Types of Travel Agents: Corporate, Leisure, and Independent
Educational Pathways and Training Programs
Community College and University Programs
Online Learning Opportunities and Distance Learning Courses
Specific Courses: Tourism, Travel Industry, and Computer Reservation Systems
Certifications and Professional Development
Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) Exam and Certification
Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and Advanced Certifications
Membership in ASTA and NACTA: Benefits and Networking
Finding the Right Host Agency
Role of Host Agencies in Providing Resources and Support
Access to Booking Systems, Partner Programs, and Marketing Support
Obtaining an IATA Number Through a Host Agency
Training and Certification Programs
Comprehensive Training Courses: Fora and Other Host Agencies
Live Seminars, Small-Group Training, and Online Recordings
Advanced Certification and Ongoing Training Opportunities
Specializations and Differentiation
Group Travel, Destination Expertise, and Marketing Skills
Local Knowledge: Planning Trips Within Oregon
Customizing Travel Packages and Services
Legal and Regulatory Requirements
IATA Number and Host Agency Association
Compliance with Travel Regulations and Documentation
Enrollment and Getting Started
Contacting Educational Institutions for Enrollment Information
Costs and Duration of Training Programs
Self-Paced and Open Enrollment Courses
How to Become a Travel Agent in Oregon
Becoming a travel agent in Oregon is an exciting and rewarding career path that allows you to turn your passion for travel into a fulfilling business. As a travel agent, you will have the opportunity to plan and book travel for clients, from arranging flights and accommodations to organizing activities and excursions. Here’s a comprehensive introduction to get you started on this journey.
Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent
A travel agent earns money by planning trips and handling all the travel arrangements for their clients. This role involves understanding clients' vacation needs, booking flights, hotels, and activities, and ensuring that every aspect of the trip is well-organized. Whether you are helping clients plan a local tour of Portland or a visit to the Willamette Valley wine lands, your local knowledge can be a significant asset.
No Formal Certification Required
One of the appealing aspects of becoming a travel agent in Oregon is that it does not require a formal travel agent certification or accreditation from a certificate program. However, having a professional certification, such as the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) exam or the Certified Travel Associate (CTA), is highly encouraged and can significantly boost your credibility and employability.
Professional certifications and membership in organizations like the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) and the National Association of Commissioned Travel Agents (NACTA) can provide numerous benefits, including access to resources, networking opportunities, and industry support.
Getting Started with the Right Support
To begin your journey as a travel agent in Oregon, you will typically need to find a host business. A host business provides essential resources, including access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and an IATA number, which is necessary for conducting business as a travel agent. Host agencies like Fora offer comprehensive training programs that include live seminars, small-group training, and online recordings, ensuring you are well-equipped to manage your travel advisor business.
Key Components of a Host Agency
Resource
Description
Access to Booking Systems
Allows you to book flights, hotels, and activities efficiently.
Partner Programs
Provides access to various travel suppliers and exclusive deals.
Marketing Support
Helps you promote your services and attract clients.
IATA Number
A unique identifier necessary for conducting travel business.
With the right training, support, and resources, you can embark on a successful career as a travel agent in Oregon, helping clients realize their travel dreams while building a fulfilling and flexible business.
Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent
As a travel agent in Oregon, your primary role is to help clients plan and book their trips, ensuring every aspect of their travel experience is well-organized and stress-free. This involves understanding your clients' vacation needs, booking flights, hotels, and activities, and providing valuable advice on destinations and attractions.
Key Responsibilities of a Travel Agent
Your key responsibilities will include making reservations for flights and hotels, recommending specific destinations and attractions, booking tours and dinner reservations, and creating detailed itineraries. You will also need to ensure that any necessary passports or visas are in order and provide advice or information about the destination. Additionally, you must be prepared to handle any issues that arise before or during the client’s travel.
