Welcome to Chicago, a city where the past whispers in the bustling streets and the future is as bright as the lights on Michigan Avenue. Here, towering skyscrapers and historical landmarks coexist harmoniously, creating a vibrant tapestry that captures the essence of urban America. Each neighborhood tells its own story, set against the backdrop of Lake Michigan's serene beauty. The city wraps itself in a sparkling winter coat, offering a unique charm that blends frosty landscapes with warm, inviting interiors.

And what's the key to unlocking these treasures right from the airport? Our airport limo service is your gateway to seamless transportation. Specializing in luxury ground transfers, we connect Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Chicago Midway International Airport with the city's heart, ensuring your journey is as memorable as the destination.

The Magnificent Mile: Shopping Extravaganza Meets Opulent Rides

The Magnificent Mile isn't just a shopping street; it's the pulse of Chicago's retail luxury. As you journey from the airport, the anticipation builds, culminating in the unveiling of this grand avenue. Here, high-end boutiques and iconic department stores line the streets like jewels in a crown, offering a unique story and an exclusive experience. The air buzzes with the excitement of discovery, and every step takes you deeper into a world where fashion and elegance reign supreme.

This illustrious street, brimming with architectural marvels and windows displaying the latest fashion trends, is a feast for the senses. The Magnificent Mile evokes a sense of awe and inspiration, with its towering skyscrapers casting reflections of ambition and its polished storefronts highlighting style. It's a place where every purchase is not just a transaction but an addition to your story, a tangible piece of the Chicago spirit.

Willis Tower Skydeck: A Glimpse from the Clouds

The Willis Tower Skydeck isn't just a viewpoint; it's a gateway to the heavens. As you ascend to this height, each floor brings you closer to an encounter with the skies. Here, perched above the city, Chicago sprawls beneath you in a grand display of architecture, life, and endless horizons. The Skydeck offers a rare perspective, where the bustling streets turn into a serene tapestry, and the world's worries seem miles away.

Standing on the Skydeck, you're not just viewing Chicago; you're part of a living, breathing canvas. With its intricate blend of history and modernity, the city lies open like a book, each skyscraper, park, and winding river telling its own story. The panoramic view is a humbling reminder of the vastness of human endeavor and the beauty of urban coexistence.

A ride with Chicago Airport Transportation completes this sky-high experience. We ensure your journey to Willis Tower is as awe-inspiring as the views from its summit. From touchdown to towering views, Pontarelli connects you seamlessly to one of Chicago's most exhilarating perspectives, making every moment of your adventure extraordinary.

Navy Pier: Lakeside Fun, Directly Accessible

Jutting into the calm waters of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is not just a pier but a vibrant festival of life. It's a place where the joyous laughter of children melds with the excited chatter of adults, creating a symphony of happiness. As the Ferris wheel turns against the backdrop of the lake, each cabin rising and falling, it seems to capture the essence of joy. The winter attractions add a sprinkle of seasonal magic, transforming the pier into a playground where every moment is celebrated.

With its kaleidoscope of colors and lights, Navy Pier shines as a vibrant entertainment hub. The journey from the airport to this lakeside marvel is integral to the adventure. As you travel, the anticipation builds, each mile bringing you closer to a world where fun is the rule of the day. The pier's festive atmosphere, a delightful contrast to the serene waters of Lake Michigan, welcomes you warmly.

The journey from landing to lakeside is a seamless transition into the heart of Chicago's playful spirit. We ensure that your trip to Navy Pier is as smooth and enjoyable as the experiences that await you there. From the moment you arrive in Chicago, every second is a step closer to an unforgettable lakeside adventure.

The Art Institute of Chicago: A Journey Through Time and Creativity

The Art Institute of Chicago is not merely a museum; it's a portal to different worlds and eras. The anticipation of beholding artistic marvels grows as you embark from the airport and head toward this venerable institution. Within its walls, you're greeted by an array of masterpieces, each canvas and sculpture whispering tales from distant lands and times long past. The galleries are a maze of creativity, where every turn reveals a new vision, emotion, and connection to the human spirit.

