We know that traveling can be stressful. Below are a few sites that may help you have a relaxing trip.

Check flight status – www.avoiddelays.com

Secure airport parking - www.aboutairportparking.com

Ship your luggage ahead of time - www.luggageconcierge.com

Be an eco-friendly traveler. Here a few great websites that will help you be Green while planning your next trip to Chicago:

Take public transportation –
http://www.transitchicago.com/travel_information/trip_planner.aspx

Travel Green – know your carbon footprint -
http://www.terrapass.com/carbon-footprint-calculator/#air

Swissotel Chicago’s new 38,000 sq. ft. Event Centre is featured in the September/October issue of BIZBASH Chicago and the September issue of FORUM magazine.

Every dog deserves a fantastic vacation! That is why Swissotel Chicago developed the Pampered Pets Getaway to ensure that you and your dog have a memorable experience. Treat your special furry friend to a wealth of amenities and an enjoyable stay from start to finish when you book this special. Available year-round this exclusive offer includes:

Pet bed & bowls
Pampered pet massage*
Pampered Welcome
Dog Toy
One Dog Walk (30 minutes)*
Everything you’ll need for walking (leash, bags and portable water dish)
Donation to PAWS

*Services provide by our dog friendly partner, DoGone Fun!

Do you love chocolate? If your answer is yes then we have just the package for you! Swissotel is offering chocolate-lovers the getaway of a lifetime with The Chocoholic package. Book now and stay in luxurious accommodations, then embark on The Chicago Chocolate Tour for two. Indulge in warm brownies and hot chocolate for two upon arrival, chocolate fondue for two at The Lobby Lounge, and late check-out.

Chicago, September 9, 2009 – Effective yesterday, renowned Chicago chef Dan McGee re-joins Swissôtel Chicago as Executive Chef.  McGee first joined Swissôtel Chicago in 2002, where he worked as Executive Chef and was a key player on the original planning committee for the Event Centre, a $47 million renovation that has resulted in 50,000 square feet of premium event space.  After leaving to pursue other ventures in 2004, McGee and Swissôtel Chicago are excited for his return.

“I look forward to all the new opportunities and challenges Swissôtel Chicago has to offer, and I am particularly thrilled to be able to participate in the menu creations for the new Event Centre.  Being a part of the original planning of such an enormous endeavor, and then having the opportunity to see everything come to fruition, is a special experience.  My menus will reflect the essence of the Event Center: Modern and flowing with stunning visual appeal,” McGee comments.

In his position, McGee will oversee the newly expanded Food and Beverage operation and will incorporate his entrepreneurial and creative expertise to maximize Swissotel Chicago’s reputation for cutting-edge, contemporary cuisine.  McGee specializes in crafting fun, decadent twists on classic dishes and has a particular specialty in working with clients to produce the perfect custom menu for every event he caters.

“We are all pleased to welcome Dan McGee back to the Swissôtel Chicago family.  With the opening of the Event Centre, we now have the capacity to hold large scale events, and Dan has both the culinary skill and the client relations to make Swissôtel Chicago stand out as the premier venue in Chicago for hosting any type of special occasion,” states Tim Herman, Swissôtel Chicago’s General Manager.

Before returning to Swissôtel Chicago, McGee successfully launched his own catering company and highly acclaimed fine dining restaurant, Dan McGee Restaurant & Catering, of which he remains a partner.  His additional experience includes: Executive Chef for Mid-America Club, Executive Sous Chef for Westin River North, and Tournad Chef at Charlie Trotter’s.  He is a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, and trained in Paris, France and Basel, Switzerland.

Oct 3

VIK Baking Class

Halloween Brownies

10:00am – 11:30am

Swissotel Chicago Pastry Kitchen

Cost: Complimentary for all VIKs

About the class: VIKs will learn how to bake brownies with Pastry Chef Mary

November 7th

Animal Encounters with Shedd Aquarium

10:30a - 11:30a

Swissotel Chicago Lobby

Cost: Complimentary for all VIKs

About the event: Shedd Aquarium animal specialists will provide VIKs with a chance to look at and learn about all the critters during the event.  Specific Animals will be announced soon. 

Dec 19

VIK Baking Class

Holiday Brownies

10:00am – 11:30am

Swissotel Chicago Pastry Kitchen

Cost: Complimentary for all VIKs

About the class: VIKs will learn how to bake brownies with Pastry Chef Mary

For more information call 312-268-8110