Station/Boat Location~
Group Portland
Date there~
2001-2004
Weather~
The weather is rainy from late october to april, but once the sun comes out, it is beautiful. Beware of Seasonal Affective Disorder and buy yourself some full-spectrum lightbulbs. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the nice weather when it comes around.
Military facilities~
here is a very small exchange on base, but they don't sell much besides alcohol and uniform elements. Fort Lewis between Tacoma and Olympia has a big exchange. It's about 1.5 hours away
Medical~
Adventist Medical Center takes Tricare. In fact, many providers do, it's just a matter of looking around. Oregon has one of the best research hospitals in the country, OHSU, so if you have a special condition, it's a good place to be.
Housing~
Portland has gorgeous architecture. We were lucky enough to have a place in an old Victorian in NW PDX. If you like urban living, walking, great restaurants and a beautiful setting, live in Portland proper. A lot of people choose to live in Vancouver, but I wouldn't recommend it. Rents are beyond reasonable in Portland. The neighborhoods have distinct character, and it's easy to find one that fits. I recommend Mississippi, NW, Hawthorne/Belmont/Division, Sellwood for families, and close-in NE and SE.
Shopping~
Shop local! Some of the most creative designers are from Portland. Try Seaplane, The English Dept., Retread. Etc. Each neighborhood has something different to offer. The grocery stores are great, too. If you're looking for specialty food, try Elephants. There are many grocery stores that stock organic food, as well. Try shopping co-op if you're looking to save money. There is a co-op on 23rd and Thurman and there is also one on NE Alberta.
Adult Schools~
I graduated from Portland State University while we were stationed in PDX. I especially reccommend it for those interested in Urban Planning, as it's one of the country's top schools. There is also Portland Community College. The University of Portland is Jesuit school, and Reed College is a top liberal arts college. The last two are a bit spendy, but worth it, especially Reed.
Fun Activities~
We had so much fun when we lived in PDX! You don't have to spend money to have a good time. There are free concerts, the zoo is free on the first tuesday of the month, the international rose test garden is free at Washington Park, There are many places to hike, shop, or just walk around. Portland is one of the best cities for food (James Beard was a Portlander.) Go to the Farmer's Market in the Park Blocks. Go ice skating at Lloyd Center. Explore wine country in the Willamette Valley. Get super cheap cocktails at the Brazen Bean. When it rains, see an arthouse movie and have a beer at the mission theatre. When it's sunny, float down the clackamas river on a raft. You will never be bored.
Additional Info~
The people in Portland are young, creative and well-educated. Take advantage of and support the local businesses. There is a lot of interest in the Arts as well as political and social activism. Portland is a true community, and people are not shy about getting involved. Make the most of your stay there, and get to love the city. You won't be sorry.
Homeport OR
Group Portland
Date there~
2001-2004
Weather~
The weather is rainy from late october to april, but once the sun comes out, it is beautiful. Beware of Seasonal Affective Disorder and buy yourself some full-spectrum lightbulbs. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the nice weather when it comes around.
Military facilities~
here is a very small exchange on base, but they don't sell much besides alcohol and uniform elements. Fort Lewis between Tacoma and Olympia has a big exchange. It's about 1.5 hours away
Medical~
Adventist Medical Center takes Tricare. In fact, many providers do, it's just a matter of looking around. Oregon has one of the best research hospitals in the country, OHSU, so if you have a special condition, it's a good place to be.
Housing~
Portland has gorgeous architecture. We were lucky enough to have a place in an old Victorian in NW PDX. If you like urban living, walking, great restaurants and a beautiful setting, live in Portland proper. A lot of people choose to live in Vancouver, but I wouldn't recommend it. Rents are beyond reasonable in Portland. The neighborhoods have distinct character, and it's easy to find one that fits. I recommend Mississippi, NW, Hawthorne/Belmont/Division, Sellwood for families, and close-in NE and SE.
Shopping~
Shop local! Some of the most creative designers are from Portland. Try Seaplane, The English Dept., Retread. Etc. Each neighborhood has something different to offer. The grocery stores are great, too. If you're looking for specialty food, try Elephants. There are many grocery stores that stock organic food, as well. Try shopping co-op if you're looking to save money. There is a co-op on 23rd and Thurman and there is also one on NE Alberta.
Adult Schools~
I graduated from Portland State University while we were stationed in PDX. I especially reccommend it for those interested in Urban Planning, as it's one of the country's top schools. There is also Portland Community College. The University of Portland is Jesuit school, and Reed College is a top liberal arts college. The last two are a bit spendy, but worth it, especially Reed.
Fun Activities~
We had so much fun when we lived in PDX! You don't have to spend money to have a good time. There are free concerts, the zoo is free on the first tuesday of the month, the international rose test garden is free at Washington Park, There are many places to hike, shop, or just walk around. Portland is one of the best cities for food (James Beard was a Portlander.) Go to the Farmer's Market in the Park Blocks. Go ice skating at Lloyd Center. Explore wine country in the Willamette Valley. Get super cheap cocktails at the Brazen Bean. When it rains, see an arthouse movie and have a beer at the mission theatre. When it's sunny, float down the clackamas river on a raft. You will never be bored.
Additional Info~
The people in Portland are young, creative and well-educated. Take advantage of and support the local businesses. There is a lot of interest in the Arts as well as political and social activism. Portland is a true community, and people are not shy about getting involved. Make the most of your stay there, and get to love the city. You won't be sorry.
Homeport OR
