You can look but don’t touch. This is Holidos and Don’ts sensors working overtime in the US.
Now, despite being a seasoned traveller I am always learning and even the stuff I know I have to remind myself.
Particularly when you arrive in the country jet-lagged and travel-weary at Stupid O’Clock.
And more about my journey to Chicago, which like every trip I do was an odyssey, in due course.
Follow the Dorothy road
But back to the iconic Hilton Palmer House Hotel on E Monroe Street in Downtown.
You are reminded of the area’s rich theatre history.
By the framed pictures of the greats who have stayed and played the hotel.
And there are few bigger than Judy Garland, whose Wizard of Oz tour stopped off here.
I doubt mind that Judy, who is waiting for me outside my room had to fuss herself.
With negotiating the snacks and water tray atop the mini-bar.
Look but don’t touch
Look carefully, and again no touching, and you’ll see a small note on said tray.
Saying that it is sensory and if your curiosity, hunger, thirst, or all three get the better of you.
You will be billed.
Magic water in Orlando
Which many moons ago cost me while staying at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel in Orlando Universal.
And I had innocently and noisily reached for the Fiji water only to change my mind about drinking it when I saw the price.
The thrills, spills and entertainment of Universal soon took over.
And I put it out of my mind until I was informed on check-out that I had drunk said water virtually and would have to pay.
Fear not, of course, the trick is to ask at the desk for bottled water which the kindly staff will gladly provide.
And so refreshed after a sleep of sorts with my body clock all over the shop.
Chicago-go-go
I’m channeling my inner Judy Garland/Dorothy and exploring Gay Chicago on an LGBTQ+ tour.
Satisfied to have avoided and able to share the first in this Chicago series.
Of Holidos and Don’ts sensors working overtime in the US.
I travelled with Aer Lingus through Edinburgh and Dublin with pre-clearance to attend the American Travel Fair IPW.