Why you should visit Chicago

In February 2016, I embarked on a journey to explore the Windy City of Illinois. Only a few hours away from home, I wondered why I never went to Chicago in the first place. After spending a 5 day trip there, I am now asking myself when I'll be back. The architecture, culture and ambiance took my heart away.

1. The architecture

What made Chicago famous? The numerous skyscrapers of course! Illinois' megalopolis is internationally renowned for its architecture and contribution to modernism as it is today. Frank Lloyd, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Helmut Jahn and many others contributed to making the Windy City into a modern sea of tall buildings. As you walk along the loop, you will see many icons of architecture that make a "few" cameo in famous Hollywood movies. You can't miss:

-The rookery: The oldest skyscraper still standing in Chicago. Definitely worth a visit.

-The Tribune Tower: The notorious Newspaper office, as seen in Spiderman.

-The John Hancock center: Worth a detour for the 360 view over Chicago and Lake Michigan.

-The Chicago Cultural Center: Home to the memorable tiffany's stained glass dome and free (yes free!) cultural events.

-The Carson Pirie Scott Store: With its massive entryway and impressive details.

-The Willis Tower: The highest skyscraper of Chicago with its 110-story. Home to numerous influential law offices in the heart of downtown and a view deck at the top.

2.The art

Chicago has such a rich culture, you can almost find museum at every street corner. Seriously though, there are Picasso's and Calder's work of art casually layered in front of buildings and sculpture to adorn parks. If you prefer admiring art in the warmth of a room, here are a few suggestions:

-The Art Institute: Home to a vast selection of impressionist paintings, historical artefact and an impressive modern art wing. Just this museum will take a day to visit.

-The Museum of science and industry: For every science and technology lover.

-The Field Museum: For the history and the exclusive expositions.

-The oriental institute: If you are an adept of the far east culture.

3.The nature

Even though the windy city is a megalopolis, it is home to numerous breathtaking parks and lake walks. Here are a few I personally recommend:

-Chicago River walk: Walking near the river, we will be able to admire most of Chicago's renowned skyscrapers and the beautiful bridges. If you are feeling like it, you can also take a boat tour to discover the local architecture.

-Lakefront Trail: On the border of lake Michigan, the lakefront trail proposes a variety of activities. From biking to tanning on the beach, the view will be amazing.

-The Millennium Park: Home of the famous Cloud Gate, also known as "the bean", the loop's famous park have a skating ring, a concert hall and a lot of outdoor sculptures.

-Hyde Park: The beautiful park is located right on the campus of the University of Chicago and has many bookstores and museums on its ground.

4.The food

Chicago has a wide culinary scene, from the mighty deep-dish pizza to fancy restaurant, the multiethnic city is a heaven for any foodies. Here are a few suggestions:

-Pizzeria Uno: Making the classic deep-dish pizza since 1943.

-Beacon Tavern: For the amazing food experience in the downtown area.

-Alinea: If you have the budget for an amazing molecular experience, check out Alinea restaurant.

-Calumet Fisheries: For a real experience of the classic smokehouse seafood. A delicacy you can only enjoy in the comfort of your car, park upfront.

5.The music

I can understand why Al Capone would choose Chicago for its lair, especially since it is the city of Jazz and Blues. 

-The Jazz Showcase: In the business since 1947, the Jazz Showcase offers week. And the best concert of local groups every day of the cocktails.

-Buddy Guy's Legend: This laid-back bar is one of Chicago's most iconic Blues House. Make sure you get your ticket in advance if you want a place.

-The Green Mill: Where some of the most famous Jazz artists started, and a casual hang out for Al Capone's bandits, the Green Mill has been in the jazz industries for quite a while. 

-B.L.U.E.S.: If you want to hear the local blues celebrities perform with a retro atmosphere, than you better go to B.L.U.E.S. The entry fees are ratter cheap and you can choose from a wide range of drinks.

6.The sport

Chicago is a treat for any sports adept. From the classic baseball game to the hockey match, everyone will be please, especially if you have a hotdog in your hand.

