“… the bonus of making a new friend spontaneously takes a travel experience to a whole new level” – Gary Reichenberg
THERE is nothing quite like a travel experience spawning treasured memories that stay with you forever. However, the bonus of making a new friend spontaneously takes a travel experience to a whole new level.
It was in December of 2013 when I took my family to Hawaii for the first time.
Because of airline schedules, we arrived in Maui at 10am and stayed at the beautiful Andaz resort in Maui. Understandably, our room wasn’t quite ready at such an early time so the resort staff were kind enough to give us access to all resort facilities including the pool.
The first thing we did was head for the pool for a refreshing dip and to unwind and it was here we just happened to sit next to a beautiful couple called Rick and Bonnie. Me being me, I got chatting, and in just half an hour we were able to establish a bond which has transcended time.
About 18 months ago we took the family to New York City and Washington, and Rick being Rick flew in to join us in NYC for dinner one night and we enjoyed a great evening. In more recent times, it was our turn to reciprocate, so we decided to surprise Rick and Bonnie and visit them in Chicago.
Rick is a man who knows everyone in his town, and we had an absolute blast. Tongue in cheek, he’ll tell you Skokie (the village where he’s from) has a sign saying, “Boyhood town of Rick Cooper.”
Rick has worked in the music industry for about 35 years representing all the major labels including some big-name artists. So, when my kids excitedly tell Rick they saw Ed Sheeran or Justin Timberlake in concert, his typical response was to pull out his iPhone and access his photo gallery as he shows a photo of himself with Sheeran or Timberlake.
A special trip to Chicago
Our trip to Chicago was made extra special as we were able to leverage Rick’s contacts to get us five tickets to see the stellar stage show, Hamilton, 10 rows from the front and dead centre! We even paid face value of tickets which was extraordinary given it was the hottest ticket in town at the time.
I could go on mentioning all the fun we had and contacts we made on our trip, but hopefully this gives you a little insight into how wonderful a random connection during your travels can trigger even more great travel experiences … and new friendships.
On the topic of Chicago, here are my highlights for must-do’s or must-see’s.
An architectural river cruise tour
This comprehensive tour cruises through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River while your architectural guide tells the story of more than 130 years of innovation in design, style and technique and why it is important today. It’s inspiring and captivating.
360 degree views from the John Hancock Building
Head to the 95th floor and 360 CHICAGO observation deck, located 1000 feet above the famed Magnificent Mile in the iconic John Hancock Building, and soak up breathtaking views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan. For those who dare, 360 Chicago observation deck is also home of TILT – Chicago’s highest thrill ride – an enclosed moving platform that literally tilts you out over Michigan Avenue from the 94th Floor.
“Millenium Park in the Loop community area of Chicago is a fantastic site for sore eyes where you’ll stumble upon a particularly fascinating concept known as The Bean”
Walks along Lake Michigan to Lincoln Park
Millenium Park in the Loop community area of Chicago is a fantastic site for sore eyes where you’ll stumble upon a particularly fascinating concept known as “The Bean”, otherwise known as Cloud Gate, a sculpture by Indian-born British artist Anish Kapoor.
Art Institute of Chicago
A museum that stays true to its word from 1879: “to collect, preserve, and interpret works of art of the highest quality from across the globe for the inspiration and education of our visitors.” A very worthwhile experience.
The Magnificent Mile
Beautiful shops and great walking along the boulevard to view the attractive buildings.
The leaders in corporate travel management for flights, accommodation and car rental