This sanctuary of art is a treasure chest overflowing with the riches of human expression. From the vibrant brushstrokes of the Impressionists to the bold forms of modern sculptures, every piece invites you into its unique story. The Art Institute becomes a space where time slows down, allowing you to savor the beauty and quality of each work. It's a place where art is seen and felt, where each visitor becomes part of the ongoing dance of creativity and inspiration.

With Pontarelli, your journey from the airport is the first brushstroke in your artistic adventure. We ensure a smooth and contemplative ride, allowing you to transition gracefully from the hustle of travel to the tranquility of artistic exploration.

Millennium Park: A Winter Canvas in the Heart of Chicago

Millennium Park, a dazzling jewel amid Chicago's urban expanse, transforms into a winter wonderland that captures the imagination. Here, amidst the bustling city, a serene landscape of frost-kissed trees and glistening snow unfolds. The park becomes a canvas where the winter's brush paints scenes of joyful serenity. The iconic "Bean," coated in a delicate layer of frost, reflects a cityscape adorned in winter's embrace, creating a mesmerizing blend of art and nature.

Each glide across the ice is a dance of joy, a celebration of winter's magic in the heart of Chicago. The twinkling lights of the city skyline serve as a backdrop, casting a warm glow over the park and turning it into an ethereal setting.

With a single, seamless journey, we connect you to the heart of Chicago's winter festivities, allowing you to step directly into the enchanting embrace of Millennium Park. Experience the tranquility and joy of this urban winter oasis, where every moment is a cherished memory in the making.

Wrigley Field: Echoes of Cheers and Triumphs

Wrigley Field stands not merely as a stadium but as a baseball cathedral, rich in tales of triumphs, defeats, and timeless legends. As you make your way from the airport, each mile traveled with Pontarelli brings you closer to a place where the echoes of cheering crowds and legendary plays resonate through the walls. This historic ballpark, a hallowed ground for sports enthusiasts, vibrates with the memories of great athletes and iconic games.

Approaching Wrigley Field, you can feel the palpable excitement in the air, a prelude to the adrenaline and euphoria of the game day experience. This storied venue, with its iconic red marquee and ivy-clad outfield walls, stands as a living tribute to the enduring spirit of baseball. Here, every pitch hit and cheer is part of a game and a stitch in the fabric of Chicago's rich sporting tapestry.

The journey from the airport to Wrigley Field is a seamless transition into the heart of Chicago's baseball heritage. We ensure a direct and comfortable passage, allowing you to soak in the anticipation and joy of arriving at one of America's most iconic sports landmarks. Relish the ease and simplicity of this experience, knowing that your arrival at the ballpark is just the beginning of an unforgettable chapter in your Chicago adventure.

Embark on Your Chicago Adventure with Pontarelli

In the vibrant tapestry of Chicago, every landmark is a chapter of a grand story waiting to be explored and cherished. Our Chicago airport transportation stands ready to weave these chapters into your narrative, starting at the airport. Our dedication to excellence, comfort, and seamless travel elevates your journey, transforming it into an essential element of your adventure in the Windy City.

Our diverse and luxurious fleet, tailored to meet every need and preference, is more than just a mode of transportation; it's a key to unlocking Chicago's rich experiences. Our fleet, including the sleek Volvo S90, the regal Mercedes S Class, and the sophisticated Lincoln Continental, reflects our commitment to luxury and comfort. Whether a solo journey in a Lincoln Aviator or a group adventure in our Executive Van, we tailor our services to your unique needs, ensuring your Chicago exploration starts with the utmost style and convenience.

Book your journey with us today and immerse yourself in a Chicago experience that is both luxurious and unforgettable, with every destination just a luxurious ride away.

The post From Touchdown to Downtown: 6 Iconic Chicago Landmarks Perfectly Connected by Smooth Airport Transport appeared first on Pontarelli Chicago.

With more than 76 million annual passenger traffic, it is the 6th busiest airport in the world. O'Hare Airport is the destination for countless trans-oceanic flights, the most important air hub for United Airlines, and the second largest hub for its competitor, American Airlines.

The airport serves the Chicago Metropolitan Area and is located 17 miles northwest of Chicago Loop on Interstate 190. To get here from downtown Chicago, take Interstate 90 northwest. If you are coming from the north and south suburbs, take Interstate 294 southbound and northbound, respectively. If you are heading to the airport from the western suburbs, enter Interstate 88 eastbound, then continue on Interstate 294 northbound.

