show notes, so you cancheck all that out after this episode.
(34:04):
So we're coming to the end of the episode.
Is there any Chicago etiquette thatvisitors should know before they go?
I would say, aside from knowing likewhat the loop is and the l just,
you know, keep your wits about you,general city, smart city, like street
smarts will take you a long way.
And yeah, people are nice in Chicago.
There's I think a really biglike, local pride in Chicago,
(34:24):
like people love Chicago.
And yeah, just, you know, enjoy itand it'll probably surprise you,
like you'll probably end up likingit a lot more than you thought.
I feel like almost every one of myfriends who have visited me in Chicago
have been like, oh, I just wasn'texpecting it to be like all this.
And they're like, Chicago's amazing.
I had no idea.
So prepare to be pleasantly surprised.
(34:45):
And yeah, just enjoy it.
It's a great city and it's, I think ittends to be underrated, so just enjoy it.
lovely.
Well, thank you so much LeahRose, for being here and
sharing your Chicago expertise.
As I said before, listeners, we'regonna link all of these relevant
articles that, Leah Rose has writtenat traveling in the show notes.
So make sure if you want to do adeeper dive into all of these topics
(35:08):
that we've covered today, thingsto do, places to stay, places to
eat, how to get around, et cetera.
We'll have, all those links below and makesure to check it out on travel living.
And also make sure to like andsubscribe to the channel so you
can keep up with us on Thursdayswhen we post our new episodes.
Thank you listeners for being here.
We appreciate you so much and, we,we love getting to share all of
(35:29):
these different places with youand talk about them on the show.
Leah Rose, so lovelyto have you here today.
I hope you had
Lovely to be here.
Thanks for having me, buddy.
Yes, of course.
We will see you next time onthe Travel Loving Podcast.
Bye.
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