Brought to you by:  Javis Davis

Second City Slicker

Your sister Syd is no stranger to strange lands; I patently pursued the life of a travel photographer just to be afforded the remarkable opportunity to explore Earth’s most consummate climes. Indeed, to “see everything once” has been a perpetually self-proclaimed modus operandi! Every so often, I happen upon a destination that leaves me longing for more, but there exist two special spots that beckon me back, time and time again: beautiful Belize and … the second city? Cultured Chicago, of course!

Sometime in spring, something spectacular transpires in this striking City by the Lake. A sudden and dramatic shift in Lake Michigan’s hue -- from gloomy grey to a crisp, cerulean blue -- calls up to high-rise dwellers citywide: “Come out; come out, wherever you are!” And oh, Darlings, do they!

Chicagoans triumphantly shed their shrouds of scarves and parkas and emerge on the streets of this Paris on the Prairie with a nonpareil joie de vivre, bikini-clad and biking the lake path, dining al fresco, and of course, shopping, shopping, shopping!

The allure of the legendary Magnificent Mile, from the Hancock to the big beautiful Bean is undeniable, but the real adventure begins with a detour off the Blahnik-beaten path of Michigan Avenue! Think and do, my dearies: Wicker Park for wicked style at Hejfina, Near North for a fusion feast at Naha and River North for an enviable experience at NV Penthouse Lounge.

Unapologetically frigid, Chicago’s winters may intimidate weather wussies; but those in-the-know stick out the ephemeral snow, slush and sleet, veritably vindicated for many a magnificent reason -- only one of which includes “magnificent” in its moniker!

Here’s to spring in the city!