Leopold Restaurant

New Year’s Eve celebrations don’t have to be crowded, raucous affairs. If you prefer a more sophisticated experience, head to Chicago for an alternative New Year’s Eve party at Leopold restaurant.   You won’t have to worry about  jostling hoards or out of control drunks while enjoying an elegant Belgian meal and a striking art exhibit all in one space. Read More »

Row Houses in the Gold Coast neighborhood

Chicago’s storied Gold Coast neighborhood is notable for its stately mansions and millionaire residents but there’s much more to this area than a glittery facade. As one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, the Gold Coast was once a maligned piece of marsh land that grew to represent centuries of Chicago history and wealth. Read More »

Stonington Harbor at night

When planning my next vacation to the state of Maine, I am going to include a weekend on the Isle au Haut. Located off the coast of Stonington in eastern Penobscot Bay, visitors reach the Isle via a 45-minute mailboat cruise from Stonington Harbor (cars are not transported across, there is secure parking in Stonington). The Isle Au Haut (translation “High Island” and pronounced “i-la-HO” by the locals) is the most remote part of Acadia National Park, with half of the island dedicated to the park, and the other half inhabited by private landowners. Only about forty-five people live on the island year-round, which makes this a very private and quiet vacation destination.

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In Chicago, the holiday season doesn’t end with gifts, feasts and fun on December 25. It continues through January 1 with elaborate Kwanzaa celebrations throughout the city.  This seven-day cultural holiday focusing on family and community provides the perfect family outing during a  period of  over-the-top materialism. One of the city’s  as well as the country’s, oldest and biggest Kwanzaa celebrations takes place from 10AMto 10PM at Malcolm X College at 1900 W. Van Buren. Read More »