-A Cub's baseball game at the Wrigley Field: Go watch the famous Chicago team in their homeland.

-A Blackhawks hockey match at the United Center: For any hockey fan (or Canadian haha).

-A Bears football game at the New Soldier Field: Visit the impressive stadium.

Hope you liked the few suggestions I gave you for your next visit in the Windy City. Have a blast there!

Enjoy,

The little traveller's boots

Xox

Solis Lough Eske Castle

During our stay in county Donegal, my boyfriend and I got tired of the classic Irish Airbnb and decided it was time for a fancy hotel. While googling "best hotels in Ireland" we stumbled upon the Solis Lough Eske Castle and immediately fell in love with the place. After all, Ireland is home of numerous castles, so why not sleep in one?

The Lough Eske Castle is an incredible 43 acres property located right in front of Lake Eske and the Blue Stack Mountains. It was originally built in 1474 for the O'Donnell's clan and has been in the hand of numerous families until the 20th century. In 1939, when the castle was in possession of the Knee family, a curtain cough on fire and burned almost all of the property. It fell in ruins and was forgotten until 2007, when it was opened as a 5 stars hotel and spa.

The ground in itself is home to a magnificent garden and sculptures exhibition. The castle, one part tsudor-inspired and one part modern, is a jewel of architecture. The interior is decorated with great taste and respect of its heritage. In the hotel, you can enjoy a good meal at the Oak bar, an afternoon tea in the castle's boudoir or an incredible steak at the Cedars Grill restaurant.

The hotel has a large variety of rooms; from suites in the oldest part of the castle to modern rooms in the garden wing. Each room is decorated with luxurious materials to make you feel like an important guest. Luxury features includes: 2 sinks in the bathroom, heated floors, king size bed, impressive views on the garden, 46 inches plasma TV, a small living room with a large desk, a mini bar filled with Irish whiskey and a separate entry from other guests. Personal touches, such as local products, are everywhere in the room, proof of the staff delicacies.

When walking on the hotel's property, you can enjoy the beautiful garden and have access to their spa. A large variety of treatments are available for the hotel guests; from facials to a couple's massage. You can also access their indoor pool, with a view on the garden, or the hotel's gym, if you feel motivated.

If you are not an adept of indoor sports, the hotel offers a list of activities on or near the castle's grounds. Fishing, surfing, golf, riding centers, archery, biking and many more are offered when you check in at the castle. The staff will be more than pleased to suggest great sightseeing spots or activities if you need help.

Finally, we enjoyed staying at the Solis Lough Eske Castle during our tour of Donegal. I would highly recommend booking a night there if you ever are in the area. I know I will next time I'm in Ireland.

Enjoy,

The little traveller's boots
Xox

Killarney National Park

On September 18^th 2016, my boyfriend and I decided to go on a drive through Killarney National Park in County Kerry, Ireland. We started our journey early in Killarney and drove into the misty park on a classic Irish rainy day.

1. Muckross Abbey and Manor

Being good tourists, we stopped at the first parking sign indicated. Immediately after stepping out of the car, we were offered a ride into the park in a carriage, which we refused, guessing  the Muckross abbey was on a walking distance. Built in 1448 by Franciscan Monks, the historical ground is surrounded by an ancient forest. The classic medieval architecture of the abbey is impressive in itself, but what caught our eyes the most was the giant Texus tree growing right in the middle of the building, witness of many events, both terrifying and joyful.

We continued our journey towards the Manor, stopping here and there to admire the scenery. Finally, the imposing house appeared, as if it simply stepped out of the mist. Every little detail made us go "Wow!". The Tudor-style house is a jewel of architecture, with its sixty-five rooms and grand garden. The property in itself was built in 1843, on border of the Muckross and Lough Leane lakes, making it an 11,000 acres of beauty. I couldn't help but feel like a rich duchess strolling through the Irish land.

