Chicago is a beautiful city a lot of beautiful places. I went to some point of interests there during my Trip to ACM GIS conference 2011, such as Willis Tower, Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier.Â
My first time at Chicago was not easy since It was hard to navigate in such a big city without a friend and any direction tools. But after several day going around the city by public transportations, I found that travelling in Chicago is easy. Chicago city is now in my hand 🙂
It didn’t take me long time to find my hotel – The Best Western River North Hotel. Thank to McDonald fast food, I don’t have to wait long to have a quick dinner.
The second day which was the first conference day was very important because It was the only day I enjoy the presentations. I also had a chance to talk to many people in a poster session, just for socializing. Caming back to my hotel at 12PM, I was exhausted and slept like “dead”.
The third day morning was not very promising I got up one hour late and came to the conference in the rain. It was really cold because of rain and wind. I trully understood why people call Chicago, the “windy” city. In the evening, it was really good due to I had a lot of fund during the Banquet. I enjoyed the dinner at the 18th floor of a hotel with a river side. People talked a lot of joke and fun stories during the dinner.
The fourth day which is the last day of the conference was also interesting since I enjoyed the tutorial session. Saying goodbye to friends, I then checked out the hotel and came to my friend name Trang’ house at 6PM. I was familiar with transportation at Chicago, so it did not take me long time to go there. After having a great diner with ms Trang’s family, I went to sleep early so that I will have enough energy to get around Chicago next day.
The fifth day and also the last day at Chicago was really cool. Hanging around a large city alone was not so fun but I really enjoyed the opportunity. I like skyscrapers, so my first priority  is the Willis Tower. I purchased $17 for skydesk, $41 for buying souvenirs at the 103th floor of the building. I also had to pay $32 for three photos that I didn’t know that I have to pay in advanced! Anyway, it was still amazing experience. I like tall buildings. Then I walk about 3 miles from Willis Tower to Magnificent Mile (Aron Tower, Hancook Foundation tower…) then returned to Navy Pier. I hoped I could stay at the Pier more but I ran out of time and had to came to ms Trang’s house for packing.
That was pretty much my first time at Chicago.
Hien To 