India to Chicago

The historical city of London was built from the ground up by the Romans, going on to become a cultural, financial, and entertainment hub over the years. In the present day, London is regarded as one of the world’s cultural capitals. There is a list of things to love about London, including some of the world’s most interesting architecture, fashion, and nightlife. London is a true cosmopolitan city. The city and its population are well renowned for their resilience, for withstanding plagues, fires, and wars. The spirit of the city’s inhabitants has remained strong, making it a rich, historical site and a visit to the city is a cultural experience. The city had been given a lot of names before being called London; the Anglo-Saxon names include Londonium, Ludenwic, and Ludenburg. It has been ranked as the sixth most expensive city in the world to live in; most people come here to explore the city through their travels, and vicariously live off in the city’s energetic bustle.

How to reach London

By Air – The main airport in London is the Heathrow Airport. National carriers and other airlines operate flights to London from major international cities. The following airlines operate direct flights to London: American Airlines, Air France, Air Canada, Etihad Airways, British Midland International Airways, China Southern Airlines, Air China, and Jet Airways. There are six international airports in London.

By Train – The British Rail Network connects London to other cities in the country. The city also has linkages by train to other cities in Europe, such as Paris, Brussels, Berlin, and Amsterdam. The Eurostar Service connects London to Paris and Brussels, its terminus and operational point being the St. Pancras International Station, the exteriors of which was portrayed as the station in the Harry Potter series where Harry and his schoolmates board the train to Hogwarts.

By Road – One can drive to London by crossing international borders from anywhere in Europe. The English Channel can be crossed via the Euro Tunnel, which connects France to the UK with an underwater train link. Even cars and buses can get on board the train. It takes 35 minutes to go across the channel. Internally, all cities in the UK are well connected to London through a series of highways. The roads make up for beautiful, picturesque views of the English countryside.

What to do in London

London is a city that is rich in culture, history, and heritage. According to statistics, about 16 million people visited London in 2014, making it the most-visited city in the world.

London has something to offer to everyone. There is easy connectivity to other cities in Europe as well as within the UK. The Euro Tunnel is one of its kinds, and should be a must-do on your list of places to visit. If you’re a budget traveller, you may also go about London by means of the efficient train system in the city, the Underground. Here are the top things, among many, to see in London:

Hyde Park

Westminster

Camden

London Eye

SoHo

Shoreditch: Trapeze Bar

Hampstead Heath

BFI (The British Film Institute)

Thames (on a Cruise)

Baker Street

Brixton Academy

The O2

Brick Lane, London Street art

Chinatown

Electric Avenue

Piccadilly Circus

Oxford Street

Leicester Square

The National Gallery on Trafalgar square

Harrods

Platform 9 ¾, King’s Cross, London

Natural History Museum, London

Bond Street

The Buckingham Palace

The Waterloo Bridge

Major Airports in and near London

There are six main airports in London: London City, London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Luton, London Southend, and London Stansted. Among these, Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted are the busier ones, with more than 100 airlines from the Heathrow Airport alone, operating flight to London and from the city. London houses a few of the world’s busiest airports and hence has air-rail links to them by means of express trains, the Heathrow Express, Stansted Express, and Gatwick Express. All international flights to London land here.

MakeMyTrip offers a wide range of flights to London, over 900 flights to London on a daily basis from all over the world. From India, flights operate from cities like Udaipur, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. One can easily use the MakeMyTrip website to book a flight to London or from London, with the major airport being a hub to domestic and international airlines. MakeMyTrip flights to London can be availed at highly discounted rates during festivals and off seasons.

Chicago, the most populous city in Illinois and the third most populous in the United States, is a bustling metropolis known for its iconic skyline, vibrant arts scene, and diverse neighborhoods. Often referred to as the Windy City, Chicago offers a blend of architectural marvels, cultural landmarks, and a dynamic urban atmosphere. From world-class museums to sandy beaches along Lake Michigan, Chicago is a city that captivates visitors with its charm and energy.

Airports

Chicago is served by two major airports:
• O'Hare International Airport (ORD) - Located approximately 18 miles northwest of downtown Chicago
• Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) - Situated about 10 miles southwest of the city center

Hotels and Restaurants

Chicago offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget:
• The Ritz-Carlton Chicago - Luxury hotel with stunning views of Lake Michigan
• The Drake Hotel - Historic hotel with elegant rooms and top-notch service
• Hotel Lincoln - Boutique hotel with a rooftop bar and quirky decor
• HI Chicago Hostel - Budget-friendly option with modern amenities

When it comes to dining, Chicago is a food lover's paradise:
• Alinea - Renowned for its innovative and artistic dishes
• Lou Malnati's Pizzeria - Famous for its deep-dish pizza
• Girl & the Goat - Popular spot for creative small plates
• Portillo's - Iconic for its Chicago-style hot dogs

Transportation

Getting around Chicago is convenient with various transportation options:
• Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) - Extensive network of buses and 'L' trains
• Metra - Commuter rail system connecting the suburbs to the city
• Taxis and Rideshares - Widely available across the city
• Divvy Bikes - Bike-sharing program with numerous docking stations

Must-See Places

Chicago boasts numerous attractions that should not be missed:
• Millennium Park - Home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean)
• The Art Institute of Chicago - Houses an impressive collection of artworks
• Navy Pier - Entertainment hub with rides, restaurants, and shops
• Willis Tower Skydeck - Offers breathtaking views from the 103rd floor
• Museum Campus - Includes the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium

Climate

Chicago experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons:
• Winter (December to February) - Cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports
• Spring (March to May) - Mild temperatures and blooming flowers
• Summer (June to August) - Warm and humid, perfect for outdoor activities
• Autumn (September to November) - Cool and crisp, great for sightseeing

The best time to visit Chicago is during late spring to early autumn when the weather is pleasant and outdoor events are in full swing. Whether you're exploring its architectural wonders, indulging in its culinary delights, or enjoying its vibrant cultural scene, Chicago promises an unforgettable experience.