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)

                                                                       Lobby Exhibit at SAM

                                                                  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)

                                                                 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)

                                                                 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