@@”Traveling” has one “l.” If it shows up with two in the paper, I’m going to punch the first British guy I see. Love, Kenny. POSTSCRIPT: You probably don’t need “Ore.” after each location. People will get it. /vigilantecopyediting@@Traveling can be ridiculously expensive. From plane tickets and hotels to meals and souvenirs, substantial cost can be a deal breaker.
For college kids who yearn to go abroad but don’t have the budget, don’t worry: Oregon is a huge and diverse state where you can have just as much fun traveling without burning a hole in your pocket.
Granted, some of the small towns in Oregon may not be as exciting or exotic as an abroad destination, but if you’re bored, all you need to do is a little pretending and imagine that you’re somewhere else.
So if you feel like traveling the world without leaving Oregon, check out these “exotic” destinations:
England (Ashland)
South of Eugene, Ashland is probably the closest you’ll ever get to Shakespeare’s home while staying in Oregon. Check out the beautiful outdoor theater, or the England-inspired buildings in downtown Ashland.
China (Portland and Jacksonville)
Though not as large as the Chinatown in San Francisco, there are some hidden gems in Portland’s Chinatown. The Chinese gardens are beautiful and a quiet escape from the city. And don’t forget to spend some time hunting for authentic Chinese food and dim sum.
Located south of Eugene and a few miles west of Medford, the small town of Jacksonville was, interestingly enough, home to the first Chinatown in Oregon and experienced some of the first gold claims. In 1966, it was designated a National Historic District for the many preserved landmarks and historical artifacts.@@http://www.westernmininghistory.com/towns/oregon/jacksonville/@@ @@http://www.offbeatoregon.com/H014_Jacksonville.htm@@
Canada (Ontario)
One thing Ontario has going for it is that it’s far warmer than Ontario, Canada. Ontario lies halfway between Portland and Salt Lake City, awarding it the phrase “where Oregon begins.”
Japan (Portland)
The renowned Japanese gardens in Portland are probably the one of the most authentic, exotic destinations you can visit in Oregon. It’s definitely worth the visit.
Italy (Florence)
The coastal city of Florence shares a name with its Italian counterpart, but Florence, Italy, sits farther inland. Florence, Ore., on its own is a beautiful city, so even if it isn’t as old as the Italian version, it provides a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean.
Mexico (Lake Billy Chinook)
In the dry part near Eastern and Central Oregon, Lake Billy Chinook is close to your typical desert or beach destination, and much warmer than the icy waters of the coast.
Egypt (Cairo)
The only real similarity between Cairo, Ore., and Cairo, Egypt, is the name. But Cairo, located in Eastern Oregon, tends to be warm. It might not be as hot and dry as the desert, or as exciting, but work with what you’ve got.
United States (Tillamook)
It’s home to the beloved Tillamook cheese and the closest thing we’ll get to Wisconsin, without all the Green Bay fans or snowy, frigid weather.
Outer Space (McMinnville)
Nothing is more “exotic” than aliens. This small town is famous for its UFO sightings, as well as its many UFO fanatics. If aliens aren’t your thing, downtown and Linfield College are definitely worth a visit.