As a foodie and a lover of cultural events, moving to Chicago 10 months ago was really overwhelming. Frankly, there is just so much to do here!
Since there was so much I wanted to see and do, I tried to keep all of the recommendations I got from friends and different websites organized. I had a messy excel sheet on my computer and a running notepad on my phone, but after a while I couldn’t keep up with either of them and felt myself falling into a rut.
Then, I discovered Sosh and this app made my overwhelming situation so much easier!
Basically, Sosh is a FREE mobile application and website that has literally replaced my to-do list in Chicago. The app uses a mix of technology and in-the-know people (from on-staff experts to well-known locals) to continually keep an eye on the city’s hottest restaurants, activities and events. Each activity is then recommended to you based on your interests and habits. As a bonus, the app is similar to Twitter/Instagram in that you can have followers and follow other people to see what they have done or what is on their “to-do” list.
So, how does it work? That’s the best part because it is so simple (and really fun)! When you download the app and create an account it asks you a series of questions about what you’re interests are. Once you’ve completed the analysis and log into the app, you can start finding great things to do in the city, creating your very own “to-do list” and checking off the things you’ve already done.
There is so much about this app I love, but here are 5 of the things I love most about it and why:
1) Creating my personalized City Guide: Within the app, I have created my very own to-do list. This time, my list is far from messy. Once you log-in, you can start viewing the different recommendations, read what the “Sosh Insiders” and other reputable sources have to say about it and “bookmark” it if it is something you are interested in. This is great for those moments where you’re trying to think of somewhere to go (and you swear you had a whole list), but can’t remember. To access your bookmarks, just click your name in the bottom corner of this app and they will all be there. You can even book a table at the restaurant right from the app. Then, once you’ve gone, you can mark an activity as ‘done’ and then note whether you loved it or not to help shape future recommendations.
2) The Sosh Weekender: How many times do you wake up on a Monday morning and see your friends Instagram photos from that cool food festival or art exhibit that you never even heard about? With the Sosh Weekender, I promise, this won’t happen to you again! This Wednesday email keeps you in the know about the coolest things that are happening this upcoming weekend.
3) Under $30: Let’s face it, being a foodie/lover of cultural events is great, but it can get really expensive. That’s why I love the “Under $30” section of Sosh. It gives you tons of recommendations of things to do and places to eat that won’t break your bank. So the next time you say you’re broke and can’t do anything, check this out! You will be totally surprised how many cool yet inexpensive things going on around Chicago.
4) Just Opened: As a blogger, I need to stay on top of what’s new in Chicago. People are always asking me for “exclusives” or my opinions on new places opening up. I feel like it’s really hard to keep up! This section of the app has helped me tremendously. Now I can really keep my tab on the pulse of city and stay up to date on what’s new.
5) Your Sosh Digest: As a perk of being a member of Sosh, occasionally you will get a personalized e-mail with recommendations of things to do based on your preferences, habits and what you’ve already done and loved. It’s like having your own personal concierge service but it doesn’t cost you a dime!
There is so much more I love about Sosh, but I will let you discover its greatness for yourself. In short, this app is a must get. You can download the app here, or sign-up on the web here.
Love always,
Erica
