European vacations, call 1-415-446

Europe Vacation Travel, Luxury Cruises, Tours and Europe Hotel Guide Europe Vacation Travel, Luxury Cruises, Tours and Europe Hotel Guide Site Index Europe Vacation Guide: Romantic Europe Tours and Honeymoons Europe Luxury Vacations, Travel, Tours and Cruise Consultants European vacations, call 1-415-446 5252 to book. Open every day! Other Places in Europe Albania Andorra Austria Vacations Belarus Belgium Vacations Bosnia-Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Vacations Czech Republic Denmark Vacations England Vacations Estonia Finland Vacations France Vacations Georgia Germany Vacations Greece Vacations Hungary Vacations Iceland Ireland Vacations Italy Vacations Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Vacations Macedonia Monaco Vacations Netherlands Vacations Norway Vacations Poland Vacations Portugal Vacations Romania Vacations Russia Vacations Slovakia Slovenia Spain Vacations Sweden Vacations Switzerland Vacations Turkey Vacations Ukraine United Kingdom Vacations Wales Vacations Luxury Cruise Guides Luxury Cruises World Luxury Cruises European River Cruises Europe Cruises Mediterranean Guide Travel Agent Career Opportunities Europe Vacation, Travel and Luxury Cruise Guides In this section you will find great Europe luxury resorts and hotels . All-inclusive Europe luxury vacations . We also specialize Romantic European river cruises . You'll find fabulous h oneymoon destinations in the guide. Europe luxury y achting vacations. Europe cruises . Europe g uided tours ---Plus tons of enjoyable maps , virtual tours and streaming videos---You will find everything here except the sunscreen. Travelwizard.com offers custom, premium class, personalized, luxury travel related services, exclusive boutique vacation destinations and exotic tours designed specifically for the sophisticated traveler . Imagine people watching at a sidewalk cafe, viewing the world's most famous pieces of art or visiting historic sites like Vatican City, Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower or the Acropolis. We've been customizing European vacation itineraries for discriminating travelers for more than 20 years. European Villas, former European palaces, elegant European hotels and yachts are part of Europe's unique accommodations that provide the perfect base for exploring the character of Europe. Select exactly the components you want in your vacation. You choose your hotel, room category -from sea views to suites-, rental car, private transfers and customized European sightseeing tours. We do it all! Our Virtuoso European Travel and Cruise Consultants will create the European Vacation you have always dreamed of. All of us at Travelwizard.com have a sincere passion for travel. We throughly enjoy our work, the exciting places we explore, the wonderful people we meet, and would be thrilled to share this passion with you! Why Should You Use our Virtuoso Europe Luxury Vacation, Travel and Cruise Specialists ? We are Virtuoso, "Specialists in the Art of Vacation Travel". Described by Conde Nast Traveler as "one of the finest agencies...a reliable indicator of experience, knowledge, and industry clout." We are recommended by the Discovery Travel Channel, the Today Show, Conde Nast Traveler, Forbes Magazine, ESPN TV, Fine Living TV, Neiman Marcus Awards Program and National Geographic. Our Virtuoso Europe Vacation Specialists offer exclusive insider connections and industry expertise on luxury vacations- along with the guidance and know-how you require to make educated travel choices. We are very innovative, add valuable solutions that consistently exceed our customers expectations and strive to always provide the ultimate travel experience. Europe vacations are by far the most popular for a number of reasons. The diversity of the European cultures, incredible history, romantic settings, fine cuisine, excellent yachting, water sports, skiing resorts, mountain climbing, bicycling tours, winery tours, you name it, Europe has it all! Vacationing in Europe is a great way to experience many countries, meet interesting people, try their wonderful cuisine, and see some of the finest art in the world. A paradise of sun, sea, rivers, mountains and lakes. A land of historic treasures from the world's ten greatest civilizations. The Mediterranean, Aegean, and the Black Seas, the French Riviera, the Italian Riviera all beckon you. Europe is a must! Travelwizard.com was picked by the NBC Today Show to orchestrate the perfect honeymoon destination for their " Throws a Wedding " show. We are very proud that the Today Show turned to Travelwizard.com to find the perfect honeymoon. Travelwizard.com's renowned South Pacific specialists