Other Pacific Northwest Web sites. Frequently Asked Questions about the North West

Pacific Northwest Profile Seattle, as the gem of the Pacific Northwest, is appropriately named the Emerald City. Situated on the Puget Sound and surrounded by many lakes and forests, on a clear day when the sun sparkles off the water and bounces from the trees the area glows like a precious stone. The 531,000 Seattle residents have come to appreciate the mild climate, where the rain enriches the 84 square miles of beautiful land and provides spectacular views. Snow skiers and hikers cherish both the Cascade and Olympic Mountain ranges, whose peaks serve as a perfect backdrop. The people of the greater Seattle area are friendly, relaxed, and sophisticated. The community is diverse and intelligent, rating second in the United States of per capita residents with a college education and beyond. The neighborhoods of the Seattle and Greater Seattle area, which include 4,000 square miles and approximately 2.2 million inhabitants, are inviting to all. The Fremont neighborhood bustles with interesting activities, and the eclectic theaters and cafés are filled with artists. The outlying suburbs are close to the fast pace of the city, while at the same time allowing for a quiet retreat where horses are a common sight. West Seattle, an independent community, sits opposed to Seattle's panoramic skyline. Walking through the many parks or strolling along the popular Alki Beach are favorite activities among the area's residents. Seattle is a major trading center for the Pacific Rim nations. The Ports of Elliott Bay are continuously filled with gigantic tankers, ocean liners, and freighters loading and unloading their goods. Ferries deliver tourist and commuters back and forth from Seattle to the Puget Sound islands. It's quite a sight from the top of the Space Needle to see the ocean liners, ferries, and fishing boats harmoniously maneuvering around each other. The industries of Seattle keep the economy strong and progressive. Boeing, the internationally famous aircraft producer, employs the largest number of residents, and continues to impress the world with their incredible designs. The high-tech sector has seen tremendous growth in the past years, giving an enormous boost to the economy. Computer software, bio-technology, communications, and pharmaceutical companies make up this impressive and expansive sector. Like any other metropolis, Seattle is home to many great sport teams, and has its very own symphony, ballet, and opera. There are also an abundance of outdoor activities that will keep your weekends busy. Kayaking, wind surfing, mountain biking, and boating are all easily accessible through the many trails, parks and water ways in and around Seattle. Restaurants serve up great Pacific Northwest cuisine and all the international styles you enjoy. Of course you'll have to try a cappuccino or latte after dinner, or on the fly at one of the many drive through espresso stands. Wineries and microbreweries are fantastic places to spend the day touring and sampling the products, and you'll be entertained by jazz artists and local musicians. The many proud cultures of Seattle are preserved through the sharing of music, dancing, food, and art. The variety of the ethnic people and social traditions make Seattle diverse and fascinating. If it's just a visit, or permanent move, you won't be disappointed by what you'll find. Be sure to visit our page that lists both cool and important sites around Seattle, and don't hesitate doing your own exploring of other Pacific Northwest sites.

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