A Safe Flight to... Chicago?

On June 14th, a classmate and I successfully boarded a plane from Austin to Chicago that was then supposed to connect us to Naples, Italy. However, after 3 hours waiting on the runway due to lightning in the sky, we just barely missed our connecting flight, leaving us no choice but to try again the following day.

My great-grandfather, Lucio once traveled from Naples to New York where he first became a shoe shiner to make money. Eventually, he found himself in the city of Chicago, the same place I was stationed overnight. Similarly to him, my travel has led me on the same path.. except in the opposite direction (starting in Texas, going to Chicago, flying over New York and ending in Naples)! Although a detour, I am very grateful for the opportunity to explore the US, even if just for a day—walking around the streets that my father, grandfather, and great-grandfather walked during their lives… and walked I did!

Because my connecting flight was not until 8:30pm the following day, my classmate and I decided to wake up early and explore as much of Chicago on foot as we could! Walking over 20,000 steps, we started at Millenium Park where we saw the beautiful Bean!! From there we walked along the whole Magnificent Mile trail located on N Michigan Avenue, a true city street and shopping area! After getting to the end of the avenue, we took a detour to the Chicago Riverwalk, leading us to Navy Pier. Lastly, we took the North Lakeshore Path back to our hotel, overlooking the Chicago harbor and many boats! 

Although a quick trip around the city, I was quickly in awe of the lush greenery that Chicago parks had to offer! Of the cities I have traveled to thus far, I was most reminded on Boston, except this city being a much more spread-out version. Every interaction I had left me better off than I had been before and everyone seemed enthusiastic about the beautiful weather of 80° and windy. 

To conclude, although just barely making it into Italy today, June 17th, I loved the slight detour in Chicago that I was able to have. I highly suggest all of the locations listed above for anyone who is looking for a summer vacation, it is all absolutely beautiful and clean! 

Please enjoy some pictures of my day trip to Chicago :)

Great-grandfather Lucio and his passport to the United States.