After dropping off our bikes at Bikes & Beyond (which is now my favorite bike shop in the world right now because they helped us get to Portland), we tried to locate a car rental place. The plan was to spend a rest day in Portland because the dream of the nineties is alive in Portland (Ref: search YouTube for video) and it us supposed to be one of the most bike and public transit-friendly cities in North America. We succeeded with a great deal of help, luck and persistence.
Misty and I walked from the bike shop to the rental place located 45 mins away to discover that they closed three hours ago. Even the neighboring café which was supposed to be open until 3 pm was closed early leaving us with no car AND no place to pee. Misty was sunburned as well and in our crabbiness we swore never to take a motorist's estimates of distances to and from places unless they indicate that they have walked or cycled said distance. With no car, sore feet and somewhat defeated spirits we consoled ourselves with thoughts of ice cream. Emotional eating is always on the list of solutions.
Having plunked ourselves down at a table in a café we get a text message from the other three people saying that they had magically figured out how to get a car and that they would be there to pick us up soon. Apparently the fine lads at the bike shop found a Toyota dealership that was kind enough to offer up a demo vehicle (that functions) for rent. We were going to make it to Portland after all.
From the little I have seen so far, the rumors are true. Public transit is free within the city center zone and it's frequent and hi-tech. Our hotel is run by the Portland State University and includes breakfast, pool, new fitness gym, free wifi and our rooms have balconies. All available at a cheaper rate than the Econolodge.
I am looking forward to getting to know this place more tomorrow.
Janius Tsang
