San Juan Islands

Who knew island life existed in Washington state and just 40 minutes from Seattle?! Welcome to San Juan Islands. There are four islands in all - San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, & Shaw. I spent most of my time in Friday Harbor on the "big" island of San Juan. It had such an island vibe from the shoreline restaurants to the boutique shops, everything was sunshine and ... whales. 

Orcas, commonly referred to as killer whales live in the waters of the Salish Sea and are often seen around the islands.

There's only one way to get to the islands that quickly and it's by seaplane. My first thought when I saw the little 6 seater plane was oh my, what have I gotten myself into? Is this thing safe? The staff and pilots at Kenmore Air were quick to put my mind at ease and I'm telling you, this was an experience I will never forget and one of the most fun and adventurous days of my trip! The picture above was taken from the seaplane and I guarantee the views are like nothing else you will ever see. Spectacular!!

Now about those whales.... once you've enjoyed time on the island, get aboard one of these beauties courtesy of San Juan Safaris and venture out to sea. Each journey comes complete with your very own Naturalist on board to help you locate, understand, and relate to all the wildlife the islands have to offer.

Photo by Lynda Eatchel

We saw sea lions playing on a rock, a bald eagle resting in a tree, & a grey humpback whale coming up for air, all of them, beautiful. 

Photo by Lynda Eatchel

It was very clear to me that the people here have nothing but respect and love for these animals. Every precaution is taken in order to protect them. To see them in their natural habitat was purely amazing. Many thanks to Lynda for the beautiful photos!

Photo by Lynda Eatchel

Go See Seattle

When I first set out on my solo 10 day excursion of the Pacific Northwest, I must admit, I was a bit nervous. Within minutes of walking the streets of downtown Seattle, Washington I felt at ease. This city has such a homey feel to it. The people were friendly and easy to talk to beginning with my one of my best big city hotel experiences ever at the W Hotel. We all know that W Hotels are modern, vibrant, &  trendy, and although they rank among the 4 and 5 star hotels, I'd say their genuine concern and care for their guests would put them high above many of their other 5 star contenders. If you want personal attention, thoughtful consideration, and service that goes above and beyond, take a weekend trip to Seattle and stay at the W. You won't be disappointed!

First necessary stop in Seattle is Pikes Place Market. Yes, it's crowded but well worth the visit. The Market has a unique street vibe and the goods sold there resemble it. Everything from "flying" fish & beautiful floral bouquets to local art & farmed goods. Although famous for their apples, cherries, & grapes (wine talk in future blog), Washington is also home to  many lavender farms and you can find all this and more at the Market. And Pikes Place is right along the waterfront so it's scenic as well.




At the far end of the Market lies the original Starbucks. Being the insane coffee drinker I am, I made this stop a priority and I was glad I did. The gentlemen playing out front made the trip worthwhile and the 30 minute wait in line a whole lot more entertaining! Whether you're a coffee lover, a history buff, or just a passer-by the walk down this lively street will surely put a smile on your face.

Standing tall in Fisherman's Wharf is the new Seattle Great Wheel. Much like the famous London Eye, the Great Wheel here offers outstanding views of Seattle and the islands nearby. The wheel had been in thought process for nearly 30 years and when it finally became a reality, it took less than a year to construct. Tickets cost $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $8.50 for kids 3-12, children 3 and under are free. If you're really feeling extravagant or want a more personal experience, you can purchase a VIP gondola for $50. It's the only way to go solo (without other parties sharing your gondola). I highly recommend it.

When I travel, I always look for that one unique shopping experience- something that is true to it's surroundings. What could be more fitting in Seattle than an umbrella store? And not just any umbrella store, but the most elegant, trendy, cool, & fascinating umbrellas I've ever seen. It all hangs in a little  corner store called Bella Umbrella. You can order from their website too, but if you get the chance, this store is simply one you must see in order to believe.

Of course, what's a trip to Seattle without a visit to the Space Needle. Well, I got lucky and happened to be there to witness two great events. Being the 50th Anniversary of this majestic tower located at the City Center, the gift shop was bustling with anniversary memorabilia - everything from ties and art to t-shirts and calendars. So what's it like at the top? The observation deck sits 520 feet in the air which makes the 360 degree view phenomenal. The structure weighs 9,550 tons and was built to withstand an earthquake with a 9.1 magnitude so you know it's safe up here. However, when the Blue Angels decide to do a flyby, it will get you're heart racing! 

Right below the Needle sits one of the most unique gardens you will ever visit. This is home to the new Chihuly Gardens. If you've ever visited the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, you already know Chihuly glass art but I guarantee you, you've never seen it like this! Pictures don't even do it justice. A walk through this exhibit is like stepping into a whole new world and a very colorful one at that.

My last stop in Seattle was at Kerry Park. Located in the Queen Anne district, this park is famous for it's view of the city. Many professional photographers and artists sit up here for hours waiting for the perfect shot. Warning. There isn't much parking here but the community is a quaint place to stroll through, just remember where you parked your car. My stay in Seattle was picture perfect. This city has just made it on my list of the top ten cities to visit in America.