Travel: Portland, Oregon

Portland is divided into 5 neighbourhoods or quadrants (yes, QUADrants), each with its own personality. The food scene is huge, especially the food carts and food parks all around the city. Getting around by car is convenient, but biking, transit or walking in the downtown core are other options as well. Whether you spend a weekend in Portland or explore the rest of the beautiful Oregon coast, there should be something for just about everyone.

What to eat

First stop: The famous Nong's Khao Man Gai

Hainanese chicken rice (really, any variation of this) is of my favourite dishes.

Breakfast at The Egg Carton

Grab a cup of Portland coffee from Stumptown Coffee

Hillsdale Food Park

Mexican hot chocolate

Cointreau Creme Brulee

Grab some donuts and coffee at Blue Star Donuts.

Where to Shop

Visit Notary Ceramics to pick up some beautiful, handmade ceramics.

What to see

Whether you love flowers or not, the International Rose Test Garden is a garden with hundreds of types of roses. You can find a quiet spot to read or to enjoy the

Mount Tabor is a mountain and park within the city. It’s great for running, hiking, picnics or seeing the city from afar.

Lost Lake, Mount Hood National Forest at sunset

Portrait: Marcus in Portland, Oregon

He was visiting Portland, just like I was. He had decided to leave his career to pursue what he was truly passionate about: music. Just as I had with photography.

As we talked, I could relate to the thoughts, fears and emotions that were going through his head. I had been there. To be honest, I'm still there. But I can live with knowing that I tried and saw for myself if I failed than to waste precious time wondering if I could have succeeded had I give it my all.

If you've gone through this process, I would love to hear your experience and advice. If you're going through it now, feel free to ask questions. I hope we can help each other out. 

Portland: Notary Ceramics

I've been following Notary Ceramics for a while and I love Sarah's work. Each piece is hand thrown and they're minimalistic, just the way I like it. 

While we were in Portland, I stopped by the shop/studio space and had a nice chat with Sarah. I have a soft spot for small business owners and have so much respect for the hard work they put into their craft.

Before we left, I took a few photos to remember my visit and brought home a pair of matching mini cups that I can't wait to use. Take a look at this collection and you'll probably see why I love them so much :)