Where to go for a short vacation next week in western Washington?

Question

My boyfriend and I were planning to go on a short (3 days/2 nights) trip next week to Cannon Beach, Oregon. Because of all the flooding, though, we've changed our plans because half of the roads will probably still be flooded or damaged, and I heard that the Oregon coast got hit with wind pretty bad.

So I'm needing other ideas? We really just want a quiet getaway to take a break from work and college. We've thought about Leavenworth and the San Juans. But I'm not sure if those are much better because of the ferry ordeal and the avalanche work in the mountains.

Are the routes to Leavenworth/San Juans okay? Or does anyone have any ohter suggestions?

Just to add, we can't wait for things to clear up because enxt week is the only time during break we both have 3 days off work. Thanks!

Answer 1

Leavenworth's also nice and especially so around Christmas. There's also a really nice Christmas store out there, entertainment, really great restaurants. It's very easy to get to as well and the roads are fine. You just head up I-5 to Hwy 2 and go East over Stevens Pass.

You can also get there by taking I-90 right from Seattle East to Hwy 97 through Blewett Pass.

Either route you go definitely check here http://wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/passes/camera.aspx to check on pass conditions.

Answer 2

Things are already getting cleared up on the road situation. You can get to Leavenworth from Seattle I'm pretty sure right now. And I don't think there are any problems with the ferrys right now either.

Answer 3

What about a spa vacation? They are not just for for women only. Men are finding that fitness spa vacations at an alternative spa offer adventure and outdoor challenges.
This is along with the traditional massages and body treatments.

A whole new breed of spas are catering to couples. They are offering up adventure to those who are looking for something besides aromatherapy and New Age music. A wide variety of activities are available to develop your fitness and have some real fun in the bargain.


WASHINGTON
Alderbrook Resort and Spa (Hood Canal)
The newly redesigned Alderbrook Resort is a classy complement to its natural setting. The Spa at Alderbrook offers services ranging from aromatherapy massage to salt or sugar skin-scrubs.

Carson Hot Springs Resort (Columbia River Gorge)
The hot springs have been drawing visitors since the springs were discovered in 1876. Today you can stay in aging and rather funky lodgings — and enjoy the same relaxing bath plus a massage — with no TVs or radios to distract you.

The Inn at Langley and Spa Essencia (Whidbey Island)
This luxuriously relaxed Northwest getaway features whirlpool tubs and private decks from every room.

Rosario Resort and Spa (Orcas Island)
Enjoy a special experience on the resort's 30 acres overlooking Cascade Bay.

Salish Lodge and Spa (Snoqualmie)
Spend the weekend at this romantic lodge and indulge in spa treatments for two, or pamper yourself with a 100-minute Ancient Thai massage.

Spa at Willows Lodge (Woodinville)
Willows Lodge is an 88-room luxury spa resort near Woodinville's two largest wineries.

Sol Duc Hot Springs (Olympic National Park)
The resort caters to the whole family. Basic cabins with kitchens are available for rent, as are RV sites with water and power hookups.

Answer 4

you don't need a passport to get into Canada until 2008. just as long as you have your driver's license and birth certificate (for both of you), you can get into and out of Canada safely and easily. Why don't you drive up to Vancouver? I think it's about a 3-hour drive. Or go down to the waterfront (I think it's Pier 69) where the Victoria Clipper (boat) is and buy tickets to Victoria? I think they're about $100 per person, maybe a little more, and you can spend your vacation in Victoria! (the boat is the fastest catamaran in the western hemisphere--it gets you from Seattle to Victoria in 2.5 to 3 hours!) If you've never been there, I highly reccommend it, even when it's rainy at this time of year. It's definitely worth it! and for the "not needing a passport" thing, this assumes that both of you were born in the U.S. If so, then you don't need one, you just need your driver's license and birth certificate. But if either of you wasn't born in the U.S., then yes, you'll need a passport (and sadly its much too late to get one in time now)

have fun with whatever you choose to do!