Health and Safety
Traveling abroad causes jet lag which affects the body. Taking care of your health and body while you are traveling is very important. It is necessary for you to eat healthy food and get sufficient rest. Also, as you will be exposed to the heat quite a bit, do carry water with you at all times to avoid dehydration. Keep in mind that Chicago is called the ‘Windy City’, so be prepared. Chicago winters are known to be cold and windy so dress accordingly. In the case of medical assistance, several hospitals can be found in the Chicago area. Most hotels also have doctors on call and you should contact the concierge of your hotel for this.
In case of emergency, head for the ER at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, 251 E. Huron St. (tel. 312/926-2000; www.nmh.org). One of the city’s best hospitals, it is located only a few blocks off Michigan Avenue and is easy to reach from all downtown hotels. If you need to see a doctor for a non-emergency visit, Northwestern has a Physician Referral Service (tel. 877/926-4664
If you have a medical condition that requires a syringe-administered medication, carry a valid signed prescription from your physician. Syringes in your carry-on baggage will be checked. If you have a condition that requires a treatment with narcotics, you must carry documented proof with you.
Chicago being a large city has its share of safety issues like any where else in the world. While most tourist places are safe to walk around in, one must certainly exercise caution after dark especially in areas like the Loop. This being primarily a business district gets lonely after working hours. As with other big cities, mugging does occur here too. It is advised to exercise normal precautionary measures like keeping your purse/handbag close to your body, not wearing expensive items of jewelry, sticking as much as possible to crowded areas, etc.