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Accommodation Guide

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

Diverse Choices

  • Hostels

    These offer budget-friendly dorm beds and sometimes private rooms. Hostels often feature communal spaces, fostering a social atmosphere. You find them commonly in Seattle and Portland, and sometimes in popular outdoor recreation towns.

  • Motels

    Motels are basic, roadside accommodations, often with free parking. They are prevalent along highways and in smaller towns, providing a convenient stop for road trippers.

  • Hotels

    Hotels range from budget-friendly chains to mid-range and luxury properties. You find them in all urban centers, tourist areas, and near major attractions. They give various amenities like pools, fitness centers, and dining.

  • Boutique Hotels

    These are smaller, stylish hotels with unique character, often focusing on design, local themes, or personalized service. They are prominent in Seattle and Portland, giving a more distinctive stay.

More Options

  • Vacation Rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo)

    These give private homes, apartments, or rooms for rent. Vacation rentals feature more space, often include kitchens, and give for a more local neighborhood experience. They are popular for families or longer stays.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    These are often charming, historic homes or properties giving personalized service and a homemade breakfast. They are common in smaller towns, wine regions, and scenic areas, delivering a cozy atmosphere.

  • Resorts

    Full-service properties, often featuring amenities like spas, golf courses, or direct ski access. Resorts are found in destination-specific areas, like coastal towns, mountain resorts, or wine regions.

  • Camping

    Abundant camping options exist in national parks, state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds. Choices range from primitive backcountry sites to developed campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and picnic tables.

Unique Local Accommodation Types

These types of accommodations deliver distinctive experiences.

Glamping

Pros
  • Upscale camping experiences
  • Furnished tents, yurts, or cabins
  • Proper beds and heating
  • Comfortable nature immersion
Considerations
  • Can be pricier than traditional camping
  • Limited availability
  • May still have some outdoor elements
  • Booking far in advance

Treehouses

Pros
  • Memorable, nature-immersed experience
  • Unique accommodation style
  • Often secluded and private
  • Great for romantic getaways
Considerations
  • Often booked far in advance
  • Can be expensive
  • Limited locations
  • May have access challenges

Historic B&Bs

Pros
  • Charming, historic properties
  • Personalized hospitality
  • Unique stories and local insights
  • Homemade breakfast
Cons
  • Less privacy than hotels
  • Can be pricier
  • May have fewer amenities
  • Varied quality contingent on owner

Considerations

Price Range (per night)

Varies significantly by type, location, and season. Hostels are lowest, luxury hotels highest.

Best For

Choose based on your budget, travel style, and group size.

Booking Strategies

Advance planning often secures better rates and availability, especially during peak seasons.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June - August): Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular areas.
  • Shoulder Seasons (April - May, September - October): Book 1-3 months in advance.
  • Low Season (November - March): Book 2-4 weeks in advance, some last-minute deals.
  • Holidays/Events: Book 6+ months in advance for major holidays or festivals.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Hotels.com for hotels.
  • Vacation Rentals: Vrbo, Airbnb for private stays.
  • Hostels: Hostelworld for budget beds.
  • Camping: Recreation.gov for federal sites, state park websites for state parks.

Policies and Fluctuations

Cancellation Policies
  • Flexible rates give cancellation up to 24-48 hours prior to check-in without penalty.
  • Non-refundable rates are generally cheaper but give no flexibility.
  • Deposits may or may not be refundable contingent on terms.
  • Always review specific terms before confirming your reservation.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are notably higher in summer.
  • Major events and weekends see price spikes.
  • Booking in advance often results in better rates.
  • Compare options across different platforms for value.

Negotiation Notes

Walk-in Rates

Negotiating walk-in rates is not common in the U.S., especially at established hotels.

Online vs. Direct

Online booking usually secures the best rates.

Independent Motels

Some independent motels in smaller towns might give a slight discount for cash or direct booking, but this is not guaranteed.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are general recommendations based on different traveler types.

Budget and Mid-Range Picks

Budget

For cost-effective stays.

  • Hostels (e.g., Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle)
  • Independent Motels outside city centers
  • Camping in national/state parks
  • Look for promotions or off-season deals
Mid-range

Balancing quality and price.

  • Major Chain Hotels (Marriott, Hilton, IHG Hotels)
  • Locally-owned Boutique Motels
  • Reputable Vacation Rentals
  • Options with good amenities for value

Luxury and Family Options

Luxury

For premium experiences.

  • Historic Hotels (Heathman Portland, Sorrento Seattle)
  • Upscale Boutique Hotels
  • Renowned Resorts (Salish Lodge & Spa, The Allison Inn & Spa)
  • Exceptional service and amenities
Family-Friendly

For travel with children.

  • Hotels with Pools
  • Vacation Rentals (multiple bedrooms, kitchens)
  • Campgrounds with family amenities
  • Properties near parks or attractions

Solo Traveler Picks

  • Hostels

    Excellent for social interaction and meeting other travelers.

  • Boutique Hotels

    For an unique and stylish experience, a comfortable base for independent exploration.

  • Budget-Friendly Motels

    A simple, secure place to stay for those focused on independent travel and budget.

  • Serviced Apartments

    Combines hotel services with apartment amenities for longer stays.

Long-Stay & Historic Properties

  • Vacation Rentals

    Ideal for long stays, featuring home comforts, kitchens, and living areas.

  • Extended-Stay Hotels

    Cater to longer visits, giving kitchenettes and often complimentary breakfast.

  • Serviced Apartments

    Hotel-like services with apartment space and amenities.

  • Properties with Exceptional Cultural or Historical Significance

    Consider staying in places like The Heathman Hotel (Portland) or The Sorrento Hotel (Seattle) for an unique story.

Specific Historic Properties

The Heathman Hotel Portland

A historic landmark known for its literary connections and classic elegance.

  • Classic elegance
  • Literary connections
  • Prime downtown location
  • Award-winning dining
The Sorrento Hotel Seattle

Seattle's oldest luxury hotel, giving Italian Renaissance architecture and a rich history.

  • Italian Renaissance architecture
  • Rich history
  • Luxurious atmosphere
  • Close to cultural attractions

Unique Local Charm

Historic B&Bs

Many smaller towns throughout the region feature charming, historic bed and breakfasts that give a glimpse into the past and personalized hospitality. These often come with unique stories and local insights.

Glamping Sites

Experience luxury camping with furnished tents or yurts, often in scenic natural settings, for a blend of comfort and wilderness.

Treehouse Stays

Some unique properties give treehouse accommodations for a memorable, nature-immersed experience, giving a truly distinctive stay.