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Portland First Thoughts

Published by Kayla Marr

I have now been in Portland for four full days. I have encountered many things that I enjoy about the city.

Nature in Portland is impressive. The crisp air is the first thing I noticed once I stepped outside the PDX airport the night I arrived. I love the weather that I have experienced here. The temperature is comfortable, and the gentle breezes are refreshing. I also adore the abundance and variety of plants. The greenspaces within the downtown areas of Portland make the urban space feel more pleasant and cozy. The mountains and coniferous trees in the distance provide a stunning background for the city. Portland feels like a city immersed in the forest. I am excited to explore more of the natural wonders the Portland area has to offer.

This green-ish blue tree I saw in the middle of a park is the most beautiful tree I have seen here. This photo does not do it justice. The tree towers above the others and stands out with its color.
This green-ish blue tree I saw in the middle of a park is the most beautiful tree I have seen here. This photo does not do it justice. The tree towers above the others and stands out with its color.

I also enjoy Portland’s urban environment that I am able to live and work in. There is a mix of historic and more modern buildings scattered throughout the city. In addition to the charming architecture, I also enjoy the public transit system. The streetcar and bus system make it easy to travel within the city. My commute to work is straightforward and simple to follow. It is also easy for me to walk or take public transit to the grocery store. I like how public transit makes things more accessible and convenient, given my downtown location. I look forward to visiting more of the city and gaining a better understanding of Portland.

These two colorful buildings are nearby my work. The buildings are painted with this amazing pattern on all four sides! The different window sizes and placements are also unique.
These two colorful buildings are nearby my work. The buildings are painted with this amazing pattern on all four sides! The different window sizes and placements are also unique.

I have also liked the independence I have experienced so far. I have been responsible for buying groceries and preparing meals for myself. Buying ingredients and being cautious of living within my stipend has given me a taste for what life may be like once I leave college. Grocery shopping has made me more conscious of what I am eating and what vitamins and nutrients are in the foods I eat. I really like Green Zebra grocery store. There are many healthy food options, as well as vegan options! I visited a Green Zebra store close to my work for the first time yesterday. I discovered the delicious Higher Taste Buzzitos at Green Zebra. I highly recommend the Fiesta Fajita Vegan buzzito.

 

My attempt to toast a baguette on a pan is pictured here. Fresh fruits and vegetables I got from the farmers market and a grocery store are also shown.
My attempt to toast a baguette on a pan is pictured here. Fresh fruits and vegetables I got from the farmers market and a grocery store are also shown.

Overall, I have a great impression of Portland, and I am excited to get to know this city and the surrounding area better.