Hiking in the great outdoors has long been a favorite pastime for me. It offers an escape into nature and a great workout that rewards with incredible views, especially here in the Pacific Northwest. Women hikers have increasingly made their mark, challenging trails across the globe and proving the indomitable strength and resilience that lie [...] The post The Best Hiking Gear for Women appeared first on Explorer Sue ..read more

Spanning the border between Oregon and Washington, the 80-mile Columbia River Gorge carves its way through the Cascade Range, creating a natural playground that’s as diverse as it is stunning. It is, without a doubt, one of the best scenic drives in the United States. But the hiking is even more spectacular. On two feet, [...] The post 11 Best Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge appeared first on Explorer Sue ..read more

There’s nothing quite as soothing as a dip in a natural hot spring, especially if it’s in the picturesque landscapes of Washington State. A hot spring soak can be a meditative experience that revitalizes your spirit and renews your energy. For those seeking solace and a splash of nature in their relaxation routines, the Evergreen [...] The post 9 Best Hot Springs in Washington State – A Local’s Perspective appeared first on Explorer Sue ..read more

With a state that offers varied climates such as gorgeous water views, rugged coastlines, a temperate rainforest, snowy peaks, arid high deserts, and ancient waterfalls, finding romantic places in Washington State is as easy as it gets. The options here are truly endless. In this guide, we explore the most romantic spots across the great [...] The post 15 Romantic Getaways in Washington State appeared first on Explorer Sue ..read more

We’re about to take a deep dive into one of Canada’s crown jewels – the exquisite and varied province of British Columbia. The magnificent northern addition to the Pacific Northwest, this slice of heaven offers a potpourri of natural beauty, multicultural experiences, and a chilled-out charm that attracts visitors worldwide. I have traversed much of [...] The post Your British Columbia Travel Guide appeared first on Explorer Sue ..read more

If you are wondering where to stay in Portland that combines local flair with amazing amenities, you’re in the right place. Visitors will find the coolest hotels in Portland ranging from classic chic to retro vibes to artsy corners that are little havens of cool. The hotel scene in Portland, Oregon is a treasure trove [...] The post 14 Cool Boutique Hotels in Portland Oregon appeared first on Explorer Sue ..read more

I’d been vaguely aware of the hobbit house in central Washington for years. Its tantalizing photos graced my Instagram feed from time to time. And so it was that one lazy December evening I was scrolling through said feed when I happened upon a post from the owner putting out a call to be a [...] The post My Stay in a Hobbit House appeared first on Explorer Sue ..read more

Living in the Pacific Northwest over the last 20 odd years I have crisscrossed Washington State many times and find that it is in many ways similar to Oregon in topography, except for the amazing Puget Sound area. In this post I will guide you on a whirlwind tour of Washington State. Whether you’re an [...] The post Things to Do in Washington State – the Ultimate Guide appeared first on Explorer Sue ..read more

Oregon is best known for its diverse landscape, the rugged Pacific coastline, the volcanic Cascade Range, and numerous old-growth forests. The largest city, Portland, is famous for its eccentric, “keep Portland weird” culture and iconic parks. The state’s capital, Salem, is also rich in history, offering a glimpse into Oregon’s early beginnings. When I first [...] The post Things to Do in Oregon – The Ultimate Guide appeared first on Explorer Sue ..read more

Looking for coffee places in Portland? Look no further. I am coffee obsessed. It’s safe to say I need it pretty much every day, and I’m fortunate that my home town of Portland is renowned for its vibrant coffee culture as well as being a foodie destination. Home to a vast array of coffee shops [...] The post Where to Find Good Coffee in Portland appeared first on Explorer Sue ..read more