<![CDATA[Great Lakes Travel Deals: Illinois - Chicago / Domestic ]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/s/chicago-ohare-international-airporthttps://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!WtkB!,w_256,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd60eb3a1-9a5d-41c5-a953-ec76f8307c76_1200x1200.pngGreat Lakes Travel Deals: Illinois - Chicago / Domestic https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/s/chicago-ohare-international-airportSubstackTue, 28 Jul 2026 23:12:45 GMT<![CDATA[Chicago to Stockholm, Sweden from $367 Roundtrip!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-stockholm-sweden-fromhttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-stockholm-sweden-fromThu, 09 Jul 2026 11:34:36 GMTIt’s been several months since I’ve spotted mainland Europe flights drop into the $300s, so this one definitely caught my attention.

Discounted flights from Chicago (ORD) to Stockholm, Sweden are available October through February starting at just $367 roundtrip — including options over Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day.

Spend a week in Sweden exploring:

• Stockholm’s historic Old Town (Gamla Stan)
• The incredible Vasa Museum and waterfront neighborhoods
• Swedish cafés, food halls, castles, and unique neighborhoods
• Head north for a chance to see the Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland

Iceland Layover

A few flight options include an almost 24-hour layover in Iceland. That won’t be ideal for everyone, but for adventurous travelers it could be an incredible bonus stop.

With 24 hours in Iceland you could:

• Relax at the Blue Lagoon
• Explore Reykjavik
• Visit waterfalls, geysers, and highlights of the Golden Circle

Sweden + Iceland and flights to Europe back in the $300s. This is exactly the type of deal we’ve been waiting to see again.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Costa Rica from $300 Round Trip on JetBlue!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-costa-rica-from-300-roundhttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-costa-rica-from-300-roundSun, 28 Jun 2026 01:10:51 GMTLooking for a tropical getaway this fall? JetBlue is offering round-trip flights from Chicago to Liberia, Costa Rica starting at just $300 for travel in September and early October.

This is a new all-time low for this route since I began tracking fares. The previous low was $302, which I found back in October 2025. Considering this route is typically priced at $650+, this is an exceptional value.

September and early October are a great time to visit Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region. While you may encounter occasional tropical showers, you’ll also find lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent opportunities to enjoy beautiful beaches, national parks, waterfalls, wildlife, surfing, and zip-lining.

✈️ Why Fly Into Liberia?

Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) is the perfect gateway for travelers headed to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. It’s smaller, easier to navigate than San José, and puts you within an hour of many of the country’s top beaches, resorts, and national parks. You can land, clear customs, and be swimming in the Pacific Ocean before lunch.

🌿 Five Amazing Things to Do in Costa Rica with a Week Off

Relax in Tamarindo — A laid-back surf town just an hour from the airport with golden beaches, boutique hotels, and beachfront dining.

Soak in Arenal’s Hot Springs — Visit La Fortuna for hiking, volcano views, and natural hot springs surrounded by rainforest.

Explore Rincon de la Vieja National Park — See volcanic mud pots, waterfalls, and wildlife just 30 minutes from Liberia.

Take a Catamaran Cruise — Spot dolphins, snorkel, and watch the sunset from the Gulf of Papagayo.

Stay in an Eco-Lodge — Experience the country’s famous sustainability efforts firsthand in a jungle canopy or riverside retreat.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Iceland from $321 Round Trip on Delta!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-iceland-from-321-roundhttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-iceland-from-321-roundFri, 26 Jun 2026 23:15:30 GMTLooking for an unforgettable late summer adventure? Delta is offering round-trip flights from Chicago to Iceland starting at just $321 for travel in August and September.

Considering this route is usually priced at $650+, this is an exceptional value and one of the better Iceland fares we’ve seen from Chicago.

August and September are phenomenal times to visit Iceland. You’ll enjoy mild temperatures, long daylight hours in August, colorful fall scenery as September arrives, waterfalls at their peak, and some of the year’s best opportunities to explore glaciers, black sand beaches, geothermal hot springs, and the famous Golden Circle. Late September also marks the beginning of the Northern Lights season.

