introduction

Washington is a state in northwestern United States on the Pacific, which was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States. The total area of the state is 184,827 km².

surfing

West coast USA is the far boundary of the Pacific and a lot of the residual energy that bounces around this enormous expanse of water ends up here in one shape or form. No less than 4 seperate swell generating systems feed this magnificent coastline. The Aleutian lows that power the north Shore of Hawaii also descend upon this coast to provide well shaped powerful NW swells from OCT through to FEB.

travel

There are many ways of travelling in the US: by plane, private jet, train, bus, recreational vehicle (RV), motorcycle, thumb or car.

Trains are relatively expensive; private jets can begin at around $4000 per flight hour; buses are generally dependable, safe and affordable, though not available everywhere; renting an RV is up to your personal taste; motorcycling can be a thrilling way to see the country as well as travelling by thumb.

And of course, the idea of long-distance car travel is the most appealing to the majority of Americans. The United States is covered with a convenient system of U.S. and Interstate highways. Just keep in mind that the country is huge and be prepared to travel for hours behind the wheel, so pay attention to the comfort of the car you use. By the way, many of the country's major natural attractions, such as the Grand Canyon, are almost impossible to get to without a car.

where to stay

You shouldn’t have any problems with finding a place to sleep in Washington. Motel is the most popular form of accommodation and they are usually located on the sides of the highways, so it’s very convenient for the road trippers. Don’t expect anything luxurious, but they will usually provide you with a clean room that includes the following amenities: bed, bathroom, TV, telephone. Price is also very reasonable. Motel 6 and Super 8 Motels are popular chains of motels that can be found all over the country.

Seattle is the largest city in Washington with many options of accommodation: budget (Hostel Seattle, Panama Hotel, Seattle Green Tortoise Hostel), mid-range (Renaissance Seattle, The Watertown Hotel, University Inn, Homewood Suites by Hilton® Seattle - Downtown) and splurge (W Seattle, The Sorrento Hotel, Alexis, Hotel Max, The Fairmont Olympic, Hotel 1000, etc).

what to pack

Washington's climate varies greatly from west to east. An oceanic climate predominates in western Washington, and a much drier climate prevails east of the Cascade Range, so pack accordingly. Take warm and cool clothes, don’t forget to take waterproof clothes/gear/backpack for the rainy season. 

Pack some basic toiletries so that you do not need to spend unnecessary money to purchase these basics. You may want to just buy a travel pack and bring it.

All the gear if you plan to camp: a good sleeping bag and a waterproof tent that are good for low temp; special gas container u can use for heating food and water; a sturdy backpack or a cargo pack with a good daypack. Invest in a portable water filter or at least take some puri-tabs or boil the water. 

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