Types of Travel Agents: Corporate, Leisure, and Independent
You can choose to specialize in different types of travel, such as corporate travel, leisure travel, or even become an independent travel agent. Corporate travel agents focus on planning business trips, ensuring that all logistical aspects are handled efficiently. Leisure travel agents, on the other hand, specialize in planning vacations, honeymoons, or other personal trips. As an independent travel agent, you have the flexibility to work on your own terms, offering a more personalized service to your clients.
Independent travel agents often have complete control over their business, allowing them to tailor their services to meet the specific needs of their clients. However, working with a travel business can provide access to industry resources and support that might be harder to obtain independently.
Types of Travel Agents and Their Specializations
Type of Travel Agent
Specialization
Corporate Travel Agent
Plans business trips, ensuring all logistical aspects are handled efficiently.
Leisure Travel Agent
Specializes in planning vacations, honeymoons, or other personal trips.
Independent Travel Agent
Works independently, offering personalized services to clients.
By understanding these different roles and specializations, you can choose the path that best aligns with your interests and skills, ensuring a fulfilling and successful career as a travel agent in Oregon.
Educational Pathways and Training Programs
Community College and University Programs
In Oregon, community colleges and universities offer a variety of programs that can help you launch your career as a travel agent. For instance, Chemeketa Community College provides a Tourism and Travel Management certificate program that is 10 months long and earns you 36 credit hours. This program covers essential topics such as Special Event Planning, Computer Reservation Systems, and Selling in Hospitality and Tourism Management. You also have the option to continue your education and obtain an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, which can further advance your career.
Online Learning Opportunities and Distance Learning Courses
For those who prefer the flexibility of online learning, there are several options available. Portland Community College offers a self-paced Travel Agent Training program that requires 100 course hours and can be completed within 6 months. This online program covers the travel industry, including airlines, ground transportation, and hotel accommodations, as well as customer service skills and marketing techniques. Upon completion, you can take the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) exam to gain your certification.
Online learning programs are ideal for individuals who need to balance their studies with other commitments. They provide the same depth of knowledge as traditional classroom settings but with the convenience of studying from anywhere.
Specific Courses: Tourism, Travel Industry, and Computer Reservation Systems
When choosing an educational pathway, it is crucial to focus on courses that provide specific skills relevant to the travel industry. Courses in Tourism and Travel Industry will give you a comprehensive understanding of the global travel market, tourist destinations, and the role of travel agents. Computer Reservation Systems (CRS) training is also essential, as it equips you with the skills to use industry-standard booking systems efficiently.
Key Courses for Travel Agents
Course
Description
Tourism and Travel Industry
Covers the global travel market, tourist destinations, and the role of travel agents.
Computer Reservation Systems (CRS)
Teaches how to use industry-standard booking systems efficiently.
Special Event Planning
Prepares you to plan and execute special events such as weddings, conferences, and group tours.
Selling in Hospitality and Tourism Management
Focuses on marketing and sales techniques specific to the hospitality and tourism industry.
By enrolling in these programs and courses, you will gain the necessary knowledge and practical skills to succeed as a travel agent in Oregon, setting you up for a fulfilling and successful career in the travel industry.
Certifications and Professional Development
Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) Exam and Certification
To kickstart your career as a travel agent in Oregon, obtaining the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) certification is highly recommended. This certification, offered by the Travel Institute, is a foundational credential that demonstrates your basic knowledge and skills in the travel industry. The TAP exam covers essential topics such as the travel industry, customer service, and how to use computerized reservation systems effectively.
Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and Advanced Certifications
After gaining the TAP certification, you can further enhance your credentials by pursuing the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) certification. This advanced certification also offered by the Travel Institute, signifies a higher level of expertise and commitment to the profession. The CTA certification involves more in-depth training and a broader range of skills, making you more attractive to potential employers and clients.
Advanced certifications like the CTA can open up more career opportunities and increase your earning potential. They also demonstrate your ongoing commitment to professional development and staying updated with industry trends.