As always, these fares are limited and can disappear quickly, so travelers interested in visiting Iceland this summer or early fall may want to book sooner rather than later.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Portland, Maine from $168 Roundtrip]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-portland-maine-from-168https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-portland-maine-from-168Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:49:05 GMTJetBlue is currently offering roundtrip flights from Chicago to Portland, Maine starting at $168 for travel in July and August.

For perspective, this route is typically priced at $300+ roundtrip, making this an excellent opportunity to visit Maine during its most beautiful season.

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Portland is known for its historic waterfront, outstanding seafood, charming downtown, and easy access to some of New England’s most scenic coastline. Visitors can explore the Old Port district, visit iconic lighthouses, take a ferry into Casco Bay, or enjoy fresh lobster overlooking the Atlantic.

At $168 roundtrip, this is a fantastic price to experience one of the most popular summer destinations in the Northeast.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to New Zealand from $886 Roundtrip!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-new-zealand-from-886-roundtriphttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-new-zealand-from-886-roundtripSat, 13 Jun 2026 14:19:52 GMTRoundtrip flights from Chicago to Auckland, New Zealand are currently available from $886 for travel between November and April.

For perspective, this route typically prices at $1,200+, making this a significant discount to one of the world’s ultimate bucket-list destinations. It appears Delta, United, and American are all competing on the route, creating rare pricing pressure and some excellent options for travelers.

Even better, I’m seeing availability during Thanksgiving and around Valentine’s Day, creating an opportunity for an unforgettable holiday getaway.

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What To Do With 7–9 Days in New Zealand

If I had a week (or nine days), here’s how I’d structure it:

Auckland + Waiheke Island (2–3 days)

Harbor views, volcanic cones, waterfront dining, and an easy ferry to Waiheke for vineyards and coastal hikes.

Rotorua (1–2 days)

Geothermal parks, bubbling mud pools, Māori cultural experiences, and natural hot springs.

Queenstown (3–4 days)

Fly south. This is the adventure capital of the world — alpine lakes, dramatic mountains, Milford Sound day trip, hiking, wine country, or just soaking in the scenery.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Los Angeles - Nonstop from $98 Round Trip!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-los-angeles-nonstop-fromhttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-los-angeles-nonstop-fromWed, 03 Jun 2026 10:57:18 GMTIf Southern California is on your radar, this fare is worth a look.

I’m currently seeing nonstop flights from Chicago to Los Angeles starting at just $98 round trip for travel at the end of August and beginning of September.

Anytime I find a West Coast fare under $100 round trip, it’s worth publishing. Flights on this route are usually much more expensive, making this an outstanding value for a trip to one of America’s most popular destinations.

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Why Travelers Love Los Angeles

Beaches and Coastal Communities
Los Angeles offers easy access to iconic Southern California beach destinations including Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Venice Beach, and Malibu.

Hollywood and Entertainment
From the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Griffith Observatory to Universal Studios and live entertainment venues, Los Angeles is one of the world’s most recognizable tourism destinations.

Easy Access to Southern California
Los Angeles serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations such as Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Catalina Island, Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park, and San Diego.

Outstanding Food Scene
The city is known for its diverse culinary offerings, ranging from authentic taco stands and food trucks to some of the nation’s most acclaimed restaurants.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Nassau, Bahamas — Priced Starting at $279 - A New Low!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-nassau-bahamas-pricedhttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-nassau-bahamas-pricedTue, 12 May 2026 02:42:22 GMTThis is an incredible deal to one of the most beautiful and easiest-to-reach islands in the Caribbean. Flights from Chicago to Nassau typically average $500+, so seeing fares drop to just $279 roundtrip is a massive savings — and a new all-time low for this route.

For comparison, the previous record low was $294, which I found back in April 2023.