The airport has four operative terminals. A non-stop light rail train, known as 'ATS,' transports passengers between the four terminals and the car parking areas.

If you are flying in or out of the city and looking for the best hotels near O Hare airport, check out our list of Chicago airport hotels.

#1 Hilton Chicago O'Hare Airport

The Hilton Chicago O'Hare Airport is the most convenient in terms of location. Out of all hotels near Chicago O'Hare airport, the Hilton O'Hare is the only one located right on airport grounds, featuring an underground hallway to domestic terminals 1, 2, and 3 and a shuttle for Terminal 5 (international flights). 

For those looking to relax and enjoy quality time between flights, know that the hotel includes three restaurants, an indoor pool & spa, a fitness center, and a barbershop. 

Business travelers will enjoy a business center, lots of meeting rooms, free Wi-Fi in the lobby, and 24 hours room service. 

Please keep reading to learn more about our picks regarding hotels near O'Hare airport Chicago. 

#2 Sheraton Suites Chicago O'Hare

If you are looking for the closest hotels near Chicago airport, the Sheraton Suites Chicago O'Hare is an excellent option. The hotel is located just 5 minutes from the airport and offers guests complimentary shuttle service to/from the airport. 

Whether traveling for pleasure or business, this hotel will meet the expectations of even the most demanding visitors. In this super spacious hotel, guests can enjoy dining at the in-hotel American restaurant or get a coffee in the lobby café. The hotel also features a 24/7 on-site fitness center. 

The hotel provides select services for business travelers: a full-service business center, messenger service, and network/internet printing.

Other hotel amenities included: free Wi-Fi in the lobby, car rental nearby, daily housekeeping service, mobility-accessible rooms, safe deposit boxes, a 24-hour front desk, storage space, valet dry-cleaning, 

Local attractions in proximity are the Fashion Outlets of Chicago, Rivers Casino, Woodfield Mall, Allstate Arena, Home of the Chicago Wolves, Rosemont Theatre, and the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center. 

#3 Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel

Our next pick is one of the best among Chicago O'Hare hotels. Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel is 7-minutes away by car from the O'Hare airport and very close to local downtown attractions, restaurants, bars, cafes, parks, and fashion stores.

This 4-star hotel is excellent for business travelers and those visiting the beautiful city of Chicago. The hotel exhibits 556 luxury rooms, 53,000 square feet of meeting space, three on-property dining restaurant options, a comedy and live music club, a 24-business center, and a fitness center. 

During their stay at the Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel, guests can also enjoy art exhibits of local contemporary artists, available at the Art Museo, an on-site art gallery. 

Other hotel services and amenities available: free Wi-Fi in every room and public space, laundry service, in-room dining, shuttle service to/from the airport, convenience store, gift shop, valet parking, and safe deposit boxes. 

If you are traveling accompanied by your pet, you will be thrilled to know that this is a hotel-friendly establishment where you can order gourmet room service menus for cats and dogs!

#4 Hyatt Rosemont Near O'Hare

Just 5-minutes by car from the airport grounds, the Hyatt Rosemont Near O'Hare is one of the top choices of hotels near O'Hare. Complimentary shuttle service is available daily, upon request, between 6 am and 10 pm. 

The 4-star hotel features 206 guest rooms where travelers will enjoy a good night's sleep thanks to Plush Grand Hyatt Beds, their trademark. If you're looking to work out a sweat, the hotel includes a 24-hour fitness center. 

Guests who do not wish to leave the hotel premises can enjoy dinner at the Network Restaurant, the on-site restaurant serving American cuisine. Business guests will be happy to hear that high-speed internet access is available in all meeting spaces. 

Hotel amenities for guests include free internet access, digital check-in, laundry service, and concierge.

O'Hare Rosemont is conveniently close to several local attractions, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment venues: Rivers Casino (0.2 miles away), Allstate Arena (2.3 miles away), Donald E. Stephens Convention Center (1.2 miles away), jogging and biking paths (0.2 miles away). 

