Chicago

Under the hands of a master, realism has been painted beautifully, perfectly. Chicago – the City That Works, The Windy City, the City of the Big Shoulders, however one needs to call it – arose as one of finest cities after the great fire of 1871.

As blues and jazz hymns reverberate in Chicago’s great watering holes, its machineries continue to toil. Chicago’s “big shoulders,” the hulking skyscrapers and corporate Mecca, define a striking skyline. Fine museums of science and art and shopping centers litter the urban landscape. Lake Michigan borders the city, providing a weekend respite for locals and visitors alike.

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of Chicago’s world-renowned establishments. The art museum has a masterful collection of impressionist art, attracting art lovers and students from all over the world. Likewise, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio attracts its share of architecture enthusiasts.

Lake Michigan continues to be a mainstay in the lives of Chicago locals and tourists. With a shoreline that stretches to 29 miles, it is a haven for people seeking weekend recreation. A path is available for bikers, runners, and skaters. Beach resorts line its shores.

In a city noted for its industry, Chicago’s mass transit line is one of the things a traveler must experience. The Loop or the “L” is an elevated train line that offers one of the best views of Chicago. Its Brown Line offers the best of these views.

Generally, travelers to Chicago require a valid passport and visa. Citizens of 27 countries can travel to America without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program. Chicago is a typical American big city. The common traveler hassles are pickpockets and purse-snatchers. There are several relatively safe places, particularly those in tourist-friendly districts. Other areas, like the South Side, may require a little bit more caution.