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...

"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop to look around every once in a while, you could miss it." We're all familiar with this line from the classic movie, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, which took place in Chicago—the famous city I got to experience for the first time on a recent press trip. I was so fortunate to be travelling with some wonderful Canadian journalists, led by the most professional (and fun) PR firm, Fathom Co. (hi, Mark and Laura!) and hosted by Choose Chicago. Chicago—I definitely choose you! Some cities leave me yearning for more; I feel this way about New York City, and I feel this way about Chicago now. My first time visiting the Windy City left quite an impression on me, even though I was only there for a few days. I explored as much as I could, making good use of my time from morning to night. I walked around Millennium Park, took my picture by the famous "bean", watched Hamilton for the first time, (more on that late...

Summer is the sweetest season, and the shortest one, too. I'm holding on tight to these last few sun-kissed days, while looking forward to all the wonderful things fall has in store for my family and I. A highlight of my summer was being invited to Portugal on a press trip with Jaguar, where I had the opportunity to test drive the brand-new, all-electric I-PACE through the streets, up the mountains on an off-road adventure, and around the race track.  It was a chance to explore a new country, drive an incredible car, meet new friends, and make lasting memories. My trip included flying first-class on Air Canada. I thoroughly enjoyed the pod seats, (my seat basically turned into a bed) the many delicious meals, and the endless glasses of wine and bubbly I was served. It's not easy flying like a normal person now, after that experience. After our stay in Portugal, we boarded a private chartered flight to Paris— Paris! ...