Urbantravelista: 2016 Year in Review

Twenty years from now, if someone ask me about the year 2016 , I won’t know where to begin. This has certainly been a tumultuous year for many. There’s been birth, growth, and a lot of loss. No one was exempt. I mean, we lost Prince. That alone was enough to send many of us over the cliff. But for me, the first half of the year actually started off on a good note. Exactly this time last year, I was scouting my favorite shopping malls and boutiques in search of THE perfect dress to celebrate NYE in Dallas with one of my besties. I brought in the new year surrounded by good friends, good people, and positive energy. We spent the first day of 2016 enjoying a fabulous champagne brunch at a friend’s home. We fellowshipped, prayed, and spoke our goals for 2016. The following day, I boarded my flight back to Chicago feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to smash every goal and intention I set for myself. And things went well in the beginning. They really did. But by July, 2016 turned on me like a rabid pit bull. But such is life, right? Sometimes, a year will give you everything you hope for and more. And other times, it will leave you wondering how you survived it at all. In spite of 2016’s tragedies and having to put some of my adventuring on pause, I did have a few great moments in travel and adventure.

The birth of my brand

In April, I gave birth to my lifestyle/travel blog, Urbantravelista™. I created it as an outlet to share my personal life and travel experiences. I debuted my blog recounting my first international solo vacation experience. BTW, if you missed it, no worries. You can read it here: Solo Travel: Tips for a first time “Urbantravelista” . This is my second run at blogging and it’s the longest I’ve ever stuck with a writing project. Truthfully, running this project and growing Urbantravelista has kept me sane and grounded in the midst of 2016’s insanity. I guess I finally found my niche. I look forward to seeing it’s growth and evolution in the forthcoming year. My goal is to encourage others to create their own fulfilling experiences by embracing the unknown and stepping outside of their comfort zone. I want to inspire others to live their truth (the good, the bad, and the ugly) and to make lemonade in the midst of life challenges…and be fabulous while doing it. Life is imperfect. Therefore, we don’t have to be perfect. But we do have to LIVE.

The Iceland Blackout

Also in April, I had the opportunity to join a meet-up experience in Reykjavik. We dubbed this event “The Iceland Blackout” as we collectively represented a group of over 70 black likeminded travelers from all over the world. You can read about it here: Don’t sleep on Iceland . This adventure was special to me, because I had NEVER travelled this far away from home alone. Iceland was a destination that I never fathomed I’d ever visit or even have the desire to visit. Well, I completely underestimated it’s DOPENESS. I basked in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon, rode the Reykjavik bus system by myself, danced with Icelanders in a Reykjavik hip hop club, toured the Golden Circle, felt the chilling magnificence of Gullfoss Waterfall, learned about Icelandic culture, walked the path between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates, and danced in the middle of nowhere under the Reykjavik stars while chasing the Northern Lights. I’m looking so forward to my return in March of 2017. Stay tuned!

Golfing

When spring opened up, one of my best friends introduced me to the game of golf. It started with drink and appetizer outings at Top Golf. To my surprise, the more I practiced, the more I wanted to experience going out on a real course. So we did just that and after a few outings, I got to be pretty good at it. I do have a long way to go before I become proficient at it, but my performance and interest motivated me enough to invest in a set of clubs of my own.

Being Bobby Brown

He may not be significant to you, but he’s very much important to those of us that grew up during the New Edition era. My mom found out he was in town for a book signing in my neighborhood. Because she was a bigger fan than I was, I braved to two hour wait in line and got an autographed copy of his new book for the both of us. It was a couple of days for before my birthday and he was the first person to give me a hug and wish me Happy Birthday. How cool is that? Thanks Bobby!

