The first month of 2022 and I already had my first vacation. Truth be told, I needed a break. A break from daily responsibilities, a break from being the strong pillar, a break from grieving. 2021 changed my life forever and I’ve been on a strict learning curve to adapt to this new world. My gracious best friend, saw through it all and initiated to plan a trip anywhere- just the two of us. Somewhere that allowed us to hang up our adult duties briefly and enjoy life once again.
Chicago was selected randomly thanks to the good deals found (shout out the Southwest Airlines). I love cold weather so that was a win for me. Plus visiting a place we both have never been to was quite an adventure. I’m sure our husbands were worried a bit for it was the first time both of us traveled alone and together (we may be known for not being the best with addresses). We did good! Despite being warned about the dangers of the city- we survived and were not mugged like some feared.
We took the Orange line train from Midway Airport to downtown Chicago. The first impression of Chicago was from a generous stranger. I got blessed with a ticket for the train from, yes a total stranger. Even if it was just $3, I rode for free. Talk about favor. The train trip was full of different sights, pointed roofs filled with snow, train tracks rushing closely in between apartments buildings (I could see people’s living rooms), diverse individuals with fashionable coats and boots, and eccentric personalities riding the train. We were a bit nervous but surprised on the politeness of the other passengers (Miami you set the bar for rudeness so we expected less than polite). This same train took us back to the airport on our departure date.
The hotel we stayed in was in the government area of downtown, the Hyatt Place. It was right in the loop, so convenient. It was a 3 minute walk from the train station. Imagine 2 girls rolling their luggage through some snow and the icy breeze. We did not pack lightly lol. We got slap with the wind this city is so known for in this short commute. The hotel was fantastic in cleanliness, courteous staff and staying honest with prices/pictures as seen online. And it wasn’t haunted! (For those that like that sorta feature). The best thing we encountered in our stay there was their bartender, Jessica. So friendly, she knows her drinks (enjoyed my amaretto sour) and shared good late nights conversations with a pair of Miami girls.
The tourist attractions were centrally located and within a good walking distance for most part. We enjoyed taking pics at Millennium Park at the bean as our backdrop. The ice skating rink was something out of a movie, blasting love songs as couples skated. Navy Pier was the furthest, that day we walked 8 miles! However the ride on the Ferris wheel over looking the frozen Michigan Lake was breath taking. Tip to tourist: you don’t have to walk the icy pier and freeze your face, there is a warm mall full of options to eat and people to meet. It may look abandoned but it has people inside and quite nice (we learned the hard way). Skydeck Chicago was amazing! The view on the ledge is out of this world. It is quite frightening for those afraid of heights. Even if you’re not afraid of heights, it will still be a bit scary (take it from me). The city is full of tours, museums, and stores to be entertained. The architecture in the city creates some scenic views especially from the river. Some tourist attractions were closed due to the pandemic. The ones open take precautions that make you feel safe to enjoy them.
Let me tell you this- Chicago food is amazing. Food did not disappoint. Just be warned, in order to dine in their restaurants (at least the ones in downtown) you must present your vaccination card. As Floridians this was new to us but it did not deter us from enjoying food. We tried the deep dish pizza at Giordanos. So good and so filling!! A small was more than enough! Their chicken wings were good but pricey (don’t get me started on that). The Millennium station had the best hot dog I’ve had and I tried “the sissy” (I just like ketchup and mustard on mine). Marion tried the Chicago hot dog with all the toppings and she was satisfied. This local shop also has delicious burritos and nachos (Chicago knows their Mexican food!). We also tried the Italian beef sub at Al’s #1 Italian Beef. It was good, but if you don’t like soggy bread- this is not for you (sandwich is wet in gravy). We also had Potbelly, which is one of my fave sandwich & soup spots. We enjoyed Thai Food, ramen noodles and went to PF Changs to enjoy their Mongolian beef. We had coffee and chai lattes at Dunkin Donuts since there appears to be one on every block! Chicago runs on Dunkin.
As we enjoyed the Windy City, we shared many laughs, shared adventures and created memories. One of the best memories of this trip, is sitting with my best friend in the hotel lobby waiting for snow. I was tracking the snowy weather. As we waited, we had heart felt conversations about life. The overwhelming responsibilities and the cruel fact that we both get to do the rest of our lives without our beloved mothers. We sat in that lobby and sobbed, just two girls missing their mom (she lost her mom 7 years ago and I lost my mom 3 months ago). As we wiped our tears, snow began to fall outside. We went running outside with excitement to laugh, dance and savor the magical moment of snow falling on us. Two sad Miami girls choosing to smile like idiots in the snow. That was my favorite moment of this vacation.
I truly enjoyed this vacation and my travel partner. I have the best friend ever to grace this earth. This trip helped me take a breather and enjoy things again. Reminded me of the joy there still is out there to live, the adventures still waiting out there for us to take, the people around you still worth to love and fight for. Yes my life is much different now. I’ve survived the cold wind of loss and now of Chicago. But I’m still standing, still here…wanting to live life to the fullest…wanting to walk even if against the wind.