designed the perfect honeymoon to Turtle Island, in Fiji that was chosen for the NBC Today Show. Click here for Europe Hotels and Luxury Villas Europe vacation destinations requires minimal planning, but offers a spectacular experience! A European vacation is perfectly suited for all lifestyles. Whether you want a romantic European vacation, a natural or adventurous experience by day, sleep in a luxurious hotel by night, racing along the Autobahn, taking wine tasting classes in Bordeaux or cooking classes in Tuscany, you'll find it all in Europe! Europe vacation cruising and Europe yachting and barge trips are becoming extremely popular, and a great way for families to enjoy Europe at its finest. Advance planning Europe vacation will save time and money; make a short list of places you want to see and activities you hope to undertake. Do a little research with this site and its links to the sites of individual countries. Apply for a passport if you don't have one. The process is not difficult. Details are found in the Planning Your Trip section for U.S. passports. When you know where you want to go, how much time you have and how much you can spend, consult with one of our travel consultants, especially if it's your first international trip. He or she can speed your planning, give you good ideas, and book your entire vacation. Consider buying travel packages for ease of purchase and to save money. These range from basic air-car-hotel packages for independent travelers to group tours and cruises. Don't worry about language. English is widely spoken far beyond Britain and Ireland. On much of the Continent it is the most widely spoken second language; most people working in tourism will speak English. Families with young children will find a warm welcome in Europe. Tour Packages This hotel is a Virtuoso member and offers special amenities and upgrades that are ONLY available when you book with us. Our Virtuoso travel consultants will assure you incredible value and recognition on your luxury vacation. Book Your Europe Vacation Submit a vacation planner to our Europe Travel Specialists Client Testimonials about our services Search Your Vacation, Tour or Cruise Luxury Europe Accommodations Europe Luxury Hotels European Hotels European Luxury Villas Europe Luxury Tours Virtuoso Scandinavia Luxury Vacation Virtuoso Europe Luxury Vacation Central Eastern & Western England & Ireland Tours Ireland Luxury Tours Monaco Luxury Tours Scandinavia Luxury Tours Russia Luxury Tours Greece Luxury Tours Portugal Tour Packages Spain & Morocco Tour Packages Escape to Europe Cruises France Luxury Tours Italy Luxury Tours Europe Train Vacations Europe River Cruises Eastern Europe Packages Europe Bike Vacations Europe Ski Vacations Europe Active Vacations Moderatly Priced Europe Tours England & Ireland Tours France Vacations Italy Tours Central & Eastern Europe Tours European River Cruises Europe Luxury Cruises Royal Caribbean Europe Cruises NCL Europe Cruises Crystal Cruises Northern Europe Virtuoso Luxury European Cruises Western Europe Cruises European River Cruises Luxury Cruises World Luxury Cruises Helpful Travel Links Other Helpful Travel Links Instant Passports in 24 hours Travelex Luxury Travel Insurance CSA Luxury Travel Insurance Travel Guard Insurance Travel Safety Expert Current Travel Warnings Travel Agent Career Opportunities Bookmark this page Submit Free, Full Service Europe Vacation Planner Here Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your Europe vacation with our full service Virtuoso Travel Consultants . We are recommended, authorized Virtuoso Europe Travel Consultants, and will arrange every little detail to make sure you have a wonderful, carefree vacation experience at no extra charge! You may call our Europe Travel Consultants, but first--- we'd really appreciate it if you complete our " Europe Vacation Planner" so we have all your requirements beforehand and are prepared to present you with all your options and up-to-the-minute specials. Thank you very much! Call 1-415-662-2683 to book your Europe vacation. For Europe Cruise Vacations: "Europe Cruise Vacation Planner" For Europe Tours: "Europe Tour Planner" After you've completed your Europe vacation planner you may call 1-415-662-2683 to book your Europe vacation. Thank you very much! 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All of our promotions are subject to change without notice. As a result, prices will not be guaranteed until booked. State of California seller of travel License # 2061139-40 We are on the BetterBusiness Bureau Honor Roll. Travel Agent Opportunities Contact Information Advertise with Travel Wizard 1998 TravelWizard.Com, Tropical Island Vacation Dept. All rights reserved.

