NORTH AMERICA

NORTH AMERICA, Oregon, USA

Oregon

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Oregon is a diverse state, mixed with warm, dry, and flat inland summers, combined with very green, mountainous and often very cool (even in summer) coastal regions and rainforests. The people of Oregon display a general zest for healthy lifestyles. Clean and green with recycling bins, natural foods, vegan and vegetarian options seemingly more readily available than many places, Oregon appears to host a population of not only environmentally and health conscious, but environmentally intelligent. With clean roads weaving through lush green mountains and rivers; home to geological wonders like Crater Lake and with views the likes of Mt. Hood and occasional wildlife, it is easy to see why. Sandstone cliffs and rocky coastlines dotted with light houses regularly offer whale and Sea Lion sightings, the latter of which whose deep groans and barks are often heard before seen as one approaches the shoreline. Sunsets are beautiful, however in addition to the camera, be sure to bring some warm and wind/rain proof clothing when visiting the Oregon coastal region, even in summer. For a real treat, take a 9 day natural building course with the Cob Cottage Company, learn the centuries old revised and economical/ ecological methods (you will be surprised and enchanted) and enjoy an educational group hike –barefoot- through the woods.  Some of Oregon’s major cities such as Eugene and Portland are easy to get in and out of and provide good starting and ending points for exploration, in addition to exploring the cities themselves. Progressive west coast culture with major outerwear employers, food cart/trailer parking bazaars, historical sites and great views adorn them. Read more about, post comments, and share your Oregon experience and recommendations below.

NORTH AMERICA, USA, Washington State

Washington State

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I have always been of the opinion that Washington is one of the most scenic states, and the Pacific Northwest region in general. Majestic mountains, evergreens, fresh water lakes, rivers, and streams provide post card scenery. But then, maybe I am biased. From the avoid-winter-creature I am,  admittedly even the snow covered, ice glistening terrain of this state conjures up picture perfect holiday nostalgia and memories of a time when this cold stuff was fun. An old friend once tried to convince me of the need for contrasting seasons to keep oneself in balance, and experience a greater appreciation for each and enhanced zest for life. I have yet to succumb to the need to live by such philosophy. However like the contrast in seasons, Washington State also has contrasting terrain, from green and mountainous to dry and desert flatlands, from cities and towns to  country and agriculture, Pacific Ocean coasts to rainforests and islands. Summers provide a number of outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, sailing, and camping, while winters provide snowmobiling and skiing. Visits to Washington usually always include a few days enjoying the local culture of the Seattle area, downtown to Pike Place Market, around the waterfront, Space Needle, and the Seattle Music Project if time permits, and morning scones at Chinook’s. When possible, making the drive over both mountain passes to Central Washington and Wenatchee provides two different sets of worthwhile mountainous scenery. A must stay location is always Jos Cottage in Lake Wenatchee a short turn off of Steven’s Pass, just up the road from the Bavarian styled town of Leavenworth, recently labeled by The Travel Channel as One of the Most Christmasy Places in America. Once called the “Apple Capital of the World”, Wenatchee and surrounding Central Washington is rapidly becoming wine producing country, with wineries and grapes now combing the landscape even around the vast and deep Lake Chelan, in addition to known places such as the Columbia Valley. Apples, cherries, peaches, pears, Walla Walla sweet onions, good wine, great Mexican food, tasty burgers, an event for every season and a coffee/ espresso drive through kiosk on every corner with an active outdoor lifestyle. . . how can you go wrong?

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