Travel dates are available in August and September, making this a perfect late-summer getaway. Nassau offers crystal-clear turquoise water, white-sand beaches, family-friendly resorts, and easy access to Paradise Island and Atlantis.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to book a Bahamas trip, this might be it.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Kauai for $360 Roundtrip on United!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-kauai-for-360-roundtriphttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-kauai-for-360-roundtripWed, 29 Apr 2026 21:31:12 GMTI found flights from Chicago to Kauai on United starting at $360 roundtrip for travel in October and November — a fantastic price for one of Hawaii’s most beautiful islands.

This route typically averages $600+, so this is a strong deal and one of the better Kauai fares I’ve seen from the Midwest.

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Why Visit Kauai in October & November?

Fall is one of the best times to go—warm weather, fewer crowds, and often better hotel pricing before the holiday season begins.

You’ll still get beautiful beach days, lush green scenery, and incredible sunsets without peak-season pricing.

A Few Things to Do

🌊 Nā Pali Coast Boat Tour – Kauai’s most iconic experience with cliffs, sea caves, and dolphins

🏞 Waimea Canyon – Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”

🏖 Poipu Beach – Great for snorkeling, sea turtles, and family beach days

At $360 roundtrip, this is an excellent chance to visit one of Hawaii’s most unforgettable islands.

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]]><![CDATA[Rare Find: $368 Chicago to Dubrovnik (Early May)!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/rare-find-368-chicago-to-dubrovnikhttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/rare-find-368-chicago-to-dubrovnikSat, 04 Apr 2026 12:17:03 GMTIf you’ve been waiting for a shot at Europe this spring, this is one of those deals that makes you stop what you’re doing.

I found a flight from Chicago to Dubrovnik for just $368 round trip for travel in early May.

That’s not just a good deal—it’s likely a mistake fare.

This route typically runs $700+, and what really stands out is that the surrounding dates are still pricing in the $700–$750 range, which makes this one-off drop even more unusual.

Why this matters

  • ✔️ Less than half the normal price

  • ✔️ Peak shoulder-season timing in Croatia

  • ✔️ Extremely limited at this price point

Mistake fares like this don’t last long. Airlines can correct them at any time, and once a few people grab these seats, the lowest fares disappear quickly.

Why Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik is one of the most visually striking coastal cities in Europe—think medieval walls, Adriatic views, and easy access to islands and boat days. Early May is a sweet spot with great weather, fewer crowds, and better pricing on hotels compared to summer.

If this fits your schedule, I wouldn’t overthink it—this is the kind of deal that’s usually gone by the time you circle back later in the day.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Stockholm this Spring priced at $381!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-stockholm-this-springhttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-stockholm-this-springMon, 09 Mar 2026 10:34:38 GMTHere’s a fun one for spring travel. Flights from Chicago to Stockholm are available starting at $381 round trip for travel in April through early May. Historically this route typically prices $550+, so this is a great price point.

One unique aspect of this deal:
• You’ll see the flight options using the link below, but you’ll need to take the travel times and locate the exact flights directly on Icelandair.com to book.

These itineraries include a 22-hour layover in Reykjavik, Iceland. The flights typically arrive in Iceland in the early evening and depart the following afternoon, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy dinner, breakfast, and a quick look around the city before continuing on to Chicago.

A few things travelers love doing in Stockholm in the spring:
• Gamla Stan (Old Town) – cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and great cafes once the weather warms.
• Djurgården Island – perfect for walking or biking with museums like the Vasa Museum and ABBA Museum nearby.
• Stockholm Archipelago – spring boat trips start running again to the nearby islands.
• Outdoor cafés & waterfront walks – the city really comes alive once the long winter ends.

A cheap flight to Scandinavia plus a mini Iceland stopover is about as good of a spring travel combo as you’ll find.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Auckland, New Zealand — $579 Roundtrip 🔥 (New Low!)]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-auckland-new-zealand-579https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-auckland-new-zealand-579Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:19:53 GMTThis is a big one.

Roundtrip flights from Chicago to Auckland are pricing at a rock-bottom $579 for travel in late February and early March. Historically, this route runs $1,200+, and until now the best I had seen was $766 (Dec 2025) and $882 (Oct 2023).

