Best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago

Sometimes, being a vegan can be difficult because there are hardly any options for you to choose from when dining out. This is not the case in Chicago! The Windy City offers plenty of vegan and vegetarian options for those of you who choose a plant-based diet. Vegan food doesn't have to be hard to locate! Read on to see some of our favorite vegan restaurants in Chicago:

Urban Vegan

With multiple locations around the Chicago area, the Urban Vegan offers delicious Thai food on a budget! Dinner orders are only $11.95 and come with egg rolls, a salad, and rice! You can even choose to add soy chicken, soy fish, tofu and a host of other add-ins to any dish on the menu!

A Delicious Vegan Café

Located on Lincoln Ave, A Delicious Vegan Café offers a variety of sandwiches and light lunch fare. For breakfast, choose from bagels and deluxe breakfast sandwiches. For lunch, dine on a hummus plate with a mango-colada smoothie. Yum Yum!

Karyn’s Cooked

Karyn’s offers hip and gourmet comfort food for the Chicago Vegan! Everything in the restaurant is vegan with an all-American flare. Since all food is vegan-friendly, you can safely eat a steak, sloppy joes, or a Reuben sandwich for dinner. Karyn’s also offers a delicious brunch menu for those of you who like mimosas.

RAW

So maybe you are taking it to the next level with raw veganism. Chicago has something to offer you too! Raw doesn't have to equal bland when you order a fresh spinach lasagna, falafel, or raw raviolis!

Native Foods Café

Although Native Foods has some fantastic dinner and lunch options, we highly recommend the dessert! Who wouldn’t want a chocolate cup cake or a peanut butter parfait after a long day at work? Chocolate not your thing? That’s okay! The oatmeal cream pies won’t disappoint.

Please keep Chicago Airways Parking in mind next time you fly out of Midway Airport! Park with us, save big, and spend that money on all the vegan goodies listed above! 

Benefits of Off Airport Parking at Chicago MDW

Truth be told, one of the last things people usually think about when planning a business or leisure trip is where they will park their car during the duration of the trip.  Most travelers assume that parking directly with the airport is the easiest, safest, and cheapest way to go, but this is not the case when parking at MDW Airport!

Take a look at some benefits of off-airport parking:
 

·         Travelers can save as much as $9 a day by selecting off-airport parking at Midway International Airport

·         Quite often, off-airport parking companies offer airport parking coupons if you sign up for the email newsletter

·         They also have courteous staff who are ready and willing to help you with your luggage as you utilize a fast pick-up and drop-off shuttle service to your terminal 

·         Most off-airport operators have online reservation forms and even offer valet options for added convenience

·         Unlike parking at the airport, they offer low daily parking rates to save passengers as much time and money as possible 

·         Most parking operators offer 24 hour security so when you park your vehicle you can count on finding it in the same condition and place you left it in

Airways Parking can offer travelers all of the benefits listed above and more! Next time you have to jet away for business or pleasure you know to consider alternatives to parking at Chicago’s Midway International Airport. 

How to Save Money on Gas around Midway Airport

 

Do you like to save money? Who doesn’t like to save money! Today it seems like gas prices climb higher and higher and consumers are stuck paying whatever price the gas stations see fit. Believe it or not, there are a few unexpected ways you can save at the pump before your flight at Midway International Airport!

·         You know how an interstate exit sign will usually read:

       Brand A-0.1 mi -->

       Brand B-0.3 mi <--

       Brand C-0.8 mi -->

 

Brand C will actually be the cheapest price because it is further away! The closer the station is to a major thoroughfare, the more likely the owners are to up the prices.

·         When searching for a parking space, people waste the most time and burn up the most gas by trying too hard to get “the closest parking spot possible.” Drop your car off with Airway’s Parking and we will ensure you burn the least fuel possible!

·         Similarly, people who drove to the first open parking space they saw and walked, no matter how far from the entrance of where they were going, tend to get to the door first and burn the least fuel.

·         Interestingly enough, people who waited idly in their care for someone to pull out of a parking spot tend to get to the entrance last and burn the most fuel!

·         Fill up before you drop your car off at Airways Parking. This way your car is full and ready to go upon your return just in case gas prices rise steeply.

Don’t forget to make your free online reservation with Airway’s Parking! We will ensure that none of your gas is wasted while you are away!

 

 

Where to Eat near Chicago’s Midway International Airport

Chances are that you will want to grab a quick bite to eat before dropping your car off with Airways Parking on your way to Midway International Airport. Why starve yourself and wait until you get to your terminal to grab some food when there are a plethora of restaurants outside of MDW? Check out some of our favorites:

·         Starbucks Coffee. ($). Because who doesn’t love Starbucks?!

