In true two-day-trip-trooper spirit, my spontaneous trip to Seattle, WA was one of the best of the year. Of course, I cannot claim to know the city in a matter of days, but again I tried absorb a more distilled essence, walking around, talking to the genuinely friendly people, catching some really inspiring sights and having coffee & some serious pie. So here is my lowdown on the some of the city’s best…
Coffee of course!
Kind of obvious on Starbucks’ home turf and the city that pioneered today’s modern coffee culture. Time permitting it is recommended that true coffee lovers check out Cafe Allegro, a hidden treasure in the University District of Seattle, and also the city’s oldest coffee house. Since I’m not quite the coffee connoisseur and did not have much time, I made do with Starbucks Reserve — Roastery & Tasting Room on Pike Street. This is a place where you can really feel Seattle’s passion for rich sumptuous coffee. The roasting, the grinding and the brewing, was showcased with both, technical prowess and dramatic performance, enabling you to sample some of the most unique, new, interesting and ‘you-name-it’ coffee creations in the world.
Chihuly Garden & Glass + Space Needle
The Chihuly museum and the space needle can be done as a sort of duo combo. On a good day, it wont take you too long to get up and down the needle, and enjoy the breathtaking view of the city & the harbour. The ride up is punctuated with humorous anecdotes about the observatory and is quite enjoyable.
Now coming to the Chihuly Garden & Glass Museum, this is where I spent most of my time, being mesmerised by Dale Chihuly’s vision, talent and amazing artistic creations. The collection is beautifully curated, elegantly displayed and beyond inspirational. Chihuly’s work to me was so steeped in passion and love for the art of glass and the ability to push the boundaries of the craft. My favourite exhibits were of course the ‘Persian Ceiling’, Seaforms and the ‘Ikebana Boat’. This was truly the highlight of my day…if you are in Seattle, don’t miss this for the world!
Pike Place Market
Pike Place is a bustling congregation of some of the most innovative vendors, selling the freshest, and sometimes the most intriguing fresh food. Now, I’m sure you have heard about Pike Place Fish Co. where the folks playfully throw fish around. As fun and entertaining as that is, the market is a lot more… with colourful produce, knick-knacks and things you have never seen before. Don’t forget to check out the Gum Wall, (yes, the chewing gum legacy wall) tucked away close by.
Bill Speidel’s World Famous Underground Tour
A two day trip calls for a quick tour, as an easy way to quickly catch some of the best city sights. I highly recommend this Underground Tour which takes you though Seattle’s history via its plumbing. Unusual, witty, hilarious and totally fun!
Food!
For food don’t forget to chat with a Seattle local for the best recommendations. The 2 places I loved were Stateside for some spectacular Vietnamese food and superb cocktails (try the ginger laced Mekong Mule) and Serious Pie for anyone, like me, with a soft spot for pizza — fresh, flavourful and hands down yum!
Any recommendations for a second visit? Leave your comments below!