At $579, this is a true new low for one of the most bucket-list long-haul destinations in the world.

Yes — it’s short notice. But if you’ve got flexibility, remote work options, or a freshly reloaded vacation balance… this is how you visit a world-class country at a deep discount.

What To Do With 7–9 Days in New Zealand

If I had a week (or nine days), here’s how I’d structure it:

Auckland + Waiheke Island (2–3 days)

Harbor views, volcanic cones, waterfront dining, and an easy ferry to Waiheke for vineyards and coastal hikes.

Rotorua (1–2 days)

Geothermal parks, bubbling mud pools, Māori cultural experiences, and natural hot springs.

Queenstown (3–4 days)

Fly south. This is the adventure capital of the world — alpine lakes, dramatic mountains, Milford Sound day trip, hiking, wine country, or just soaking in the scenery.

Optional Add-On: Hobbiton (near Matamata) if you’re a LOTR fan — surprisingly fun even if you’re not.

Late February and early March is late summer in New Zealand — long daylight hours, warm temps, and shoulder-season value.

It’s rare to see a destination this far away price like a domestic long weekend.
If New Zealand is on your list… this is the kind of fare that can make it real. 🌏✈️

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]]><![CDATA[Incredible $46 Roundtrip Flights from Chicago to Florida!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/incredible-46-roundtrip-flights-fromhttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/incredible-46-roundtrip-flights-fromThu, 12 Feb 2026 11:45:15 GMTHere are a few deeply discounted Saturday-to-Saturday flights from Chicago to Orlando, Fort Myers, and Fort Lauderdale that are now available starting at just $46 roundtrip for travel in April and May. That’s an incredible value for peak sunshine season, especially for clean one-week getaways that run Saturday to Saturday.

These fares are about as low as it gets and open the door to three of Florida’s most sought-after destinations without breaking the budget. Whether you’re planning a family spring break, a couples escape, or just need a reset from Midwest weather, this is one of the cheapest ways to lock in a full week in the sun.

Why visit? Orlando delivers world-class theme parks and family fun, Fort Myers offers Gulf Coast beaches and laid-back island vibes, and Fort Lauderdale blends boating culture, nightlife, and beautiful Atlantic shoreline into one easy-to-love coastal city.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Key West for $177 on Delta!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-key-west-for-177-on-deltahttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-key-west-for-177-on-deltaFri, 06 Feb 2026 11:49:10 GMTDelta has roundtrip flights from Chicago to Key West priced at just $177 for travel March through May, and then again August through December. That’s an incredible fare for a route that almost never dips this low — the only time I’ve seen it cheaper was back in May of 2023, when it briefly hit $175.

Key West is one of those destinations that feels like a true escape without needing a passport. Visitors love wandering Duval Street, catching the sunset celebration at Mallory Square, snorkeling and boating in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the laid-back island vibe that makes everything slow down a notch.

One major highlight: Dry Tortugas National Park. Located about 70 miles west of Key West, it’s home to Fort Jefferson, turquoise water, and some of the best snorkeling in Florida. It’s one of the most unique national parks in the U.S. and absolutely worth the boat or seaplane trip.

At $177 roundtrip on Delta, this is one of the best opportunities you’ll see to get to Key West in 2025 — whether you’re chasing spring sunshine or planning a late-season island escape.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Panama City, Panama - Flights from $288 Roundtrip (New Low)]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-panama-city-panama-flightshttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-panama-city-panama-flightsSat, 31 Jan 2026 22:08:38 GMTThis one jumped off the page. Flights from Chicago to Panama City, Panama are now available starting at just $288 roundtrip for travel in February and March — a new low on a route that typically averages $550+.

Even better, some of these itineraries include a ~24-hour layover in Bogotá, Colombia, which is a huge bonus if you’re open to a little adventure. A full day in Bogotá gives you the chance to explore historic La Candelaria, ride the cable car up Monserrate for sweeping city views, visit the world-class Gold Museum, and enjoy Colombia’s incredible food and coffee scene — essentially turning this deal into a two-countries-for-the-price-of-one trip.

