Washington Vacation Rentals, Washington State Rentals, Washington Beach Rentals, Washington Short Term Rentals

Washington

Washington Travels and Rentals
Washington State is a place of contrasts. See highly populated and modern cities in one place, rain forests in another, mountain ranges in another, and semi-arid wilderness in yet another. If environment determines the range of attractions that a place can offer, then Washington has it all!
State Geography and Climate
Washington is found at the very edge of the Pacific Northwest region. To its north lies British Columbia, Canada; to its east, Idaho; to its south, Oregon; and to its west, the Pacific Ocean.
The state is bisected by the north-south running Cascade Mountain Range, which is the most prominent geographical feature in the region. The climates on either side of these mountains are very different. Washington west of the natural dividers is characterized by a marine west coast climate. Temperatures are mild, winters wet and summers dry. Because of such conditions, dense rainforests are able to grow and be maintained. In complete contrast, Washington east of the Cascades has large areas of semi-arid land, and even a few small dessert areas at the foot of the mountains. As one travels further east, the environment becomes slightly moister, allowing the growth of grasslands, much of which has been converted into farmlands. Some portions of eastern Washington are forested.
Washington's Heritage
There are two sides to Washington's history: that of the Native American tribes that first dominated the region, and that of the Western explorers who took over the land.
The Native Americans: The Native Americans tribes that were established in the lands that make up present-day Washington were decimated by the 1770 smallpox epidemic. In spite of this, and repressive policies imposed upon them by the white settlers, they have survived to the present day, and are a major part of the cultural and historical heritage of the state. They are particularly noted for their totem poles, and their ornate carved works.
The Settlers: Guess who Washington State was named after? You guessed it: George Washington, general of the American Revolution and the very first President of the country.
The Spanish were the first to explore the northeastern region of the present-day US, but in 1790 the British-Spanish Nootka Convention opened the door for explorers from other nations to come in (Great Britain, Russia, and the newly independent US).
Robert Gray, and American captain established the sea otter pelt trade in the area in 1792. Thirteen years later, Lewis and Clark entered the state on their journey to the Pacific. Territorial disputes between the US and Britain continued until the Oregon Treaty of 1846, in which the British ceded all
Exploring Washington
Travelers to Washington should definitely see the Seattle Metropolitan Area, where some of the country's younger's and brightest live and work. The city has all the features of a vibrant and affluent modern city, and contains about sixty percent of the states entire population. Come here if you want to see the bustling industries, experience the vibrant art scene, and sample the succulent and varied cuisines of Washington. Sports fans won't be disappointed either, because they can visit the coliseums at the heart of the city. And, of course, don't forget to take in a 360-degree view of the metropolis from the top of the famous Space Needle.
If you're looking for mountain adventure, then drive up the Cascade Mountains, where one can see the terrifying and towering beauty of the areas' volcanoes. Mount Baker, Glacier Peak, Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams are all active, and St. Helens is even actively erupting. Explore these magnificent peaks if you dare! Mount Rainier is the highest peak, and is unsurpassed in the lower 48 states when it comes to the amount of glacial ice it contains.
Travel to the Olympic Peninsula and the Olympic National Park if you want to go deep into the woods, which are, incidentally, the only temperate rainforests to be found in the contiguous United States.
If you're more in the mood for exploring the state's extensive agricultural lands, then head over to eastern Washington.
Holiday Accommodations in Washington
Hotels are always an easy, convenient way to go, especially when travelers find themselves in the state's metropolitan area. The downside is that you don't get much room, but this shouldn't be a problem if you're traveling by yourself or in a small group. The upside is that hotels will have most, if not all of the modern conveniences that you may look for (internet access, in-room catering, housekeeping, gyms, spas, swimming pools, etc.)
If you want something more secluded, try going for a cabin in the mountains or the woods. You'll have to rough it a little, but good cabins will be comfortable and clean. The upside is that you can enjoy more room, lots of privacy, and spectacular views.
Other types of vacation rentals include motels and townhouses. Just take some time to consider all your options, and then make reservations ahead of time.

Vacation Rentals Washington