·         Coaches Sports Bar and Grill. ($). Open for lunch and dinner, Coaches is the perfect place to grab a traditional burger and fries. Since you will be riding in Airway’s Parking’s complementary shuttle, why not grab a beer while you’re at it?

·         Olive Garden. ($$). It is always a good time to have some of Olive Garden’s warm, yummy breadsticks! Grab unlimited soup, salad and breadsticks for a light lunch, or stay later and have some hearty Italian fare paired with a delicious glass of wine.

·         Sushi Thaime. ($$). Sushi Thaime offers a fusion blend of Japanese, Chinese and Thai influence. They also offer well-priced bento boxes that are accompanied with traditional miso soup, rice, and ginger salad.

·         Chucks Southern Comfort Café. ($). Chuck’s features southern cooking, with an emphasis on Cajun food. They pride themselves on using local fresh ingredients to create delicious meals.

No matter what time you decide to grab food, make sure that you arrive at Airways Parking at least two hours before your flight out of MDW. Make your complementary online reservation with us today and save!

Easy Car Maintenance Tips

 

Did you know that April is “National Car Care Month?” That means there is no better time to perform a self-check test on your car than right now in the middle of April!  It is important to remember the following car maintenance tips so you can ensure that your vehicle is running properly before the arrival of the summer driving season!

1.      Pop that hood! Pop the hood of your car and inspect all important fluids. Find the dipstick for your engine oil and transmission fluid and check these first. If you aren’t sure where to locate them in your car, search Google to find out.

2.      While you are under there…make sure to check any visible hoses and belts. Make sure that they aren’t brittle, frayed, or loose.

3.      Battery basics. Pay special attention to the battery connections and make sure that they aren’t loose and corroding. If corrosion is present, take a screwdriver or similar tool and scrape the decay loose.

4.      April showers bring…windshield wiper use!! Ensure that your windshield wiper fluid is full. If it needs to be topped off and you don’t have any fluid on hand, you can always use distilled water as a temporary substitute.

5.      Tire tips. Checking tires is probably the easiest type of self-maintenance you can perform! Invest in an inexpensive tire pressure gauge and make sure that your tires are full of air. Remember that if your tires show uneven wear, it is time for a wheel alignment!

Spring into April by making your free online reservation with Airways Parking the next time you fly out of Chicago’s Midway International Airport.

5 Shoulder Season Travel Tips

Just because the holiday travel season is long gone doesn’t mean that you have to hunker down at home until the summer! We know we know…we get it! Summer is better because the weather is warmer and the kids are on summer break. Speaking of break, saving your vacation for summer is sure to break one thing, the bank! Instead, choose to travel during the “shoulder season,” the period between the off and peak seasons. This time of year usually brings calmer airports, less crowded destinations and much more bang for your buck. When planning your shoulder season getaway, keep these helpful tips in mind:

1.      Don’t inconvenience yourself trying to save money. Off season is “off” for a reason, and, as a result, prices are cheaper. You will be able to get the same vacation for half the price.

2.      Check the weather for your desired destination. If you are from Michigan, a European vacation with weather in the 40’s will be pleasant. If you are from Florida, it will be freezing cold. Don’t let your idea of bad weather ruin your trip!

3.      Investigate your destination. Just because it is the low season in the United States doesn’t mean it will be the low season in India. Check the local customs of the location you will be visiting to ensure that no cultural holidays will be going on during your stay.

4.      Don’t let multiple high seasons leave you in a muddle! That’s right; some places have multiple high seasons. Ski resorts are packed during the winter, but are also popular during the summer where outdoor enthusiasts flock for hiking, biking and rock climbing. Choose your destination wisely.

5.      Not sure when the shoulder season is? Investigate local hotel websites and see when they are changing peak rats. No rates listed? Just research rooms on various dates and see what pops up!

You can save money ANY season when you park with Airways Parking. Make your free online reservation today and we will take care of your car the next time you travel out of Chicago’s Midway International Airport.

Save Big Bucks and Take a Mini-Moon!

 

Spring has officially arrived, and wedding season has started picking up speed! For many couples, the wedding is lovely, but spending quality time as newlyweds on a honeymoon just can’t be beat. After spending big bucks on the wedding and reception, taking an exotic three-week long honeymoon right after the wedding just isn’t feasible. A growing trend called “mini-moons” or “honey-weekends” means that you can have your cake and eat it too. Consider a shorter, cheaper vacation, right after the wedding, until you save up enough money to go all out! Depending on where you live, here are some honeymoon weekend ideas we recommend:

·         Relax on a Cruise. If you live within driving distance of a cruise port, consider a discount weekend cruise. Vacationstogo.com offers extremely discounted cruises at the last minute. Cruise vacations can be found for as little as $290 for a four day cruise on a four star ship!

