I just returned from a full week in Portland, during which I got to explore and enjoy the NE section of the city. My lodgings with Ali and David Kastner on 31rd Ave NE, in the heart of the Concordia District, were very pleasant, spacious, and convenient. I had the whole top floor of the Kastner's classic bungalow on a street distinguished by friendly neighbors, awesome trees, and collaborative permaculture landscaping. The Kastners were gracious hosts and their two saavy tiger cats experts at finding sunny spots--no problem with days of gorgeous weather.
Whenever I could persuade myself to put down my book and leave the Kastner's enticing front porch and explore, I had only to walk a few blocks to 33rd Ave. NE to check out the old-time movies and brew pubs at The Kennedy School, pick up a slice of pizza at Hot Lips Pizza or an awesome pulled pork sanwich at Cannon's, or wander into New Seasons Market for breakfast with the locals. If I felt like using a hot tub or having a massage, I could walk another block up 33rd Ave. to Common Ground Wellness Coop . If I headed up Killingsworth Street instead just a block,I could hang out at the very impressive Exacto Coffee Brewers, with wi fi and a good back patio. And if I wanted the best Mexican food I've ever tasted (this from a Californian) I'd make sure to go to brunch at Authentica around the corner on 30th NE.
Public transportation is readily available When I wanted to head to downtown Portland, I could jump on the 70 bus on 33rd NE and ride to the Lloyd Center on Multinomah, then transfer to the red or blue line right into downtown to spend hours in Powell's Books many-colored rooms. On a Saturday I could ride a trolley from Pioneer Square in downtown to the farm market on the lovely PSU campus, where the Oregon Historical Society and major concert hall are also located.
I've been to Portland many times, but this visit has left me longing for more time to spend reading on that special front porch in the company of Giant Sequoias and Douglas Firs, or lying in bed listening to the sound of train whistles in the night.