1. The world copies everything this city does
From city planning, street food, fashion and beer – the world seems to be watching what Portland does and copy it the best they can. Why does this mean you should visit? Because like with most things, it is always better at the source – when have you ever eaten a pizza that tastes better than it does in Italy?
2. It is a food lovers paradise
It won’t take you long to realise this fact because so many of the city’s streets are lined with food trucks. It is a little overwhelming at times trying to pick between middle Eastern, pizza, Thai, Mexican and cheese burger dumplings (yep, they’re a thing) but being spoilt for choice isn’t a bad thing. Portlandians also share my love of a boozy weekend brunch and I had one of the best meals I have ever eaten at Le Pigeon, one of the best restaurants in America that doesn’t require a small mortgage to pay the bill.
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3. It is a beer lovers paradise
I should also mention that Portland is also the Hipster capital of America if not the world. It was here that the lumber jack looking bearded man trend was born; the only difference is that they are authentic her. It is cold enough that they can actually warrant always being in boots and flannelette shirts. So, wherever there are hipsters there are also microbreweries. They are everywhere in Portland and most offer generous tasting boards for you to try as many beers as your liver will allow. Make sure you go to Hopworks and Deschutes Brewery.
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4. The city is surrounded by nature
Even though the city is full of natural beauty people from Portland love to get out of the city and be outdoors. You don’t have to go to much effort or too far to experience Oregon’s outdoors in all its glory and completely switch off from city life. Multnomah Falls is only half an hour’s drive from the centre of the city and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls I have ever seen.