Monday, January 20, 2014

Simply Seattle

Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, Tuesday Lunch at the Dock, Occidental Square Park, Tractor Tavern, Seamonster Lounge, Queen Anne Hill, Space Needle, The Art Museum, 5th Avenue Theatre, The Music Project and the list keeps running, and running...
If you haven't guessed by now,  yes we are talking about  one of America's most sought after travel destinations-- Seattle, Washington. 'So much to see, so much to do--' and unfortunately the old adage applies... 'oh, so little time.'
Sure it can be a little inclement and damp... but rest-assured the sun will pop out.
Instead of an viewing this city as an overnighter for the cruise to Alaska, I say skip the cruise altogether and plan your stay around Seattle. Trust me, with a city as safe as this, with a group of people as hospitable as this, with a vibe and energy as good as this...you won't feel compelled to leave. Save the great white North for another day. Go ahead and spend a week, or two-- who knows you may end up relocating here.
Positively European:
Never has been getting from an airport to a downtown metropolis been so affordable and easy, unless of course you're in Europe. From the Sea-Tac International Airport simply hop on the conveniently located Light Rail Service that will usher you directly to the hotel district. Best of all, your downtown commute won't be bogged down in gridlock, and for pennies on the dollar- you can take a leisurely as well as scenic train ride to your lodgings.

Hotel 'Wow' Thousand:
When staying in downtown Seattle, look no further than the incomparable Hotel 1000.  There is a reason that this hotel consistently ranks as Trip Advisor's Number One Place to Stay in Seattle... Unrivaled guest relations, combined with comfort and European-styling will leave you wondering why you even remotely considered lodging anywhere else.
The Rooms are equipped for maximum comfort and privacy. After a long day of traversing the cities notoriously inclined hills, soak your tootsies in the large standalone bathtub-- whose faucet amazingly cascades water from the ceiling, gently pelting your shoulders and feet.
                Heat it Up-
Don't be concerned with your tub-time meditation being interrupted-- Each room is outfitted with a human body temperature monitoring system, allowing maids or other attendants to know if you are in the room, and wish not to be disturbed.
                Location, location, location-
Suffice to say, Hotel 1000 is easy within walking distance to the waterfront, outstanding parks and shopping. An early morning walk will bring you to the famous Pike Place Market, where you can delight in a breakfast of Seattle's Finest Java-- and healthy mouth-watering fruits and berries.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Gaze with wide-eyed wonder as you meander through an incredible garden located in the heart of Seattle. Although the vibrant colors, delicate shapes and beautiful designs are not of the floral variety... but rather showcase blown glass art work, hand-crafted by the contemporary American Master, Dale Chihuly.
From there drop in the neighboring Space Needle and take a ride up one of America's most iconic elevators and see a mind-expanding view of Seattle 360.
Seattle Locks Cruise and Sightseeing Tour:
Jump onboard a picturesque and celebrated cruise through the famous Hiram Chittenden Locks between Puget Sound and Lake Union. Your panoramic tour includes the most remarkable city sights from a uniquely seaside perspective.

Whether you'd like a romantic break or just looking for the a perfect way to spend the afternoon, regardless of the weather...  sit back, take in the invigorating sea-salt air and enjoy the all Seattle sights that surround you on this pleasant Intracoastal Waterway Cruise.


West Seattle

Take an inexpensive and fun Water Taxi ride across the Puget Sound to West Seattle- From there an awaiting  free shuttle with take you to Alki Beach. It's a great way to spend the afternoon whale watching and picking up seashells on this two and a half mile long stretch of beach. Plenty of fun shops, ice cream parlors and waterfront dining opportunities await.

Be sure to drop an Alki Beach favorite, El Chupacabra Mexican Seaside Dining . There you can sip margaritas with the colorful locals like the attractive Alaskan Air Flight Attendants that belly ache and bemoan their working conditions, but look so good doing it..
 
Tulio Ristorante
 
For delicious Italian cuisine in the heart of the downtown of Seattle, do not miss Tulio Ristorante.  Chef Walter Pisano serves up classic Italian fare, with a genuine warmth and hospitality that always makes you feel like a member of the family.  This lively 'Italian-esque Trattoria' serves up affordable and fresh dishes that consistently impress with bold flavors.

Beautifully nestled within the charming boutique Hotel Vintage Park, Tulio's atmosphere bustles with energy and enthusiasm but remains ever inviting and comfortable.

Foodie Heaven

Looking for quaint surroundings from an independent restaurant removed from Seattle's opulent hotels, and sizzling downtown area? Be adventuresome and head out of Dodge, to the Capitol Hill neighborhood and the down to earth dining experience of Volunteer Park Cafe.  Granted it will take you 'Google Transit' to get there via Seattle's amazing bus line-- but follow the directions and you can will arrive safely and inexpensively without a hitch.
 
Located in an old grocery store, this charming bistro serves up comfort foods that warm the body and soothe the spirit. You almost feel you've been teleported back to the 'Little House on the Prairie' days-- as the food is prepared so fresh-- they even have an organic veggie farm they use in the back of the restaurant.

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