Not too long ago, a friend of mine visited me here in Chicago, a preliminary step in possibly moving to the Windy City.

Once I’d contained my elation, I made it my job to show her around my favorite parts of Chicago, from Millennium Park to the John Hancock Observatory, to some of the neighborhood finds I’m especially proud of.

Despite the fact that she’s a few years out from this potential move, I couldn’t help but point out different apartments and lofts around Chicago. Property rental, I know, is not something you can plan that far in advance.

Things are always moving and changing, and within a few years a whole new scene could pop up in an otherwise dormant neighborhood (the few that are left). But, I just couldn’t help myself.

Did I mention she’s a born-and-raised New Yorker? With so many Chicagoans being ex-pats themselves, you wouldn’t think this would matter to the story.

But when you’re considering a big move, the excitement of a new location and the loyalty to your roots can create a bit of a battle. After all, she’d be going from a flat in the neighborhood she’d grown up in to a whole new chapter in Chicago. Property rental, navigating the city, finding a job, creating a whole new niche!

That being said, we made some leeway over the course of the weekend. Shortly before our whirlwind tour, she mentioned that she’d need to get her license (true city girl, has never driven) and a car before she moved to Chicago.

I’m not sure if this is a common misconception when considering Chicago realty, but no! Between the El (the elevated train system in Chicago, nicknamed the “El”), the buses, the Metra—I made sure she knew there was no need for a car in Chicago. With your handy CTA map and a good pair of shoes, you can get all over the city in no time.

I explained to her that even trips outside the city limits is easily done if you’re car-free. You can be up at the Ravinia Festival or the Chicago Botanic Gardens in 45 minutes by Metra—easy as pie.

Furthermore, when she did eventually begin her Chicago property rental search, being able to navigate the city via public transportation is a pretty nice alternative to finding and paying for parking.

While we were walking to the train, she took a call on her cell but told the person she’d have to call them back.

She was accustomed to heading underground for her commute, and was delighted when she had good service our elevated train! Yes, it was a small victory, but I’ll count it.