Portland
Portland A Vegan Foodie’s Paradise Exploring the City of Roses Portland is a haven for foodies and adventure seekers alike. Portland is nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, boasting vibrant culture, lush greenery, and a thriving vegan food scene that promises an unforgettable experience for travelers. My journey started with a smooth flight into Portland International Airport, where I picked up a Hertz rental car—a convenient choice for exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods and scenic surroundings. Portland is a paradise for the vegan heart, offering creativity in terms of dishes to satisfy cravings. My first stop was at Aztec Willie’s Vegan Mexican with its traditional Mexican flavors mixed with a plant-based twist on them. Their dishes exemplified the depth and variation of vegan cuisine, like hearty enchiladas or zesty tacos. Dessert took me to Kate’s Vegan Ice Cream, a local treasure that makes creamy, plant-based treats in a variety of inventive flavors. Their ice creams are rich and smooth, making it difficult to believe they are dairy-free. An unique Ramen Experience Dinner took me to Afuri, this famous ramen place that always gives a twist to the original. One of their hazelnut base ramen soups stands out: creamy, nutty, and fresh noodles plus toppings. This unexpected combination delivered a warm, comforting bowl long after the meal ended. A Perfect Blend of Culture & Nature Food & City Highlights I kicked off with a foodie tour at AC Hotel, indulging in Portland’s renowned culinary scene. Then, I explored Pioneer Courthouse Square, the city’s lively hub, before strolling through the trendy Pearl District and charming Nob Hill, filled with boutiques, cafes, and local flair. At Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden was in full bloom, offering a fragrant escape with stunning views. For tranquility, the Lan Su Chinese Garden transported me to another world with its koi ponds and traditional tea house. Waterfall Adventure in Columbia River Gorge A scenic drive led me through the Portland Women’s Forum and Crown Point Vista House, offering breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge. Continuing along the historic highway, I reached Latourell Falls, where water plunged dramatically over moss-covered cliffs. A short hike led me to the serene Bridal Veil Falls, hidden within lush greenery. The grand finale was Multnomah Falls, Oregon’s tallest and most iconic cascade, its 620-foot drop creating a mesmerizing sight from Benson Bridge. Why Portland Stands Out Portland’s perfect mix of urban energy and outdoor adventure makes it a must-visit. One moment, you’re sipping craft coffee in the city; the next, you’re standing before a roaring waterfall. It’s a city that stays with you long after you leave. Have more time? Take a deeper dive… Dive Deeper into These Destinations Powell’s City of Books: The world’s largest independent bookstore, spanning an entire city block with endless literary treasures. Forest Park: One of the largest urban forests in the U.S., offering miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. Portland Japanese Garden: A tranquil oasis showcasing traditional Japanese landscaping and serene cultural elements. OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) – An interactive science museum featuring a submarine tour, planetarium, and hands-on exhibits. Alberta Arts District – A vibrant neighborhood with street art, boutique shops, and a fantastic local food scene. Previous Destination Crater Lake Next Destination Oceanside Need help in planning this trip? Enjoyed the post? Give it a like! 😊 Scroll To Top
Oceanside
Oceanside Into the Blue Set on the stunning Oregon Coast, Oceanside invites visitors into a peaceful cocoon of coastal beauty and action-packed adventures. The destination, characterized by clean beaches and scintillating landscapes, offers an excellent mix of relaxation and discovery. You could be in a cozy Vacasa rental or enjoying the luxury of a Marriott BnB, whatever the case, Oceanside is set to welcome you into the blue Vacasa in the most unforgettable way possible. Gastronomical Delights in Oceanside Adventure beckons at the renowned Tillamook Creamery where its ice cream and fresh curds promise to entice your taste buds into delight. It is a stop you will not forget-it brings you closer to Tillamook’s deep-rooted dairy heritage and its flavors crafted with artistry. Just a short drive away, Cannon Beach mesmerizes with its expansive shoreline and the towering Haystack Rock. Nearby, Ecola State Park unveils panoramic views of the rugged coastline, lush forests, and crashing waves, making it a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s paradise. Tunnel Beach is a great combination of adventure and natural beauty. The secret tunnel carved into the rock leads to a secluded beach where you can lose yourself in the tranquil surroundings and marvel at the stunning rock formations. Campfires and Wildlife at Three Arch Rocks The evenings back in, come alive with an Oceanside campfire under the starry sky. On low tide, explore the tide pools at Three Arch Wildlife Beach and