·         Fly somewhere close. Leave your car in the hands of Airways Parking and search online for discount airfare. Just taking a plane somewhere will make the destination feel exotic. Tip: Make sure your flight is non-stop so you don’t waste precious time on layovers.

·         Snag a deal on a fancy hotel. You don’t have to leave town to feel like you are away on vacation! Search discount websites such as groupon and pamper yourselves to a few nights at a beautiful hotel in your town or the closest city.

·         Discover your hometown. If your budget is really tight, you can have a splendid “staycation” right in your own backyard. Pick up a city guide and check out local attractions you and your spouse have never done—a new museum, botanical gardens, a far flung outlet mall etc. Doing things you both have never done will be a bonding experience in the same was a traditional vacation.

If your “mini-moon” involves flying to a nearby destination, make sure to make your free online reservation with Airways Parking to ensure the lowest rates on Midway International Airport parking.  

5 Ways to Protect Your Parked Car

From expensive electronics to empty candy wrappers, we keep pretty much everything and anything in our cars. Since your vehicle is essentially your miniature home away from home, you are going to want to take precautions to safeguard your vehicle when you fly out of the Chicago’s Midway International Airport. Although Airways Parking boasts a secure, well lit parking lot, you still have to do your part to ensure the safety of your vehicle. Read on to find out how you can help us protect your car while you are traveling:

1.      It is best not to leave valuables inside, but if you must, hide them, and hide them well. Conceal them at home in your own driveway, away from the prying eyes of airport criminals. Don’t park your car at the airport and then hide your laptop; the risk of being seen is too great.

2.      For maximum security, leave your car near high traffic areas such as the entrance and exit or the shuttle pickup kiosk. The increased foot traffic will add to the number of eyes on your car and will discourage potential thieves.

3.      Your next best bet is to leave your car in a well-lit area, something Airways Parking certainly has to offer. Our entire lot is well-lit for maximum safety. Shining lights discourage intruders who don’t want to be caught.

4.      A neat car is less likely to get robbed. If a thief looks in and sees wires poking out from under the seat or a large object seemingly covered up by a towel or hat, this is sure to attract his or her curiosity. If a potential crook sees nothing but car upholstery, it is less likely that he or she will break in to the vehicle.

5.      Keep your car doors locked at all times. Although this sounds like common sense, many people honestly forget to lock their cars or are lured into a false sense of security by their surroundings. An unlocked car is the easiest way for a thief to slip into your vehicle.

 

 

 

In-Flight Entertainment 101

 
Unless you are one of the lucky few who can sleep on a plane, you are going to have to get creative in order to pass the time between take-off and touch down. Banish the boredom of flying for hours on end by planning ahead for your next flight with these creative ideas:

·         Download movies to your smartphone before leaving home. You won’t need internet connection to watch them.

·         If you are traveling around the holidays, take this uninterrupted time to write out your Christmas cards. If you are flying to or from your honeymoon, use the flight to get a jump start on your thank you notes.

·         Organize your digital photos on your computer. This way, you will know just what folder to go to the next time Great Aunt Iris wants to see “that photo of you with the monkey.”

·         If your travels are taking you to a foreign land, check out some language books from the library and learn the native tongue on the flight over.

·         Bring a notebook and make up short stories about the people sitting around you. Describe the person, where you think they are going and what you think they are doing.

·         Want to feel productive? Use this opportunity to polish your proposal or work on next week’s homework.

Plan ahead with Airways Parking! Make your free online parking reservation with us the next time you fly out of Chicago’s Midway International Airport (MDW).  

Flying with Pets

 

                     

 Sometimes you just want to take your furry friend with you on vacation. Other times, you are moving halfway around the world and leaving your best friend behind simply isn’t an option. First-time flying can be nerve-wracking for pets if they are unprepared. Check out these simple tricks for navigating air travel with Fluffy or Fido:

 

1.      Calculate the costs. Believe it or not, there are charges for flying with your pet. These costs can range from $75-$200 for a one-way flight. Research airline rates ahead of time so you aren’t stunned by these fees when it’s too late.

2.      Visit the vet. Call your airline and find out if they require vaccination and health documentation for your pet. Find out if your pet has any health concerns that will make flying more difficult. Even better: research local vets at your destination so you’re prepared in case something goes awry.