TouristInMyTown Summer Challenge

Over the summer, I launched a “TouristInMyTown Summer Challenge” campaign to encourage people to take advantage of the culture and tourism in their own backyard. I promoted this campaign by patronizing the various festivals, events, and tourist attractions in my city and challenging others to do the same in their respective cities. I kicked off the challenge at the Wells Street Art Festival held in historic Old Town. This festival featured over 225 artists from across the continent. Next, I attended the Taste of Randolph, a food and music festival similar to the Taste of Chicago, but on a much smaller scale. As summer progressed, I took the challenge to the south side where I attended house music’s signature summer event, The Chosen Few Old School Picnic. This event is held in Hayes Park and takes place during the Fourth of July holiday. This was my third time in attendance and it gets bigger and better every year. Next, I headed back to the western suburbs and attended Naperville’s Rib Fest. This event is also held during the Fourth of July holiday and expands over four days. My final festival of the summer took place at Lincoln Park’s Hot Dog Fest. I stepped far outside of my comfort zone by trying a hot dog for the first time in 30 years. Yeah I know, pretty groundbreaking. And in between my summer “festivaling”, I reacquainted myself with Oak Street beach, a Chicago attraction I haven’t enjoyed since my childhood. Sunbathing on the beach with my city’s beautiful skyline as the back drop was everything.

Ex-Governor of Illinois Pat Quinn

Saying Goodbye

After experiencing one of the best summers I’ve had in years, travel and adventure came to a screeching halt when I experienced my biggest heartbreak ever, saying goodbye to my beautiful mother. Death is an event that you never see coming. It doesn’t send an invitation for you to prepare or RSVP. It just shows up on your doorstep completely uninvited and gives zero f*cks. My fall and winter itinerary suddenly became replaced by profound grief and sadness. Discovering my “new” normal and picking up the broken pieces of my heart has become my newest adventure. It’s all a very unwelcomed adventure, but still an adventure that most of us will face some day nonetheless. Looking back, I came into 2016 feeling empowered and inspired. Although my year took a tragic turn, I still find joy in the goals I was able to accomplish. I find solace in the positive experiences I was able to create and the possibility of inspiring at least one person to create some positive experiences of their own. I’m not sure what’s in store for 2017, but the only thing that keeps me optimistic is my desire to continue living the way my mother wanted. She lived vicariously through my adventures and I look forward to honoring her memory by creating more awesome experiences in 2017. Sure, it’s dark now, but joy comes in the morning. Let’s hope the sun shines brightly in 2017 with more travel and adventure.

@urbantravelista

What is the cure for wanderlust…when you can’t “wander”?

Last week, as a favor, I picked up a friend from the airport. As I made my exit to O’hare, I couldn’t help but feel kind of sad. The last time I stepped foot on a plane was in June when I went to Dallas for my birthday. My last international trip was back in April when I went to Iceland. Outside of that, I haven’t traveled anywhere. And while I realize life is all about perspective (some people haven’t traveled beyond their zip code…not travel shaming, just stating fact), I had higher expectations for myself this year. I mean, I launched a brand and blog this year dedicated to travel. How can I promote travel, if I’m not…well…traveling? But hey, it happens to the best of us. One minute you’re on a traveling roll then boom…life happens. Meanwhile, in the midst of sulking and feeling sorry for myself, my social media outlets have been LIT with friends globetrotting this year. Thailand, Dubai, Greece, Colombia, Brazil, Paris…they’re doing it this year. And I’m happy for them. It makes me happy to see others winning, even when I feel like I’m losing at the moment. My life’s motto is this: If I eat steak and lobster, I want everyone to eat steak and lobster. If I have to eat Spam, I still want everyone else to eat steak and lobster. I want us all to win. But in the meantime, how does one cope with wanderlust when they can’t “wander”..at the moment?

Be a tourist in your town

A few months ago, I wrote a piece about being a tourist in your town (you can read it here: #TouristInMyTown) for the summer. Well, this applies year round. There is so much culture right in our backyard that we seldom take the time to appreciate. Spend a day being a tourist and checking out the landmarks, museums, and festivals in your city. I’ve come to learn that we usually abandon these outings after departing our school years, only to return when we’re under “obligation” to do so. I haven’t been to the Museum of Science and Industry since I was 17. I lived just a few blocks away for 13 years, but never visited. I should really go. (<=see what I just did there).

Do a local “staycation”

Treat yourself to a hotel deal on Groupon or Living Social. This gives you the opportunity to rack up hotel rewards to use for your next BIG vacation. It also allows you to check out different hotel chains without spending a fortune. You can make a full weekend out of it. Book a room, go see a play/concert, have a spa day, try a new restaurant. You can also use Groupon and Living Social to find deals on the activities I just mentioned.

Plan a day trip

Are there any nice attractions that are within 2 to 4 hours proximity to where you live? For example, if you live in Chicago, the wineries in Galena and Michigan are a great option for a day trip. Or, maybe you want to try something more adventurous like hiking? Starved Rock is a great option for my Chicago people.

