Living in metro Atlanta for so long, you can often forget life outside the bustling city where something is always happening. You have to adapt to a fast-paced lifestyle very quickly and buzz through moments you wish you can savor before it vanishes. So when my family and I decided to vacation in Portland for a week, we were almost culture shocked at how unforgettable the experience was.
View from the plane
This was our first time ever venturing to the Pacific Northwest and seeing the stark contrast compared to our home state could not be put into enough words. Immediately, we were enraptured in a surreal world of greenery and nature we only dreamed of back home. A simple drive down the interstate gave you an overwhelming view of Mount Hood and surrounding rolling hills. The beautiful mixture of city life and scenery was perfection that couldn't be beat.
When we wanted to get away from the city, we were close enough to escape to what nature had to offer. Multnomah Falls, the Columbia Gorge, and Cannon Beach were all impeccable sights that can only truly be captured with the eyes. The air was fresh and the sky was clear, making those moments perfect to savor.
In the city, there were a lot of small shops and restaurants that lined the streets, from bridal shops to ice cream parlors, and we couldn't resist experiencing Salt and Straw. Such delicious ice cream it was! I didn't want to finish my ice cream cone. As we all ate our treats, we sat down and watched the city move around us. Everyone was vibrant and enjoying their day in no rush. It was so fun to people watch!
Haystack Rock
Tillamook Rock Light off in the distance
Since Seattle was not that far away, we decided to get in the car once more and head up north to Washington. Having a stroll through Pike Place Market and such an abundance of fresh seafood and flowers, I was amazed! Watching butchers throw fish into the crowd was a sight and sampling produce and other treats surprised me.
Being back home safely, we still cannot stop thinking about Oregon and Washington. We miss the views of mountains and seeing so many people biking through the city, but it made us appreciate the little things we forget to cherish in our town. Our vacation was a blast and we will definitely see the Pacific Northwest again!