nPortland has an excellent airport and great flight services from all major airlines. However, if you have a bit of time, the best way to get there is by train. Coming from either north or south, you meander through some of the most beautiful forest and mountain areas in the US.

Train from Oakland ? $67 for reserved coach seat, one way, 18 hours

Train from Seattle ? $30 for reserved coach seat, one way, 4 hours

Reserve tickets online at Amtrak.com

nAccommodation:

Budget ? Downtown Value Inn, $55 a night (Ph: 503-226-4751)

Moderate ? Kennedy School Hotel $84-$109 a night (Ph: 503-249-3983)

nWeather: Portland is quite rainy and cold in winters. Late spring, summer and early fall are the best times to visit, though summers can get hot and muggy.