An Oregon Adventure
Discovering what makes Oregon and the Pacific Northwest special
As a native son of the Pacific Northwest, it’s always a pleasure to return. The air is fresher than just about anywhere. The evergreen trees provide constant comfort amongst their perpetually green canopy. And the area is situated in the midst of just about anything that a culturally inspired adventurer might seek.
We made a vlog capturing our recent trip through Oregon. Starting in Portland, we ventured to the Willamette Valley and explored Elk Cove Vineyards. From there we drove to the coast, stopping at the classic Tillamook Creamery before heading north to Cannon Beach.
We covered it all in less than a week. The luxury hotel stays would have made Lewis & Clarks’ eyes roll, but if there’s one thing I love about luxury on the west coast compared to that of the east, it’s the understated nature of it all.
There are plenty of wealthy people in the Pacific Northwest. They might splurge on a nice car or house, but it’s never in your face or part of their being. They generally aren’t flashy about it. They’re modest.
They might also invest their money in climbing equipment, ski or snowboard gear, or other outdoorsy pursuits.
And why shouldn’t they? There is so much to see out west
From the mountains to the coast and everything in between, it truly has it all except for the warm sandy beaches. On many occasions though, I’d much prefer a mountain slope and lodge to a sandy beach with a tiki bar.
Cities like Portland also have great art, cultural, and culinary scenes. Books and coffee play predominant roles. I’ve certainly incorporated each into my everyday life for years.
Maybe Macklemore was right when he said:
“Every time somebody steps out on the road
They bring a little Northwest soul with them, amen.”
The west coast may not have the history of the east. You may not find yourself randomly parking in front of a Revolutionary War general’s house as you can in towns like Rhinebeck, New York.
The west though is making its own history every day. In some of the most beautiful natural confines in the world.
Hopefully we did Portland and the rest of Oregon justice. We really tried to embrace the weird culture, as much as we could with a toddler in tow. We tried to celebrate pristine nature at places like Ecola State Park.
Of course, if you have other recommendations on what we should have tried, I’m all ears. Let me know in the comments.
My favorite places in the world have unique identities
They are places filled with people who are not afraid to express themselves and own what makes them tick, even if mainstream society might call them weird or idiosyncratic.
Some of the craziest policy ideas have come from the Pacific Northwest and the west coast (thanks, California) in general. But some of the greatest progressive movements have started there too. America often takes its cue from these laboratories of democracy.
That pursuit of equality and political perfection is endemic in the culture. It’s refreshing. I certainly don’t agree with all of the policy choices, but I love the passion and the spirit in which they are made.
Most people in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest are not trying to join something. They want to start something.
Hopefully we carried that same open-minded ethos through our trip. And I hope you enjoyed the video.
Cheers and have a good start to your week.
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