Are you in the process of planning a business trip to Chicago? Is this your first time visiting the Windy City? Have you spent time here in the past?
Choosing a hotel in Chicago on Expedia is easier said than done. There are many reasons for this, including the fact that the selection is one of the largest in the country. For this reason, it can be a challenge to narrow your options and make a final decision.
Fortunately, when you have a clear idea of the amenities that are most important to you, the picture becomes clear. At that point, you will know which hotel will suit you best.
Tip: Do not hesitate to search online for information on the hotels that pique your interest. Along with photos and customer reviews, you can visit here for basic travel tips.
Business Center
Even in today’s day and age of advanced technology, there may come a time when you need to visit a business center in order to get some work done.
It does not matter if yo a’re in search of a comfortable workspace, fax machine, or something else, knowing that you have access to a business center (often 24 hours a day) will make you feel better about your trip.
Tip: Call ahead to ask questions about the business center, such as its size, schedule, and availability of equipment. You do not want to think you are getting one thing, just to find that you are not.
Valet Parking
If you rent a car on your business trip, it goes without saying that you will need somewhere to park it. While some Chicago hotels offer self-parking only, this is not the case across the board.
There are many hotels with valet parking, which makes your life much easier. With this, you do not have to concern yourself with finding a parking spot and walking to and from your vehicle. Instead, the valet team takes care of everything for you.
Tip: Valet parking is most common at downtown Chicago hotels.
On-Site Restaurant
Like many, you are always on the go when traveling for business. You are lucky if you can even find enough time to grab a bite to eat or use the restroom.
However, if you have access to at least one on-site restaurant, you will feel confident in your ability to stay full on all the right types of food.
Tip: One on-site restaurant is good, but a hotel that offers several establishments is even better. This makes it much easier to find something that suits both your budget and taste buds.
Exercise Center
It is easy to talk yourself into avoiding exercise when traveling. However, if you want to continue feeling your best, you need to keep up with your routine, even when you are away from home. A hotel with an exercise center makes it easy for you to workout, regardless of the time of the day.
Just the same as the business center, these can vary widely from one hotel to the next. Once again, call the hotel in advance for more information on the exercise center, such as its operating hours and the available equipment.
Room Service
This goes along with point #3 above, but it brings a unique level of convenience to your trip. With access to room service, you never have to leave when you want to grab a bite to eat. Instead, you can review the menu, make a call, and wait for your food to arrive.
The best Chicago hotels have extended room service hours, as to ensure that you get the food you want and need at a time that works for your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Every business traveler is searching for something special. Even if you have not put much time into choosing your hotels in the past, you can adjust your approach in the future.
Take the time to research where you are going. Most hotels and restaurants have official websites you can check for reviews, options, and to learn more about the establishment. For example, the Peninsula Hotel lists everything from their rooms to their customer service practices.
When was the last time you visited Chicago? Where did you stay? Did you enjoy the amenities that were available to you? Share your favorite hotels and personal travel tips in the comment section below. Your advice can help other travelers get more out of their experience.
