Lodging: Marriott Downtown Waterfront Hotel in Portland

On December 16-18, 2008, I stayed at the Downtown Waterfront Marriott for business. This is the third time I have stayed at this hotel and have been happy with my experiences. Granted, all three times I have not had to pay because twice was for work and once was with Marriot points, but the experience has been pleasant. The location is great if you are interested in visiting the waterfront or if you want to walk around downtown. Within the building on every floor, there is always a glass container set out with some great, unique, refreshing beverage that you may have at any time. The rooms are clean and comfortable and the gym is well set up. There is a bar in the Marriott, but just realize that they close early. If you are looking for a late night of drinking, you will not find it there. Good thing there are plenty of bars in the area. I would recommend staying at this hotel. My experiences have always been good and pleasant.

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pdxor-portland-marriott-downtown-waterfront/

Restaurant: The Creamery in Klamath Falls

This restaurant is in my hometown, but I still thought I would write about it. I ate here last on January 8, 2009. The building is gorgeous with Knotty Pine entry and walls. When you walk in the building, the roof is really high, which does not give it a homey feeling. If you are going for a Sports game, they have a large screen to watch a game and this is a lot of fun. They have a nice patio where you can sit in the summer. This place has great beer and if you are into microbrews, definitely try their sampler. The food is average and the price high. I've eaten there a couple of times and have never been impressed with their food. I recommend eating here if you haven't tried it before, otherwise, unless you like watching sports at a bar and drinking beer, I'd say pass.

http://www.kbbrewing.com/

Restaurant: Porters in Medford

On January 25, 2009, some friends and I went to Porters for dinner. The restaurant is a beautiful and authentically restored 1910 National Historic Train Station. The interior was beautiful and was a very nice, classy dinner. Expect to pay a classy dinner price though. I would say the cost was $$ out of $$$. The only problem we experienced was the noise from the kitchen where we sat, but there was a note explaining about the noise and if we were bothered by it to ask if we could be reseated. I thought that was an appropriate way to address the situation. Food was great, service was good, experience is recommended.

http://www.porterstrainstation.com/