#5 Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare Hotel & Conference Center

Finally, on our list of hotels near O'Hare airport is the Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare Hotel. Like our previous choices, this hotel is located very close to the Chicago airport, just 2 miles away, and comes with a free shuttle service for its guests. 

All hotel rooms are equipped with noise-reducing glass and eco-friendly amenities. Guests are welcome to try the culinary dishes served by the two on-site restaurants: On the Fly – for breakfast and Murray Bros Caddyshack – for brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert. 

An on-site pool is available daily from 6 am to 10 pm, as well as an on-site fitness center featuring a wide array of equipment. 

Regarding business services, the hotel boasts a business center open 24 hours a day. Other hotel amenities: bar, parking, gift shop, and laundry service. Pets are allowed. 

The post Top 5 Hotels near O’Hare Airport appeared first on Pontarelli Chicago.

Smart-Rooms
Everything is going smart, so it was only a matter of time before smart technology was implemented in hotel rooms. We already enjoy mobile bookings and payments, but in the coming year we can expect to see the emergence of mobile keys, saving of in-room preferences such as lighting for different times of the day, texting reception as opposed to calling, etc. This trend is designed to personalize each guests experience, truly making their stay feel like home away from home.

Multi-Function Spaces
As it stands, hotel venues are usually designed for very specific purposes. However, in the coming year we can expect to see a lot more flexibility, where venues will be able to accommodate various types of functions from weddings to conferences by creatively using roll-up walls.

Local Transportation
Most high-end hotels normally have shuttles that transfer their guests to and from the airport, but once they are at the hotel the guests normally have to find their own way around the town/city. However, local transportation companies are increasingly becoming open to the idea of partnering with hotels in providing supplementary transportation for guests during their stay. Such a measure will increase the guests’ convenience and will undoubtedly encourage repeat visits to the hotels.

Eco-Friendliness
The world is finally realizing just how much strain we have put on our planet and all industries of our economy are looking to adopt environmentally sustainable practices, and the hotel industry has not been left behind. In 2019, we can expect to see more hotels being constructed from recycled building materials, using linen recycling, and installing solar energy. We can also expect to see efforts geared at reducing carbon footprints and the increased use of LED lightning in order to reduce the consumption of energy.

The post Hotel Trends 2019: What You Need to Know appeared first on Pontarelli Chicago.

When Americans think of fall foliage, too many people neglect the Midwest in favor of the Northeast. True, the autumnal hues and colors in upstate New York and northern New England are sights to behold. Nevertheless, the trees and leaves that sprout from Illinois soil are just as spectacular during their fall climax. From maize to deeper gold to blood orange and crimson, striking colors of trees native to the region will arrest the visual sense like no other sights. The key to enjoying this feast of nature is to know where the right trees are and when their foliage peaks.

Chicago Botanic Garden

Chicagoans need not leave the Windy City to enjoy fall foliage. Hosting the annual Fall-Color Tree Walk each October, the Chicago Botanical Garden displays an array of species–from Japanese maples to filigreed sumacs–that erupt into myriad shades of green, orange and red. Commencing at the Garden’s accommodating visitor center, the tour passes by weeping willows, Chinese pear trees and Wildfire sour gum trees, each ablaze with distinctive colorful brilliance. The tour ends at the Plant Science Center, where patrons can learn all about the research and conservation efforts sponsored by the Botanical Gardens.

Maple Grove Forest Preserve

Outside of the city, in nearby DuPage County, sits the Maple Grove Forest Preserve. It is one of the oldest protected forests in the region. Adjacent to the village of Downers Grove, it is replete with walking trails and picnic areas for a full day of experiencing nature. A fall colors hike will take place on October 17th. Maple trees like the black savannah, Amur, red and Norway maple trees are particularly brilliant in early October. In total, 125 species of tree occupy the DuPage County forest system. Arborists and amateurs are impressed by the flora at Maple Grove.

Morton Arboretum

The Morton Arboretum harbors a huge variety of species ranging from beech, walnut and elm to honeysuckle ginko and willow trees. Autumn at Morton affords visitors an explosion of color. To highlight such beauty, the arboretum hosts several events that celebrate the autumnal equinox and the season. The Cider and Ale Festival on October 20th will complement the panorama of shades with a wide offering of beers and hard ciders. If you cannot wait–and you are minimally fit–try the Fall Color 5K Run-Walk on September 30th. This repository of natural wonder rests 25 miles west of Chicago.