Panama itself may feel a little off the beaten path, but that’s part of the appeal. Located just south of Costa Rica, the country offers a rare mix of Caribbean and Pacific beaches, lush rainforests, coffee-growing highlands, and a modern, cosmopolitan capital city. Add in the world-famous Panama Canal, and you’ve got a destination that punches well above its weight. Travel + Leisure has consistently highlighted Panama as a top destination for adventurous travelers — and at this price, with a built-in Bogotá stop, it’s even harder to ignore.

About Avianca (What to Know)

Avianca is Colombia’s flag carrier and one of the oldest airlines in the world, with a large network throughout Central and South America. While many of their lowest fares are more “no-frills,” Avianca is a safe, reputable airline with modern aircraft and efficient connections through major hubs. If you’re comfortable pre-selecting seats and paying for bags if needed, it’s an excellent way to reach Latin America at a steep discount.

avianca - Corporate news

Must-See Highlights in Panama City

Casco Viejo

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historic heart of the city. Expect colorful colonial buildings, rooftop bars, lively plazas, and some of the best dining in Panama.

Casco Viejo | Panama City's Old Quarter - Panama Sovereign Realty

Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks)

One of the world’s greatest engineering feats. Watch massive cargo ships pass through the canal and learn how it reshaped global trade.

Miraflores Visitor Center - Visit Canal de Panamá

Ancon Hill

A short hike that rewards you with panoramic views of Panama City, the canal, and the Pacific Ocean — plus chances to spot wildlife along the way.

THINGS TO DO IN PANAMA: hike cerro ancon | vista cañas

Great Places to Stay

American Trade Hotel (Casco Viejo)

Historic charm meets boutique luxury, with a rooftop pool, jazz club, and prime location in the old quarter.

American Trade Hotel Panama | Panama Luxury Hotel | casco antiguo hotels | Boutique Hotel in Casco Viejo Panama | Hotels in Panama City Panama

Waldorf Astoria Panama

Modern luxury in the Bella Vista district with a spa, outdoor pool, and upscale dining.

Waldorf Astoria Panama, Panama City, Panama

The Bristol Panama

Classic elegance in the financial district, known for outstanding service and refined rooms.

The Bristol Panama City, Panama City : Five Star Alliance

Don’t Leave Without Trying

Sancocho

A comforting chicken soup and national staple

Panamanian Sancocho Recipe | centralamerica.com

Ropa Vieja

Slow-stewed shredded beef packed with flavor

Ropa Vieja

Patacones

Crispy fried plantains, perfect as a snack or side

Patacones: Fried Green Plantains

With Chicago–Panama City flights starting at just $288, this is one of the best values we’ve seen for Central America. If you’ve been craving warm weather, culture, history, and adventure — Panama delivers, and this price makes it even sweeter.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Honolulu Starting at $342 for Travel in February and March!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-honolulu-starting-at-342https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-honolulu-starting-at-342Fri, 30 Jan 2026 11:40:08 GMTAs you know…. Especially right now…. Winter in the Midwest can be a grind, so seeing flights from Chicago to Honolulu starting at $342 round trip definitely grabbed my attention. This route is normally $550+, so this is a rare chance to trade snow boots for sandals and squeeze in a serious winter warm-up at a deep discount. Availability is limited to February and March, which is prime timing for escaping cold temps without peak summer crowds.