Mexico Travel Specialists offer

Mexico Vacation Travel: Hotels, Resorts, Luxury Villa Vacations and Honeymoons Mexico Vacation Travel: Hotels, Resorts, Luxury Villas Luxury Travel, Honeymoons and Cruise Guide Virtuoso Vacations Specialists Mexico Luxury Vacations: Call 1 800 330 8820 to book. Open Everyday! Mexico Vacations Acapulco Vacations Baja California Vacations Cabo San Lucas Vacations Campeche Vacations Cancun Vacations Chetumal Vacations Colima Vacations Cordoba Vacations Cozumel Vacations Cuilapan de Guerrero Huatulco Vacations Isla Mujere Vacations Ixtapa Vacation Manzanillo Vacations Mayan Riviera Vacations Mazatlan Vacations Merida Vacations Mexico City Vacations Oaxaca Vacations Palenque Vacations Playa del Carmen Progresso Puerto Angel Puerto Escondido PuertoVallarta Vacations Saltillo San Cristobal de Las Casas San Jose del Cabo Vacations San Luis Potosi San Miguel De Allende Tequila Tuxtla Gutierrez Valladolid Veracruz Villahermosa Yucatan Vacations Zihuatanejo Vacations We add value: C omplimentary Mexico excursions, amenities, or services. TravelWizard.com can get you the room, or suite, condo or villa you want, when others can't, and the Virtuoso hotels in Mexico provide complimentary upgrades when you book with us. We have tons of money saving specials: free nights, free meals, room upgrades, and wonderful inclusions such as free golf and spa visits. During certain times of the year we can give you a free air ticket from Los Angeles or San Francisco to Mexico , or a $250 air credit from other cities. Free car with a 7 night stay at 40 different hotels, or receive a credit of $199 value, and apply it to another car category. We have every airline to Mexico , so you can choose the airline you prefer. You get frequent flyer miles on most of them. We can get you discount first class, or business class tickets. You can book your activities ahead of time to assure peace of mind. Imagine the romantic Mexico vacation setting of your dreams. A snow white beach. Think of the love of your life beside you. Then imagine a carefree Mexico vacation with all the details taken care of by our competent staff. Mexico Vacations, Hotels, Resorts, Cruise, Honeymoons Welcome to Mexico , the country that has it all ! Discover beach r esorts , colonial cities , archeological sites , and countless natural settings . In Mexico , you can do any number of activities , such as golfing , sailing or simply relaxing at a resort as you absorb our rich cultural heritage and relish the culinary delights of our country. During your stay , enjoy the hospitality and world - class services and establishments that make Mexico a modern country, yet full of customs and tradition . Mexico vacations are easy to research, plan and purchase at Travelwizard.com. Our award winning destination guides contain thousands of listings that include all the hotels and resorts , the best luxury hotels and resorts , and great boutique hotels for couples and families . Featured are vacation activities, restaurants, attractions, diving, snorkelling and shopping for all destinations. We offer honeymoon , golf , all-inclusive spas , and luxurious villas rentals . Travelwizard.com has all the Mexico cruise itineraries and options, and a staff of Master Cruise Specialists ready to assist you . We also provide cultural travel experiences, personal enrichment travel and exotic luxury tours , designed specifically for the sophisticated traveler. Don't miss our Virtual tours and enjoyable streaming videos we've provided to enhance your visit, and to help you plan a perfect Mexico vacation. You will find everything you need here except the sunscreen. Whether you are looking to plan a Mexico honeymoon or a business conference for 1,000 associates, we have the information you need to help make your next trip memorable. Northern Mexico: Known for its extreme weather conditions and characterized by its deserts, nature reserves and rugged mountain ranges. Some cities in the region are key industrial and business centers. Central Mexico: The Mexican heartland. Here youll find plenty of natural surroundings, picturesque towns full of life and color, and beautiful colonial cities, some of which have been declared World Heritage sites. Southern Mexico and The Gulf: Lined with the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean, this region offers an abundance of marshes, mangrove swamps and forests, all of which are ideal for ecotourism outings and exciting outdoor adventures. Yucatan Peninsula: The gateway to the Mayan world. Here you can enjoy the white-sand beach resorts and the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea , where you can scuba dive along the worlds second largest coral reef. You can also swim in fresh water pools in submerged caverns, known as cenotes . The Pacific Coast: In this region, youll find cities and towns with rich cultural and culinary traditions, as well as some of the best beaches for water sports like surfing and fishing. Baja California Peninsula:Territory that has been inhabited from time immemorial, in this region you can play golf on world-class courses, discover the underwater treasures of the Sea of Cortez, and witness the amazing migration of the Gray Whale. Why should you use our Virtuoso Mexico Vacation Specialists? We are Specialists in the Art of Travel. Described by Conde Nast Traveler as "one of the finest agencies...a reliable indicator of experience, knowledge, and industry clout." We are recommended by the Discovery Travel Channel, the Today Show, Conde Nast Traveler, Forbes Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Fine Living TV, and the Neiman Marcus Awards Program. Our Mexico Travel Specialists offer exclusive insider