Membership in ASTA and NACTA: Benefits and Networking
Joining professional organizations such as the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) and the National Association of Commissioned Travel Agents (NACTA) can significantly benefit your career as a travel agent. These memberships provide access to resources, networking opportunities, and industry support. ASTA and NACTA offer certifications, scholarships, and informative webinars that foster professional growth and development.
Benefits of Membership in ASTA and NACTA
Benefit
Description
Access to Resources
Includes industry tools, training materials, and marketing support.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with other travel professionals, suppliers, and potential clients.
Industry Support
Advocacy, legal support, and protection from burdensome regulations.
Certifications and Training
Access to specialized training programs and advanced certifications.
Membership in these organizations also keeps you updated with the latest industry trends and developments, which is crucial for succeeding in the fast-paced world of travel.
Finding the Right Host Agency
Role of Host Agencies in Providing Resources and Support
When starting your career as a travel agent in Oregon, finding the right host business is crucial for your success. Host agencies serve as a backbone for independent travel agents, providing the necessary resources and support to operate effectively. These agencies offer training programs, ongoing education, and access to industry tools, ensuring you are well-equipped to manage your travel business. They also provide a platform for networking with other travel professionals, suppliers, and potential clients.
Access to Booking Systems, Partner Programs, and Marketing Support
A key benefit of joining a host business is the access to advanced booking systems, partner programs, and marketing support. These systems enable you to book flights, hotels, and activities efficiently, while partner programs provide exclusive deals and discounts that you can offer to your clients. Marketing support is also essential, as host agencies often provide materials and strategies to help you promote your services and attract new clients.
Resources Provided by Host Agencies
Resource
Description
Booking Systems
Allow you to book flights, hotels, and activities efficiently.
Partner Programs
Provide access to exclusive deals and discounts.
Marketing Support
Help you promote your services and attract new clients.
With the right host business, you gain access to a robust set of tools and resources that can significantly enhance your ability to provide top-notch services to your clients.
Obtaining an IATA Number Through a Host Agency
An International Air Transport Association (IATA) number is a critical component for any travel agent, as it allows you to issue airline tickets and book other travel arrangements directly. Many host agencies help you obtain an IATA number as part of their membership benefits. This not only legitimizes your business but also opens up more opportunities for booking and selling travel products.
By leveraging the resources and support provided by a host business, you can establish a strong foundation for your travel business and set yourself up for long-term success in Oregon's dynamic travel market.
Training and Certification Programs
Comprehensive Training Courses: Fora and Other Host Agencies
To become a successful travel agent in Oregon, enrolling in a comprehensive training program is essential. Host agencies like Fora offer extensive training that covers all the foundational topics necessary to run a travel advisor business. Fora's training program includes over 40 hours of live, small-group training sessions, as well as access to online recordings. This training encompasses customer service, how to book travel arrangements, and the use of computerized reservation systems.
Live Seminars, Small-Group Training, and Online Recordings
Training programs for travel agents in Oregon often include a mix of live seminars, small-group training, and online recordings. This blended approach ensures that you receive both hands-on training and the flexibility to learn at your own pace. For instance, Portland Community College's Travel Agent Training program is self-paced and can be completed within 6 months, with the option to take the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) exam upon completion.
Live seminars provide an interactive learning environment where you can ask questions and gain immediate feedback. Small-group training sessions offer a more personalized approach, while online recordings allow you to review material as many times as needed.
Components of Training Programs
Component
Description
Live Seminars
Interactive sessions where you can ask questions and receive immediate feedback.
Small-Group Training
Personalized training sessions that cater to smaller groups.
Online Recordings
Allow you to review material at your own pace and convenience.
Advanced Certification and Ongoing Training Opportunities
Beyond the initial training, there are numerous opportunities for advanced certification and ongoing training. For example, after obtaining the TAP certification, you can pursue more advanced certifications like the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) offered by The Travel Institute. These advanced certifications demonstrate a higher level of expertise and commitment to the profession.
