June 28, 2010
Can Running Shoes Help You Fly Nonstop?
Every day, we fly, and we fly all over the place with an multiple stops in-between. First, we zip to the coffee cart; then across the freeway to get to work; then to the day care to pick up the kids; then to the grocery store to pick up ingredients for dinner; and then finally, home. This is the lifestyle of a common jet-setter, and unfortunately, there are few times that we ever get to fly nonstop. That is why runners put on their running shoes–it is their round trip ticket to any destination; anytime, anywhere. Read more »
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February 26, 2010
Photo Diary: National and State Flowers
While many European countries do not have an official flower, the Netherlands has lovingly adopted the tulip. Locals celebrate the country’s favorite flower during events such as the Queens Day and Tulip Time Festival. Tokyo, on the other hand, has two flowers: the famous cherry blossoms (the unofficial flower) and the Chrysanthemum. Portland is often referred to as the “City of Roses”, but the state flower is actually the Oregon Grape. The plant produces small bunches of yellow blossoms and then unveils small grape-shaped fruit. This plant is not safe for eating, however, so enjoy its beauty from afar. Read more »
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February 25, 2010
Cherry Blossom Viewing Hot Spots
Spring has made its appearance uncharacteristically early this year, but Japan has welcomed the blooming cherry blossoms with open arms. The annual cherry blossom festivals typically kick off in mid- to late-March and continue through the end of April (check for this year’s anticipated schedules here), and if you’re looking for the best places to “ooh” and “aah” over the cherry blossoms trees, here are a few hot spots: Read more »
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December 23, 2009
Explore Outside of Tokyo
Japan is rich with culture, architecture, and natural landscapes. If you’re traveling to Tokyo in the winter, here are a few favorite destinations to add to your itinerary.
Kyoto
Kyoto is arguably most famous for its spectacular architecture. With over 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, Kyoto has preserved some of Japan’s most valued historical and cultural masterpieces. Read more »
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November 16, 2009
There and Back Again, A Cycling Tale
People who know me know that cycling is my passion. I love Portland, in part, because so many others here share that passion. And I admire cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen for the same reason. Cycling is also how I make my living, and for both business and personal reasons, I’ve traveled overseas many times. My most comfortable flights have been flying nonstop out of PDX. Read more »
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November 2, 2009
Showing Off Oregon’s Beach Side
Cannon Beach, Oregon is truly a destination to be seen by travelers from all over the world and thanks to nonstop flights from Europe and Asia to Portland, the word is out. In the last year our community has been fortunate enough to host travel media from Germany, France, Japan and the United Kingdom. We are seeing more and more European travelers in our hotels and restaurants. Having the opportunity to visit with these folks, show them around and collect feedback about their experiences has been of great value to our businesses and local community. Read more »
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September 25, 2009
Photo Diary: Farmers’ Markets
For the freshest produce and seafood, locals in Portland, Amsterdam and Tokyo know exactly where to go: the local farmers’ market. The real decision is choosing which market to go to for your daily/weekly grocery shopping. Portland has many farmers’ markets scattered throughout the city and outer suburbs, Amsterdam boasts a wide variety of markets from flea to flower, farmers, and books markets, and Tokyo’s crown market jewel is the Tsukiji Market–the largest open seafood market in the world. So where will you shop? Read more »