My first trip to the Pacific Northwest and Portland (attending a conference for Waldorf Education) - LOVED IT! A fantastic, friendly, foodie city, and full of beautifully scented flowers on our June visit.
Two colleagues and I stayed at Judy's place for a week and we don't have even one criticism! We didn't meet Judy the warmth of her communications, and the thoughtful décor and amenities of her house, made us feel that we did. From the well equipped kitchen and the plentiful fluffy towels, to the personal Tibetan photographs and other artifacts, it was so easy to settle in and feel at home. I guess Judie's house is really an apartment but it certainly doesn't feel like one! It is a first floor home on a very small, quiet street near a garage that specializes in vintage European cars (we loved seeing Porsches et al from the 1960s and later). The neighbors were approachable but very respectful of our privacy. We ate breakfast on the patio by the river and watched the squirrels and the rowing teams practicing along the far bank.
There is a well-stocked supermarket a few minutes walk away where we bought fresh produce, bakery treats, beer & wine, and some fun gifts. Lyft and Uber found us easily in the area and, even during rush hour, the ride to downtown (or the fantastic restaurants in the SE around Division Street) took more than 10 - 15 minutes. We didn't eat at the house except for breakfast - there are just too many healthy, delicious, affordable options available elsewhere. But we loved to come 'home' to soak in the hot tub and enjoy the scent of jasmine on the patio by the river. We saw the signposts that lead to the walkway/ bike path up the riverbank but didn't have time to follow them. Next time, I promise myself, I will make sure to take better advantage of the exercise options nearby!
It was great to have the TriMet system only 5 minutes walk away even though we mostly used Uber/ Lyft. We also appreciated having a parking space for a car when we did have a visitor. We are all excited to visit Portland again and, for all of us, Judy's place is our first choice. If you are thinking of visiting Portland, be sure to visit the Japanese, rose, and Chinese gardens. I am an Amazon addict but wandering around Powell's book store reminded me of the learning, joy, and social media power that book stores and libraries have offered to many, many generations!
I digress. If you are visiting Portland, stay at Judy's place to enjoy great service, special treats, soft fluffy carpets and the deliciously comfortable beds and shower.