There has never been a better time to visit the crazy cool city of Seattle. Indeed, Air Canada recently announced new direct flights from Montreal to Seattle ( a premiere ! ) and this splendid seaport city is a creative hub for numerous tech companies who decided to try out their pilot projects or install their head offices (think Starbucks, Microsoft, Amazon, …). These innovative companies are bringing cool people into the city, who are asking for fun projects and concepts in return. With reason, Seattle was named the fastest-growing major city in the United States in 2013 as well as 2016 and there are major chances it will once again in 2020 since the city is booming now more than ever. Here are 5 reasons why Seattle should be on your next go to list in 2020.
— You can now flight direct from Montreal to Seattle
For years, Montrealers wishing to explore the city of the popular movie “Sleepless in Seattle” had to connect through Vancouver or Toronto. And, since we usually do not go to Seattle for more than a few days, never mind it is a captivating city, this accessibility situation was discouraging for a lof of travellers. But, recently, Air Canada announced that they will be offering direct flights from Montreal to Seattle as of next year : a premiere considering it has never been an option before.
—The new Hyatt Regency Seattle will make you rethink hotel chains
Right across the soon-to-be largest convention center in the Pacific Northwest (the construction began and it should be ready by 2021) , you find the brand-new Hyatt Regency Seattle , a new headquarters of 1,260 rooms that offers breathtaking views of the city and floor-to-ceiling windows every where. Forget everything you thought you knew about hotel chains. The Hyatt Regency Seattle is indeed the largest hotel in the Pacific Northwest, but it is absolutely memorable and perfect. Built in an old train station, the lobby and common areas are impressive, showcasing local art pieces and oversize windows that creates a dramatic and spectacular ambiance. The Regency lounge offers a heated rooftop patio to soak up the view for happy hour, snacks and breakfast. As for the the rooms, they are all modern, chic, elegant and spacious. If you are not afraid of heights, select one that is located on the top floors (there are 45!) and do not forget to visit the brilliant on-site restaurant, Andare Kitchen or the 24H Market for a home made coffee, pastry or snack. A hotel stay you certainly wont forget, in the heart of the business district.
—The Nest at Thompson Seattle must be the coolest rooftop
Talking about rooftop patios (The Regency lounge), there are still very few in Seattle, a city known for its unpredictable weather. The Nest, Thompson Seattle’s iconic rooftop bar, cocktail lounge, and terrace hovers above the urban hustle of Pike Place Market and Seattle’s downtown, offering unbeatable views of the city as well as the waterfront. The rooftop offers indoor and outdoor seating areas, vibrant music and festive ambiance. The hotel itself is absolutely amazing if you are looking for a
trendy, modern, sexy boutique hotel.
—You can get your caffeine fix in the coffee city
Ever since Starbucks launched in 1971, Seattle has had a reputation as a coffee city. Nowadays, there are so many talented coffee suppliers that you can get your caffeine fix at almost every corner. Don’t forget to visit the original Starbucks location (102 Pike St) or its newest addition, the first-of-its-kind Reserve Roastery & Tasting Room (*1124 Pike ).Discover many other one of a kind coffee experiences such as La Marzocco Cafe (472 First Ave N), the first-ever coffee shop from the famed Italian espresso machine-maker or Seattle Meowtropolitan (1225 N 45th St) where you can order cappuccino and play with cats (it is the real deal). There is certainly something for everyone who enjoys their caffeine fix in this coffee city.
—The classics are not to be missed
Of course, you will always find the Seattle classics that are wonderful and memorable: great views at both the Space Needle and the Seattle Great Wheel, fine gourmet shopping at the Pike Public Market, amazing discoveries at the Seattle Aquarium and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Walk around the boardwalk and Seattle waterfront, go back in time at Pioneer Square, Seattle’s original downtown and play on the water in this unique and passionate city that never stops surprising.
by Catherine Maisonneuve
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