Buy a cheap flight to a domestic city

Take advantage of flash flight sales and try visiting a domestic city you’ve never been to before. Every once in a while, a friend of mine will check Google ITA and buy the lowest ticket regardless of the destination. Contrary to popular belief, there’s so much to see and experience within our borders. Again, this allows you to rack up miles to use for future travel.

Stay inspired/Stay encouraged

Comparison is the thief of joy. Don’t kill your joy by comparing your travel adventures (or lack thereof) to other people. Life happens. Whether it be work, school, finances, or illness, life challenges and obligations sometimes have to take priority over collecting the next passport stamp. But remember this: change is constant and it’s all temporary. Just because you’re not traveling as much as you’d like at the present moment, doesn’t mean you have to stop dreaming or lose your will. Keep adding destinations to your travel bucket list. Keep planning your next BIG getaway. Stay connected to your passion and be grateful for all of your travel experiences, big and small. This too shall pass…

Aruba 2013 “Believe in Yourself”

@urbantravelista

Baecation inspiration: I think I might be inspired by love again

Solo trips are great. Girlfriend trips are awesome. But baecations? They can be EVERYTHING!!! Let’s face it, whether you’re a romantic or not, there’s nothing like venturing off and exploring the world with someone you truly love. There’s nothing like stepping out into the unknown and creating new experiences with the one person that truly “gets you”. Whether it be your other half or just a current fling, baecations fill a void that solo and girlfriend trips can’t touch.

So what’s your ideal “baecation” or honeymoon destination?? What’s your ideal romantic proposal destination? If you’re undecided, maybe these Instagram moments will give you inspiration. I know they certainly inspired me. As the saying goes, “it doesn’t matter where you’re going…it’s who you have beside you”.

Introducing, love personified…

Credit: @puretropix (Bahamas)

Credit: @bobeworld (Havana, Cuba)

Credit: @yolore (Tobago)

Credit: @legendaryk9 (St. Tropez, South of France)

Credit: @neodaviso (Paris)

Credit: @ibroughton (Santorini, Greece)

Credit: @porshadanae (Tuileries Palace, Paris)

Credit: @_alonacharmaine (Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom)

Credit: @t_bellz (Tobago)

Credit: @thefrshprinceogblair (National Harbor, DC)

Credit: @brandonbufford (Puerto Vallarta)

Credit: @jusbreezep Port Maria (Jamaica)

Credit: @daddy_mottley (Paris)

I love the Blue Lagoon

Back in April, I had the opportunity to visit one of the most serene and terrestrial places on planet: the Blue Lagoon. So what exactly is this place? Well for me, it’s one of those dope places that you see on the Travel or Discovery Channel, but never think you will actually ever visit. But in reality, it’s geothermal spa and happens to be one of Iceland’s most visited attractions. Simply put, if you visit Iceland without making a stop at the Blue Lagoon, you’re doing it wrong. The lagoon is man-made and located in a lava field in Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula. So how did the lagoon come into existence? Well, in 1976 a pool formed at the site from the waste water of the geothermal power plant that had just been built there. A few years later, people started bathing in it after its purported healing powers were popularized. In 1992, the Blue Lagoon company was established and the bathing facility was opened for the public for tourism.

Getting there

The awesome thing about the Blue Lagoon is that shuttles run regularly between Keflavik airport, the spa, and the hotels in Reykjavik. The spa is about a 20-minute drive from the airport and a 50-minute drive from Reykjavík. This is helpful for those who have an early arrival into Keflavik, but can’t check into their hotel until the late afternoon. For example, my flight arrived at 6am, but check-in for my hotel didn’t start until after 2pm. So, instead of stressing out about how I would spend the next 8 hours consuming my time, I arranged for my shuttle to drop me off at the Blue Lagoon and took a shuttle directly my hotel in Reykjavik when I was done. What a nice way to unwind after a 6 hour flight?

