Amanda's home is in a beautiful neighborhood that boasts the best Italian food in Chicago. There are literally 5 Italian restaurants within a 2 block radius! My wife and I spent an entire afternoon just walking around the area, shopping for vintage clothing (Pilsen Vintage, Knee Deep Vintage, Very Best Vintage) and checking historical landmarks (St. Paul's Catholic Church) and yes, eating lots of great food (Il Vicinato Ristorante, Sweet Maple Cafe, 'L' Cafecito Jumping Bean).
Then there is Amanda's home. It's as beautiful as it's origin story - one that Amanda will readily tell if you have the time. She's definitely got her own stuff going on but has this uncanny ability to appear when she's most needed (even if that need is just for company over tea). Her house is spotless. Her cat, Hafiz (Feezey) actually uses the toilet. Yep, no litter box! The back deck is quiet and homey and the rooms each have a journal for travelers to add their stories to. I got totally lost in the one assigned to my room, "The Angel's Loft."
While the house has incredible amenities (mostly in the details - a surprise every time you look!) it is lacking in insulation so you definitely need to be mindful of how sound travels. If you wanna be up late watching loud movies or expect a space to bring over friends to party, you will certainly need to talk to Amanda in advance to make accommodations. This place is PEACEFUL.
That said, you may find yourself in the neighbor's backyard with a beer next to the bonfire, or laughing over pancakes in the kitchen surrounded by new friends. It's quiet but lively. To quote my wife, "I think if I spent more time around Amanda I'd become a better person." If this sounds like the kind of vibe you want while staying in Chicago, do it. She's been in the Chi-town AirBnB market since long before it was cool and she has equipped her entire home to be the best in the business.
I know I will return the next time I come to the Windy City and I'm not the only one. Our last few hours were during pancake Sunday and we shared it with a returning guest who visits from France. I could probably write a book's worth about this experience but your best bet would be to just go there and check out my journal entries from October 2017 :)
Love and gratitude,
Jackson