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A Few Random Tips About Chicago

So here are a few quick lessons I've learned since moving here... 1) Taxes for the city of Chicago are HIGH. When you're taxed, you're taxed in at least 2 different ways. I mention this because I'm the type of person who likes to only bring exact change when I go somewhere (particulary when getting fast food). I like to estimate how much tax would be in my head, figuring "it can't be more than like 9.25%. Somehow, I'm always charged MORE than I estimate. So if you're like me and like to bring just enough, factor in your tax being at least 11%. 2) You MUST check the weather daily--it could be the difference between life and death! Seriously. I've never checked the weather as much as I do here. I check it as soon as I wake up. Before I go home. When I get home. At least twice throughout the night before I go to bed. Repeat. The weather can be quite unpredictable. And now I understand why people always say "dress in layers." This means double layer of socks, double layer of gloves, etc. Right now, it's high 30s-low 40s. FYI, regular leather gloves will NOT protect you from the Chicago wind/cold even at this temperature. I'm glad I'm learning this lesson before it starts snowing. 3) Chicago weather is EXTREME. Yes it's true that you get to experience all 4 seasons here. But be mindful of this when shopping for apartments. If an apartment doesn't have air, that's a PROBLEM, especially if you're from the West Coast. The portable AC units don't cut it. And FYI, the first AC I bought was 5000 BTUs. That did absolutely nothing. My next one was 8000 BTUS and that made life a little more bearable, but only in the room with the AC. Keep this in mind when shopping for ACs. 8000 BTUS and up only! Apartments with a community radiator is NOT heat. It's gotten super cold in my apt and that thing has yet to come on. I had to buy 2 heaters (one small one larger). For my next apartment, I need central air and central heat. I need to control my own temperature! I'm sure I'll have more tips to share as the weather continues to drop!

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