INDULGENCES passport by joseph schmitt
CHICAGO – EVERYONE’S KIND OF TOWN There’s something about Chicago I really love, but it’s hard to define. On second thought, there’s much I love about Chicago, and
to hell with definitions. I love it that my gaydar is often wrong in Chicago—like the Bermuda Triangle of sexual orientation, my sen- sors frequently malfunction. The women on the vibrant Magnificent Mile are stylish, yet simple, in a Midwest way. And the men are manicured and professional, with just a touch of vanity around the edges. I love it that Nate Berkus once checked me out, head to toe, while having drinks at a posh bar. I love it that Chicago has diverse neighborhoods and a bustling downtown. Perhaps what I love most about Chicago is its genuine small-town hospitality with big-city thrills. Whatever it is you look for in a vacation setting, from shopping and sightseeing to fine dining and theatre, you’ll find it in ample supply. Now, if only they could do something about their politicians and weather.
WHERE TO STAY: Chicago has its fair share of top hotels, and
the one hotel that’s on everyone’s top-ten list of hotels in the United States is the pres- tigious Peninsula Hotel Chicago (peninsula. com/chicago). In the words of that famed Chicagoite from 1986, Ferris Bueller on his titular day off, “It’s so choice.” During my recent stay, I took full advantage of the many amenities offered, including a visit to the penthouse luxury spa, a romantic three-hour dinner in the intimate fine-dining restaurant and a local excursion with an enthusiastic retail expert. Located in the heart of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, the best shopping, dining and cultural attractions are right outside your door. Also downtown is the newest upscale-hip and social hotel, theWit (
thewithotel.com). Rack up your Hilton rewards at this AAA Four Diamond property with affordable rates. The highlight here is the spectacular rooftop bar, called ROOF. Wine, dine and cocktail here with other pretty people amongst roaring fire pits, live music and telescopes to help you navigate the impressive cityscape.
The Peninsula’s Spa by ESPA 58 RAGE monthly | SEPTEMBER 2010
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