Initially, we did not plan to visit Portland at all. However, as we advanced faster than expected once more, we decided to take a detour towards the inland for a couple of days. On a very sunny and hot day, we set off along the Columbia River, through lumber industry territory towards Portland and we could even get a glimpse of Mount St. Helens. It is said that in Portland one is a hipster if one is not. Walking along Portland’s streets, we can somehow understand where this is coming from. Let's make it clear from the beginning: we liked Portland! And we were amazed, how different to other cities it is. Frankly, as a touring cyclist, this is heaven! Cyclists have the right of way always; there are separate bike lanes also on bridges and plenty of skilled bike repair stores. Additionally, good food is valued and easily available. As on our days taking a break from pedalling, eating is a vital part of regaining strength, we took big advantage of the various food carts in Pearl District serving delicious menus from all corner of the world at reasonable prices :-). Part of the recreation is also taking care of our gear. For instance, we have learnt how to wash our clothes in a real American laundry store. Portland is also a very green city with many trees planted along the streets and a variety of roses (wild and horticulture) in all colors at the International Rose Test Garden. We also found the contrasts in this city very interesting. You could find an artist-gallery-style, highly designed Apple flagship store a few streets away from homeless’ tent settlements or an all-recycled "scrap" store, where you could buy used birthday cards and single parts of a piano to craft something new yourself. We enjoyed our three days of rest very much. As it was mainly raining, the timing could not have been better for a warm and dry hotel room but we are now extremely looking forward to Washington state and the Olympic National Park.
1 Comment
Christoph Waldmeier
17/5/2016 13:07:01
Sehr spannend ond super Fotos.
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September 2016
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