Here is an example of a 6-day exchange for an incoming Friendship Force club. Note that during “free” time, various day and dinner hosts may provide excursions and home dinners for inidividuals or small groups; Ambassadors may also arrange their own excursions to theaters, concerts, the opera, or other venues; hosts will assist as needed. Please let us know about anything special you would like to do or see.
Day 1: Hosts pick up Ambassadors at O’Hare Airport or Union Station. Afternoon to rest and get acquainted. In the evening, a welcome party at a member’s home or other location.
Day 2: Morning: Meet at the BAPS Mandir Hindu temple in Bartlett, Illinois. Tour the beautiful buildings and gardens, and learn about the Hindu religion of India. Alternatively, some exchanges visit the Baha’i temple in Wilmette, Illinois; this is another opportunity to learn about a different religion while experiencing breathtakingly beautiful architecture. Lunch at a local restaurant on your own with day hosts. Evening: Visit the Chicago Botanic Gardens in Glencoe, Illinois. Musical entertainment in the pavilion, stroll through the magnificent gardens. Dinner at the pavillion or at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Day in Chicago. Take a 90-minute historical/architectural boat tour of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Lunch on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Building. Stroll down Michigan Avenue to shop, and visit Millenium Park to view “Cloudgate” (affectionately named “the bean”), and other sights. As you wish, visit the Art Institute, Field Museum, Aquarium, Navy Pier, and other attractions.
Day 4: Morning: Meet in Oak Park, Illinois to tour the Frank Lloyd Wright house, studio, and the neighborhood to see the work of one of America’s greatest architects. The rest of the day is free.
Day 5: Free time during the day. Evening: farewell party at a member’s home or a restaurant.
Day 6: Hosts drive Ambassadors to the airport or train station as required.