Hotwire Hotel: One Night in South Chicago

[Scooter55]

Well my eyes are getting a little bleary from trying to figure this out and you guys were such a big help last time I needed you, I think I'll pick your brains again!

I have been put in charge of finding a room Dec 29 for my oldest son who has just taken a job in the Burbank area. He will be going up for a night to check out a permanent place to live. He is thinking about the south shore area and would like me to find a room near that area for him to carry out this search.

I'm thinking the Ramada South Shore because of the parking and location. How do I begin that search on hotwire or priceline. Also any suggestions on where a new college grad working in Burbank (car mandatory) would enjoy living and would be a safe area? Funny how both of my boys are ending up in Chicago. Wish they could live together ,but timing and location make that not an option.

So Dec 29..East and a little north of Burbank. Where should I start.

[AaronJB]

Personally, I'd recommend staying downtown and taking the train (South Shore or L) down South. There are VERY few hotels to the South and I don't believe the Ramada participates on HOTWIRE or PRICELINE.

Let me see what I can find for these dates - be right back.

[AaronJB]

There is a 3.5* in the UIC-Medical District area with the amenities: fitness, restaurant, business, golf nearby, internet for $85, which would appear to be a match for the Crowne Plaza Metro. However, you can stay downtown for less than $70 (a 3.5* Mag Mile is showing for $69.)

There are no HOTWIRE areas that cover the area where the Ramada is, unfortunately.

[AaronJB]

In terms of living arrangements, I don't know what he's looking for exactly in terms of apartment/budget, but I'd recommend Oak Park or (a little further) Oak Brook.

The Oak Brook area is a little further away at about 14-16 miles, but it's a nicer area and there should be a wide array of living options. A little further away, but a lot of benefits (both in terms of area and shopping, things to do, etc.)

If he wanted to stay in Oak Brook, a hotel would be MUCH cheaper (possibly a 3* for $35-40 via PRICELINE.)

[Scooter55]

Thank you, as usual you have cleared things up. About the car though, he will have to do some driving to check out apartments i think. But I do think one of the other areas you mentioned will be better for the nights stay. I will check back after bidding and will of course use the links!

[AaronJB]

I just think the Oak Brook area or some of the other 'burbs to the West of Burbank (see also: Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Westmont, Oakbrook Terrace, Villa Park), while maybe a bit more of a drive, would be better areas overall versus living in Chicago South of downtown. There's also a lot of nice restaurants, malls and other activities in the burbs, as well as somewhat cheaper cost of living in terms of food and sales tax (as well as hotel - it would be much cheaper to stay in a hotel in those suburban areas at all times of year than it is downtown.)

There are quite a few apartment options in the SW burbs on apartments.com, rent.com and other similar sites.

Please don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions.

[Scooter55]

Very Sorry it took so long for me to close out this thread. Didn't remember until I had another question, which I will post shortly. Well the trip was canceled because my son didn't need us. :) His friends and girlfriend helped him move into a nice high rise studio sublet in the Bronzeville area. He and my other son will be moving in together next week. They found a Lincoln Park apt that suits them. Thanks for all the help and I will be sure to use your PRICELINE and HOTWIRE links for our up coming trip.

[AaronJB]

Glad they were able to find a nice place in Lincoln Park. Thanks for closing out the thread.