Check-in

If you’re arriving from the airport (or doing a stopover before heading back to the airport…many tourists do this as well), the spa will check your luggage for a nominal charge. The Blue Lagoon offers four standard base packages: standard, comfort, premium, and luxury. These packages increase in price and amenities. After selecting your package, you’re given an electronic wristband, which is scanned to add al a carte items such as spa treatments, drinks, lunch, etc. The wristband is also used as an electronic key for your assigned locker. In addition to swimwear, you are allowed to bring your own robe, slippers. If not, you can choose one the packages that offers these items upon check-in. After check-in, guests are REQUIRED to shower before entering the lagoon. As a nurse, I think one of the best attributes of the spa is its strict code of hygiene.

The Experience

After showering, and putting on your suit, you’re free the go out to the lagoon. Some people stay for a short time and others stay for hours. The lagoon has a swim up bar and I had no reservation about drinking Prosecco at 8 o’clock in the morning. I mean, I’m in Iceland! While the temperature outside was about 35 degrees, the average temperature of the lagoon averages around 99 to 102 °F.

So what are the benefits of the lagoon? Well, the warm waters are rich in minerals like silica and sulfur. It’s been reputed that bathing in the lagoon helps some people suffering from skin diseases such as psoriasis.

Silica mask

Taking it all in…

Prosecco at 8am

A few reminders

Attire: bring swimwear- nope, it’s not “nude” spa
Make you reservations early. The Blue Lagoon fills up rather quickly. You can book directly with the spa or through a tour company like Gray Line, Viator, or Reykjavik Excursions
Protect your hair: the geothermal waters of the lagoon can REALLY dry out your hair. From what I’ve been told, it literally turns your hair into straw. I recommend wearing a head wrap and avoid submerging your hair into the water.
Pictures: Take advange of the on-site photographers. They will take your photo free of charge and even email it to you.
Purchase or bring a cell phone cover- you can use a plastic sleeve to secure your phone when you take pictures in the lagoon (unless your phone or device is waterproof). The Blue Lagoon sells these for $25.00.
Silica mud mask: try it, it’s a must!
There is a restaurant, hotel, and skin care shop on site. If you’re traveling on budget, the skin care products are much cheaper at the airport.
Children: children under the age of 9 years old are only allowed entry with the use of armbands, which are provided free of charge, also, the lagoon is not suitable for children under the age of 2 years old.

Didn’t take long for me to make friends!

And yes, I look forward to returning back in April 2017. You should join me!

@urbantravelista

Urbantravelista | Get out of your comfort zone

I guess it’s safe to say that 2016 has definitely been my year of summer “festivaling”. A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to add another summer festival to my resume: The Chicago Hot Dog Fest. Located in historic Lincoln Park, the event took place over three days and featured some of Chicago’s top hot dog vendors, live entertainment, face painting, and games. Proceeds benefit the Chicago History Museum and this year marked the fourth year of the festival’s existence.

But here’s an interesting plot twist. I hadn’t eaten a hot dog in almost 30 years. As a native Chicagoan, that’s considered pure blasphemy. Hot dogs are a staple in my city. But, once my eighth grade teacher Mr. Patrick (may he rest in peace) decided to share how hot dogs were processed, I lost my desire to ever eat one again. But fast forward 30 years later, attending the fest motivated me to give into peer pressure. I mean, how can I blog about this event and not even try the main product? So, I stepped outside of my comfort zone and tried a hot dog for the first time in 30 years.

After posting the photo and caption above on my Facebook page, it didn’t take long for the food Nazis to express their disgust and disappointment. And I totally get it. I can understand the naysayers. In a failed attempt to go completely vegan, I gave up pork and red meat a few years ago. But when I travel abroad or have a new restaurant experience, I try to remove those limits. We tend to play it safe in life, especially when we travel. We will venture thousands of miles, across several time zones and even cross the international date line, just to eat the same routine foods we eat every day when we’re at home. Life is short and I don’t believe in wasting experiences anymore.

So the take away is this: whether you’re at home or abroad, it doesn’t hurt to step outside of your comfort zone. It won’t kill you to try something new or unfamiliar. I’m living proof. I ate a hot dog for the first time in 30 years…and LIVED to write about it. And BTW, that hot dog was AMAZING…but it will probably be another 30 years before I experience another one.