Getting There

Although these sites are accessible by car or bus, an entire day of fun and natural artistry is best bookended by comfortable commuting. Obtaining a limo service Chicago tourists can trust allows you to arrive at these destinations with a minimum of aggravation and depart without any worries about the trip home. Pontarelli’s chauffeurs convey their passengers from place to place in a leisurely fashion. Your party will enjoy the peace and safety provided by this Chicago car service. Trusting our professionals’ spares visitors the concerns over getting to and from the foliage.

The post Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Chicago 2018 appeared first on Pontarelli Chicago.

Traveling with kids offers many benefits. Children who are exposed to new destinations and places to see are children who are likely to grow up with a sense of curiosity and adventure. At the same time, traveling with children on a plane can be stressful for the parents and their kids. Luckily, there are many ways to ease the strain. Proper preparation to the child’s needs as well as lots of advanced preparation before the flight can help. Keep in mind the age of the child as well as the length of the airline trip. When traveling with more than one child, each kid will need to be safe, calm and content knowing their parents are taking them somewhere they’ll enjoy.

Packing Well

It’s a good idea to pack carefully before leaving. Proper packing means using all available space well. If space is limited, make full use of all carry-on luggage as well as any luggage that will be stowed away on the plane. All luggage should have a tag indicating the child’s name and address. Let children pick out their own pieces. A bright pink or purple carry-on piece can brighten the child’s day and make it easier to find the luggage when it’s brought off the plane. Tell each child how many clothing items they can bring with them. Let the child bring another item that is special to them such as a favorite stuffed toy or music box. Books and maps about their ultimate destination are also a good idea. Each child should have luggage they can handle easily. Items with wheels make it easy for a child to travel through any airport. Try the luggage out in the store first. It should handle turns and curves without getting stuck.

Allow Enough Time

Getting kids out of the house can be tough. Remember that airports generally recommend getting there at least an hour or before the plane leaves. If you’re heading out on an early morning flight, make sure the kids get a good night’s sleep and a good breakfast before you leave. It’s also a good idea to allow extra time to prepare everything first. Create a checklist with everything you need. Check each item off the list as you head out. It’s a good idea to know the airport before you leave. Look up the airport’s details online. Many times, you’ll be able to see the best place to grab a quick snack and let each child go to the bathroom before you board the plane.

Transportation at the Airport

Transport to and from the airport is another great way to make airport travel with kids much easier. Our limo service Chicago offers enough room for every child and parent to sit comfortably as they head to their desired destination in this city. Our Chicago airport shuttle also makes it easy for every member of the family to relax in comfort as they get to the airport from their hotel or their home.

The post How to Navigate the Airports with Kids appeared first on Pontarelli Chicago.

First-Class Limousine Service in Chicago, Illinois

Bustling Chicago, Illinois or “The Windy City” has the distinction of being among the busiest cities in the entire United States. The Midwestern metropolis is home to O’Hare International Airport, too. This vast airport sees countless travelers on an annual basis. If you’re going to be flying to Chicago via this airport, there are certain things you can do to make your time go a lot more smoothly. You can request airport shuttle service from a highly regarded transportation company, first of all. An example of a firm that fits into that category is Pontarelli. Our Chicago transportation company has been a staple in the shuttle service field for more than four decades at this point. We specialize in Chicago airport shuttle service that’s organized, prompt, efficient, courteous and dependable.

Limo Service Chicago Travelers Can Count On

Our limousine service is always punctual. If you need airport pickup service, you can count on our chauffeurs to be there before you even expect them. If you need transportation service to the airport from your place of residence or hotel, we can give you assistance that’s the epitome of thorough and detail-oriented. We make traveling to and from O’Hare International Airport easy as pie for our customer base. We accommodate the airport transfer requirements of all different kinds of customers here. If you’re a businessperson who needs service, we can help you out. If you’re a leisure traveler who is going to be having a blast all over Chicago and surrounding locales, we can help you out, too. We have hassle-free shuttle tracker service accessible as well. Some of the highlights of this service include individual chauffeurs, round-the-clock assistance, substitute chauffeurs and helpful billing choices. If you want any of these perks, simply said the word and we’ll make it happen for you. People who want to be able to stay on top of vehicles and their GPS (Global Positioning System) spots can get a lot of convenience out of this feature.

