Experience in Chicago, United States by Cindy

What is it like to live in Chicago? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I was born and raised in Chicago and I love the city! I live on the southwest side of Chicago and I love that I'm a great walking distance from the train -which takes you to downtown Chicago- and that you can find a bus stop at every corner of the street. It is also very easy to find different places to eat everyday and if you're running low on something, you can usually find a grocery store or gas station nearby! Also, I think Chicago is a great place for students who don't have a car. You can always count on our CTA bus or train to take you to your destination. I would definitely recommend students to travel abroad to Chicago, it is a beautiful diverse city. You can always find a place to fit in and a new place to explore! We have different places to visit and explore such as Little Village, - a Hispanic neighborhood- Little Italy, China Town, and Greek town. I've only been to Little Village and China Town, but I think they both give you a great and basic exposure to another culture by offering great food and items.

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However, the city life is not for everyone. Depending on where you live, it can get very noisy! This is normally the case if you live in a main street, but if you don't there's nothing to worry about.

What is the student lifestyle like in Chicago?

I am actually not a student in Chicago, but I have taken a couple of courses in downtown Chicago, which is where the majority of our colleges are. I think a big part of being a student in Chicago is the transportation. Unless you live on-campus, you are probably going to end up taking the bus or the train so be ready for that. Can't really be much help with this one, sorry.

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How much does it cost to live in Chicago?

I think it all depends on how you budget, Chicago can be very expensive if you don't know how to budget - and resist temptations, but it is like that everywhere. Downtown Chicago is definitely more expensive than the rest of the city. Public transportation costs have gone up, but they are still good.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Chicago? Is there any advice you can give?

I have never had to look for an apartment but I know people post announcement in pages such as Craigslist. I would just be very careful with pages like these.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

I think the food is great! There is always so much to chose from! I would say Giordano's is a pretty big deal for Chicagoans, they are well known for their Chicago deep-dish pizza. I still have many places to try, but here is a link from a more experienced eater!

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Chicago Tribune "Chicago's must-try dishes"

This link has food from different roots, this is because Chicago is extremely diverse.

What places would you recommend visiting in Chicago?

If you love to shop, I would recommend paying a visit to the water tower located in downtown Chicago. I would also recommend to visit many places downtown and walk down Michigan avenue, it is beautiful! Also, if you like the beach we have North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach. During the spring, fall, and mainly the summer you can always find a variety of festivals going on all over Chicago - these are my favorite! There are some la Fiesta del sol, Viva Chicago, Taste of Chicago, and other festivals that celebrate national holidays. You can always get a ton of free samples at these or pay for great food! Here is a link to some of the great festivals that go on in Chicago throughout the year: Festivals in Chicago

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Is the nightlife good in Chicago? Where is good to go?

Nighlife in downtown Chicago is great during the summer or warmer days. You can always go to bars or clubs or just walk around the city.