I got the travel bug when I was 17 and paid for my own trip to India for 5 weeks. It was like walking into National Geographics with camels and elephants walking along the road as we left the airport. I have always loved to stay with people and learn more about how they live and "live like a local". I'm not so much into touristy things and would rather meander and discover hidden gems. I have moved 11 times. (7 times with my kids) It gave me the chance to really see how diverse the US is. I have traveled corporately, but have always enjoyed the layovers the most that we scheduled to meet up with old friends along the way. I have friends from 19-90 and am quickly comfortable meeting new people. I have always been drawn to cultural diversity. I was born in the Chicago area and have been back for the last 19 years so I have fallen in love with Chicago. I love small venue live music, theatre, coffee shops, festivals, art, cooking.