Why people love Honolulu:

• Perfect mix of beach + city – world-class beaches like Waikiki paired with great dining, shopping, and nightlife
• Unreal scenery – Diamond Head, lush hikes, waterfalls, and turquoise water everywhere you look
• Easy island access – simple day trips to the North Shore, Pearl Harbor, or snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
• Year-round sunshine – even “winter” in Hawaii feels pretty close to perfect

If you’ve been dreaming about Hawaii but waiting for prices to come back down, this is one of the better Chicago-to-Hawaii deals I’ve seen in a while. Perfect excuse to break up winter and come back recharged 🌺✈️

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to the Faroe Islands for $418 Roundtrip — Including Spring Break!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-the-faroe-islands-forhttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-the-faroe-islands-forWed, 21 Jan 2026 11:50:38 GMTFlights from Chicago to the Faroe Islands are currently just $418 roundtrip for April and May, an exceptional deal for one of Europe’s most remote and dramatic destinations. This route typically prices around $950+, making this nearly a 50% discount and a rare opportunity for Midwest travelers to reach the Faroes at a truly accessible price point. Spring is an ideal time to visit, with longer daylight hours, fewer crowds, and the islands beginning to turn lush and green after winter.

The Faroe Islands are known for jaw-dropping scenery — towering sea cliffs, waterfalls pouring straight into the Atlantic, quiet fjords, and storybook villages connected by tunnels and ferries. Travelers love the sense of isolation, peaceful roads, world-class hiking, and a surprisingly impressive food scene built around fresh seafood and local ingredients. If you’ve been looking for a spring trip that feels untouched, wild, and completely different from anywhere else in Europe, this deal makes the Faroe Islands suddenly within reach.

Three Interesting Facts About the Faroe Islands

Remote Archipelago

The Faroe Islands are a group of 18 volcanic islands located between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean. Despite their remote location, they boast some of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in the world.

Rich Birdlife

The Faroe Islands are home to a vast array of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The islands are particularly known for their large populations of puffins, gannets, and fulmars.

Innovative Infrastructure

The islands are linked by a series of tunnels, bridges, and ferries, making travel between them remarkably convenient. The sub-sea tunnels, in particular, are engineering marvels, connecting even the most remote islands and enhancing accessibility for residents and tourists alike.

Top Things to Do in the Faroe Islands

Visit the Village of Gásadalur

Nestled in the mountains with breathtaking views over the ocean, Gásadalur is one of the most picturesque villages in the Faroe Islands. The scenic hike to the village offers stunning vistas, and the Gásadalur waterfall is a must-see.

Explore Tórshavn

The capital city of the Faroe Islands, Tórshavn, is one of the smallest capitals in the world. Explore its charming old town, Tinganes, with its narrow streets and traditional turf-roofed houses. Don’t miss the National Museum to learn about Faroese history and culture.

Hike to Lake Sørvágsvatn

Known as the “floating lake,” Sørvágsvatn is a stunning optical illusion where the lake appears to be suspended above the ocean. The hike to the lake offers panoramic views and a unique perspective of this natural wonder.

Birdwatching at Vestmanna Sea Cliffs

Take a boat tour to the Vestmanna Sea Cliffs, where you can see thousands of seabirds nesting on the steep cliffs. The dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife make this an unforgettable experience.

Discover Mykines

The westernmost island of the Faroe Islands, Mykines, is known for its rich birdlife, including puffins and gannets. Enjoy hiking trails with breathtaking views and explore the quaint village of Mykines with its traditional Faroese houses.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Kauai: Winter Flights for $336 Roundtrip!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-kauai-winter-flights-forhttps://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-kauai-winter-flights-forMon, 05 Jan 2026 11:22:49 GMTFlights on American Airlines from Chicago to Kauai are showing up around $336 roundtrip for travel in January and February — a significant drop from the typical $450+ price point on this route. For Hawaii travel during peak winter months, that’s an exceptional fare.

January and February are especially appealing for Midwest travelers: fewer crowds than the holidays, excellent weather, and the perfect antidote to winter back home.

Why Kauai Is a Favorite for So Many Travelers

Kauai is often called the Garden Isle — and for good reason. It’s less built-up than some of the other Hawaiian islands and leans heavily into natural beauty.

Unmatched scenery
Think dramatic cliffs along the Nā Pali Coast, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and emerald-green valleys. Whether you’re hiking, driving, or just sitting on a beach, Kauai feels cinematic.

Relaxed, low-key island vibe
Kauai is ideal for travelers who want to slow down. Fewer high-rises, quieter beaches, and a more laid-back pace make it perfect for couples, families, and anyone looking to unplug.

