If there is any city in the United States (which I have recently experienced) that the word "renaissance" could be used to describe appropriately, Chicago.... If there is any city in the United States (which I have recently experienced) that the word "renaissance" could be used to describe appropriately, Chicago would be it. I had been here about six years ago. At that time, the city had already begun to sprout signs of an uncommon urban American rejuvenation and vitality.

Later in 2001, I spoke with a woman from France on during a cross-country train trip. She had just been to San Francisco, and, learning that, I asked her what she thought of it. "Disappointed" was her reply. I asked what city in the United States impressed her most, she responded with "Chicago."

Returning here to the city of big shoulders this weekend, I couldn't disagree. Michigan Avenue has to rank as the premier shopping street in the country. Condo high rises are sprouting like dandelion once did on vacant lots. The streets are filled with people, and Frank Gehry's Millennium Park bandstand is taking form. Bohemian neighborhoods like Pilsen were also going strong.

Of course there are drawbacks. A city undergoing this much change in a short period of time is bound to lose some treasures. Some of the new townhouses at University Village and other locales are gated. In fact, one my friend and I noticed was behind not one, but two, sets of gates. Garages are neatly hidden in the back, with attractive pedestrian ways to access the front doors. I was left wondering, however, if the front pathways would ever be used.

During a visit to Hull House, Jane Addams 19th Century Settlement House, I was finally able to go inside after years of dropping by to find locked doors. I discovered much of the house had been rebuilt. I was also happy to learn the settlement idea was alive and well in an organization called Hull House that is separate from the University of Illinois at Chicago location.

I also should mention that the train ride was on time and relaxing. More, the price was more than affordable thanks to Amtrak's "Rail Sale." If you aren't aware of these special fares, visit Amtrak.com and click on "Rail Sale."