The shining ribbon of the Willamette River glides through Portland, spanned by the graceful arcs of its characteristic bridges. The city itself has sterling aesthetic qualities, with a cohesive layout and lush gardens, while close at hand are the wilder beauties of forested slopes, creekside glades, and the bounty of the Willamette Valley. An appreciation for life's pleasures suffuses everything from the renaissance in seasonally inspired, flavorful cuisine to an enthusiastic outdoor culture which embraces getting around town by bicycle. The wealth of microbreweries, coffeehouses, cultural amenities and crafts artisans reveals facets of an overall philosophy that life is a hands-on art.