connections and industry expertise on luxury vacations- along with the guidance and know-how you require to make educated travel choices. We are very innovative, add valuable solutions that consistently exceed our customers expectations and strive to always provide the ultimate travel experience. Travelwizard.com was picked by the NBC Today Show to orchestrate the perfect honeymoon destination for their " Throws a Wedding " show. We are very proud that the Today Show turned to Travelwizard.com to find the perfect honeymoon. Travelwizard.com's renowned South Pacific specialists designed the perfect honeymoon to Turtle Island, in Fiji that was chosen for the NBC Today Show. Ellen DeGeneres, on the Ellen DeGeneres Show uses Travelwizard.com as her number one source for luxury vacations throughout the world. We are very proud to be the first choice for sophisticated travelers like Ellen DeGeneres! Book Your Luxury Vacation Here Submit a vacation planner to our Virtuoso Travel Specialists Client Testimonials about our services Search Mexico Overview History Culture Geography Practical Info Helpful Information Mexico Accommodations Honeymoon Resorts Luxury Hotels Hotels & Resorts Luxury Villas Colonial Cities Hotels Featured Hotels Marriott Resorts Packages & Tours Honeymoons Honeymoon Packages Golf Trips Spa Retreats Moderatly Priced Tours Luxury Tours Mexico Specials Wonders of Mexico Tour Bike, Walk & Kayak Colonial Tour s Luxury Bike Trips Copper Canyon by Luxury Rail Virtuoso Luxury Vacation Luxury Mexican Cruises NCL Mexican Cruises Royal Ccaribbean Mexican Cruises Crystal Cruises Holland America Cruises Virtual Map of Mexico Virtual Tour of Mexico Recent Mexico Tour Photos Vacation Specials Email this page to a friend Bookmark this page Full Service Travel Planner Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your travel with our full service Virtuoso Travel Specialists. You may call our Virtuoso Travel Consultants, but first, we'd really appreciate it if you complete our "Luxury Travel Planner" so we have all your requirements beforehand and are prepared to present you with all your options and up-to-the-minute specials. Thank you very much! Call 1-800-330-8820 to book your Mexico vacation . Full Service, Tour Vacation Planner Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your travel with our full service Virtuoso Travel Specialists. When you complete our "Tour Vacation Planner" our Virtuoso--Travel Consultants will promptly call you, provide you with their direct toll free telephone number, all your options, and up-to-the-minute specials . Call 1-415-446 5252 to book your tour vacation . Full Service, Cruise Planner Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your travel with our full service Virtuoso Travel Specialists. We can arrange every little detail of your cruise, including air, excursions, and pre-cruise and post-cruise arrangements, to make sure you have a wonderful, carefree vacation experience at no extra charge! When you complete our " Luxury Cruise Planner" our Virtuoso--Travel Specialists will promptly call you, provide you with their direct toll free telephone number, all your options, and up-to-the-minute specials . Call 1-800-330-8820 to book your cruise . Regional Travel Guides Africa Asia Australia Caribbean Islands Canada Central America Europe Fiji Islands Hawaiian Islands Indian Ocean Costa Rica Mexico Mediterranean Middle East New Zealand South America South Pacific Tahiti Islands United States Special Interest Corporate Vac ations Adventure Travel Ski Vacations Culinary Vacations Small Ship V acations Virtuoso Hotels Spas Private Jets Family Vacations Food and Wine Scuba Diving All-inclusive Grand Prix Vacations Luxury Villas Luxury Tours Honeymoon Weddings National Geographic Space Adventures Yacht Charters Golfing Adeventure Travel Bike Trips Hiking Trips Sports Travel Luxury Rail River Cruises ClubMed Luxury Cruise Destinations Luxury Cruises Cruise Vacations South Pacific/Tahiti Hawaiian Islands Scandinavia Alaska Cruises Caribbean Panama Canal Mexico Cruises Mediterranean West Europe Western British Isles/ Ireland Greek Isle/Aegean Bermuda Cruises Costa Rica South America River Amazon Antarctica Australia/New Zealand Bahamas Africa Southern Canarys/North Africa Far East/Orient Southeast Asia Trans-Atlantic Trans-Pacific Russia Europe East Coast Cruises India Cruises Israel/Egypt New England/Canada Red Sea/Suez Canal West Coast World Cruises Baltic/Russia Luxury Cruise Lines Crystal Cruises Radisson Seven Seas Windstar Cruises Clipper Cruises Silversea Cruises Oceania Cruises Am West Steamboat Princess Cruises European River Norwegian Cruise ResidenSea Holland America Line Sea Dream Yacht Club American Safari Travel Dynamics Seabourn Cruise Orient Express Royal Caribbean Orient Lines Star Clippers Cunard Line Costa Cruises Cruise West Celebrity Cruises National Geographic Hebridean Cruises MSC Cruises Lindblad Expeditions Peter Deilmann Viking River Cruises Swan Hellenic Delta Queen River Zegrahm Expeditions Disney Cruises Tauck Discovery French Waterways The Moorings Int'l Expeditions Carnival Cruise Great American River Journeys About Travel Wizard Advertising Info Privacy Contact Info rmation Home We accept credit cards: During this time of price volatility in the Mexico vacation travel, tour and cruise industry, please be advised the pricing can fluctuate within the same day. All of our promotions are subject to change without notice. As a result, prices will not be guaranteed until booked. State of California seller of travel License # 2061139-40 Travel Agent Career Opportunities Contact Information Advertise with Travel Wizard 1998 TravelWizard.Com, Mexico Vacation Dept. All rights reserved.

