FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Chicago International Film Festival

by John Wroblewski

Nov 1, 2021

Opening Night screening of THE FRENCH DISPATCH at the 57th
Chicago International Film Festival. Photo by Timothy M. Schmidt.

After not going to a movie theater in a couple years, I made up for lost time at the Chicago International Film Festival. I am happy to report I enjoyed every movie I saw.

Chicago International Film Festival

Opening Night screening of THE FRENCH DISPATCH at the 57th
Chicago International Film Festival. Photo by Timothy M. Schmidt.

Started in 1964 by filmmaker and graphic artist Michael Kutza, it is North America’s longest-running competitive film festival. All of the festival’s films are Chicago premieres. Some are even U.S. and world premieres. More than half of the theater screenings featured actors and directors introducing their films and hosting discussions upon the conclusion of the film.

Sir Kenneth Branagh

Sir Kenneth Branagh on stage before a Special Presentation of
BELFAST. Photo by Barry Brecheisen.

This year, the 57th Chicago International Film Festival held screenings of more than 80 movies at four theaters across the city, as well as virtually on the festival’s streaming platform. I saw movies at Gene Siskel Film Center and Music Box Theatre, two iconic Chicago theaters. My favorites were horror film Antlers, biopic The Velvet Underground and biopic Julia.

Gianfranco Rosi

Gianfranco Rosi receives the Artistic Achievement Award. Photo by Timothy M. Schmidt.

One interesting note involves the festival logo. While some speculate the eyes are Charlie Chaplin’s or Liza Minnelli’s, they are a combination of silent screen sirens Theda Bara, Pola Negri and Mae Murray. Director Kutza created the logo.

Chicago International Film Festival

Photo by Chicago International Film Festival.

— John Wroblewski, online writer

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
February 2025
Feb 8, 2025

“m/s Paul Gauguin” Multimillion-Dollar Refurbishment

The 330-guest m/s Paul Gauguin ship will undergo an extensive refurbishment over a seven-week period in Singapore between February and March 2025, introducing sustainable technology upgrades, a contemporary new look for Le Grill restaurant and eight new connecting staterooms.

A Word with Nat Pieper, oneworld CEO

Name: Nat Pieper Title: CEO at oneworld City: Dallas, Texas First job: Stadium vendor

February 2025
Feb 8, 2025

Fort Lauderdale’s New Pier Sixty-Six Wows Waterside

Since the 1960s, a multi-spired tower and erstwhile hotel, part of a fuel dock owned by the Phillips 66 petroleum company, dominated a stretch of Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal waterfront as the skyline’s most iconic — if quirky — landmark. But in January 2025, with the unveiling of a new resort at the heart of a $1 billion redevelopment project here, Pier Sixty-Six and its mid-century masterpiece tower were reborn as a waterfront destination, remaking the beloved neighborhood just blocks from the beach. The 32-acre project features a luxury resort and residences; multiple waterfront culinary venues (with more rolling out throughout 2025); and a world-class mega-yacht marina befitting of the title “Yachting Capital of the World,” complete with 164 deepwater slips for yachts up to 400 feet long.

Daily
Feb 7, 2025

Shanghai’s New Bund Area Emerges as Global Destination

The New Bund area, in Shanghai’s Qiantan International Business District, is emerging as the city’s fastest growing cultural and business destination. Located within a cluster of shiny new corporate and residential skyscrapers, museums, galleries, cultural centers, and hotels located on the bank of the Huangpu River, The New Bund attracts art and design enthusiasts, financiers and entrepreneurs from across Shanghai, China and the world.

Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems

Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.

Press Releases
Feb 7, 2025

Join Us to Celebrate the 13th Annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards

Sun, sea and sand beckon! Join us at this year’s Leisure Lifestyle Awards in Miami, Florida. Global Traveler invites you to celebrate the best in travel for the 13th annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards in this vibrant beach city. What better way to sit back and relax than at an event honoring those who have mastered the art of leisure?

Daily
Feb 5, 2025

British Pullman, A Belmond Train Launches Michelin-Starred Chef Dinner Series

The British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England recently announced its latest culinary offering, the Celebrity Chef Dinner Series. The initiative launches with four journeys from April 18, each with a new menu designed by some of the United Kingdom’s most renowned Michelin-starred chefs, including Andrew Wong, Atul Kochhar, Phil Howard and Theo Randall.

Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet

Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.

February 2025
Feb 5, 2025

Cruise Between Two Oceans on the Incredible Panama Canal

As we cruised through Lake Gatún, gliding by islands covered with thick vegetation while tropical birds flew overhead, it was hard to believe we were in the midst of a manmade feat of engineering. As we hit the locks to bring us into the Caribbean, however, we could have leaned out and touched the concrete walls as our small ship slowly stepped down to sea level.