PORTLANDIA

Washington Park - International Rose Test Garden - Gardens - Apricot Rose  

PDX, P-Town, Stumptown, City of Roses. Next stop on our US trip was Portland, Oregon. Ace Hotel in the historical Pearl District was our residence for three days. Ace was a mix of modern and eclectic style, reasonable price too considering the area. There was an old school photobooth in the lobby and Stumptown Coffee Roasters next door. Needless to say, I was in love. Pearl was abundant with refurbished boutiques, cafes and art galleries. Powell’s City of Books, America’s largest independent bookstore, became my haven. We spent most of our time there and for lunch we’d head to Saint Cupcake for a salted caramel special. I discovered salted caramel in Seattle and became addicted. Voodoo Doughnut in Old Town was also a kooky place for a sweet treat and close to Portland’s trademark White Stag sign. We ventured to Washington Park’s International Rose Test Garden on our last day. The flowers were stunning and smelt incredible. From the gardens we also had a view of Mount Hood. Even in summer the peak was covered in snow. Universal was filming NBC’s Grimm during our visit too which added to my excitement. Portland certainly had its quirks but was filled with a unique vibe. It was an entertaining city and a must-do in the Pacific Northwest.