Taiwan Travel

Taiwan Travel, Tourism home publications events committees membership living in Taiwan yellow pages advertising -- about us contact Travel and Tourism: 2003 Issues Upgrade Taiwan's tourist industry Promote inbound tourism Link Taiwan to Greater China travel itineraries The ECCT Travel and Tourism Committee addresses issues concerning Taiwan's travel, tourism and hospitality industries and aims to help attract more visitors from Europe and raise the number of annual visitors to the island to six million as outlined in Taiwan's Challenge 2008 plan. While the issues raised in this position paper are focused on the business side on travel and to developing Taiwan's travel infrastructure, the ECCT wishes to point out that drawing more Europeans to Taiwan will help to improve understanding among Europeans of the island's people and their position in the world. The committee is happy to note that some progress has been made on issues raised in last year's position paper. With regards to the issue of immigration facilities at CKS International Airport, the committee welcomes the government's recent announcement to allow ARC holders that are members of the ECCT, and the American and Japanese chambers of commerce, to use the APEC-member immigration line. Although the committee would have preferred the adoption of its proposal to follow the Hong Kong model, where ID cardholders are not required to fill out any paperwork and are allowed to use a separate and speedier entrance and exit, the new measure is expected to significantly speed up immigration time for our members. Furthermore, progress has been made on the issue of female staff working at night. Although the penalty for infringements of Article 49 of the Labor Standard Law (which restricts women from working at night) has been reduced from a jail sentence to a fine, the committee urges the government to abolish this restriction, as it results in unfair discrimination against women, additional contract bargaining, and raises costs and reduces the competitiveness of firms operating in Taiwan. Upgrade Taiwan's tourist industry The Ministry of Transportation and Communications allotted NT$6.5 billion for upgrading the tourist industry. It is unclear how European companies, either as local branches or foreign entities, can apply for these preferential loans on equal terms with their Taiwan counterparts. Recommendation The committee proposes that investment by European companies be allowed and encouraged in all areas and that they have full access to the government funds and that any regulatory barriers to entry and operation of tourism entities are removed. Promote inbound tourism The Tourism Bureau has a larger promotion budget than ever before and this is a positive step in boosting visitors. Recommendations Attract more European visitors with incentives to foreign travelers and overseas and local Taiwanese tour operators. Allocate more of the Tourism Bureau's resources to attracting Europeans to Taiwan, rather than to mature markets where Taiwan is already well known. Japan is getting the lion's share of the promotion budget, with Hong Kong and Singapore taking up most of the remainder. Devoting more planning and funding to promote Taiwan systematically in Europe would reduce Taiwan dependency on a few sensitive sources. Publication of a tourism marketing plan would help European operators understand the government's strategic position and lead towards a quality tourism market. Cooperate with city government efforts to attract international tourists. Provide sufficient signage and information in English. Taipei has started to rectify this problem on bus signs, but not at bus stops. Bus maps and tour information for major cities and nearby areas should be published in foreign languages, and promoted both in and outside Taiwan. We offer our assistance in distributing this information. We also urge city and central governments to apply the Hanyu Pinyin system, which is taught in Europe for translating Chinese into foreign languages, and for use in addresses, on street signs, in government literature and elsewhere. Provide drug, weapon and quarantine information to travelers more discreetly. The lengthy and stern warnings provided during landing preparations give the passengers, the vast majority of whom are law-abiding, a "death penalty" image of Taiwan, as do posters at the international airport. The committee recommends that drug, weapon and quarantine information be provided together with visa application forms or landing cards and at tourist information outlets abroad. Promote specific aspects of Taiwan to Europeans. As a large number of current European visitors are traveling alone and are in Taiwan on business, attractions that would best be promoted to encourage them to extend their stay would include night life, museums, shopping (for IT and other products) and weekend trips to nearby mountains, hot springs, beaches and historic venues as well as to outlying islands. Our committee is ready to assist in supplying expertise from Europe to help develop these segments. Link Taiwan to greater China travel itineraries The committee encourages the promotion of Taiwan as a leading destination in greater China itineraries in support of the government's plan to operate direct flights between both sides of the