Other Destinations All Throughout Chicago

Pontarelli is in no way a company that limits itself to airport transfer services. That’s because we can help you get to all kinds of points of interest scattered throughout energetic and lively Chicago. Our chauffeurs can help you travel to Willis Tower, Wrigley Field, Navy Pier, the Field Museum of Natural History, Soldier Field, Shedd Aquarium, Grant Park and more. We cater to people who want to go shopping in Chicago. We accommodate those who wish to test out the city’s incredible choices in dining establishments. We even manage people who purely want to check out all of its most widely known tourist draws.

Reserve a Vehicle with Us Today

Our chauffeurs can supply you with transportation assistance that’s high-end, comfortable, discreet, safe and efficient. If you need to get to the airport, you can lean on us. If you need airport pickup service, ditto. Call the staff here at Pontarelli as soon as possible to reserve a vehicle.

The post Here Is How to Improve Your Airport Experience appeared first on Pontarelli Chicago.

So, you’re visiting this city—welcome! Whether it’s your first time in the city or your fifth, there’s one thing most tourists underestimate: getting to and from the airport without chaos. Between unfamiliar roads, confusing terminal layouts, and the city's legendary traffic, airport logistics can sneak up on even the most seasoned traveler. But don’t worry — there are simple ways to avoid the usual chaos.

These essential airport transportation tips for tourists in Chicago will help you skip the stress, avoid the classic mistakes, and start (or end) your trip the smart way.

1. Don’t Cut It Close — Leave Way More Time Than You Think

If your flight’s at 3:00 PM and you’re still grabbing deep dish at 1:30, you’ve already lost.

Chicago is amazing — but it’s also unpredictable. Whether you're flying out of Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) or Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), the combo of heavy traffic, construction delays, and long TSA lines can chew up more time than you expect.

As a tourist, you’re probably figuring out traffic patterns, relying on hotel tips, or guessing how long it’ll take to get from your door to the terminal. Spoiler: it always takes longer than you think.

If you want to avoid the stress of sprinting to your gate, give yourself more time than you think is necessary. For most travelers, this means arriving at the airport at least 2.5 to 3 hours before a domestic flight, and even earlier for international departures or during busy travel periods, such as holidays or weekends.

Coming from downtown? The suburbs? Anywhere during rush hour? Add extra buffer time — Chicago traffic doesn’t care about your boarding time.

When you arrive early, check-in is smooth, security lines are manageable, and grabbing a coffee or snack feels like a choice, not a race. No one ever regrets being early — but plenty regret cutting it too close.

2. Skip Rideshare Roulette — Book Airport Transportation in Advance

It’s easy to assume you’ll just grab a rideshare when it’s time to head out. But that can go sideways fast — especially during peak hours, late-night flights, or when leaving from a busy hotel district. Drivers cancel. Surge pricing spikes. And if they’re not familiar with the airport layout, you might end up circling terminals or getting dropped off at the wrong entrance.

Instead, book a professional airport transportation service that knows Chicago and its airports inside out. Whether you’re going solo or with family, this gives you:

• A confirmed pickup time
• A chauffeur who understands airport procedures
• A stress-free trip where you don’t have to watch the clock

3. Think Twice Before Relying on Public Transit with Luggage

Chicago’s “L” train is a great way to explore the city — but when it comes to airport travel, especially with bags, it’s not always the smoothest option.

While both O’Hare (via the Blue Line) and Midway (via the Orange Line) connect to the transit system, tourists often underestimate:

• The walking distance between platforms and terminals
• Stairs or elevators that may not be available or working
• Delays, reroutes, and crowded trains during rush hour
• The challenge of navigating with luggage if you’re unfamiliar with stops

If your hotel is close to a CTA station and you're traveling light, it can work. However, if you’re short on time, carrying more than a backpack, or unfamiliar with the system, private airport transportation is a much more relaxed way to go.

