Roberto Sabas
Great little retreat space in Bridgeport, attached to a Gothic style church building. The monks have a vow of silence but take good care and are responsive to their community, their congregation, and their b&b guests. When we visit, we opt for the attached space as it provides 3 separate rooms, relaxing living space (in the northeast turret), convenient private parking lot, very helpful local info, and a cozy breakfast nook. Speaking of which, they deliver to the stair landing every morning of your stay a varied, generous, and deliciously hearty breakfast. You can expect pleasant surprises on the menu, such as Eggs Benedict (punnily enough) and fruit crepes. There is a standalone guest house across the alley south of the church, but by law since the monastery is not a food establishment they cannot deliver prepared food to its guest. I was told though that they keep the pantry and fridge well stocked for diy breakfast (which we'll try at our next stay). Masses are said in Latin and the chants and songs transport you through time, allowing for a meditative framework from which to gather your thoughts or leave them, if you choose. The sanctuary space is replete with gorgeous works, both old and new. Ask the master of hospitality for a tour and stop by the gift shop if you have time--you won't regret it. It's convenient to many good coffee shops, restaurants, and bars, not to mention artist ateliers, a maritime museum, a wonderfully landscaped urban walking park, next to a quarry that's now used for fishing. Lastly, for Chicago, the room rate is very good and they have easy access to bus and train, if you want to ride downtown. It's been a year since we visited and after the nation has flattened the curve and there's finally general immunity, we look forward to our next stay.
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