A Mindful Visit to Portland Oregon

Portland is a hub for all things hipster, organic, and eco-friendly, which makes it the ideal destination for your next mindful visit. There’s never a shortage of sustainable activities to choose from. Whether you’re into craft beers brewed in small batches, or the best in secondhand shopping, there’s a reason Portland captures so many hippie hearts.

Image courtesy of Ian Sane from Flickr

Stay at RiverPlace, a Kimpton Hotel, and Feel at Home

Nothing beats the feeling of a warm welcome, and Kimpton knows that. They roll out the red carpet for guests hailing from the world over, giving everyone who visits a memorable stay. RiverPlace is a gem, well-known for having a helpful and hospitable staff. Imagine being served a glass of wine upon walking in, and then being shown to your room, with chocolates and all amenities you could think of at your disposal. Sounds too good to be true, but it’s never far away in Portland. RiverPlace would be worth a stay based on the merits of hospitality alone but add to this that Kimpton puts their efforts into conservation of the planet’s resources, without interfering with the guest experience, and it’s hard to imagine staying anywhere else.

Each evening they hold a complimentary wine reception and there are daily surprises in the lobby such as a “Build Your Own Trail Mix” station with recycled brown paper bags, so you stay nourished while exploring the city. If you’re looking for a relaxing place on the river’s edge, you’ve found it, welcome home.

Use Green Transportation

Exploring an unfamiliar city can be a challenge. Luckily, Portland has several eco-conscious transportation methods. If you’re covering a short distance it’s best to walk or rent a bike and take advantage of the bike paths around the city. For longer distances, think about using the Portland eco-shuttle, which runs on 100% bio-diesel from used cooking grease. Don’t think just because the shuttle is responsible in terms of environmental impact that it’s going to be a snooze – far from it – the shuttle has WiFi service, alcoholic beverages, and they can even provide a full breakfast in the car including muffins, fresh coffee, and tea! Not only do you lessen your impact on the environment but you maximize your vacation time, and that’s something we can all stand behind.

Image courtesy of Twelvizm from Flickr

Eat at Sweet Lemon Vegan Bistro

Eating healthy in Portland is easier than most places in the world, but the food combos at Sweet Lemon Vegan Bistro are what truly keeps people coming back year after year. Sweet Lemon is known for 100% organic, non-GMO entreés such as Pho, and “Precious Pearls”, which are mushroom and tofu-filled wontons swimming in a broth of cilantro and green onions. The location is perfect for picking up a to-go order and dining al fresco while enjoying the crisp Portland air, so it’s easy to see why it’s a local favorite.

Who knew going green could be so fun and easy? Book a stay at charming hotel, enjoy fun transportation, and enjoy excellent cuisine in Portland!

Please note : This is part of a series for #HipmunkCityLove. Hipmunk.com is low-cost and budget travel service that I use while planning budget travel, and am thrilled to write for. I know you will find the articles as well as their services useful.

Remember, you are my first priority and I only work with or support companies whose products and services I believe in. For all the nitty gritty on this check out my disclaimer. It’s even got pictures of monkeys.