Chicago, the Windy City, welcomed me with its bustling streets and vibrant cultural scene on my recent adventure. Nestled in the heart of this dynamic metropolis, the Talbott Hotel provided a luxurious sanctuary, offering both comfort and elegance throughout my stay.
Visiting Chicago for the second time was greater than I would have expected. It’s interesting how our way of traveling has changed since we’ve been living here for some time. I remember when everything was so exciting – visiting the local Sephora, going to Starbucks just because, checking out some local places that were hyped on Instagram, even CVS or Walmart were an attraction. Now that we’ve been living in the States for over two years, all these things are part of our daily routine, so they’re not as exciting anymore. On the contrary—we get super hyped about plain bread with cheese whenever we visit Germany.
In any way, strolling through Chicago, walking along the water, soaking in all the good vibes, and meeting great people was a very pleasant experience. I already made a mental note to try to get back to this stunning city in 2024.
Our accommodationaccommodation – The Talbott Hotel
My days in Chicago were all about soaking in the city’s rich culture and vibes. Whether I was strolling along the Riverwalk, getting lost in the city’s diverse neighborhoods, or stumbling upon hidden gems, every moment was an adventure waiting to happen.
Such an impressive hotel lobby, isn’t it?
Exploring Chicago'sChicago's Vibes
My days in Chicago were all about soaking in the city’s rich culture and vibes. Whether I was strolling along the Riverwalk, getting lost in the city’s diverse neighborhoods, or stumbling upon hidden gems, every moment was an adventure waiting to happen.
Walking along the Riverwalk was a highlight for me. There’s something magical about the contrast between the sleek skyscrapers and the calm waters of the Chicago River that never fails to take my breath away. As I strolled, I couldn’t help but feel awestruck by the towering architecture, each building telling its own fascinating story of the city’s past and present. It was like stepping into a living history book, with each structure whispering secrets of Chicago’s evolution.
Chicago winters, like Midwest winters in general, are cold. So definitely dress for warmth! I didn’t feel too bad in my boots, wool turtleneck, coat, scarf, and gloves, but there was one day particularly windy, and I was freezing. For a warm travel, here’s some warm clothing that I can recommend or picture to be cute despite Chicago’s chilly temperatures.
Indulging in Chicago's Food & Bar Scene
Now, let’s talk food – because Chicago knows how to eat! Two spots stole the show for me:
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio: This place in West Loop served up some seriously inventive Italian cuisine. Think mouthwatering pasta dishes and decadent desserts – each bite was a flavor explosion!
Cira at the Hoxton: Nestled within the Hoxton Hotel, Cira offered up a diverse menu and a seriously cool ambiance. Whether I was munching on Mediterranean-inspired dishes in the lobby or sipping cocktails on the rooftop at The Cabra, every bite and sip was pure bliss.
Evenings in Chicago were a blast, filled with drinks and good company at some of the city’s hottest spots:
The Violet Hour: Known for its killer drinks and cozy vibes, The Violet Hour was a cocktail lover’s paradise.
Cindy’s at Chicago Athletic Association: With its jaw-dropping views and creative cocktails, Cindy’s was the perfect spot to soak in the city lights and unwind.
Talbott Cucina: The Talbott Hotel’s own bar served up seasonal cocktails that perfectly captured the essence of the Midwest – talk about a taste of Chicago!
Sparrow: Tucked away in Chicago’s nightlife scene, Sparrow offered up a cozy atmosphere and expertly mixed drinks for those late-night adventures.
My time in Chicago was a whirlwind of excitement, from the plush comforts of the Talbott Hotel to the mouthwatering food and vibrant nightlife. As I bid farewell to this incredible city, I’m taking with me memories of laughter, discovery, and the undeniable charm of Chicago. Until next time, Windy City – you’ve stolen a piece of my heart!
My handpicked clothes & accessories for a cozy yet stylish Winter Weekend Getaway:
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