Taiwan Strait in the near future. Technical preparations should be started soon, as trips between Taiwan and China now generally require combinations of tickets sold only in Taiwan or greater China at unpublished special prices, with a transfer most commonly in Hong Kong or Macau. Making matters even more bothersome, certain "agents" buy tickets outside Taiwan from mainland carriers for local resale, often without proper reservations or support. This raises the cost and complexity of organizing a tour to greater China including a stopover in Taiwan by European and local operators. Recommendation The committee proposes that to stimulate support and investments in the travel industry by European travel companies, efforts be made to regulate and upgrade this travel segment to international industry norms and provide tools to bring more ease and transparency to tour pricing and airline fares for European tourism via Taiwan to greater China. This would be helped by initiating Billing Settlement Plan membership and proper representation of mainland airlines, and by facilitating correct and full display of local and mainland flights and fares with unrestricted Global Distribution and airline reservation systems' access to the Taiwan market. © ECCT

Chicago Vacation

Chicago vacation tips? | Ask MetaFilter MetaFilter AskMeFi Projects MetaTalk December 28, 2005 2:55 PM PST Home Archives Tags Search Login New User Tags: chicago tourism November 8, 2005 Chicago: I'm visiting Chicago for the first time in a couple of weeks. I'll be there for the weekend with a friend, staying at the Hotel Allegro , and I'm looking for suggestions regarding fun things to do. Where should I go and what should I see? For example: Is the Museum of Contemporary Art worth the trip? Is the Navy Pier a waste? Is the train a convenient way to get around, or am I better off renting a car? What sort of attractions are within a reasonable distance of my hotel (located, I believe, in the Loop). That sort of thing. I've already got tickets to the Second City. Thanks in advance. posted by gd779 to travel & transportation at 5:39 AM PST the responses to my question earlier this year were pretty dang helpful. posted by sluggo at 5:54 AM PST on November 8 The Allegro is right in the Loop and you're right near the trains, so you have lots of options. You're within blocks of shopping (State Street), theaters, and lots of mid to high end resteraunts and bars. Millenium Park is about a 5 minute walk. The Art Institue is about a 15 minute walk away. For loads of shopping Michigan Avenue (the Magnifcent Mile) is 15-20 minutes away on foot. It's all pretty touristy where you are, so it depends what you're into. I've never found anything fun about Navy Pier, but if you're looking for carnival food or overpriced t-shirts that's the place to go. Check Gaper's Block (from MeFite Me3dia) for a look at some of the cooler things happening in the city while you're here. CitySearch and MetroMix have even more things to look at. posted by Slack-a-gogo at 5:56 AM PST on November 8 See also here posted by einarorn at 5:58 AM PST on November 8 Just about any of the museums are a full-day visit, including the Art Institute. If you are using public transportation, Argyle street and Devon make for pleasant international shopping and dining, low key and few crowds. (Red line north to Argyle. Devon is a bus trip.) Public transportation in the central Chicago area is great unless you have plans to get into the surrounding suburbs. posted by KirkJobSluder at 6:19 AM PST on November 8 If you're looking for bars and clubs and things that less touristy check out the Reader . The paper is free and can be found all over the city. It comes out on Thursday afternoons, and from the Allegro you can pick one up at Rock Records, which is exactly one block South on Washington (it's at about the same spot on that block as the Allegro is on Randolph). There are loads of ads and listings, so you should definitely be able to find something to do. TimeOut is also now in Chicago, and you can pick that up anywhere that sells magazines. posted by Slack-a-gogo at 6:19 AM PST on November 8 Oh, I love the Hotel Allegro. I put my maid of honor up there as a thank you when she came into town for my wedding. I think you'll be absolutely fine with relying on the train/buses. If you need to get somewhere that's not really accessible for whatever reason, you'll be able to get a cab really easily. I enjoyed going to Chinatown. You can take the Red Line south a few stops. It's not like San Fransisco or New York, but it's fun. posted by sugarfish at 6:27 AM PST on November 8 The Pier is nice for an hour or so but it's primarilly food and drink. There's the Shakespeare Theatre there if you're so inclined, tho. In the summer Second City runs shows there as well - I saw The Trial of Friar Lawrence there and it was superb. The aquarium is awesome too. I resisted going, having grown up in Miami and with no shortage of great aquatic displays, but went on my most recent visit and it was excellent. Beautiful, well laid-out and well worth the money. The perfomance shows are corny as such things always are, but still neat. Presumably they're done screwing around with the bean so make sure you go see it. It seems like a moronic concept but it's impressive up close. And take a picture . posted by phearlez at 6:35 AM PST on November 8 Whoops - I meant to suggest going to one of the Second City shows while you're there, too. posted by phearlez at 6:35 AM PST on November 8 When I was in Chicago, I was pleasantly surprised that I could get a five day bus/train pass [not including the Metra] for $18. This was definitely the way to go for travelling. There were very few places that I couldn't get to this way, be sure to bookmark their trip planner . posted by jessamyn at 6:36 AM PST on November 8 If you do decide you'd rather not take the Bus or trains, just take cabs. By the time you rent a car and pay for parking you'll come out close enough to even that it's worth it to pay for the convenience. posted by Wallzatcha at 6:41 AM PST on November 8 If you'll be using public transportation, use this site or just call 836-7000 from any Chicago area code and they'll plan your trip for you (i.e. tell you where to get on, get off, and transfer). posted by jtron at 7:11 AM PST on November 8 These may be a little too off the beaten path for your visit, but catching a show by The Neofuturists or browsing the stacks at Quimby's Bookstore will yield unexpected pleasures. If you opt to visit the more readily accessible Shedd Aquarium - may as well walk an extra block and catch the show at Adler Planetarium as well. Great views of the city from out there. posted by tristero at 7:13 AM PST on November 8 The Art Institute of Chicago has one of the greatest Modern Art collections in the world. If you like art, don't miss it. posted by scottr at 7:14 AM PST on November 8 I would recommend Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind The historical society offers tours of the city via the brown and purple lines on Saturday and Sunday. Navy Pier is not a waste if you would like to see an IMAX movie, eat at McDonalds, or buy something that says Chicago on it. I think the art museum and the Shedd are great. posted by srburns at 7:17 AM PST on November 8 The Allegro is great, the restaurant downstairs (320 Grille?) has the BEST scallops appetizer I have ever had. There is a fondue restaurant on the north side called Geja's (I believe it's pronounced "yay-ya's"). It's a good time, celler-like environment, full 3 or 4 course meal. Make a night of it, and expect to spend $50-$75 a person. Also, Mambo Grill on Clark street has amazing latin food. Don't rent a car- it's just too expensive. You can get everywhere you need to go by El or train. Thumbs up on Art museum, thumbs down on Navy Pier, especially in cold weather. The Field museum and Shedd Aquarium are both fun, and farther south The Museum of Science and Industry is amazing. If you are interested in Chicago history, the main building is what's left of what was built for the World's Fair in 1893. Check out " Devil in the White City " posted by bradn at 7:18 AM PST on November 8 The Art Institute is worth seeing, even if the layout is infuriating for the modern works. I like to go there for two hour chunks with a clear idea of what I want to see, in order to avoid museum fatigue (though I can go longer, usually the people I'm with start to whine like babies in the face of all the art. Also, I'm not shy about skipping stuff I think is crap in order to sit for ten minutes in front of the Rothkos. Which you should do.) The Museum of Contemporary Art is usually pretty solid, and can be done in an hour. The Contemporary Photography Museum is small, but absolutely fantastic with its rotating shows, and can also be done in an hour (and is an easy walk from the AI). Aside from that, if you feel like trecking, you can visit the Brookfield Zoo. It's an excellent spot if you're either with kids or on drugs. Or both. Even if you're not, the Rainforest exhibit is worth seeing sooner or later, but I'd be hard pressed to make the trip from the loop that far out just to see it. The Museum of Science and Industry is OK, if you want to feel wistful for the great public works projects of yesteryear, and feel deeply frustrated with the screaming children that decend like locusts to break everything tangible around while their parents ignore them. Most of the really cool stuff is gone, and computer monitors have replaced a lot. Instead of having an emphasis on the sheer achievement and monumentalism that made Modernism so amazing, it's turning into just a large hands-on museum, and one cluttered with the garrish and transient. Though they do have a WWII sub as a last gasp grab towards The History Channel viewers. The Aquarium is top-notch (though I again recommend drugs to push the experience over the edge into truly fantastic), but can have an ungodly wait to get in, especially on the weekends and whichever day of the week is the cheap one. You should see it at least once in you life though, it's really great. My second favorite aquarium, next to the one in Monterey Bay, California (which is totally different in scale and emphasis-- the one in Chicago is just huge and gorgeous, but there's no interaction with the fish). Right next door is the under-rated Museum of Natural History, which I enjoy quite a bit. But I also enjoy looking at the giant rings of trees, dinosaur skeletons and old decrepit mummies, so your milage may vary. For all of those places, you should endeavor to keep a few dollars with you for the plastic models that