How I did it: I stayed with my friend Kristi's family. They grew up in the Chicago and were able to take me around and show me the area. It is wonderful to be see a city with the help of natives, who show you details you would not know on your own. 

Lessons & tips: If you can, find someone who knows the area to take you around.

One resource that is really cool, that I don't think many people know about is couchsurfing.

www.couchsurfing.com

People offer you a free place to stay, and other members who have stayed with the person review these people as far as how there visits were, if they creeped them out, etc. But a lot of people also offer to give you tours of their city regardless of if you stay with them. It is such a neat idea, and a great community of people. Check it out!

Dec 05, 2008, 10:23PM PST | 0 comments | 1 cheer