Author Profile: Susan Stephens

Planning a trip Vancouver, B.C.? You’re in for something special, because Vancouver is unique in that the city seamlessly blends big-city culture with the natural environment. You don’t have to leave the city limits to enjoy remote spaces where you’d swear you are a million miles away from...   view more

If you’re in Seattle and love a good cocktail…this post is for you. If you don’t drink alcohol but you have travel companions who do…this post is for you. And even if you don’t drink or have cocktail-loving friends…guess what? This post is for...   view more

Let’s be real – planning a perfect date can feel like a Herculean task. You want it to be memorable, romantic, and full of fun moments, right? Lucky for you, Seattle is practically oozing with amazing date ideas that will impress your special someone. Whether you’re into fine dining, outdoor adventures, or quirky activities, there’s something in the Emerald City for every kind of...   view more

Portland might be known for its lush green landscapes and outdoorsy culture, but it also offers a fantastic range of indoor activities—perfect for rainy days and winter visits. Whether you’re exploring the city’s cozy cafes, browsing cultural landmarks, or diving into unique experiences, Portland has no shortage of indoor...   view more

Seattle is a haven for solo travelers. Its welcoming atmosphere, vibrant culture, and abundance of attractions make it a perfect destination to explore alone. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the arts, enjoy the great outdoors, or savor a cup of world-class coffee, Seattle offers something for...   view more

Seattle, the Emerald City, is a vibrant hub of culture, innovation, and natural beauty. While iconic spots like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market attract millions of visitors each year, the city is also brimming with hidden gems—unique places that often fly under the...   view more

Seattle is the ultimate playground for beer lovers. From the trendy streets of Ballard to the industrial vibes of SoDo (that’s South of Downtown don’t cha know!), the Emerald City boasts a brewery for every type of hop enthusiast—and even for those who couldn’t care less about beer. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly spaces, a cold cider instead of an IPA, or a behind-the-scenes look at brewing magic, Seattle’s breweries deliver. Let’s raise a pint and dive...   view more

Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Coast Mountains, Vancouver is a city that hits in all the right places. Its dynamic mix of urban sophistication and natural splendor draws people the world over. But while many know Vancouver for its iconic landmarks like Stanley Park and Granville Island, the city also harbors countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered by both locals and...   view more

Portland, Oregon is a city like none other. I should know – I lived there for over 20 years. Known for its offbeat charm, artistic soul, and fiercely independent spirit, the City of Roses is a haven for creatives, nature lovers, foodies, and anyone who marches to the beat of their own drum. It’s a city that embraces the weird (you’ve seen the bumper stickers), but also delivers some of the most beautiful natural surroundings and unique urban experiences in the...   view more

Portland is a city that thrives on individuality and creativity. Unlike other major cities, Portland prides itself on its eclectic neighborhoods, vibrant arts scene, and a commitment to sustainability. Not to mention, it’s one of the top foodie cities in the country. The city’s unofficial motto, “Keep Portland Weird,” is a testament to its embrace of the unconventional and the offbeat. It’s why I lived there for over 20...   view more

Portland, Oregon, is a city that effortlessly blends its quirky charm with natural beauty, making it a perfect playground for couples looking to create memorable date experiences. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of fun and romantic activities to...   view more

Portland is celebrated for its food and a vibrant creative culture. But it’s also celebrated for being weird. Dig deep and you’ll find a treasure trove of the unusual and the unique. For adventurers looking beyond the conventional tourist trails, Portland offers a plethora of odd and intriguing activities to...   view more

Oregon coffee roasters have taken locally roasted coffee and upped the ante. In short; anyone who visits Portland and goes to a Starbucks is doing themselves a disservice. Here, we delve into some of the best coffee shops in Portland, Oregon. I’ve been to every one of these places (many times) and believe me when I tell you this list is just scratching the...   view more

Seattle offers something to fit everyone’s nighttime entertainment needs; whether that means dancing until dawn, fantastic light show, culinary adventures, or simply sipping drinks with...   view more

The small town of Edmonds is ripe for exploring, thanks to its prime location along Puget Sound. Just 20 miles north of Seattle, it’s a great little community, which makes for a fantastic day or weekend trip from Seattle and a welcome respite from the bustle of the Emerald...   view more

If there’s one thing Portland knows how to do right, it’s food. From creative food carts tucked into alleys to James Beard-worthy spots with lines out the door, this city is a dream for any foodie—and I say that not as a visitor, but as someone who called Portland home for over 20...   view more

Nestled along the stunning coastline of the Pacific Northwest, Lincoln City, Oregon, is a gem waiting to be explored. Located approximately 85 miles southwest of Portland, this coastal haven offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local...   view more

When you visit the Yakima Valley, just over a 2-hour drive east from Seattle, you would be remiss to pass by the charming little town of Union Gap, just south of the city of Yakima. It should be on everyone’s list of what to do in Yakima Valley, Washington...   view more

What most people don’t know is that Baker City is a gem of a destination. To pass it by is to miss some pretty cool things. Here are just a few of the epic things to do in Baker City, Oregon. To get a well-rounded trip, go in summer when everything is open and the weather will not be an issue. Since the town sits over 3,000 feet in elevation, you can imagine it gets might wintry during the colder...   view more