find marine life in all its hidden treasures. It’s an immersive experience that connects you to the vibrant ecosystem of the Oregon Coast. A visit to Cape Meares introduces the grandeur of the Sitka spruce, a towering tree which stands as a testament of nature’s resilience. With breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and the lush greenery all around, the Cape Lookout Hike makes each step worthwhile. At Pacific City, the massive sand dunes of Cape Kiwanda challenge adventure-seekers to climb the sandy walls in exchange for spectacular views. It’s a thrilling and rewarding experience that captures the adventurous spirit of the Oregon Coast. Have more time? Take a deeper dive… Dive Deeper into These Destinations Maxwell Point Tunnel: A hidden tunnel carved into the cliffs, leading to a secluded beach with breathtaking views. Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge: A marine sanctuary home to seabirds and marine mammals, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Oceanside Beach State Recreation Site: A peaceful beach with tide pools, stunning sunsets, and opportunities for picnics and relaxation. Cape Meares Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and opportunities for whale watching. Short Beach: A quaint beach with a charming waterfall, unique rock formations, and fewer crowds for a serene experience. Previous Destination Portland Next Vacation #16 New Zealand: Nature’s Masterpiece Need help in planning this trip? Enjoyed the post? Give it a like! 😊 Scroll To Top
Crater Lake
Crater Lake A Painter’s Paradise in Oregon Crater Lake: Dream of a Painter Come Alive I crossed over to Oregon and landed at Crater Lake, which is just so beautiful you can’t even imagine. Crater Lake is a deep, pristine lake in the Cascade Mountain Range of Oregon that was formed by a volcanic eruption. It is really a caldera lake that resulted from the collapse of an ancient volcano. The water in it is the clearest and bluest I have ever seen. Its vibrant colors stand in stark contrast to the rugged forest that edges the crater. I was standing at the rim, and the view in front of me looked more like a postcard scene. I drove along the Rim Drive and stopped at many viewpoints to take in the ever-changing views of the lake. The reflection of the cliffs and sky on the calm waters was a mirror effect that was simply mesmerizing. Be it the brilliant shades of blue under the midday sun or the soft pastels during sunset, Crater Lake offered a different charm every hour of the day. Have more time? Take a deeper dive… Dive Deeper into These Destinations Wizard Island: A volcanic cinder cone rising out of Crater Lake, perfect for hiking and exploring its unique terrain. Cleetwood Cove Trail: The only trail leading to the lake’s edge, offering opportunities for swimming and boat tours. Phantom Ship Overlook: A viewpoint showcasing a small rock island resembling a ghostly ship in the lake. Watchman Peak: A short hike leading to a fire lookout with panoramic views of Crater Lake and its surrounding landscapes. Pinnacles Overlook: A striking area featuring tall volcanic spires formed by ancient fumaroles. Previous Destination Mount Shasta Next Destination Portland Need help in planning this trip? Enjoyed the post? Give it a like! 😊 Scroll To Top
Mount Shasta
Mount Shasta Nature’s Majestic Retreat Mount Shasta: Paraiso de las Merveilles da Natureza Mt. Shasta offers a unique combination of natural beauty and adventure. It’s a spiritual retreat center and an outdoor enthusiast’s dream destination. My trip through these parts was replete with unforgettable sights and experiences—a perfect beginning to my discovery journey, with the marvelous McCloud Waterfalls in tow. These cascades, divided into three tiers—Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls—offered a picturesque setting where nature displayed its raw power and beauty. Hiking along the trails between the falls was both invigorating and calming, with the sound of rushing water providing a soothing backdrop. The Shasta Dam, also one of the biggest concrete dams in the United States, was another wonder to behold. Standing on the dam, I gazed at the engineering feat that held the massive Shasta Lake within its bounds. Panoramic views from here are awe-inspiring, with the shining blue waters of the lake nestled between lush green forests. Shasta Caverns—a complete world in itself—took me to another era; these limestone caves filled up with intricate stalactites and stalagmites. A magical underground world had unfurled before my very eyes, creating an awe-inspiring spell from nature’s art gallery with fabulous stories of its history at guided tours through the cavern. Have more time? Take a deeper dive… Dive Deeper into These Destinations Mount Shasta Summit: A towering volcanic peak offering breathtaking views and a sacred atmosphere for climbers and spiritual seekers. Castle Lake: A serene alpine lake surrounded by granite cliffs, perfect for kayaking, swimming, and picnicking. Lake Siskiyou: A family-friendly spot with clear waters for swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding, framed by stunning mountain vistas. Black Butte Trail: A challenging yet rewarding hike leading to panoramic views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding wilderness. Hedge Creek Falls: A charming waterfall with a short trail that lets visitors walk behind the cascading water. Next Destination Crater Lake Need help in planning this trip? Enjoyed the post? Give it a like! 😊 Scroll To Top
