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Coastal Areas

A weekend in Astoria, Oregon — a great getaway itinerary

June 2, 2021 by Matthew

Did I mention I grew up in Northwest Oregon, near Astoria? In my About me section there is more information about my early life in this part of the world. Now that I live in Seattle I find myself yearning to return home and a weekend getaway to Astoria, Oregon perfectly fits the bill. I’ve traveled to this seafaring city at the Mouth of the Columbia River many times from … [Read more...] about A weekend in Astoria, Oregon — a great getaway itinerary

My 10 favorite things to do in Astoria, Oregon

April 7, 2021 by Matthew

A chrome mechanical binocular will offer a closer look at the sights in the background for only 25 cents. The grass trails down to evergreen trees and eventually the waters of the Columbia River.

This is a love letter to Astoria, Oregon. I have fond memories of spending time in this coastal enclave growing up -- regularly visiting a favorite baby sitter whose family moved down the river. In fact, she took me to see Star Wars for the first time at the Liberty Theatre (just recently renovated downtown.) I continue to explore the area on regular trips home to see family … [Read more...] about My 10 favorite things to do in Astoria, Oregon

Perfect 3 days in Olympic National Park itinerary from Seattle

November 2, 2020 by Matthew

A beautiful beach scene combines bright blue skies with some puffy white clouds and rock stacks indicative of the Washington Coast. The surf is crashing waves onto the rocky beach revealed by low tide.

To truly see Olympic National Park, one or two days may not be enough. But don’t fret! This Olympic National Park itinerary will deliver the best of Olympic National Park in three days. Don’t miss the highlights by following this detailed guide (written by a local!), starting in Seattle before exploring the ultimate playground: the Olympic Peninsula.Matthew Kessi … [Read more...] about Perfect 3 days in Olympic National Park itinerary from Seattle

Bloedel Reserve — the best of Bainbridge Island day trip bliss

October 29, 2020 by Matthew

The Japanese Guest House at Bloedel Reserve is iconic with the geometric structure of wood beams filled with glass and sits amongst a formal mature garden with flowing green lawns and well trimmed shrubbery.

The Bloedel Reserve, just minutes away from Seattle on scenic Bainbridge Island, is cotton candy for even the untrained nature enthusiast. Recognized as one of the best gardens in North America, the experience is that of a magic carpet ride of green hues and textures — any time of year. Let the botanical adventure unfold while following the winding trail of wood chips. The two … [Read more...] about Bloedel Reserve — the best of Bainbridge Island day trip bliss

Captain Whidbey — all you need to know to enjoy the island hotel in peaceful Penn Cove

October 19, 2020 by Matthew

Matthew Kessi peers from a window on the second floor of Captain Whidbey, which is a historic log cabin lodge on the banks of Penn Cove. The sun is shining through some fir trees in the distance.

It's amazing that such a place like Whidbey Island exists mere minutes away from a sprawling Seattle metropolis, and the twenty minute Mukilteo to Clinton Ferry is all that's needed to refresh the canvas to begin a new adventure. The long and narrow stretch of land takes command in the Puget Sound, spanning 55 miles -- from the Clinton Ferry Terminal (on the south) to dramatic … [Read more...] about Captain Whidbey — all you need to know to enjoy the island hotel in peaceful Penn Cove

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I would like to acknowledge that much of my inspiration comes from living on the traditional land of the first people of Seattle, the Duwamish People past and present and honor with gratitude the land itself and the Duwamish Tribe.

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