introduction

Oregon is an American state in the Pacific Northwest, which lies on the Pacific coast between Washington on the north and California and Nevada on the south. IThe state has rugged rocky coastlines, dense forests, fun cities, western mountains, and even a desert in the southeastern part of the state. The total area is 255,026 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 Oregon. 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.

 

Portland is the largest city in Oregon with many options of accommodation: budget (McMenamins White Eagle and Hostelling International-Portland), mid-range (The Jupiter Hotel, Marriott Portland City Center, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - Portland, Inn at Northrup Station, The Park Lane Suites, etc) and splurge (Hotel Vintage Plaza, Hotel deLuxe, Embassy Suites Portland Downtown, Riverplace Hotel, Marriott Downtown Waterfront, The Governor Hotel, The Benson Hotel, etc).

 

what to pack

The climate is generally mild here, but periods of extreme hot and cold can affect parts of the state. So pack accordingly. You’ll need short sleeved t-shirts, shorts and long trousers (pants) and probably a light jacket or pullover for the more blustery days and evenings and sun cream for days out on the water. In winter bring long trousers (pants), warm pullovers and warm waterproof coat!

Whether its Summer or Winter, definitely take along some bug repellent spray, good sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself.

Bring along all the gear if you plan to camp: a good sleeping bag and a waterproof tent that are good for very 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. 

You must be a registered user to comment. Click here to register.