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Palm Springs: a Family vacation
The minute you get off the plane at the Palm Springs airport, you know you are on vacation (even if you are not) - palm trees and blue skies are just a few feet away. The mountain vistas, pleasant climate in the winter (it stays nice October thru April), and relaxing atmosphere with plenty of golf make it a popular destination for snowbirds. There is plenty to do for golfers (golf carts get their own lane on the streets of this town) with dozens of courses for every taste.
And if you are looking for some R&R - the spas in this town are top notch. You are near two national parks and just a few hours from LA. And don't forget the swimming! 
Of course, if you are traveling with kids, your focus will be slightly different, so we picked our top things to do in Palm Springs for families. The following attractions are perfect for families of kids up to 5 years old, but there are other things to do in town older kids would enjoy, such as the Air Museum or the Aerial Tramway ride up the top of the mountains.
No matter which attraction you visit in Palm Springs, you will enjoy your California vacation.
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Chicago: A Windy City Guide
Chicago has been called many names - Windy City (for its politicians and lake winds), The City of Big Shoulders (for its unions), The Second City (used to be by population, but now 3rd after NY and LA), Chi-Town, etc. I would call it the city with a big heart - friendly people, diverse neighborhoods, some of the best medical and charity organizations in the country - and of course its welcoming attitude. Just look at the tagline the Mayor's office came up with: "We're glad you're here". My first impression of Chicago was from a travel encyclopedia some 30 years ago, and I was just fascinated by the "Corn Cob" buildings on the river. The real deal was amazing. With its unique architecture, natural beauty of the lake and forest preserves, eclectic mix of neighborhoods, great jazz and comedy, this is by far my favorite city in the world. Here are a few of my picks around town.
Chicago is situated right on Lake Michigan, the largest of the Great Lakes. Locals love spending time by the lake. You'll see a lot of bikers, roller-skaters, runners, walkers, swimmers, volleyballers and just about anyone trying to get some sun here. While Chicago winter is absolutely brutal, it's only 3 months of the year - the rest, particularly May through November, is beautiful. North Avenue Beach, just north of the Magnificent Mile downtown, is an excellent place to take a walk or sit down for a drink by the lake. Alike the Muscle Beach in Santa Monica, CA, there is a gym right on the beach during the summer months. You will see chess-players relaxing in the shade and plenty of youngsters sitting on the rocks by the water. The Lake is also an important navigation point - it's East, so you will always know your way west.
Where to have a bite on the Lake: Castaways which looks like a boat, with its lake breeze and magnificent views, quick sandwiches and drinks and great people watching.