#15 Oregon: Diverse Landscapes
Oregon: Diverse Landscapes Days: 13 Timeline: Apr 27 to 28, Jun 9 to 11, Jun 30 to Jul 4, Aug 25 to 27. Destinations: 04 Quick Itinerary Begin your journey in Mt. Shasta, including McCloud waterfalls, Shasta Dam, and Shasta Caverns. Conclude your trip with a visit to Crater Lake and a stay at Jimmy Carter’s Airbnb at Horseshoe Ranch with the Sardana and Sehgal families. In Portland, where you’ll explore the AC Hotel foodie tour, Pearl District, Pioneer Courthouse Square, Washington Park roses, and Lan Su Chinese Garden. Visit Crown Point Vista House, Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil, and Multnomah Falls. Then, head to Oceanside to enjoy the coastal beauty. Explore Vacation Destinations Pristine environment and outdoor adventures Oregon is home to some of the most incredible diversity in landscapes, with a rich combination of rugged coastlines, lush forests, and volcanic wonders, welcoming visitors to explore its untamed beauty. With such attractions Multnomah Falls near Portland featuring cascading beauty against greenish cliffs as The state’s coastline provides dramatic scenery, from the sea stacks at Cannon Beach to the tide pools at Cape Perpetua, making it a haven for photographers and adventurers alike. Mount Shasta Towering high with the snow-capped peaks and serenity, has so much more than just that. The McCloud Waterfalls present cascading waters surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene and picturesque environment. The Shasta Dam, an engineering marvel, provides breathtaking views of the reservoir and surrounding landscapes. Crater-lake One of the crown jewels of Oregon is Crater Lake National Park, which features the deepest lake in the United States. Formed by the collapsed Mount Mazama volcano, this lake is famous for its vibrant blue water and breathtaking crater rim. Whether hiking on the trails, taking a boat tour, or simply soaking in the panoramic views, Crater Lake leaves a lasting impression. Portland It is a vibrant city known for its creative spirit, eco-friendly ethos, and lush green spaces. Nestled between the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, it boasts a perfect balance of urban charm and natural beauty. Its quirky neighborhoods, like the Pearl District and Alberta Arts District, invite exploration, while nearby hiking trails and scenic spots make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Oceanside Oregon, is a picturesque coastal gem that promises tranquility and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Known for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and iconic offshore rocks, it’s a perfect retreat for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. With its charming seaside cottages and relaxed vibe, Oceanside offers an ideal escape to unwind and reconnect with the beauty of the Oregon Coast. Staying at Horseshoe Ranch, which has hosted one of the greatest American politicians and former president Jimmy Carter, was one of the memorable moments of my journey. The serene countryside provided the perfect retreat after days of exploration. Staying here with a couple of families, I experienced the warmth of shared stories and laughter, which added a personal touch to the trip. It has been a perfect blend of the beautiful outdoors, engineering marvels, and the more touching, human connections. From Mount Shasta, with its fabulous waterfalls, to the otherworldly blues at Crater Lake, and home comfort in the Horseshoe Ranch, it made for one unique stop after another on the trip through Northern California and Oregon. Have more time? Take a deeper dive… Dive Deeper into These Destinations Ashland: Famous for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and beautiful Lithia Park. Medford: Known for its proximity to Crater Lake National Park and the scenic Rogue River. Vancouver: Offers attractions like the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and scenic views along the Columbia River Gorge. Newport: Home to the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, and stunning coastal views. Yreka: Known for its historic downtown, Siskiyou County Museum, and access to Klamath National Forest. Klamath Falls: Features Upper Klamath Lake, the Klamath County Museum, and the nearby Wood River Wetlands. Beaverton: Famous for the Tualatin Hills Nature Park, Nike World Headquarters, and proximity to Washington County’s scenic vineyards. Cannon Beach: Renowned for its iconic Haystack Rock, Ecola State Park, and beautiful beach views along the Pacific. Journey map: Tracing the path of adventure! Previous Vacation #14 IndoChine: Mystic Buddhism Next Vacation #16 New Zealand: Nature’s Masterpiece Need help in planning this trip? Enjoyed the post? Give it a like! 😊 Scroll To Top
