Chicago travel information
Chicago, also known as the ‘windy city’, is located in northeastern Illinois and stretches for 40kms along the southern tip of Lake Michigan's shore. The best way to get around the city is on foot as the area is flat and easy to navigate. The Loop is the historic heart of the city, drawing its name from the elevated train tracks that circle it. Below are some good travel tips to keep in mind during your visit.
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Most of Chicago's tourist areas are quite safe; however, you should always stay alert. Ask at your hotel or the local tourist office about the safety of a particular neighbourhood you want to visit before you go.
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Stay away from deserted areas, especially at night, and don't go into public parks after dark unless there's an event that will attract a crowd.
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Do not carry valuables with you on the street, and if you are using a map, try to study it before you leave your room.
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Most hotels are open to the public, and in a large hotel, security may not be able to screen everyone who enters, so make sure to keep your door locked.
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Carjackings are rare in busy Chicago neighborhoods, but you should remain alert. Many car rental agencies now offer the option of renting a cellphone for the duration of your car rental.
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If you're bumped from behind on the street while in your car or are involved in a minor accident with no injuries, motion to the other driver to follow you to a public area.
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If someone attempts to rob you or steal your car, don't try to resist the thief/carjacker, just give them the vehicle and report the incident to the police.
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Health insurance is highly recommended as the United States does not usually offer free or low-cost medical care to its citizens or visitors. Doctors and hospitals are expensive, and in most cases will require advance payment or proof of coverage before they render their services.
Useful travel tips resources
Footprint Guides - Chicago
Incomparable resource on Chicago travel from this well-known travel guide publisher.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
City of Chicago
An official site by the Chicago Office of Tourism.
http://egov.cityofchicago.org/city/webportal/portalEntityHomeAction.do?entityName=Tourism&entityNameEnumValue=41
Meet in Chicago
A comprehensive site by the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau.
http://www.meetinchicago.com/
More topics on this site…
Chicago maps and geography
USA travel information
USA travel tips
USA health and safety
USA maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Visitors from many EU and other countries (including the UK) do not require visas for stays of three months or less
Season: Year round
Money: US dollar – ATMs widely available, major credit cards readily accepted
Language: English – Spanish in some states
Emergency #: 911