The city that's so close, yet so far away for too long. It's time to rediscover Seattle!
Things are always changing in a city with a population of more than 4 million inhabitants, and Seattle is no exception. For decades, Seattle has been a favourite weekend away for people living in British Columbia's west coast, nobody ever imagining a time would come that we couldn't just hop across the border at our own leisure. Whether for fun, for work or even just for groceries, Seattle was always there for us. And then it wasn't.
As Canadians wait eagerly for the US border to open for non essential travel, it's time to check in and see what's new or unexplored in the city we know and love.
Fall of 2021 was the first season for Seattle's new NHL team the Seattle Kraken! Vancouverite's have been supporting the Sea Hawk's for years, using weekend getaways as an opportunity to take in some NFL. Now with an NHL team within driving distance, weekend trips to Seattle can include a good old hockey game too!
For those lovers of luxury hotels, the Lotte Hotel Seattle opened mid pandemic (2020) and continues to creatively boast its acclaimed onsite dining, world-class spa, and sweeping views of the city skyline and Puget Sound. Lotte is also reaching out to the Canadian market, offering weekend getaway deals to Canadian residents which include 10% off rates and complimentary valet parking.
*images courtesy of Lotte Hotel Seattle
For those who are looking to get away from Seattle's most love locations, hop on a bike in this seriously bike friendly city and head to the Burke-Gilman Trail. Ofo, Spin, and Lime all operate in Seattle, users just download the app, add a credit card, scan the code on the bike and off they go. The prices are very affordable (about $1/hour) and unlike rental cars, you can leave them anywhere you want, no insurance required.
Another easy option from downtown Seattle (currently Pier 52) is to take a short water taxi ride to West Seattle. West Seattle offers impressive views of downtown, without the big city grunge. Check out Alki Beach where you can walk, play volleyball, or just soak up the sun (or rain). When it's time to eat (or dry off) head to West Seattle Junction, where you will find breweries, restaurants, cafe's and a farmer’s market (Sunday's only).
Seattle has something for everybody, even outside of the downtown area. Plant lovers should check out Jubota Garden, a stunning 20 acre landscape that blends Japanese garden concepts with native Northwest plants. Families would enjoy a visit to Bob's Corn and Pumpkin Farm, a short drive from downtown. A working corn and pumpkin farm with countless activities for families, including various mazes, hayrides, slides, and more.
If you're looking for a few minutes of mindfulness, be sure to visit the Seattle spheres. As best described on their website "The Spheres are a result of innovative thinking about the character of a workplace and an extended conversation about what is typically missing from urban offices– a direct link to nature. The Spheres are home to more than 40,000 plants from the cloud forest regions of over 30 countries".
More than just a breath of fresh air, the Seattle Spheres leave on thinking, and even give children a few minutes of quiet time, to feel reverence in nature.
Most of the team at North South Travel appreciates a good lobby bar (if not all of the team, really). One of the things we are most excited about is the glorious new lobby bar at the famous Fairmont Olympic Hotel Seattle. This historic property has graced the heart of the city since 1924 and is currently under a $25 million restoration which includes a total renovation to all guestrooms and corridors. Original Terrazzo and marble flooring was uncovered, repaired, restored and refinished and their glorious crystal chandeliers were relocated to the foyer adjacent to the Spanish Ballroom.
The kinetic art installation above the glorious new "Olympic Bar" was designed by Spanish design studio Lázaro Rosa-Violán (LRV), the same team responsible for the entire restoration project’s vision and design. Inspired by nautical elements and made with materials such as wood, iron, sails, and rope, the art piece is a tribute to the hotels historic logo, and is unique to any piece in the world. Made up of over 400 hand made pieces, the installation inspires with precise engineering and expert craftsmanship.
For a behind the scenes look at this incredible restoration, please
*Image and video courtesy of Fairmont hotels
Are you ready to rediscover Seattle? Contact your North South Travel advisor for weekend getaway deals today!