WOW... Portland

So, we're here in Portland. Decided to use the train rather than rent a car. Found that an all day train ticket to anywhere the train goes is $4.25. That sure is cheaper than car rental, parking fees and gas. Between the train and walking, we are set for the testing (the train goes right past the place where this testing takes place) and shopping (the train stops at Ikea).

The hotel is amazing... at least it looks amazing. We are inside a building with Macy's on the outside. It's an interesting configuration. There have been several tours on the street discussing this building. Wish I had stopped to listen.

This hotel is a case that looks are not everything. It looks wonderful. The list of shortfalls is long. n From the smelly shower to the hard bathrobe and dirty towels, someone needs to pay a little more attention to details.

What it really has going for it is location. We are in the building with Macy's. We are a block from Nordstrom's. We are half a block from Pioneer Place shopping center. Only three short blocks separates us from Nordstrom's Rack. We're set.

The weather Saturday and Sunday was wonderful. Sunshine... no rain. We wondered from the hotel to the river and all around. Found Powell's Bookstore. Yes, it really is the largest bookstore in the world. I had to simply turn and walk out to keep from spending an absolute fortune... and not be able to carry it since books are heavy. Amazing!