Seattle and Vancouver Island - Best Travel Destinations in the North West

I have traveled extensively to Europe, Asia, Hawaii, The Caribbean Islands and all around the United States and Canada. Taking into account every place I have been, I have selected the very best places which I will write a series of articles about. They are generally easy to get to and reasonably priced as well. This article is about my favorite destinations in the North West of The U.S. They are Seattle and Vancouver Island, Canada. This is sort of a twofer vacation since they are pretty close to one another, but if you go, go in the June to September time frame for best climate conditions.

If you live anywhere in the United States fly to Seattle. The air fare rates are very reasonable as this is a very popular destination. There are many great hotels in the City of Seattle and most are moderately priced. We paid under $100 per night in a nice downtown hotel and there are still rooms for that price available near the airport. If you want to stay downtown today the prices have climbed to the $150 to $160 a night range. I was very happy with the hotel we stayed at and there are so many choices that I won't pick any out specifically, but be warned that there is a large convention crowd that stays near the Convention Centers, which charge double the price I just mentioned. Avoid these hotels as they are for Corporate convention attendees and have a major premium because they can charge the large companies all that traffic can bear.

Attractions

Seattle has a large number of "must see" sights. The Space Needle is of course one of the most famous of Seattle tourist spots. By all means go there. You may want to eat in the restaurant at the top of the Needle, but this is pricey. I suggest a half carafe wine or a pitcher of beer and an appetizer to keep your bill low but still enjoy the fantastic view.

Pike Place Market