A Girl's Guide to WHERE IN THE WORLD IS MATT LAUER:
What, Where, How, When & What to Wear
Monday, April 30, 2007
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON
As jobs, hobbies or good, healthy obsessions go, trailing Matt Lauer as he begins his annual globetrotting trek, "Where in the World..." is not a bad one. While Matt spends another week exploring the far reaches of the earth, I can't help but wonder: "What might he discover if Matt were Mattie?" And from that, "The Girl's Guide to Where in the World" was born.
Where:
Matt's first stop is Boeing Field, the sprawling epicenter of aerospace technology plunked in the middle of beautiful, if not occasionally soggy, Seattle. Boeing Field hosts no commercial airlines, so you won't have a reason to visit unless you're going to the Museum of Flight or you have affection for smart guys with pocket protectors. Visiting Boeing Field will only take you so far without security clearance, so head into Seattle for some sites, bites and shopping.
Let me take a moment to dispel the myth. Seattle is no longer the grunge capital it was in the '90s. It's a vibrant, cultured city that has managed to keep its casual cool despite the rapid growth. You can roll off your boat, still in jeans, and go see one of the best opera performances in the country. (In the interest of full disclosure, I should mention that I spent five years in Seattle; it's an area that is near and dear to my heart.)
What:
OK, back to what to do. First stop - Pike Place Market; it's a Seattle institution. It's also crowded. Peruse the flowers, veggies, local crafts and then get out of there. Visit the original Starbucks across the street, because you can.
If on the run, grab a piroshky at Piroshky Piroshky (1908 Pike Place; 206.441.6068), because who doesn't love potatoes and cheese wrapped in dough. But my advice: head upstairs to the recently expanded Matt's in the Market (94 Pike Street, Suite 32; 206.467-7909), for the freshest salads...and everything else. (They're just finishing the renovation and will re-open in late May.) You'll find the Market much more enjoyable when watching from above.
What to Wear:
Seattle has some fun, eclectic shopping. Visit the flagship Nordstrom (500 Pine Street; 206.628.211); it's beautiful and you still can't beat the shoe selection. It's probably the only place in the country where you can find sexy, waterproof footwear. Functional and attractive - who knew?
From Nordstrom, go outside and take a left to Sway & Cake (1631 Sixth Avenue; 866.900.SWAY), a fun New York-inspired boutique. For a downtown departure, venture off to the old Scandinavian district Ballard and visit Olivine (5344 Ballard Ave NW; 206.706.4188), the ultimate girl store, for the best in local fashions.
For something special, look to couture designer, Madina Vadache. Known locally for her bridal gowns, she's about to launch her first Ready-to-Wear collection. Enjoy Madina's designs now, before you can no longer afford them. She's on the cusp of moving her store to New York.
Where to Rest Your Head
Splurge:
The Fairmont Olympic Hotel
(411 University St) - A traditional Seattle landmark with friendly staff, located downtown. Perfect for that romantic getaway.Grand Hyatt Seattle
(721 Pine St) - A contemporary hotel with stunning views of the city from the upper floors. No better location for your shoppers!
Sorrento Hotel
(900 Madison St) - A bit of Europe, perched on a hillside overlooking downtown. Stay for the old world charm.
Hot & Hip: Hotel 1000
(1000 First Avenue) - High-tech and high design. Ask about The Golf Club and experience some of the top courses.
Hotel Max
(620 Stewart) - A downtown haven for the chic. In the Know
The Art of Fashion...And Art
Madina Vadache's
