15 Romantic Getaways in Washington State

With a state that offers varied climates such as gorgeous water views, rugged coastlines, a temperate rainforest, snowy peaks, arid high deserts, and ancient waterfalls, finding romantic places in Washington State is as easy as it gets. The options here are truly endless. In this guide, we explore the most romantic spots across the great state of Washington. Whether you are loving life solo, taking a bonding trip with a group of pals, or with that special someone, there is something here to fit any romantic notion. Each of these destinations offers something unique and memorable, and I’ll share my personal take on each. We’ll explore epic city stays with a view, rainforest retreats, a luxury resort in the trees, rugged mountain getaways, spa destinations, and charming treehouse escapes. Each one practically begs you to discover your own romantic escape. Romantic Getaways in Washington State Salish Lodge & Spa, Snoqualmie…

Your British Columbia Travel Guide

We’re about to take a deep dive into one of Canada’s crown jewels – the exquisite and varied province of British Columbia. The magnificent northern addition to the Pacific Northwest, this slice of heaven offers a potpourri of natural beauty, multicultural experiences, and a chilled-out charm that attracts visitors worldwide. I have traversed much of this amazing part of the world and I’ve barely scratched the surface. From the remote wilderness of the Great Bear Rainforest to the bustling cityscape that is Vancouver (also known as Canada’s Hollywood), my love affair with British Columbia is life-long. This guide isn’t just to wet your whistle (or your kayak paddle) with a few random bits of information. No, this is a veritable cornucopia of travel knowledge to help you plan your trip like a boss – or at least like someone who’s binge-watched enough documentaries to lead their own eco-tourism expedition. From…

14 Cool Boutique Hotels in Portland Oregon

If you are wondering where to stay in Portland that combines local flair with amazing amenities, you’re in the right place. Visitors will find the coolest hotels in Portland ranging from classic chic to retro vibes to artsy corners that are little havens of “Ahhh.” The hotel scene in Portland, Oregon is a treasure trove of unique finds that perfectly encapsulate the city’s eclectic spirit. Finding a great place to lay your head is an experience as unique as the city itself. I have stayed at most of these hotels, and have certainly stepped inside all of them, if only to admire the ambiance and have a cocktail. In short – they have the Explorer Sue seal of approval! I have lived in this city for over two decades and I’ve seen hotels come and go, but these properties have stood the test of time, and for good reason. All…

My Stay in a Hobbit House

I’d been vaguely aware of the hobbit house in central Washington for years. Its tantalizing photos graced my Instagram feed from time to time. And so it was that one lazy December evening I was scrolling through said feed when I happened upon a post from the owner putting out a call to be a steward for a couple of nights (free of charge) to keep the pipes from freezing. Without thinking about the weather or my schedule, I messaged the host. Within a few hours, it was all arranged. But then I researched it a little more. Right away two things gave me pause: It was about a six-hour drive from my home in Portland (I could’ve sworn it was closer) It required a front- or all-wheel drive to access the hobbit house It was a little further away than I wanted, but I love to drive, so what…

Things to Do in Washington State – the Ultimate Guide

Living in the Pacific Northwest over the last 20 odd years I have crisscrossed Washington State many times and find that it is in many ways similar to Oregon in topography, except for the amazing Puget Sound area. In this post I will guide you on a whirlwind tour of Washington State. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a serenity seeker or simply inflicted with a serious case of curiosity and wanderlust, Washington is your go-to recreational retreat. There’s a heck of a lot to discover here. Did someone say road trip? Forget asking “what to do in Washington State?” – The real question is “what can’t you do here?” It is a place where exploration is non-negotiable and memories are just waiting to be made. Oh, the Places to Go in Washington From the sparkle of Puget Sound to the tranquility of the San Juan Islands, and from the bustling…

Things to Do in Oregon – The Ultimate Guide

Oregon is best known for its diverse landscape, the rugged Pacific coastline, the volcanic Cascade Range, and numerous old-growth forests. The largest city, Portland, is famous for its eccentric, “keep Portland weird” culture and iconic parks. The state’s capital, Salem, is also rich in history, offering a glimpse into Oregon’s early beginnings. When I first moved here in 1995, I had no idea what treasures were in store for me. Nearly 30 years later, I still haven’t seen it all! The climate is influenced heavily by the Pacific Ocean and its general topography. Extreme temperatures just don’t happen here. The western and most populous region experiences a generally mild, moist oceanic climate, with temperatures rarely extreme at either end of the scale. Summer days typically average in the upper 60s to lower 80s Fahrenheit, while winter highs are usually in the mid-40s to low 50s. The central and eastern part…

