Metronatural and the Seattle Seven

Met-ro-nat-u-ral – adj.

1: having the characteristics of a world-class metropolis within wild, beautiful natural surroundings
2: a blending of clear skies and expansive water with a fast-paced city life
3: one who respects the environment and lives a balanced lifestyle of urban and natural experiences
4: Seattle

The word “Metronatural” was coined as a marketing tool by the Seattle Convention and Visitors Bureau as a way to describe their vibrant city and to attract visitors. There are many reasons to vacation in the Emerald City; here are my “Seattle Seven.”

Walk and wander. Don’t miss Pioneer Square, Elliot Bay Bookstore, the Waterfront and Pike Place Market. Everything listed below is within strolling distance in downtown Seattle. (www.visitseattle.org)
The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is now an anchor in the vital downtown core. In 2007 there was a major expansion. (www.seattleartmuseum.org)
seattleartmuseum-cars

Lobby Exhibit at SAM

commodeartattheseattleartmuseum_000

Commode Art at SAM

The completely restored, historic Paramount Theater is the performing arts Mecca in the city. (www.theparamount.com)
Visit the Seattle Public Library. This mid-town oasis features award-winning architecture, amazing views, art exhibits and a full calendar of special events. (www.spl.lib.wa.us)

escalatorattheseattlepubliclibary
Escalator at the Seattle Public Library

Wonderful food; try Sazerac for breakfast, Taste of SAM in the Seattle Art Museum for lunch and Tulio for dinner.
Great hotels; the Alexis recently completed a multimillion dollar makeover. Its perfect location, exciting new rooms, attentive staff and cozy complimentary evening reception add up to a winning combination. (www.kimptonhotels.com)
Shopping; Seattle is hometown to REI, Eddie Bauer and Nordstrom (don’t miss Nordstrom Rack). Need I say more?
 

Travel tips and websites for follow up.

Consider Amy’s Limousine Service as an alternative to a $40 taxi ride from the airport; look online for specials and discounts. (www.amyslimo.com)

Public transportation around town includes shuttles, monorails, streetcars and public buses. (www.seattle.gov)
Take advantage of free wi-fi and 400 computers for public use at the Seattle Public Library. (www.spl.lib.wa.us)

computerbankattheseattlepubliclibrary
Computer Bank at Seattle Public Library

 

Buy a copy of the Entertainment Book for big savings around town. (www.entertainment.com)
The Kimpton Group also manages the Hotel Monaco and the Hotel Vintage Park in Seattle. Check their Hot Dates/Great Rates online. (www.kimptonhotels.com)
Sign up for Southwest Airlines “Ding” for airfare specials to Seattle. (www.southwest.com)
Use Shutterfly for cataloging and “bookmaking” your photos; check out their Hit the Road feature to share your travel photos. (www.shutterfly.com)

Safe travels….

Howard Hian
www.Travels-with-Hian.com

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *