Portland

Set in the shadow of Mount Hood, Portland is a small but vibrant and magnetic city, with nearly two million people in the metropolitan area, which attracts young people from all over the country with its night life, music, restaurants, art, and unique Northwest character.

Snuggled in the Multnomah Valley carved out by the Willamette River, which divides Portland's east and west sides, Portland is proud of its parks, its legacy of preserving open spaces, and is celebrated for its gorgeous gardens, vast array of food and vibrant urban culture.

Additionally, Portland's city planning and public transportation system is looked to as a model for other countries around the world. It has also been declared as one of the 'most liveable cities' in the US, and for good reasons.

The city is also known for its wide array of microbreweries, and is often credited for the microbrewery revolution in the US. With 28 breweries within the city, Portland is home to more breweries than any other city in the country.

Portland is home to a diverse array of artists and arts organisations, and was named in 2006 by American Style magazine as the 10th best Big City Arts Destination in the US.

Spencer Thanhouser