I'm a San Diegan. I tend to gravitate toward city's with warm weather and beautiful scenery. Half of me loves the cold weather like that of places such as Portland, Oregon. I have heard wonders about this place such as the scenery, amazing food, and fantastic skyline views. Thus, given that I had never visited, I decided it was a perfect opportunity for a road trip.
In August 2016, one of my best friends, her sister, and I decided to road trip to Portland. There was a lack of planning, with the exception of the house reservation, courtesy of Airbnb. We didn't exactly know what we were going to do or in what order, but I can assure you, that made the experience even better.
When we arrived at Portland I didn't expect it to be cold, given it was August but it was quite windy. I was in awe of how beautiful it was. There was so much going on at once but at the same time it emanated a peaceful vibe. Eventually, after a couple of naps and playing with a cat (that came with the house) the trio set out to explore Portland. We ended up visiting the Portland Japanese Garden, International Rose Test Garden, Portland Aerial Tram,
and Voodoo Doughnut.
Heavenly Falls Waterfall located inside the Portland Japanese Garden. The waterfall was big in size, very relaxing, and absolutely stunning.
All I can say is: so many koi fish, so many colors. The brightly colored koi swam to the top of the pond making it entertaining to watch. 
Small statue located on the side walk of the garden. 
The International Rose Test Garden. If you ever dreamt about getting lost in a place filled with roses, I can assure you the place does exist. This rose garden was large in size with roses as far as the eye could see. The smell of all the roses gave off a nice aroma.
Portland Aerial Tram. It's actually not as scary as it looks. We got lost finding the location of the aerial tram and because of that, we got on it near sunset. It was perfect. We were able to see the Portland skyline while the sun was setting and it was one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen...500 feet up in the air. 
View after exiting the aerial tram. We waited here until it was dark because we didn't want to leave. Traveling back via the aerial tram was as beautiful in the dark night because all of the lights from the buildings brightened up the city.
The iconic "Keep Portland Weird" sign. The sign is true, Portland is the right kind of weird. 
Voodoo Doughnut Sign. I don't think i've ever waited so long for some doughnuts in my life. It was worth it, I left with a box full of donuts.
Inside "Voodoo Doughnut." Pleasing to the eye and has a retro aesthetic. 
"Voodoo Doughnut" sign shaped as a doughnut hanging inside the doughnut shop.
Portland was more than I expected. I loved everything about this city, especially the food. Portland has so much to explore and so much to see. You should definitely consider road tripping to Portland because, In my friend's words, "I fell in love with Portland's beauty" and you will too.
All photographs copyright Brenda Vargas, 2016.
