Portland, Oregon is one of my favorite cities, so it was a treat to visit recently at the invitation of Parker Furniture in Beaverton. Parker is an exceptional furniture store, carrying an enormous array of beautiful furniture and run by the third generation of the Parker family. I stayed at the historic Benson Hotel, one of several old Portland hotels with exquisite architecture, furnishings, and old-time grandeur. The original Mr. Benson installed Benson Bubblers around the city---elaborate drinking fountains that not only still function today but look as classically lovely as ever. Portland's light rail system goes just about everywhere and is fast and efficient. Wonderful old buildings and institutions abound. It is a warm, friendly city built on two rivers and home to more micro-breweries per capita than anywhere in the country. If you are a beer lover, Portland is heaven!