3.      Pick the right time. Early morning or late evening flights work best in warmer weather while midday flights are better in colder months. If possible, book a nonstop flight to minimize your pet’s anxiety

4.      Prepare the carrier. Putting your pet in a strange kennel the day of the flight and hoping it will be calm is a recipe for disaster. Instead, place the animal in the container a few times at home. Line the bottom with a familiar blanket and include a favorite toy to provide a sense of security.

5.      Pile on the exercise. They day before and morning of your flight, exercise your pet as much as possible. The goal is to tire them out so they are relaxed on travel day.

6.      Don’t forget food and water. No matter how short you think the flight may be, always pack food and water in your furry companion’s crate. Freeze water before you leave home for easy transportation and a cool refreshing treat once the plane is in the air.

7.      Ditch the Drugs. The American Veterinary Medical Association advises that owners never sedate their pets when flying. The combination of tranquilizers and high altitudes can prove fatal.

 
 
Reduce some of your own travel anxiety by making a free online reservation at Airways Parking!

Seven Simple Tips for Winter Packing

The holidays are stressful enough without having to shove every coat and scarf you own into a suitcase for winter travel. Stop shoving, pushing and pulling your luggage for hours, waiting for your clothes to magically compact themselves! Instead, make things easy on yourself by taking a look at the list below:

Ø  Choose synthetic fabrics. They will keep you warm and snuggly and are less likely to be fluffy and take up precious space.

Ø  Hats are the secret to staying warm! Make sure you pack a hat that covers your ears and the back of your neck for maximum warmth. Additional flaps or needless furry decorations just waste space.

Ø  Mix and mach. Have three to four pairs of warm pants that you can wear with three to four different sweaters in a variety of exciting combinations.

Ø  Don’t forget to layer. Bring t-shirts, thin long sleeve shirts and fleece tops. Layer them under your outfits accordingly.

Ø  Take care of your toes. A solid pair of boots is a must for winter travel. Wear them on the airplane to save space. Make sure that your winter travel shoes are weatherproof and dark colored so they won’t show stains from mud or slush.

Ø  Gloves=TLBT. Your gloves should be thin, light, breathable and waterproof. Pack gloves with some kind of grip and make sure they are of the quick drying kind.

Ø  Sunscreen: Not just for the beach. A windburn or sunburn from reflection off of snow or ice is every bit as painful as summer sunburn. Take precautions.

Don’t get stuck in the cold! Make your free online parking reservation with Airways Parking to lock in our lowest rate and save your spot!"

Ten Tips for Flying with Children

Flying with children can be a daunting task, whether you are an experienced flyer or first time traveler. Fortunately, some strategic planning can help make flying with children a fun and relaxed experience for you and your kids. Here are 10 tips to make your life a little easier:

1.      Let your child have her own carry on. She will feel like a “big girl” and you can fill it with little distractions and snacks to keep her busy during the flight.

2.      Plan around your usual routine. If you can, plan your flight when your child is most calm and pleasant. Only you know when your child takes naps, eats meals or becomes fussy.

3.      Know your TSA rules. Kids under the age of 12 do not have to take their shoes off for TSA security. In addition, baby formula, breast milk and medications are allowed in excess of 3.4 ounces in reasonable quantities for the flight and do not have to be placed in a clear zip-top baggie. You must tell the TSA officer you are carrying these liquids at the beginning of screening.

4.      Spring for a seat. While airlines allow you to hold your child on your lap until they're 2 years old, this is hard on a long flight. If you can afford it, buy an extra seat for the baby.

5.      Don’t take out the toys too soon. If you buy your child new books or toys for the flight, wait until the meltdown begins and then bring out your secret weapon.

6.      Suck it up. If you don’t usually let your kids watch TV or play games for extended periods, now is the time to suck it up and realize it won’t do permanent damage. Knowing they are being allowed to do something that is usually off-limits is a huge draw.

7.      Bring a spare shirt for yourself. Spills and spit up are inevitable. You will appreciate the clean smell around your upper body.

8.      Snacks and sippy cups. Pack durable snacks that are familiar to your child. Don’t forget to pack an empty sippy cup so you can fill it with juice or water mid-flight.

9.      Magazine scavenger hunts. Make a list of 10 things such a woman or a hotel, and have your kids find them using the magazines in the seat pockets.

10.   Who cares what other people think. Say hi to everyone and be cordial, but remember there is a good chance that you won’t see these people again. You are doing your best to make the experience pleasant for everyone and that is all that matters.

Stress less! Reserve your parking today with Airways Parking.