4. Not All Transportation Services Are Worth Booking — Do Your Homework

Tourists are easy targets for low-quality services that overpromise and underdeliver. That $30 “private airport car” might show up late, get lost, or look like it’s seen better decades.

Before booking:

• Check reviews on trusted platforms (Google, TripAdvisor, Yelp)
• Confirm their experience with airport-specific pickups and drop-offs
• Make sure they service both O’Hare and Midway if you’re unsure where you’ll be flying
• Ask if they provide real-time updates or contactless check-ins

The best transportation companies know how to navigate terminals, adjust for delays, and communicate clearly — which matters a lot when you’re visiting from out of town.

Final Boarding Tip: Start (and End) Your Trip the Smart Way

Airport stress is optional — especially when you're visiting a city like Chicago. The smartest move? Plan your journey in advance. Booking airport transportation means you won't have to gamble with timing, traffic, or confusion at the terminal.

Select a service that suits your group, gear, and schedule. The smoother your airport transfer, the better the rest of your day will feel. When you arrive early, relaxed, and ready, your trip starts off on the right foot — no rushing, no guesswork, just a calm, confident send-off.

The post Airport Transportation Tips for Tourists in Chicago appeared first on Pontarelli Chicago.

Long hours spent on a plane can be punishing on your body, particularly if you are traveling in economy where legroom is generally more restricted and you can be cramped in tightly with other passengers. Our top tips below will give you some great ideas for making sure your body feels refreshed and revitalised once you arrive at your destination.

• Walk around the cabin

Make sure you try to take regular walks around the aircraft cabin whenever possible to keep your legs moving and blood pumping. If you know you have difficulties with poor circulation its a good idea to book an aisle seat in advance, that way you will be able to get up and move around whenever you like without disturbing other passengers. Just be mindful of seatbelt signs and any rules the airline has to enforce regarding passengers congregating in the aisles.

• Stretch your back

Your back is one of the first areas of your body to suffer from sitting constricted in one position for long periods of time. Try a simple exercise to ease pressure on your back by bending right forward in your seat so that your chest touches the top of your thighs and holding this position for a few seconds, then slowly come back upright. Repeat this 10 to 20 times for optimal benefits.

• Keep legs moving – while you sit

You can still keep moving your legs while you are in your seat with the help of a few simple exercises that will aid blood circulation and avoid the risk of blood clots. Start by raising both feet slightly off the floor then rotate ankles in a clockwise direction, for about 5 complete circles. Switch to anti-clockwise and repeat for another 5 circles. Next, place your feet back on the floor and stretch toes upwards as far as possible, then gently lower your toes back to the floor and lift your ankles. Repeat this movement 5 to 10 times until your legs and ankles feel loosened and supple.

• Loosen your shoulders and neck

This area of your body carries a lot of tension, and particularly with the stresses of air travel you might find more strain and stiffness in this area than usual as a result. Try rolling your shoulders by lifting up then lowering gently backwards and downwards, opening out your chest. Repeat this 5 times then switch the direction so you raise shoulders upwards and forward and repeat 5 times. With a neutral posture and shoulders lowered, gently tilt your head forward so your chin is towards your chest, then carefully roll your head to the right, keeping your chin down until you reach your shoulder, then let your head roll back as you move it towards your left shoulder, then back down to your chest in the center. Repeat for 5 rolls then switch directions for another 5.

When you’ve been cramped on an aircraft for long periods, our comfortable Chicago airport shuttle will be just what you need to stretch out and relax during the next phase of your journey. Our professional chauffeurs will ensure that your onward travel is smooth and hassle free, so you arrive at your destination relaxed and recuperated.

The post Exercises You Can Do to Make Plane Travel More Comfortable appeared first on Pontarelli Chicago.

While traveling for business can have its perks, sometimes you inevitably crave the conveniences of an office environment. There is no substitute for being able to set up face-to-face meetings with colleagues or clients, but follow our tips below, and you should come pretty close to the real deal.

Organize a conference call online

There are now a whole host of great web conferencing solutions available for those times when you are out of the office but need to continue collaborating with others. There are many free services on the market, but keep in mind that if you travel regularly for business it may be worth investing in a more comprehensive system that will allow you to screen share, video chat and accepts unlimited data streaming.

