I have just landed at Chicago O’Hare international and am awaiting the American Airlines flight to Albuquerque, the first thing everybody should do is try out Garrett Popcorn, I recommend choosing ‘The Chicago Mix’ a blend of Caramel Crisp and Cheese Corn, a fantastic combination.
Also worth a mention, the wifi at the Admirals club lounge is fast and free!
Until next time Chicago……..
After a turbulent flight to Albuquerque, I was met at the airport by my very good friend Prith. He arranged for the courtesy shuttle to take us to the Sheraton airport hotel, the room rate was supposed to be $119 per night plus taxes, but we negotiated on $89, also helped that we were SPG (Starwood Preferred Guest member)
I met Prith two years ago at Espanola whilst Sangeet was attending the immersion course, I flew to Espanola to surprise Sangeet with a big chocolate cake, then I thought about driving to Denver to catch up with some friends, something was just telling me to turn back and stay in Espanola. In the meantime, Prith was doing a road trip of the USA and was told by a yoga teacher to visit Espanola, which he did. What was supposed to be a three to four hour visit for Prith to Espanola turned out to be 4 days! Another one of our friends Deva Singh, who was living in Espanola hooked up with us and we had a fantastic time which helped our friendship bond together.
After a good night’s rest we headed out to Walmart to get some supplies, on entering the store somebody shouted out Obama lock and load, I think he meant to say Osama!
I also needed to get a 3G sim so can stay connected, we went to the T -mobile, unfortunately, the frequency was different so my only option was to buy a MiFi unit at a cost of $170! In the end, Prith was able to tether his iPhone through Verizon for $20 per month.
Back on the road to Espanola via Santa Fe for a spot of lunch and sightseeing. Lunch was at India Palace a nice restaurant which is at 227 Don Gasper Ave, Santa Fe. Our last unhealthy meal before immersion:
We popped into The Signature Gallery and met the artist Phillip Payne, he was very kind to spend some time with us and gave us a story of his art.
After a wonderful time in Santa Fe, onwards to Espanola.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/gaygoat/7707066376/
We arrived in Espanola around 17:30 and went to the Gurdwara. Afterwards, we were shown our room.
Sounds like quite the adventure! I love Chicago (after only one trip lol) and I remember people speaking wonders of the popcorn but we didn’t try any because we had already eaten entirely too much on the trip! Great post overall!
This was only a transfer in Chicago but you are right, Chicago is an amazing city. On your next visit, you must try the popcorn.
Sounds like a fun adventure. One in which the journey is just as great as the destination. And meeting up with old friends is always great.
This was the beginning of a fun adventure.
I like your no frills writing style. The pictures add a good peak into your experience. Really well written and informative at the same time.
I like to be direct to the point and say it how it is!
My grandfather grew up in Espanaola…Ontario. Ha! I was curious when I saw the title and wondered why you would visit such a small rural Canadian town. Now I know there are 2.
Shaun
http://www.thislifeintrips.com
I had to look up the ‘other’ Espanola!
Garret Popcorn sounds great! I am a huge popcorn fan 🙂
You must try this popcorn, it is fantastic!
your travelling stories are always fascinating, this was no different, keep up the good work.
Thank you Denise.
Cool room! Also, I love the fact you negotiated the price! That is an awesome rate!
I negotiate the price of every single hotel I stay in and always manage to get a good rate…
Loved those paintings. Kinda reminded me of scenes from Lord of the Rings. Im an Indian and I can say that food there is yummy but loaded:)
The food was amazing!