trip to chicago

[saxo_boi]

hi everyone, i am looking to travel to chicago for a week in october, is there anything special which i need to do, such as a visa or anything? just want to make sure i dont get there and end up not being able to go on the holiday!!!! any advice would be great!

[sddsddean]

You will need to fill out the ESTA form online at least 3 days before you go. Its valid for 2 years and is free (some sites try to charge for it.
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/esta.html?_flowExecutionKey=_cAC257F76-53FC-A44D-594A-3C1926C697C3_k4114E339-1526-E7B9-C8F0-D209C2F067DB

[sddsddean]

Lets see if this link will work
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/esta.html

[Rollo]

Or just start here

http://www.usembassy.org.uk/dhs/esta_info.html

and click on the ESTA logo to get to the form.

[grasscarp]

Would have said about the ESTA form, but beaten to it. While you are there I would recommend the free zoo in Lincoln Park. It is excellent.

[saxo_boi]

thats great thanks!!!!! i am visitng locals there, they mentioned the free zoo, also going to see the chicago bulls play, thats all thats planned so far but im so excited!

[jno]

if you're interested in architecture, it's heaven. The world's first skyscrapers, Frank Lloyd Wright...

[jno]

PS the esta links don't work because they start https - S for secure.

[BenDToy]

Note that the esta form is free to complete and submit. if you google esta you will get a load of sites which seem to think you will be prepared to pay them to submit the form on your behalf. Don't!

[grasscarp]

One of the passport control guys at Chicago airport was telling me that people have been paying hundreds of pounds to someone who set up a website very nearly sounding like the real one. Apparently he is doing nothing illegal in this rip off!

[auntiebertie]

Go to the top of the Hancock Tower for a drink - fab views and you don't have to pay to get up there like the Sears. It has the best views from the ladies loos anywhere! Do the river architecture tour -sounds dull but it isn't. Go to one of the many hip restaurants on North Rush. Go shopping.

[auntiebertie]

Get tickets for Blue Man Group if you can. Fantastic.