The verb at the root of the name for Cape Perpetua means something like ‘uncovered place’, which makes sense descriptively as it is highly exposed to waves and winds. It’s a beautiful spot on the central coast that hits all your senses: the crisp ocean smell, the roaring of the waves, the mist that creeps through the Stikan spurce, and the vibration from the concussion of the waves as you stand on the shores. Make your way to Thor’s Well; a gaping sinkhole that appears to never fill despite the unbroken stream of sea water. Just be sure to stay alert to not be swept in from the sudden torrents.

Forming much of the northern border of Oregon is one of North America’s largest rivers called Columbia River. It has become a darling of outdoor and recreation magazines bringing much popularity to the small town in recent years. You can go skiing, mountain biking, hiking and of course, water sports. It is considered by many to be THE best place in the world for windsurfing; some saying that the quality of the wind can be so magical and rare that its nicknamed perfect gusts “unicorns”. Drive east on the Interstate 84 and feel that wind on your face, if not on your first windsurfing lesson.

Portland has been acquiring a reputation as a big city with the small-town qualities, with its fresh air, organic foods and streets paved with good intentions. It’s the kind of city you visit for two days and gets you contemplating to pack up and move to. Known as one of the world’s greatest towns for beer and funky neighborhoods, their Forest Park is also the largest urban forest in the United States with great trails that allows you to immerse yourself with pine trees, moss-covered terrain and wildlife.

Oregon is a region known for their cool, wet climate as it is situated in the Cascade Mountain Range. Combined with rich and fertile volcanic soils, it allows the region to be the top grower of many types of produce like stone fruits and berries. Its long coastline also makes fresh seafood an essential part of the Pacific Northwest cuisine. For a fine-tuned experience, stroll over to Paley’s Restaurant for its local oysters on the half-shell, or fresh salmon and mushroom stuffed kulebyaka pictured above!