Loulou's views

I had the great pleasure of once again joining Choose Chicago on a press trip to experience the vibrant city of Chicago. Chicago was recently voted the Best Big City in America and as usual, Chicago was a dream, and I can't wait to return. (To read more about all the fun things to do in Chicago if you're planning a trip to the Windy City for your next holiday escape, you can read my article in Canadian Geographic Travel ).  Here are a few highlights that'll help you plan your next Chicago trip with ease--how to get there, where to stay, where to dine, and what to do:  Porter Airlines Travelling during the pandemic can be challenging, but my flight with Porter Airlines made the experience smooth, comfortable, and safe. I had all the necessary documents with me (proof of vaccination and rapid test for entry to the USA) and Porter took care of the rest--I was met with excellent service checking in, and in-flight (we loved our flight attendant so much!) along with tasty snack...

As the holiday season approaches, many families will be travelling to get away from the cold or to visit their families in other cities. While we stay close to home for the holidays, we area already planning our annual winter getaway to south Florida. I am  so  looking forward to feeling the warm sunshine on my skin again, and spending hours on the beach and by the pool–pina colada in hand! My boys have always been excellent travellers, even on long flights overseas. While I help them pack their carry-on bags, I make sure I have all their favourite  Netflix  shows and movies downloaded. After all,  travelling can be chaotic at times, so why not take a little time before you leave to make sure your kids have what they need to stay entertained, and not annoyed, during your travels? If you travel often enough, you will know that sometimes, the unexpected can happen–delayed flights, lost luggage, long line-ups, and more–and I find that if my boys have th...

As much as I love presents wrapped up under the Christmas tree, I prefer presents that have to do with travel—like a stay in a gorgeous luxury hotel. Sometimes, a weekend getaway is the perfect way to escape and unwind during the crazy holiday season, or in the new year, when you have more time. Giving gifts that have to do with travel—luggage, bikinis, sunglasses, airplane tickets or a surprise stay in a gorgeous hotel in a city you love—give lasting memories that'll last forever. I've had the great pleasure of staying at The Hazelton Hotel several times, and each time I stay there, I fall in love all over again. It's become my favourite hotel, and it's always hard to say goodbye. This luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Yorkville is all about excellent service, gorgeous, sexy  rooms and suites , (62 beautifully designed rooms and 15 exceptional suites) and incredible dining options, whether you're ordering to your room or enjoying the food and ambiance at O...

New York City is always a good idea, but it's even more magical during the holiday season. Spending a few days in the Big Apple in November and December is a great way to celebrate the festive season, and there is so much to see and do—and most of the sightseeing is free, which is an added bonus. I was on CTV Morning Live today talking about what to do in the Big Apple this time of year. Where to stay: Four Seasons New York Downtown: Where you stay in NYC is important, especially if you're travelling with your family and children. Our recent stay at the brand-new Four Seasons New York Downtown was simply spectacular. Near the 9/11 memorial and One World Trade, and only a few blocks from the Brooklyn Bridge, the Four Seasons New York Downtown offers excellent in-room dining options created by chef Shaun Acosta, which we loved, because we could dine in our spacious suite, without having to worry about where to eat in NYC, allowing us more time to take in the sights and ...

There is nothing more magical than spending the holiday season in the city that never sleeps. A trip to New York City is always a great idea, but when you travel to New York City in November and December, it's even more incredible. Although I've been a dozen times, it's never enough, and I start planning my next trip while I'm still there. Walking down Fifth Avenue to check out the beautifully decorated store window displays and skating at Rockefeller Center while looking up at the famous Christmas tree makes a trip to New York City during the festive season a must for those who to love to travel. Where you stay in New York City is important, and can make the trip even more memorable. I had the great pleasure of staying in the luxurious, brand-new Four Seasons New York Downtown in November with my family, and it was absolutely delightful. It's exactly what you'd expect a stay at the Four Seasons to be; incredible service, luxurious rooms, (we didn't want...