Great mix of adventure and downtime
You can hike Waimea Canyon in the morning, snorkel or beach-hop in the afternoon, and still be back in time for sunset. It’s an island that rewards both exploring and doing absolutely nothing.

The takeaway

Winter flights to Hawaii under $350 from Chicago don’t come around often — especially to Kauai. If you’ve been waiting for the right price to make a winter escape happen, this is one of the better Kauai deals we’ve seen.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Bozeman direct at $169 for travel in March and April!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-bozeman-direct-at-169https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-bozeman-direct-at-169Fri, 26 Dec 2025 18:08:50 GMTDirect flights from Chicago are popping up at $169 roundtrip for travel in March and April. This route usually runs quite a bit higher, especially once spring and summer demand starts to build.

Early spring is one of the best times to visit Bozeman if you like space, scenery, and flexibility.

A few reasons Bozeman should be on your radar:

• Spring skiing at Bridger Bowl and Big Sky — fewer people, longer days, and still plenty of snow
• Yellowstone nearby — quieter roads, active wildlife, and way less congestion than summer
• Hot springs season — Bozeman Hot Springs or a short drive to Chico Hot Springs hits different in cool weather
• Downtown Bozeman — good food, breweries, coffee shops, and a relaxed mountain town feel before peak season

This is the kind of trip where you can ski one day, soak the next, and still have time to explore town.

If Bozeman has been on your list, $169 nonstop from Chicago is a strong excuse to go.

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]]><![CDATA[Chicago to Vancouver Drops to $184 Roundtrip (Spring–Early Summer)]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-vancouver-drops-to-184https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-vancouver-drops-to-184Wed, 17 Dec 2025 11:58:00 GMTThis is a great fare for one of the most scenic city-to-nature gateways in North America. Roundtrip flights from Chicago to Vancouver are currently available starting at $184 for travel April through June, a big drop from the usual $300+ you’ll typically see on this route.

Spring and early summer are an ideal time to visit Vancouver. The city is coming alive after winter, cherry blossoms line the streets in April, patios open up, and you still get snow-capped mountains as a backdrop. It’s one of those destinations where you can pair a great food scene with easy access to the outdoors.

Why Vancouver is worth the trip:

  • Stanley Park & the Seawall – One of the best urban parks in the world, perfect for biking or walking.

  • Granville Island – Food stalls, local shops, and great people-watching.

  • Grouse Mountain – Just minutes from downtown for views, hiking, and late-season snow.

  • Whistler – An easy day trip or overnight if you want alpine scenery.

  • Food scene – Incredible Asian cuisine, seafood, and coffee culture.

If you’ve been waiting for an excuse to visit Vancouver—or revisit it—$184 roundtrip from Chicago is a great reason to lock something in for spring or early summer.

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]]><![CDATA[CHICAGO TO AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND — $766 ROUND TRIP!]]>https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-auckland-new-zealand-766https://www.greatlakestraveldeals.com/p/chicago-to-auckland-new-zealand-766Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:21:33 GMTFlights from Chicago to Auckland on Air Canada are now available priced at $766 round trip for travel in February and March — a massive price cut on a route that has averaged north of $1,300. If New Zealand has ever been on your travel radar, this is a great price point.

February and March are late summer in New Zealand: warm days, long daylight, and postcard-level scenery everywhere you turn. Auckland makes for a great base with more than enough to fill a week — and it’s the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the rest of the country.

Here are a few things you can build into your trip:

  • Ferry to Waiheke Island for beaches, wineries, and the best coastal views close to the city.

  • Hobbiton — an easy and surprisingly fun day trip, even if you’re not a huge LOTR fan.

  • Bay of Islands, north of Auckland, for clear water, dolphin tours, and laid-back beach towns.

  • Rotorua & Taupō, a few hours south, for geothermal pools, Māori culture, and adventure activities.

  • Quick flight to Queenstown if you want to add the South Island’s mountains and Milford Sound.

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