Seattle is known as the “Emerald City” for its wealth of greenery made vibrant by the abundant rainfall. With it´s location between the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, the city offers no shortage of outdoor pursuits. But Seattle is not all flannel and umbrellas; this small city is also home to fantastic restaurants of all cuisines, designer shopping and exciting nightlife.

For a gourmet fix, visit the famous Pike Place Market, a permanent daily market selling everything from fresh flowers and homemade honey to locally made cheese and gigantic shellfish. Grab a cup of coffee at the original Starbuck´s and watch fish fly through the air at the Pike Place Fish Market.

Free bus service in the downtown area makes Seattle easy to get around. The Monorail connects the downtown mall to the Seattle Center, home to a large park, the Ballet, Children´s Museum, and the iconic Space Needle. Take the elevator to the top for great views of the city, Lake Union, and Puget Sound. Head down to historic Pioneer Square and take the Underground Tour, a look at the underground city that was built over after a devastating fire. Munch on fish and chips or fresh crab as you stroll the kitschy waterfront and hop a ferry boat over to quaint Bainbridge Island. Enjoy all this northwest city has to offer – just don´t forget your umbrella.

Links –
Pike Place Market - http://www.pikeplacemarket.org/frameset.asp?flash=true
Seattle bus - http://transit.metrokc.gov/
Monorail - http://www.seattlemonorail.com/
Ballet - http://www.pnb.org/
Children´s Museum - http://www.thechildrensmuseum.org/
Space Needle - http://www.spaceneedle.com/
Underground Tour - http://www.undergroundtour.com/
Waterfront - http://seattlewaterfront.org/
Ferry - http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/