Portlandia: Our trip south

(with narration)

We were on the train just shy of 7am.  Everything went pretty normally and we got to see some of the sights (despite being on the side of the train facing inland…. as opposed to the scenic view Westward of the Salish Sea and Puget Sound).  Mainly trees, houses, industrial buildings and the occasional scenic shots follow our route southward. 

The extra 2 and half hour wait in Vancouver, WA (just 30 minutes from our destination) was unfortunate.  The heat and intermittent air conditioning didn’t make a great combination… but I guess it was all part of the “experience of travel”.

We stayed at a hotel downtown, conveniently close to a lot of the shopping we did  (FYI… check out Powell’s Books and Cargo… both are a must-see)…. But our room was a nice restful get-away.  Simple, clean, and a nice view …. It was a chance to put our aching feet up after all the walking and touring.  It gave us a chance to read and recharge.

The early morning walks usually was a chance to see the local sights (sometimes pre-dawn) without all the trouble of people and traffic.  Downtown is littered with interesting architecture, great public art and sculptures… and statues including the famous Portlandia… not too far from one of the Food Cart pods is a convenient farmer’s market, with great local produce, flowers, and baked goods.

The morning started with a breakfast at Kenny & Zukes… a cool little delicatessen.  Eggs, bacon, fresh fruit and good cup of coffee... and of course Voodoo Doughnuts.

I’m a little more accustomed to quiet, subdued, inner national pride displayed in Canada… so with this being my first American travel spot, I was surprised by all the flags. 

The peaceful retreat of the Japanese Garden in Washington Park was an unexpected highlight.  there was enough shade and cool breezes throughout the garden to make up for the heat. 

The Portland Art Museum was surprising both in scope and for content.  4 floors in the main building featuring historical and cultural archaeological pieces, seasonal artists (here was Ellsworth Kelly),  and the permanent installations by contemporary artists… as well as the great European masters.   Despite the super squeaky floors… this another peaceful respite room after room.  Another unexpected highlight.

But time came to pack up our bags, add up the pounds of books we’re lugging back… and get onto our train ride home.

A nice ride home, though.  We had to sneak a couple of clear scenic shots… ‘cause, well, our seating wasn’t so great and we sat between windows.  But the ride along the coast and following a slowly descending sunset was a great end to trip.  We sleepily pulled into Vancouver and it’s time to starting planning next year’s trip.   

 

(without narration... for your viewing pleasure)