Calcutta , General info:
6/10

New name is KOLKATA - that is closer how it used to be pronounced in the native language - Bengali.

Airport code is still the old code CCU for Calcutta. The airport is on northeast corner of metro - also also called Dum Dum from the local township name.

If going by train, try station names of HOWRAH or SEALDAH - the latter is a friendlier terminus, but less trains go there. Howrah is the traditional rail terminus - on other side of river Ganges.

Calcutta , Cheap stuff:
9/10

Great food - whether Mughlai or sweets, and most reasonable price among metro Indian cities.

'Get Well' Clinic is the best as well as very cheap PHYSIOTHERPY & ACUPRESSURE Centre. You can get really sincer and dedicated treatment here.

Calcutta , Different stuff:
8/10

Tough driving and narrow / slow roads.

Calcutta , Don't miss:
10/10

Victoria Memorial.

Darjeeling - a hill town about 600 km north.

Digha - a seaside resort - about 4 hours drive

Calcutta , Food:
10/10

Great food everywhere in this city

Calcutta , Hotels:
8/10

Quite a few 4 and 5 star hotels

Calcutta , Safety:
7/10

Safer than other towns - but beware of pickpocketing.

Chicago , General info:
7/10

Two airports -Midway or OHare (ORD).OHare is major airport; both convenient to downtown (called The Loop)

Chicago , Different stuff:
6/10

flee market - great fun!

Chicago , Don't miss:
5/10

sambucca

Chicago , Food:
9/10

Food in Chicago is excellent! There is so much variety. There are many places for steak (Carmine's, Wildfire). There is also great Italian (Sappori Trattoria). Many ethnic restaurants if you want tasty affordable alternatives. My advice - go to a BYOB with a bottle or two of wine and you'll save.

Chicago , Hotels:
7/10

Hotels along Michigan Avenue are fun yet expensive. For a cheaper place in a great location, try Congress Plaza hotel.

Chicago , Safety:
6/10

OK for the most part. Just plan out your route in advance. Take cabs, buses, or trains.