Where to Find Good Coffee in Portland

Looking for the best coffee places in Portland? Look no further. I am coffee obsessed. It’s safe to say I need it pretty much every day, and I’m fortunate that my home town of Portland is renowned for its vibrant coffee culture as well as being a foodie destination. Home to a vast array of coffee shops that offer so much more than just a cup of coffee, the city rivals any other “coffee capital” of the world. And yes, that means you, Seattle! Oregon coffee roasters have taken locally roasted coffee and upped the ante. In short; anyone who visits Portland and goes to a Starbucks is doing themselves a disservice. Here, we delve into some of the best coffee shops in Portland, Oregon. I’ve been to every one of these places (many times) and believe me when I tell you this list is just scratching the surface. Best…

7 Best Hikes in Oregon

Since Oregon is my home, I always look here first when I get the itch for a good hike. If you’re looking for a detailed guide to Oregon hikes, look no further! Epic Oregon Hikes In my 25+ years of living here, these hikes are my ultimate favorites. I’ll share with you the nitty gritty of each hike, where they are located, any park pass information, and whether the hikes are dog-friendly. Oregonians do love their furry friends! This list is in no particular order of greatness – all of these hikes are simply amazing. If you’re new to hiking, not to worry, read on for hiking tips and tricks! Whether you are looking for challenging backcountry adventures, family-friendly hikes, or scenic walks with stunning views, you are sure to find a trail that suits your needs. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of…

The Best Christmas Markets in the Pacific Northwest

Whether or not you celebrate Christmas, it cannot be denied that the sights, sounds, and smells of a good Christmas market will entice even the heartiest of Scrooges. The Pacific Northwest provides visitors with a magical winter wonderland. Cozy small towns are blanketed in fresh snow, evergreen treetops glisten with twinkling lights, and the crisp air fills with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Christmas markets are scattered throughout the region, each offering its own enchanting experience. From authentic German Christmas markets in Oregon to the beloved Christmas Market in Seattle, here are some of the best Christmas markets in the Pacific Northwest. Portland Holiday Markets Located at the Portland Expo Center, The Portland Holiday Market takes place in late November. Here you can really do all of your holiday shopping in one place. No holiday stone is left unturned with over 10,000 square feet of…

Hiking British Columbia: What are You Waiting For?

As gorgeous as British Columbia is, it should come as no surprise that the province is a hiker’s paradise. With its vast wilderness, stunning mountain ranges, and diverse landscapes, BC offers some of the best hiking trails in the world. Don’t worry if you’re not an avid hiker; both novices and experts can savor lush rainforests, while the more adventurous should not miss the more challenging climbs passing dense pine forests to the summit. So grab your hiking boots, a backpack, and hit the trails! Here are nine of the best hiking trails in British Columbia, Canada that every outdoor enthusiast should add to their must-do list. While you’re in B.C., you may as well do the full outdoor experience and do some glamping!   Best Hikes in Vancouver Island West Coast Trail Location: Vancouver Island, from Port Renfrew to Bamfield Distance: 75 km (47 mi) Elevation gain: 5,000 m…

10 Best Spots for Glamping in BC, Canada

British Columbia is renowned for its breathtaking mountaintop views and beachfront getaways – ideal conditions for glamping. Glamping offers the chance to enjoy nature without roughing it – often even including electricity and running water – perfect if you want a luxury camping experience without going off-grid! BC Glamping When you want to go camping in BC, look no further than the amazing glamping locations. Glamping instead of camping means you are still smack-dab in the thick of nature, but you don’t have to rough it (as much). From breathtaking forests to peaceful coastlines, British Columbia glamping sites will leave you feeling as though nature herself were your gracious host. Glamping Vancouver Island   Clayoquot Wilderness Resort is an exclusive all-inclusive resort located in the heart of Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The resort offers a variety of glamping accommodations, including yurts, safari-style tents, and treehouses. Guests can enjoy…

Road Trips from Las Vegas: Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks

I’ve written a fair amount of content about RV living but have never driven an RV. How crazy is that? Well, when one of my clients approached me with the idea of taking one of their smaller RVs on the road, I quite literally jumped at the chance. Blacksford RV has offices in Bozeman, Montana and Las Vegas, Nevada (with more locations opening soon), so I was given a choice between the two. An RV road trip from Las Vegas seemed like a no-brainer for me – I had never been to Joshua Tree or Death Valley National Parks. They were both on my bucket list, and an easy drive from Sin City. The only tiny caveat is that our trip was scheduled for mid-June. Not ideal for the California desert! But it was still early enough in the summer where temperatures were not expected to be insane, so we…

Below Oregon’s Edge: Places to Visit in Northern California

Where in the world can you experience towering alps, castles seemingly hanging in mid-air, a mystical mountainous spirit, bubbling hot pots from the center of the earth, and finish off the day at a world class Mediterranean restaurant, all within a day’s drive from each other? Hugging unusual frontiers, we’re edging out excitement, we’re going down onto parts unknown, just south of the California / Oregon border. Looking a little deeper into the folds and forests of Northern California, we’re uncovering opportunities that travelers hurriedly pass over, and guessing, if Oregon and California gave birth, it would be a waterfall. Downtown Dunsmuir, photo by cswtwo (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) Dunsmuir CA: From Micro to Medi Hidden in the twisty mountainous curves of the northern California stretch of I-5, Dunsmuir is a frequent fly-by, but it is definitely worth a pause. A tourist hub for the intrepid, Dunsmuir is a gateway that…

