Seattle is a city of opposites. It is a big city with a small town feel. It is multi-cultural, but everyone lives the same easy-going way of life. It is high-tech, but workers carry backpacks,instead of briefcases. It is cosmopolitan, while being very casual. Even though Seattle is a city of contrasts, it is still a “must do” city. While visiting, set up base shop in one of the W’s 417 stylish guestrooms or 9 suites. Travel + Leisure named W Seattle as one of the “500 Best Hotels in the World.” This very hip hotel is located in the heart of downtown; therefore, it is close to the city’s financial, upscale shopping and entertainment districts. Like most Seattle denizens, the W’s staff is very friendly and pleasant.
Seattle is a walking city, but unlike some other walking cities, Seattle is hilly. The following landmarks and neighborhoods are worth walking to, hills or no hills:
* Seattle Center is the home of the Space Needle and the Experience Music Project.
* Pioneer Square is Seattle’s oldest restaurant and cabaret district. The National Historic District contains a lot of charming independent stores, one-of-a-kind stores, and sidewalk cafés. Catch Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour to experience a historical view of the city.
* Pike Market Place is the country’s oldest continually operated open-air market. This market is the perfect place to purchase coffee, fruit, pastries, pasta, vegetables, and of course, fish.
* Seattle Aquarium contains more than 380 species of birds, fish and other marine life.
* Belltown is a trendy neighborhood full of nightlife, restaurants, cafés, jazz clubs, and unique boutiques.
* Waterfront is a great place to relax, and to watch boats and cruise ships on their way to Vancouver and Alaska.
If the day’s walking has you famished, dine at Earth and Ocean at the W. This bistro serves an American cuisine. Do not feel guilty about ordering a gourmet burger because you can burn off the calories at Sweat, the W’s 24-hour gym facility. The fitness facility comes complete with Cybex machines, free weights and several cardiovascular machines.
Seattle is full of old and new culture, history and forward thinking, and established and happening places. The city may be casual, but it is definitely cosmopolitan.
Contact the W at 206-264-6000 and visit them at www.whotels.com/seattle for more information.