Life’s a breeze in Chicago

Home of house music, skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza, Chicago is a close contender for New York’s crown. Voted the best US city in 2019 for the third consecutive year by readers of US Condé Nast Traveler, it’s the third-biggest in the country and home to 77 unique neighbourhoods. Known colloquially as the Windy City – a title that refers to its turbulent political climate of the 1920s, not the weather (although temperatures plummet in the wintertime) – Chicago is also an inclusive and welcoming destination for queer visitors. Situated on the gargantuan Lake Michigan (which is more like an ocean), this northern capital of the Midwest is a worthy addition to your travel bucket list.

Any visitor to the city can’t fail to marvel at its mass of glittering skyscrapers. A veritable high-rise heaven for). Accompanied by an informative guide, guests cruise through the city’s centre and out into Lake Michigan. As well as taking in Vista Tower – the world’s tallest building designed by a woman, Jeanne Gang – seeing the city from the water offers a truly magical skyline view. Snap the money shot to make your Instagram pals sick with envy.