2. Torc Waterfall

Of course, as good Canadians, we had to visit Ireland's "Mini-Niagara Falls". Torc waterfall might not be as big as the Ontarian wonder of nature, but it surely is a beautiful waterfall. We took our time walking around the park and admiring the crystal-clear water.

3. Meeting of the waters

Let's be honest here; seeing the meeting of the waters was totally unplanned. We were actually trying to get to a small restaurant in the middle of the woods, but got lost. Classic me. We stumbled upon a brown sign, indicating "Meeting of the waters" and looked in the horizon. Here it was; the tranquil spot where the three major Killarney's lake met under a bridge. Beautiful.

4. The Ladies view

Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting were so impressed by the view over the valley and the upper Lake, that the place was baptised after their visit. What you will find today is the same breath-taking view with a small coffee shop across the road. Definitely worth the while.

5. Ross Castle

As we drove back to Killarney, we had time for one last stop before heading to our Airbnb. This is when we saw the Ross Castle sign. Located a bit out of the National Park, this beautifully built tower house had its own share of history. Just as the sun was setting, we arrived at the castle, surrounded by a small river and an impressive lake. At that moment, we understood why the aristocrats chose this place as their home back in the 15th century. If you plan on going there, I would recommend taking the guided tour. You will get to know about the castle history and the way of living in middle-ages.

Hope you liked visiting one of Ireland's most famous National Park with me and relive the Ring of Kerry.

Enjoy,

The little traveller's boots

Xox

The best of Northern Ireland

When my boyfriend and I decided to visit Ireland, we were not thinking on going to Northern Ireland. Since there is a conflict still existing between the republic and the United Kingdom, we thought it would not be safe. Later on, as I was scrolling through Instagram, I saw a picture of a beautiful coastline surrounded by clear blue water. I was so surprise when I found out it was a picture of Northern Ireland. Of course, as a sucker for coastlines, Northern Ireland was immediately added to our itinerary. So we discovered many magnificent places with unique landscape.Here are the best places of Northern Ireland you need to visit.

Dunluce Castle: This now-ruined castle is a jewel of history. It dates back in 13th century, when a powerful Irish noble, Richard de Burgo, built the first castle. It then went into possession of the McQuillanfamily, whom left after the kitchen fell into the sea (at least, that is what the legend says). Even though its long lineage is impressive, what will impress you the most is definitely the endless coasts surrounding the ruins.

Giant's Causeway: One of the most impressive work of Mother Nature is located in Northern Ireland, Antrim County. This world heritage site is unique and full of mystery. I remember my grand-mother telling me stories on how Finn McCool forged this rock formation on the Atlantic coast. In a more realistic story, 60 million years ago, a volcanic eruption in contact with the sea caused the formation of hexagonal Basalt columns that we are lucky enough to admire to this day!

Old Bushmills Distillery: Not all people were made to love whiskey. Fortunately for me, I am a whiskey lover. But for those who dislikethe liquor; taking a tour of the oldest distillery in Ireland (400 years old!) is still amazing. Getting to know the process of making one of the world's oldest Whiskey and visiting the facilities is quite interesting. And if you stay until the end, you will be rewarded by a lovely glass of Bushmills' finest liquor. Cheers!

Carrick-a-rede: This 350 years-old rope bridge first use was for the local fishermen to access to the Atlantic salmon. Fast-forward to now and you have a wonderful walk near the coastline and a jaw-dropping experience on a small island surrounded by clear blue water in the middle of the Atlantic.

Dark Hedges: "Winter is coming!" Well, the HBO Game of Thrones' crew were not the first to be amazed by the beech tree avenue. It was meant for Stuart's family guests to be impressed when they approached the mansion’s entrance. The Dark Hedges is now a beautifully terrifying natural phenomenon of Bregagh Road with its dark branches filtering the sun through the small path.

Northern Ireland is a must see when visiting the Green Éire. It will only take you a day by car to have a lifetime's wonderful memories.

Enjoy,

The little traveller's boots
Xox