This week, Eye on Travel comes from the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk. I have a detailed report on the immediate and long-term travel effects from the Iran war, the Cuban blockade, Venezuela, and let’s not forget the price of gas and domestic travel in the U.S. for 2026. Is it all bad news? I have multiple reports, with some real and sobering numbers, and what you need to know, and how (and how quickly) to adjust. In the meantime, what two shrinking airlines can tell you about the real future of discount carriers. Samantha Brown, host of Places to Love on PBS, stops by with her report on her love for B-side American cities (and her love for one airport in particular). Then, a deep dive into the Windy City with Jen Ellison, Vice President of Creative for the legendary Second City. Lisa Timbo, Area General Manager of the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, on the strategic shift toward curated travel packages, and some of her top Chicago choices. Then, a look at my must-stop location in Chicago with Dr. Voula Saridakis, Head Curator of the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry, and the incredible and continuing odyssey of the U-505 submarine. Chayanne Aranda, Executive Sous Chef at Sheraton Grand Chicago, on the city’s diverse food scene, the ongoing argument of deep-dish versus thin-crust pizza, and why Home Depot hot dogs might reign supreme. And of course, I answer your travel questions. There’s all this and more on this week’s Eye on Travel.