August 4, 2012 ---- The time finally came and we had to leave California and the west coast and move to Pennsylvania. Nathan lived in Santa Barbara for 9 years and I lived there about 6 and a half years, but neither of us had ever traveled up to Washington State before. Our original plan for moving east was driving up to Seattle from Santa Barbara and wandering around to Canada before heading east, but unfortunately we didn't have the time to drive across the country, so we ended up flying instead.
Our flight left SBA really early in the morning, and we had wonderful friends came to say goodbye at the airport. There was a delay on our flight, and that really screwed our plan to visit many major tourist sites in Seattle.
When we finally arrived at Seattle-Tacoma Airport, we picked up our rental car and drove straight into the city. Because we booked a hotel at Port Angeles in the Olympic Peninsula, and it would take about 2 hours to drive there from Seattle, I picked only one place from my want-to-visit list, and it was the Space Needle.
The parking lot near the Space Needle was a little expensive, and there was a long waiting line to get on the elevator to go to the top, but since we were already there, we just went for it. Nathan got two tickets, and we found out that you can use the ticket whenever you want after the purchase.
It was a very hot and clear day in Seattle due to the heatwave, so we were able to see the glorious city and Mt. Rainier from the top of the Space Needle. There were a gift shop on the first floor and a small restaurant on the top floor. Nathan and I spent only about 20 minutes circling around the floor to get a good view of the entire city.
Seattle is a lot smaller than I expected. People here seemed relaxed, friendly, and in good shape. I wouldn't mind living here at all if I ever have a chance. Washington state is one of my favorite states because of its natural beauty.
After looking around at the Space Needle, Nathan and I drove to meet Nathan's friend from college at a restaurant. We got lost a little but finally made it there. I can't remember the name of the restaurant, but all the food was great. Later...our joyful moment was ruined by a parking ticket over $50....
We made to the Seattle Ferry Terminal just in time to catch the ferry to Bainbridge Island and drove to our hotel in Port Angeles. Nathan and I both were impressed by the ferry service in Seattle. The boat is huge and can hold a ton of cars crossing the bay and the transportation price is very affordable. Moreover, if you ever visit Seattle, this is a good opportunity to see the beautiful city from the sea, and the view is spectacular especially at night!
Overall we had a great time in Seattle and hope to see more of it in the future. ^__^
