Keep the search on your side of Chicago
Lakeview, Wicker Park, the Loop and the suburbs can all appear in one broad search. That does not make them convenient. Start with the neighbourhood where you will be and widen the distance only if you are willing to make the trip.
North Side and northwest neighbourhoods
Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park and Logan Square are connected differently depending on the hour. Pick a public meeting place near a train or bus route both people already know.
Loop and nearby areas
The Loop can be a neutral meeting point when you are coming from different parts of the city. Check the route home first, especially late at night or during bad weather.
South Side, West Side and suburbs
Name the neighbourhood or suburb. A profile listed simply as Chicago could be well outside the distance either person expects.
Make the distance clear
- Use your real neighbourhood, not a city-wide setting.
- Say whether you drive, use the CTA, can host or need a neutral location.
- Check recent activity before sending a message.
- Look at the local selection before paying for added access.
Weather can change a good plan
Snow, wind and long waits between connections can turn an easy summer trip into a bad winter one. Confirm the meeting the same day and keep your own way home.
Keep work and home separate
Use a separate email and avoid photos that reveal an employer, address or regular routine. Do not share a home address until you have confirmed who you are meeting.
Before meeting
- Confirm that everyone is 18 or older.
- Meet in public first.
- Tell someone where you are going.
- Keep control of your transportation and use protection.
- Leave if the person or plan does not match the conversation.