SAGA SHOP - Haust I Fall 2019

Icelandair Stopover 67 TEXT AND PHOTOS BY JÓN AGNAR ÓLASON. The Bean Well, actually it’s called Cloud Gate, but you know what we’re on about. Ever since its unveiling in 2006, artist Anish Kapoor’s shiny and glistening Bean sculpture in Millennium Park has been an unmissable landmark in Chicago. Whether you fancy a distorted and amusing selfie (you know you have to!) or just want to admire the smooth and reflective surface of this other-worldly structure, it does not disappoint. Also, it provides you with a brand-new and interesting way to admire the city’s impressive skyline. All in all, the Cloud Gate is an irresistible attraction and we recommend you rise early for a less-crowded encounter. The Boat Chicago’s cityscape benefits immensely from having the Chicago River run through it. Not only is the river a picturesque addition, it also provides a means for seeing the scenery from the water. A so-called “Architecture Cruise” enables passengers to not only see most of Chicago’s famous high-rise structures but also hear about their architects, era and architect- ural style, along with some well-chosen histor- ical facts and points of interest regarding each of the buildings. From the absolute behemoth of the Merchandise Mart—one of the world’s largest commercial buildings, once deemed big enough to be awarded its own zip code—to the minimal modernist masterpiece of IBM Plaza by Mies van der Rohe at 330 North Wabash Avenue and, the quintessential high- rise of the city, the Sears Tower (nowadays officially known as Willis Tower). Trust us, your camera will stay aloft for all 75 minutes of the boat trip’s duration. The Bike Although situated inland, Chicago is a waterfront city thanks to its location on the shores of Lake Michigan. Locals and visitors alike make good use of the long lakefront strip that comes marked with designated space for wal- kers, runners and bikers. Con- veniently placed by the historic Drake Hotel is one of the numer- ous bike rental stations that will have you breezing along the wide bike path within 30 seconds of completing the rental transaction. Awaiting is the Lakeshore Drive, with more than 20 miles (32 km) of scenic shoreline on one hand and the Chicago skyline on the other. Even better, it’s free of any steep uphill biking. Just remem- ber to think about the bike path as a traffic lane; easy-going bikers stay on the right side, while the racers whoosh by on the left. And don’t worry, there’s plenty of space for everybody. Icelandair flies to Chicago daily, year-round. Traveling from Europe, you have the opportunity to add a Stopover in Iceland at no additional airfare. Previous page: For a breezy and relaxed day of seeing the sights in Chicago, a bicycle is an excellent means of getting around. Numerous bike rental stations around town await your business. Top: Chicago’s stunning skyline is probably best enjoyed from the shoreline of Lake Michigan, where stretches of beautiful towers can be observed all at once. Above: Anish Kapoor’s shiny Cloud Gate sculpture, known to most as “The Bean,” never fails to raise eyebrows—or the nearby skyline, for that matter.