Here comes the slay: Bridal party destination goals

Exactly this time 10 years ago, I was preparing for one the most anticipated milestones of a woman’s life: my wedding. August was a pretty big month for weddings. My friends and I were getting married left and right. And based on my Instagram timeline, that pattern appears to still hold true today . In fact, that observation is what inspired this blog post. Lately, I’ve seen so many dope bridal/bachelorette Instagram pics flooding my timeline, that it made me reflect on my own experience 10 years ago. In my heart of hearts, I adore weddings. And contrary to popular belief, I love “LOVE”. I love the notion of finding someone to share your life with through good times and bad and the people you love the most coming together to celebrate it with you. Back then, my friends gave me both an awesome bridal shower and bachelorette party. But unfortunately, I don’t have many photos from those two important events. You see, this was long before iPhones, androids, selfie sticks, and the social media craze that dominates our world today. And one of my biggest regrets from that experience has been not having any pictures of me a my bridal squad to reflect on from the those events. However, the moments of those near and dear to me, coming together to celebrate my new beginning will always be etched in my memory.Hindsight is 20/20. If I could do it all over again, my bridal party and I would grab our passports and do a destination bachelorette party in the Caribbean. We would get into formation and capture dope images like these listed below. Sadly, my marriage didn’t last. But the good news is: I may one day get a second chance to re-create those memories again, if even still exists then. Here’s to making lemonade out of lemons…and here comes the slay!

Credit: @envisiblewoman (Dominican Republic)

Credit: @mckenzieinthemirror (South Beach, Miami)

Credit: @magfabulous (South Beach, Miami)

Credit: @naturally_nakia (Punta Cana)

Credit: @mygirlsquad

Credit: @dino_teme (Cancun)

Credit: @enikobaby (Punta Cana)

Credit: @lolizee21 (Chichen Itza in Cancun)

Credit: @shaq_will (Cabos San Lucas)

Credit: @en_es_em (Cabos San Lucas)

@urbantravelista

Day Trips/Excursions: Ten essential items you’ll regret leaving at home

I love day trips and excursions, but I love them even more when I travel prepared. Some excursions don’t require intensive preparation, it depends on the activity. Some can be short (a few hours) and others run ALL DAY (up to 12 hours). When I visited the Chichen Itza last fall, I had a scheduled pick up time at 7:00am and didn’t return until after 6:00pm. That’s longer than my work day! Although I felt prepared for the long day, there were a still a couple of items I wish I had brought along. Here’s my personal list of 10 essential items that will make any summer excursion or day trip run more smoothly:

Water bottle: The tour operator may offer water (depends of the tour), but it never hurts to have your own to stay hydrated.
Disposable Camera: It’s a good idea to bring a disposable camera, just in case. They’re inexpensive, light, and compact. There’s nothing like traveling thousands of miles to see a landmark only to find you can’t take a picture because you’re primary camera failed.
Portable External Battery Pack: Some excursions can last just a few hours and as long as 12 hours. Bring a backup portable battery for your electronic devices.
Crossbody Bag/Backpack: These are probably the most comfortable and efficient bags to carry. They’re big enough to hold your essential items and usually have enough room to add items you might purchases along the way. They’re also durable and comfortable to transport.
Sunscreen: Depending on the climate and destination, the temps can really climb. Protect your skin just as you would if you were lounging at the beach for longer excursions.
Rain Poncho: If you’re bothered by heavy downpours, bringing a disposable poncho might be of benefit to you.
Snacks/Energy Bar: Again, this depends on the length of your excursion. Some tour operators offer snacks and others don’t offer anything.
Travel medications: The registered nurse in me never leaves home without meds like Benadryl, ibuprofen, or anti-diarrheal. History demonstrates that disaster usually strikes when you have no access to relief.
Sunglasses/Sunhat:The sun can be really unforgiving and cruel during long day excursions. You will appreciate the shade.
Hand towels/Moist Towelettes: To freshen up during long excursions.

This list may seem exhaustive, but don’t stress it. Most tour companies will provide a list of suggested items specific to your activity at the time of booking. Pack light, but pack prepared… and happy travels!

@urbantravelista

4th of July Finale: Naperville Ribfest 2016

So, I ended this year’s 4th of July celebration doing something that I’ve never done before: I attended the 2016 Naperville Ribfest. The festival is typically a four day event and ran from Friday, July 1st to Monday, July 4th. It’s hosted by the Exchange Club of Naperville to raise funds to help fight child abuse, domestic violence and to strengthen families in local communities.

