The Chicago Traveler

We’ve all heard of the term “retail therapy,” shopping for the purpose of improving your mood. Often, shopping while you’re feeling down has less to do about what you’re buying but rather how those purchases make you feel.
Shopping for gifts at Virtu is an incredibly soothing experience. Soft music plays as you browse through fine-quality artisan wares. This charming gift shop (across the street from Red Dog House) carries “a curious collection of fine craft,” with everything from hand-carved spoons to ceramic tea sets. A wide variety of handmade jewelry is available from designers all over the country, and elegant …read more

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Commute, job, chores, family, friends… you are one busy bee. You’d love to give something back to the colony, but who has the time?
Every little step counts, and you can start by shopping from the Chicago Honey Co-Op, the “bee farm” on the west side of Chicago. Home to over 100 hives, this apiary provides job training opportunities while producing high-quality beeswax and honey products. You’ll be buzzing about the chemical-free candles, lip balm, body bars, bath scrubs, and, of course, good old-fashioned honey… all while supporting local business and sustainable agriculture.
It’s good for both you and bee.

For more information …read more

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Have you ever been out a little too late? Maybe partied a little too hard? That next morning can be awfully rough.
Spas all over the city are now offering some post-reveling recuperation like Luxe in Roscoe Village. The head-to-toe revamp at this full-service beauty spot is simply called the “hangover facial.” The relaxing session here starts with a foot soak next to a cozy fireplace. Then, the skin care specialist begins a manual, lymphatic drainage technique to help release toxins. Cold stone therapy is then applied to increase blood circulation. And to top it all off, reflexology is also offered …read more

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