Use Skype or Face Time

If you don’t require full web conferencing capabilities, Skype or Face Time should work just fine. You can use these much more easily from your mobile device, and with Wi-Fi and 4G networks now readily available in most cities you shouldn’t have any streaming issues on the go. You can even set up calls with more than one participant – perfect if you need to check in with your whole team.

Set up somewhere quiet and comfortable

To maintain your focus and ensure that others on the call aren’t distracted by unwanted background noise, try and base yourself in the quietest possible location. This isn’t always easy in a bustling airport, but if you’re able to spend some time walking around the terminal you’d be surprised how many quiet corners you can find, with many airports even providing convenient work areas offering table space and power outlets too.

Be clear and concise

It can be a challenge to get your message across to a room of people listening in on an unstable internet connection from thousands of miles away, so it is important to speak clearly and succinctly. Make sure everyone knows the agenda beforehand and keep discussions controlled and understandable by allowing participants to take it in turns to have their say. This can feel quite unnatural compared to a regular face-to-face meeting but it is an essential component of holding a productive remote conference call.

Accept that tech might let you down!

We’ve all been there – the call that drops half way through an important discussion, or the screen share that just won’t function no matter what you try – but it’s important to accept that no matter how robust the technology, there are going to be occasions where you will not get the level of service that you expect. Make sure you always have a back up plan – if the meeting is urgent and can’t be rescheduled use a different voice conferencing service or move the discussion onto email or an instant messaging platform if appropriate.

No matter how you go about holding your next meeting while on your travels, our Chicago airport shuttle will ensure that your onward journey does not interrupt your important work. Our chauffeurs make sure your travel is quick and convenient, with no unwanted hassle, so you can travel hands-free and keep up to date with colleagues on the go.

The post How to Hold a Meeting When Traveling for Business appeared first on Pontarelli Chicago.

Safe travel is a priority for anyone who leaves home. We know how important you are to your friends and family, and we work hard to ensure you are always safe with our Chicago airport shuttle chauffeurs. Our chauffeurs are well-trained, highly qualified, and we make sure you are always our number one priority when you are in our care. Unfortunately, we aren’t with you every step of your journey into our city or any other, which means you must learn the secrets to staying safe while you travel. It’s important to you and to all the people you love.

Hire a Car Service

This is safe for several reasons. A Chicago limo service such as ours keeps you safer when you are on the road because our drivers know these roads. If you’re not from here, you’re automatically a distracted driver relying on navigation, sight-seeing, and navigating roads and traffic you’re unfamiliar with. We aren’t saying you are a bad driver, but you are a more dangerous driver when you’re nervous, driving a car that’s not yours, in a location you don’t know well. Hire a car service like ours to get you to and from your locations, and you’ll feel safer. It’s also far safer to be with us than out by yourself at night or lost in certain neighborhoods.

Make it A Group Thing

Being out after dark on the streets anywhere is dangerous, but it’s especially dangerous when you’re alone. Make your nighttime excursions a group thing, or get a ride. You become an easy target when you’re alone, and you attempt to navigate unfamiliar streets at night without anyone guiding you.

Keep Your Hotel to Yourself

If someone asks you where you’re staying, you don’t have to tell them. You can keep that information to yourself without sounding rude, but you can’t always keep that information to yourself if you’re in the elevator. The best thing you can do is keep your room number private, and never flash your key. If you feel uncomfortable in the elevator with someone, go back to the lobby and ask the concierge to have security escort you to your room. Never get off on your floor if you feel something in your gut while with someone else on the elevator.

Check In

One of the best ways to stay safe when you travel is to have someone you’re checking in with regularly at home. Schedule a time to call or text each night, and be sure you send a good morning text each morning. When someone expects to hear from you and doesn’t, they know immediately something is wrong and can notify the proper authorities.

Your safety is paramount, and being aware of how you can stay safe while you travel is one of the most important things you can do. Don’t play games with your life when you travel. Know where you go, where you are going, and utilize the services offered by professionals to keep you safe.

The post Secrets to Safe Travel appeared first on Pontarelli Chicago.