Chicago
Chicago, known as the "Windy City," is a vibrant and culturally rich destination located in the Midwest region of the United States. Visitors to Chicago can experience the city's iconic skyline, which features towering skyscrapers such as the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) and the John Hancock Center. Key attractions for tourists include the famous Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago, which houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. Foodies will also love Chicago's diverse dining scene, which features everything from classic deep-dish pizza to gourmet hot dogs and a wide range of international cuisines. To fully experience Chicago, visitors can take a stroll along the lakefront, explore the city's various neighborhoods such as Wicker Park and Logan Square, or catch a game at Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that Chicago is a top destination for travelers from around the world.
Tipping.
Restaurants and bars- You should tip 15% for adequate service in restaurants and up to 20% if you feel you've been treated well. Bartenders should be tipped for every drink served, usually at 15 percent to 20 percent or a dollar per drink.
Taxi- Taxi drivers should be tipped 10 percent to 20 percent of the fare. Cash tips are usually preferred.
Hotels- If the doorman (or a hotel porter) helps unload your bags and carry them to your room, tip $1 to $2 per bag.
Lingo in Chicago.
“Only in Chicago” - Ok, so it’s pretty obvious that the city has it own sense of style and we know that lends a certain amount of excitement to paying a visit here. In the same way that the food, sights, buildings etc. are so distinct to its personality, so is its slang!
General lingo.
Frunchroom = Sounds pretty much exactly what it is. It’s the front room of a house, usually where families keep their nicest furniture
Kickback = Party
Prairie = Neighborhood lot where kids play
A couple, two three = A few
Eating out/ shopping lingo.
Ride the L = The L is Chicago’s version of London’s Tube train
Sammich = Sandwich
Hey, can you spot me a fin for the drinks = Five-dollar bill
Pop = Carbonated soft drinks (called so due to the sound the bottle makes when you open it)
Washroom = bathroom
Over by there = The location referred to in the convo
Get your flirt on!
Caking it = Spending time with your significant other instead of your friends. "Cakin' " is flirting, spitting game at a breezy, or it can mean flossin'--living the high life.
Hott = Very good looking
Sketch = As in "sketchy," like a creepy guy or a bar.
Breezy = A female or girlfriend.
I've got your math = I’ve got your number
Transport from O’Hare Airport.
There are 4 ways to get from O’Hare Airport to Downtown Chicago - by train, airport shuttle, private transfer or taxi.
Train.
The Chicago Transit Authority is open 24/7 and the Blue Line will take you all the way from the airport to the center of town. This is probably one of the easiest ways to get you to your destination. You’ll save on parking and rental fees if you’re renting a car and taxi fares in the process.
Shuttle service.
There are shuttles departing from the airport every 10-15 minutes servicing many of Chicago’s downtown hotels. For example GO Airport Shuttle, one of the most popular shuttle services from Chicago airports to the city center, and they offer direct transportation to most downtown hotels.
Private car.
If you’re looking for a private alternative to shuttles, there are many options to choose from. There are private cars and limos to take you from O’Hare or Midway to Downtown Chicago ranging from $25-$45 per person on average depending on which option you choose. Choose from Sedan, SUV and Minibus airport transfers.
Taxi.
You can find taxis waiting outside of the airport terminal. From O’Hare international, the taxi fare will be approximately $50 + tip and should take about 35 minutes. If you choose to travel with one additional passenger, there is a flat rate of $24 per person for shared taxis. Or grab an Uber/Lyft.
Best time to travel.
April through May and between September and October, when the temperatures are warm, a variety of festivals take place and crowds are manageable.
