The unseasonably warm weather of the last few days has KPLU travel expert Matthew Brumley thinking about summer. Now is the time, he says, to start planning a summer vacation. And he says staying put in the Northwest is a great option.
This week, we offer advice for planning your trip, and a list of nearby getaways Brumley has found worthwhile.
Book Now, Cancel Later
The actual booking process is easy, in most cases. A few clicks here, a phone call there. But getting the family to agree on a destination, and making sure schedules align, can be a problem. If the terms and conditions make it easy to cancel, consider booking a good deal now, and coordinating later.
Know What You Want
Weather is unpredictable and variable, of course, but some parts of our region are arguably rainier than others. Know before you go if you want to have a quiet weekend of reading and board games (maybe a rainy place is a good option) or fun in the sun and sand. Also, are you looking for fancy restaurants, or do you want to cook a slow meal all day? Ask the others you’re traveling with, too.
Where To Go?
Salt Spring Island: This island north of Victoria, B.C., offers natural relaxation near the Strait of Georgia, or along its lakes. Brumley likes a resort called Green Acres.
San Juan Islands: A range of options here, including wineries, wandering a farmer’s market, or more active hiking and kayaking. The ferry lines can be long, but you can solve that problem by making a reservation.
Langley and Whidbey Island: Art, wine, dining, and antiquing. It’s a quiet getaway for a weekend or just a full day. The ferry from Mukilteo to Clinton will get you there.
Over the mountains: Lakeside vacations, good long hikes, and wine country await you in central and eastern Washington. There are also concerts at the massive and stunningly beautiful Gorge Amphitheater. Good for a long weekend.
The Olympic Peninsula: TheHohRainforest has a year-round campground, and the town of Forks is less than an hour away by car. Lots more here, too.
Portland: Oregon’s largest city has plenty to do, and is easily reachable from Seattle and Tacoma by car or by Amtrak.
And, of course, you'll find plenty of towns along the Washington and Oregon coasts, including Ocean Shores, Cannon Beach and Newport.
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"Going Places" is KPLU's weekly exploration of travel. Matthew Brumley is the co-founder of Earthbound Expeditions, which provides small group travel to clients including KPLU.