Things to Do in Seattle at Night

Seattle offers something to fit everyone’s nighttime entertainment needs; whether that means dancing until dawn, fantastic light show, culinary adventures, or simply sipping drinks with friends. Just as an example: explore one of the city’s exquisite parks that remain open late into the night – Gas Works Park or Alki Beach offer amazing nighttime views of the Seattle city skyline. Date Night Ideas in Seattle Romantic things to do in Seattle run the gamut from energizing glitz and glam, to laid-back casual and everything in between. Explore Southeast Asian Food Hall For foodies in Seattle looking to spice up date night, why not visit this amazing Southeast Asian-inspired food hall for date night? You will instantly be transported into an Asian street market and not even leave the North American continent. The cuisine is that authentic! The Seattle Waterfront is a wonderful activity for date night in Seattle. With more…

6 Best Day Trips from Portland Oregon

Oregon boasts many breathtaking sights all over the state. I’ve lived here for over 20 years and taking a weekend trip from Portland is an excellent way to get out into nature, which is what the Pacific Northwest is all about.  Portland day trips can be a fantastic way of experience the diversity of Oregon. Your getaway from Portland can take many forms, so whatever suits your personal style, whether it is hiking, boating, fishing, or epic sightseeing, there is something here for everyone. Personally, I am an independent traveler, so striking out on my own or with a travel buddy is my preference. However, I have included some wonderful guided tour suggestions at the bottom of this post for each destination for those of you who like to kick back and let someone else guide you on these day trips from Portland. Each of these tours are hand-picked by…

Camping the Oregon Coast – the Ultimate Guide

Like many Oregonians, I’ve spent my fair share of spending the night under the stars, listening to the sounds of Oregon’s iconic craggy shoreline as the waves wash up along the shore. No matter where in the world my travels take me, nothing beats the lure of the Pacific, the intoxicating scent of fresh sea water mixed with a nearby old-growth forest. If you’re looking for an unforgettable camping experience, the Oregon coast camping is a must-do. It has everything from glamping cabins to modern yurts, to deluxe RV spots to tent sites with a view, and more. Here you’ll find some of the best RV parks on the Oregon Coast. These campgrounds are listed from north to south and I have divided them in to two sections: northern and southern Oregon coast. These campgrounds all follow the Leave No Trace principle, which is an easy way to avoid leaving…

Scenic Drives Near Seattle

Whether you’re looking for a two-person getaway, a family-friendly day trip or a more ambitious multi-day excursion, the Pacific Northwest has plenty of options to get away from the city and enjoy nature. With so many fantastic places within driving distance from Seattle, you are sure to find something your entire road crew will love. Drive to Seattle This makes it a great excuse to have a car throughout your entire journey, because there’s nothing better than a Washington State road trip. Whether you’re coming from the Portland area, from Vancouver to Seattle, or any other direction, you’re going to have some killer views along the way. Scenic Drives Washington – Snoqualmie Pass There are plenty of things to do in Snoqualmie Pass, including hiking, fishing, and visiting the iconic Twin Peaks location. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, the Alpine Lakes Wilderness is home to more than 100…

Dark Sky Parks of the West

Enter the world of Night Parks and turn yourself over to Nyx, mythic mistress of night, and allow your imagination to be captivated by infinite possibilities. There, between the cabaret of constellations and the crenellations of mountain peaks, you can release your mind into a state of mental sublimation through the connect-the-dots sky of starry shibari. This is the otherworld of Dark Sky Parks, where you subsume your daytime struggles, and accept the darkness. As of January, 2022 the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) has recently designated 37 new International Dark Sky Places, bringing the total to 196 worldwide. All Dark Sky Places are spectacular and beckon you into the ethereal specters of milky ways, shooting stars, and galaxies far, far away. The Pacific Northwest is luckily home to several nearby Night Sky Parks. Not surprisingly, all are found on the eastern side of the Cascade Range. The Massacre Rim Dark Sky Sanctuary,…

The Best Women’s Pant for the Pacific Northwest – Kuhl Kultivatr Kargo Pant

Scrambling up a steep trail laden with slippery rocks and muddy patches on a Pacific Northwest hike, fresh after a long drizzle, is no easy task. Yet it’s exhilarating and rewarding. A good challenging hike is made even better when you are wearing the right gear. Enter the Kuhl Kultivatr Kargo Pant. Catchy name, don’t you think? I was lucky to find these. Explorers like myself are always looking for great-looking pants that are as good on the trail as they are in the streets of Seattle. And the win for me? They look great with ankle hiking boots! They’re also the best hiking pants for hot weather. I went on a day-long hike with this pant, and it delivered all of the comfort and versatility you could hope for in a travel pant. Kuhl is a brand I have loved for years – they have a huge range…

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