The festival has a north and south entrance featuring vendors, raffles, and carnival rides/games, that meet up with “Ribbers Row” (the 12 national rib vendors that make up Ribfest). There are also two stages set up for live entertainment. This year’s line up featured Sheryl Crow, Matchbox 20, and several blues, country, and rock artists. And are you a vegan or vegetarian? Or are you just trying to watch your waistline? Well no worries, because Ribfest offers many alternatives to accommodate the most health conscious palate. I don’t eat pork but had no issue feasting on a chicken sandwich, onion blossom, and funnel cake (pictured below).

General admission for Ribfest is $20 for adults. It’s a great event for families, couples, groups, or even if you want to roll solo. There is something for everyone. And as a finale, Ribfest puts on a huge fireworks show, usually hosted by one of their big sponsors. Check it out next year!

@urbantravelista

Chosen Few Weekend: Chicago’s Biggest Family Reunion

So, part one of my 4^th of July weekend began with one of Chicago’s biggest annual reunions, The Chosen Few Old School Picnic. Also known as the “Black Woodstock”, the Chosen Few Picnic is one the most anticipated musical events of the summer. House Heads near and far, get up at the crack of dawn (like seriously out at 3am) to set up their tents, throw meat on the grill, and dance and socialize to endless hours of house music. The event is held on the south side of Chicago in Hayes Park and always takes place on July 4^th weekend. It started over 20 years ago as a small gathering and has now grown to thousands of attendees annually. The event features world renowned guest DJs, live performances and, of course, the legendary Chosen Few DJs.

Now I’ve never considered myself to be a true “house head”, but I do love house music. It’s a part of my generation and it is a part of Chicago. I remember when it originated and I am part of the generation that used to record mixes from WBMX to my cassette tapes. I wasn’t old enough to go to the clubs, but I remember my older counterparts raving about the Warehouse, a house club hosted by world renowned and late house DJ pioneer Frankie Knuckles. Overall, I suppose the event brings a certain feel of nostalgia. You get to listen to the music that saw you through puberty and reunite with old family and friends. It’s peaceful and drama free. Everyone is there for the same purpose and common goal.

The Chosen Few picnic usually takes place July 4^th weekend. Traditionally, it’s always been one day event, coupled with other pre-party and after party events. But this year, they decided to make it a two day affair. And as the event has grown over the years, so has the admission. For example, when I first attended five years ago, the cost was only $10 for general admission. The cost this year was $34 for advanced purchase and $40 at the gate. There is been a lot of controversy regarding the increasing cost. Some attendees feel it’s completely justified and others feel the city is trying to take control of the event to generate another income stream. Either way, I think all of us can agree: it’s a damn good time. And I suspect that no matter how much admission goes up, loyal house heads will still be there. And I probably will be too.

I pledge allegiance to “the house”.

My lovely host and soror

Line to get in

Selfie moment

#TouristInMyTown: Taste of Randolph

This weekend, I had the opportunity to cross the Taste of Randolph off my summer festival bucket list. Yep…ANOTHER EVENT I have yet to attend all of my many years as a Chicagoan SMH. Nestled along the 900 west block of Randolph between Racine and Peoria, The Taste of Randolph is like the appetizer to Chicago’s summer main course, the Taste of Chicago. Historically, it runs the third week of June and started Friday, June 17^that 5pm Sunday and ended June 19^that 10pm. The Taste of Randolph is hosted by the West Loop Community Organization, an a non-profit 501(c)3 agency that continuously works to ensure positive progress for the neighborhood, while offering social events and beneficial developments to improve the quality of life in the West Loop.

The entry fee is a reasonable $10 donation (all proceeds benefit the West Loop Community Organization) and grants attendees access to top local cuisine, art vendors, and live music. This year, the festival partnered with Chicago based independent promoters, Silver Wrapper to bring three eclectic stages featuring raw talent including Chicago’s brightest young musical acts extending from indie rock to dance music. If you’re a foodie, music lover, or artisan, this event is for you. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. As for me, I heavily enjoyed the red sangria, chicken kabobs, and house music!

And if you missed it this year, there’s always next year. Until then, you still have the Taste of Chicago to look forward to which runs from July 6^th through July 10^th at Grant Park (admission FREE). Stayed tuned for my next review and come “summer” me with as I become a “Tourist In My Town”.