Now, for something truly decadently French, check out the spa and treat yourself to the Exceptional Orchidee Imperiale treatment. And the hard-to-find Orchidee Imperiale cream is available too. Just in case. Decadent and decidedly worthwhile.
Another European aspect to the Avalon is its convenient complimentary London taxicab that will take you hither and yon. Not too hither, mind you, but it's a very sweet touch.
With so many picturesque places to explore, it's difficult to mention them all. One beautiful spot from which to reflect is the amazing Portland Classical Chinese Garden, with trails and exquisite nooks and crannies to discover. How to describe this stunning nod to Asian culture? It's best if you check out the website, available through the travelportland.com site.
French Masters fill the Portland Art Museum and the Van Gough, Monet and Rodin pieces are not to be missed, nor should the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, which has a wordy name but includes a cool IMAX theater and fun interactive stuff, should you be towing the progeny.
Another very French-like attitude turns up in the city's friendly Portland Streetcar, free in Portland's downtown area, which is egalitarian in spirit and rider-ship, just like le Metro. And you'll have scores of great books on all things French at the famed Powell's City of Books, a famed site in the Pearl district.
About 7,000 books are in French, so you'll get to practice your reading skills, should you still have some. I know mine are pretty limited. I hung out in the kids' section. Just saying.
Lest I forget, Portland is an undisputed wine-lovers city, too. And that's pretty French, wouldn't you say? But of course! Set up a tour and tasting at Domaine Drouhin winery, one of the earliest in the Willamette Valley winemaking business. This winery is highly esteemed in the wine world and has won awards for their Pinot Noir. Isn't it great when a family-run business is successful? Check out their site at www.domainedrouhin.com for a taste.
It would be remiss of me not to mention how much fun it was to walk about on Clinton Street, in the Southeast. With bicyclists galore, cafes and a laid-back feel, this neighborhood may very well be the most European-like. Especially in summer, when hordes of locals and tourists convene.
One of the most amazing shops is the Camamu Soap, where handmade soaps are created in-house, with natural ingredients free of all the junk that's in most store-bought. Chat with the owner, ask about the process and you'll get another reason why Portland is a people-pleasing place. Lori Basson, the owner, will be happy to explain exactly how she creates her works and what inspires her. It's scentsational'sorry about that pun.
Now, for a truly European spa experience, meaning very no-frills, you may enjoy Loyly day spa. Very Scandanavian, it is a communal (guys and dolls) setting inspired by the sauna culture of Scandanavia. It blends the accessibility and warmth of a traditional sauna with the essence of a contemporary day spa.
You'll find a cedar (love that smell!), steam room, tea lounge and massage treatments. If you're into good, clean relaxation, this is your place. Check their site too, and remember, this is Scandanavian-based (no-frills) which doesn't mean lack of amenities translates to lack of good service and clean environment: www. loyly.net. Simple and good.
And get this: the Zenana Spa is a spa and wellness center for pregnant and new parent clients'how cool is that? It offers massage and beauty treatments, yoga, classes and support during the early days of parenting. What a great sanctuary! Where were places like this when I had my children?
Sour grapes? Maybe a little, but it's such a welcoming spa it felt like a community center, and in Portland it seems that everywhere you go, you'll find a community center that will welcome you, no matter what your predilection! Which is great for eccentrics like me! Check it out for yourself: Zenana Spa.
Another holistic day spa is the Dragontreespecializing in Ayurvedic and other modalities. 'Experts at promoting healing through bliss,' according to the menu. I'm for anything that gives or guides you towards bliss, and this site will not disappoint. Just make sure you book well in advance.
I must admit I'm saving my favorite spa for last: Aequis Spa, an inclusive spa retreat located in the Penthouse of a refurbished building downtown. Amazing, indescribable, calming, compassionate'.I cancontinue with my adulation, but that would be self-indulgent.
What truly amazes me is that I had been to the original building years ago, and even though it was in a busy warehouse block, the therapists were calm, compassionate and dedicated. I fell in love with Aequis then, and I am pleased to report that the love affair continues.
The change in venue has allowed founder/owner Megan Klein the space to design this most welcoming venue. Decorated beautifully, guided by feng shui principles, the flow of the space is lovely and the signature foot bath has been continued.
If you are lucky enough to have a massage in the bell tower, that is the coolest place possible. You have an entire, circular room in which to receive your treatment. You are actually behind the face of the building's clock and it feels very 'Notre Dame' and elegant. The treatment itself was so good and relazxing, I can barely remember what was done.
That's the way to leave a client. Confounded and blessed-out. With cradle-face marks. It's worth it. This spa has received so many 'Best of' awards and accolades, that if you don't have plans for a spa, but are thinking about it... you MUST have one here. And be spoiled for life.