are die-cast right in front of you. They're probably toxic and cause cancer, but they're so damned cool. I'm working on a full set... If you like music, you should look to Out of the Past records, a dusty anarchic set of vinyl (seriously, no order at all) that has so many hidden treasures that it should be declared on the national registry. It's near the Museum of Science and Industry. Dusty Groove is good too, if you've got some time to kill and are around Wrigleyville. Lots of out-of-print stuff. Totally easy to blow cash there. I dropped $50 like breathing, and I'm a cheapskate... posted by klangklangston at 7:52 AM PST on November 8 Navy Pier will make your soul hurt for a couple of days hence. If you brave Michigan Ave. for shopping or the desire to get your toes stepped on, I'd recommend going to the top of the Hancock. It's a great view of the city and you can have a $12 martini. posted by MarkAnd at 7:53 AM PST on November 8 If you get a chance, try an Ino's burrito-- you won't regret it. There's also a nice little thai place on Michigan Ave. right near the Art Institute that's surprisingly cheap and pretty tasty. Or there's the Chicago Diner, if you go for upper-middle-class vegetarian food. posted by klangklangston at 7:53 AM PST on November 8 Oh, I second the Neo-futurists (or rather, I third it) - TMLMTBGB is the best! The architectural boat tour is one of my favorite things to do in the Chi - it's probably too cold for that, though, so maybe one of the walking tours sponsored by the architects? I know it sounds boring, but it's actually really interesting and fun and pretty. And please eat some pizza. Mmm, pizza. And also, don't get a car, you don't need one, and it would be a pain to park -- public transportation in Chicago rocks (and don't discount the buses, I love the bus system in Chicago). The bar at the top of the Hancock building has great views, too, if the weather is clear. posted by echo0720 at 8:30 AM PST on November 8 As others have noted, if you care even a smidge about art The Art Institute is a must. It's my favorite art museum in the US. Do not miss its spectacular collection of Joseph Cornell's work--the largest one anywhere. The Chicago Architecture Foundation offers a wide array of tours . If the weather is not abominable I highly recommend the river cruise. Devon street was mentioned--this is a great place to eat Indian food. If you like German food, the Berghof is a classic and very popular at lunch. And much to my chagrin as someone who grew up on the West coast and has been eating MExican food all my life, my hands down favorite Mexican restaurants are in Chicago-- Frontera Grill and Topolbampo . posted by donovan at 10:01 AM PST on November 8 Oh yeah, lemme recommend TMLMTBGB as well. Excellent. posted by klangklangston at 10:31 AM PST on November 8 These are all great suggestions, thanks! posted by gd779 at 10:47 AM PST on November 8 Go to the Hideout . Best music in a city which abounds in beautiful noise. posted by felix betachat at 11:36 AM PST on November 8 MeTa . (Just in case the dates work, gd779.) posted by felix betachat at 12:21 PM PST on November 8 Second the Hideout, definitely. Also second (third/fourth/whatever) the Art Institute, in particular the modern collection -- and the Joseph Cornell collection is, indeed, not to be missed. As for restaurants, I always love going to Reza's when I'm back in Chicago -- the fessenjen (cornish hen in pomegranate sauce) is spectacular. On the fancy-schmancy end, if you're in the mood (and have the means!), Blackbird is stellar -- I had one of the greatest meals of my life there. posted by scody at 12:26 PM PST on November 8 Check out Wicker Park starting with the intersection of Damen, North and Milwaukee. It's still a little piece of heaven in some respects. Record shops, coffee shops, thai food, noodle shops, the Double-Door and all sorts of assorted tomfoolery can be had. The Hideout isn't too far north of there either. You'll be on Randolph street which has undergone a huge resurgence. All sorts of awesome stuff if you get on Randolph and head west. Also, as touristy as it is, the area of Wells and Division has Second City and cool things to see. For Blues, avoid Kingston Mines and the neck-high frat crowd and head over to Rosa's on West Armitage. Of course you could always come to our meetup! ;) posted by KevinSkomsvold at 12:39 PM PST on November 8 ON REVIEW: The Out of the Past record store is NOT near the Museum of Science and Industry, despite my visiting it on the same day and somehow believing that it was. Out of the Past is at 4407 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60624. I still recommend you go there. posted by klangklangston at 5:12 PM PST on November 8 I love the area around Clark and Belmont Ave...get off the El at Belmont, walk to Clark, turn left and walk up the street toward Wrigley Field. Lots of cool shops and things there. You should also stop in the Marshall Fields flagship store on State Street. This is nothing like the Marshall Fields stores in the mall. It's a definite experience. Plus the Christmas windows will be done by then, so check those out. : ) posted by SisterHavana at 1:05 PM PST on November 10 « Older I love my lotus lamp. I hate t... | My company has an ISDN2 link w... 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