u/seasoniscalling

I have spent a lot of time all over India and eaten lots of Indian food, although I cannot do spicy at all. I am very comfortable with authentic places. My friend has made it to her 60s never eaten Indian! I’ve been to Devon over the years but not frequently (carless). We will have a car for this adventure.

I would like to focus on the typical North Indian staples (including chicken/non-veg) for a first time. We can do the NW suburbs (not as far a Schaumburg—think Niles, Park Ridge etc), Devon or elsewhere on the NW side of the city.

1. Go (where?) on Devon. I love the idea of showing her the saree shops and spice stores for a more immersive experience

2. Go (where?) on the NW side that is so good that we should break her into Indian before Devon

I have a few days free in London during a business trip and would love to see a garden. My UK visits are often when it’s indoor weather. I would be traveling by public transport so either a day trip or easy overnight would be best.

My favorite UK garden is RHS Wisley (I’ve been in March and July), and I’ve been to Kew and Chelsea Physic Garden. While the huge glasshouses are cool, it’s probably the least interesting part for me.

Should I go somewhere new? Back to Wisley for late summer? What’s looking good in September?

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Thinking about getting a smaller EV but have an uninsulated/unheated detached brick garage in Chicago.

Could the garage being so cold in the winter negatively affect the car or battery? Sure we can get cold snaps like -20°F but 20-30° is more typical. The garage needs all new electrical, so I’m looking at the big picture before purchasing. Love the idea is solar panels to feed the car but am not sure if it’s worth it either. Currently car-free so no ICE vehicle to compare.