Our member TheRealTMA recently embarked on a journey over to the north-west coast of the United States. Our member opted to fly the long way around via Dubai, however with first class tickets the extra flying was definitely worth it!
Arriving sufficiently refreshed, the sightseeing commences. Our member’s destination list includes Portland and Vancouver Island, but the first stop is Seattle. Besides the Space Needle, Seattle is well-known for the Pike Place market which, located right on the waterfront, is often teeming with fresh produce and seafood.
Wandered down to Pike Street Market early afternoon. Lunch at the Stealhead Diner of Alaskan clam chowder and ‘lift your kilt’ Scottish beer battered local fish and chips. Excellent. Watched fish being thrown around at fishmongers to delight of the crowd. Food prices at the market are very cheap on Oz terms. Good quality everything. Fabulous range of fresh seafood, oysters and such. Lovely tulips and other flowers.
Right across the road from the Pike Place Markets happens to be the world’s first Starbucks store. For some, a visit is a must-do when in Seattle, however on this occasion our member didn’t bother contesting with the crowd of tourists queuing out the door.
Aviation enthusiasts are in luck in Seattle. One attraction worth visiting is the Museum of Flight. The city is also home to Boeing, one of the world’s largest aircraft manufacturers. Visitors can tour Boeing’s manufacturing facilities in both Everett and Renton, just outside Seattle.
After seeing the sights of Seattle, our member is ready to head north to Canada.
Picked up car at Avis in Victoria – got upgrade to a Jetta, nice car. Long drive to Tofino of just under 5 hrs (some 320km). Boring first half through older industrial towns etc. Stopped off in Chemainus for ‘restroom’ break, used to be a timber town but when sawmill closed in ’82 they painted the town walls with impressive murals to attract tourists. Worked for us. Rest of drive through Douglas Fir country with alpine scenery, lakes and snow fed streams. Lots of roadworks. (Canada has two seasons – winter and construction.)
It certainly would appear that Vancouver Island has a lot to offer, in terms of attractions, natural beauty and of course food!
What else does our member get up to? Follow the trip report and check out the quality photos HERE.
