CREW CUTS: CHICAGO

Q&A BY PIERS TOWNLEY

From beautiful buildings and lush surrounds to shopping malls, music and theater… every month the inflight crew reveal what they love best about their chosen city.

Toni Davenport has been a Crew Member for the last two years. This month she lifts the lid on her favorite city, Chicago.

What’s the essence of the city, what makes it tick?

"Chicago has a personal style that is simply unique. It’s the diversity of the place-a blend of architecture and culture. What makes it tick for me is location, location, location! Each season brings fresh excitement- whether it’s sailing on Lake Michigan, relaxing on the beach in the summer, ice-skating in Millenium Park during the winter or year-round shopping-till-you-drop in Michigan Avenue’s Magnificant Mile. Not to mention taking a 40-minute ride to Ravinia Park to enjoy picnic-style jazz concerts (with your favorite lawn chairs) from early summer to fall. You can also enjoy the arts all-year-long, from shows at the Shubert Theater to opera performances at the Lyric Opera Center and the Chicago Symphony Hall.”

If someone was here for just one day, what should they definitely make a point of doing?

"There’s so much to do in Chicago, but if you’re pressed for time and need a snapshot of what the city can offer, here’s what I’d recommend:
1. Shopping on Michigan Avenue.
2. Enjoy the view from the John Hancock Building-there are 100 floors.
3. Take a stroll around the Navy Pier, downtown.
4. Take a tour of the Harold Washington Library, 400 South State Street.
5. Have dinner at Gibson’s Bar and Steak House on Bellevue and Rush Street (www.gibsonssteakhouse.com). The food there is amazing.”

What should a first-time visitor to Chicago expect?

"It’s an incredibly energetic city. A lot of people are overwhelmed by its atmosphere. I don’t think they expect it to have so much on offer, even with its musical and historic reputation. Chicago’s a large city, but its friendly atmosphere will make you feel right at home-don’t be afraid to ask strangers for directions!”

What’s the best way to start finding out about Chicago’s top entertainment venues?

"I always look at www.chicagoplays.com-it tells you everything you need to know about all the plays and live events in the city, and if you’re looking to hang out at all the coolest places this site will tell you where to go. The House of Blues gives a first-time taste of the music scene-if it’s live music venues you’re after, Chicago is in a league of its own! Good sites to visit are www.chicagogigs.com and www.livemusicchicago.com.”

Any other tips?

"Remember that the lake is east-it’ll help you get your bearings when you’re traveling around. Carry a street map of downtown Chicago with you (there are lots of one-way streets in this area and it can get confusing) and wear comfortable walking shoes for the long city blocks. Remember that some shops won’t allow you in with flip-flops and swim suits unless you cover up! This shouldn’t be a problem though-Chicago still gets pretty cold this time of the year, so you’ll need to wrap up warm. Most important, don’t try and do everything at once-you’ll only exhaust yourself. Just relax and soak up the sights and culture of this amazing city.”