Illinois

Where to go

Chicago & the Land of Lincoln embody the true spirit of America, inviting you to explore both vibrant city life and charming small towns. Begin your journey in Chicago, where the skyline meets culture through tantalizing cuisine and rich history. Then, hit the iconic Route 66, known as the "Main Street of America," and experience the nostalgia of this legendary highway. Retrace the steps of explorers Lewis and Clark, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Midwest. Finally, delve deeper into the legacy of Abraham Lincoln, visiting the sites that highlight his remarkable life and contributions.

Illinois, while often synonymous with the vibrant city of Chicago, offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences. Chicago stands out as a cultural gem, boasting renowned many museums & stunning architecture that attract admiration from around the globe. However, what often astounds newcomers is the expansive Chicago river that stretches over 40 kilometers, providing a serene escape mere steps from the bustling city life & The Magnificent Mile a prime hospitality, dining and retail destination in the heart of Chicago.

What to eat

When it comes to exploring Illinois, the culinary landscape offers a tempting array of dishes that can often lean towards the indulgent side. However, my blog aims to strike a balance between taste and health.

As a New Yorker, I often indulge in my love for pizza, savoring its deliciousness whenever I can. While we take pride in our iconic thin crust, it's fascinating to explore the other pizza styles across the country. For instance, Chicago is renowned for its deep-dish pizza. With its thick, buttery crust, layers of cheese, and a rich tomato sauce piled high, it's a unique culinary experience that every pizza lover must try at least once. How can you resist this pizza which was invented in Chicago in the 1940s by Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo at Pizzeria Uno.

The Italian beef sandwich is a culinary icon that traces its roots back to Chicago in the early 1900s. This delectable sandwich features thinly sliced roast beef, which is slow-cooked to perfection and seasoned with a blend of spices that add a distinctive flavor. Traditionally served on a sturdy Italian roll, the sandwich is often topped with giardiniera, a spicy pickled vegetable mix, or sweet peppers, enhancing the taste experience. Dong forget, Chicago has many notable drinks, including cocktails, liqueurs, and non-alcoholic drinks. My favorite is Chicago fizz & Cafe Cremerie

What to wear

When it comes to fashion, personal style varies greatly from person to person. While I know I can't cater to everyone's taste, I've noticed that wearing refreshing embrace of vibrant reds and soft graphic patterns like polka dots and pinstripes makes me happy. The city's lively atmosphere encourages a simple yet chic approach to dressing. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely stroll through the streets, indulging in ice cream, or grabbing a drink with friends, the key is to keep it stylish yet effortless. The combination of bold colors and subtle designs perfectly reflects the dynamic spirit of urban life in Chicago.

In my design approach, I lean towards maintaining a neutral color palette, which provides a calm and versatile backdrop. This strategy allows for a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic that emphasizes subtlety and elegance. However, every so often, I enjoy adding a burst of vibrant color to enliven the space and create a striking contrast. These surprising pops of color draw the eye and inject personality into your style, making it feel fresh and dynamic. Balancing the neutral with the unexpected colors keeps my style engaging and lively.