Take on Chicago as a Domestic Diva
America's heartland often plays the role of the nation's comforter, supplying abundant food, down-to-earth values, and a wholesome demeanor. If you crave stability and a satisfying diet of meat and potatoes, the Midwest has you covered. Chicago reigns supreme over this territory, delivering a sophistication grounded in practicality and determined labor. Working with your hands, providing for your family, and enjoying the solid comforts of life are paramount, and the fertile earth so reliable here feeds the people and makes their efforts flourish.
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The Domestic Diva takes great pleasure in her home and all those comforts that make it a haven and a refuge. She's a consummate nurturer, and she's the one who feeds her friends, offers a shoulder to cry on, and wants everyone to get along. She pores over shelter magazines and likes for her home to feel cozy and welcoming. She tries out the newest recipes and takes care of her kids (or pets) with a sure hand and a natural sense of fairness and compassion. The Domestic Diva isn't a lampshade-wearing party girl, but she is an unwavering friend and a solid presence who can be counted on through thick and thin. Hanging out with her doesn't mean unbounded luxuries, but it does promise simple pleasures and a genuine appreciation for life.
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This delightful, eleven-room bed and breakfast, built in 1870, is a city and national landmark. Among the features that distinguish it are a great room, dining room, courtyard, and veranda; adding charm and convenience are 19th-century antiques, bicycle rentals, fine linens, and full business services. Wheeler Mansion serves as a wonderful base of operations for business travelers and for folks seeking a relaxing, unhurried vacation. Situated two blocks from Lake Michigan, the Museum Campus, and McCormick Place.
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There's no doubt that American culture has changed since Oprah Winfrey took to the national airwaves in 1986. These days, her media empire is far-flung, and her weekday show has influenced countless men, women, and children around the world. Her rags-to-riches rise is an American success story that advocates self-awareness, education, and tolerance. As a result of Oprah's popularity, her talk show is inundated by requests to be in the audience. That process, equitably enough, is dictated by a lottery system and is open to all. Visit her website to register, and hope that you're chosen for the much-coveted "Oprah's Favorite Things" episode!
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Satisfy cravings for comfort food almost guilt-free – even hearty winter vegetables are presented in delicate, artistic fashion at chic, zen-influenced May Street Market. Duck, turkey, and pork pinch-hit for beef on the burger roster. The menu changes frequently, so you'll always find something new to try, thanks to chef Alex Cheswick's deft hand and penchant for seasonal fare. Snuggle up with a glass of wine in the plush, candlelit lounge after dinner. Terrific, affordable prix fixe menus are a bonus.
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Silver Cloud Bar & Grill offers not only above-average pub eats but a well-stocked bar with great microbrews, wines by the bottle and glass, and a lengthy list of martinis (try the famous smore'tini!). Other martinis include the summer fling (Absolut mandarin, champagne, and pineapple liqueur) and the white chocolate (Godiva white and Stoli vanil). The interior features red leather booths, fringed lamps, and glass-block windows.
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Never has grocery shopping been as much fun as at this local favorite. You'll find unique specialty goods such as handmade chocolates, a wide range of specialty cheeses, and fresh meats. Holiday packages are a real treat, especially for Easter, Passover, Jewish New Year, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. If holidays aren't your thing, have The Goddess and Grocer pack your picnic bag, and then head to one of the city's parks to enjoy.
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Daley Plaza is the center of all Chicago’s holiday festivities, morphing into a haunted village for Halloween, and into various international markets throughout the summer. For the Christmas season, it’s transformed into Christkindlmarket, a traditional German-style market. Vendors offer all sorts of arts and crafts from around the world, and restaurants and caterers provide the best German food, beer, and wine. The event also promises a visit from the Christkindl (a gift-bearing spirit, identified with the Christ Child and similar to Santa Claus), direct from Nuremberg. Other highlights include the official City of Chicago Holiday Tree Lighting and the Children’s Lantern Parade.
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It may be called America's Second City, but this first-rate metropolis is eminently enjoyable – for living in or visiting. Still, you wonder what else you might consider.
Check out these other cities that would make an amazing trip for a Domestic Diva:
Want to view our other personality types? Click here to see where and how they travel.
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Eat Out and Save Money!