Advanced certifications not only enhance your credibility but also provide access to exclusive resources and networking opportunities, further advancing your career in the travel industry.
By leveraging these training and certification programs, you can ensure that you are always equipped with the latest knowledge and skills, making you a top-tier travel agent in Oregon.
Specializations and Differentiation
Group Travel, Destination Expertise, and Marketing Skills
To stand out as a travel agent in Oregon, it is crucial to develop specializations that set you apart from others. One such specialization is in group travel. By focusing on planning and coordinating group trips, whether for corporate events, family reunions, or social groups, you can offer a unique service that caters to the specific needs of these groups. This involves understanding the dynamics of group travel, managing logistics, and ensuring that every member of the group has a memorable experience.
Marketing skills are also essential for differentiating yourself. Knowing how to effectively market your services and create compelling travel packages can attract more clients and set you apart from competitors. This includes using social media, email marketing, and other digital tools to showcase your expertise and the unique experiences you offer.
Specializations for Travel Agents
Specialization
Description
Group Travel
Planning and coordinating trips for groups, including corporate events and family reunions.
Destination Expertise
Becoming an expert in specific destinations to provide detailed and personalized recommendations.
Marketing Skills
Effectively marketing services and creating compelling travel packages using digital tools.
Local Knowledge: Planning Trips Within Oregon
Leveraging your local knowledge is a powerful way to differentiate yourself as a travel agent in Oregon. By specializing in planning trips within the state, you can offer unique and personalized experiences that highlight Oregon's best attractions. This could include tours of Portland, visits to the Willamette Valley wine lands, or adventures in the Columbia River Gorge. Your insider intel can make your clients' trips more enjoyable and memorable.
Customizing Travel Packages and Services
Customizing travel packages and services is another key way to differentiate yourself as a travel agent. By understanding your clients' unique preferences and needs, you can create personalized travel experiences that cater to their individual tastes. This might involve combining different activities, accommodations, and transportation options to create a bespoke travel package.
Customization not only enhances the client experience but also builds loyalty and trust. When clients feel that their travel agent has gone the extra mile to understand and meet their needs, they are more likely to return and recommend the service to others.
Example of Customized Travel Package
A customized travel package for a client interested in wine tasting in Oregon might include a guided tour of the Willamette Valley, accommodations at a local vineyard, and private wine tastings. This package would be tailored to the client's specific interests and preferences, making the trip more enjoyable and memorable.
By specializing in these areas, you can offer unique and valuable services that set you apart from other travel agents and help you build a successful and fulfilling career in Oregon's travel industry.
Legal and Regulatory Requirements
IATA Number and Host Agency Association
To operate as a travel agent in Oregon, one of the key legal requirements is obtaining an International Air Transport Association (IATA) number. This unique identifier is essential for conducting business as a travel agent, as it allows you to issue airline tickets and book other travel arrangements directly. Most travel agents achieve this by affiliating with a host business, which provides the necessary resources and support, including the IATA number.
Benefits of Host Agency Association
Benefit
Description
IATA Number
Allows you to issue airline tickets and book travel arrangements.
Access to Booking Systems
Enables efficient booking of flights, hotels, and activities.
Partner Programs
Provides access to exclusive deals and discounts.
Marketing Support
Helps in promoting your services and attracting clients.
Compliance with Travel Regulations and Documentation
Compliance with travel regulations and maintaining proper documentation is another critical aspect of being a travel agent in Oregon. While Oregon does not require a specific license to work as a travel agent, you must ensure that all necessary travel documents, such as passports and visas, are in order for your clients. Additionally, staying updated with industry regulations and guidelines is essential for maintaining the integrity and legality of your business.
Professional organizations like ASTA and NACTA often provide resources and support to help travel agents comply with regulations. They may offer webinars, training sessions, and advocacy to protect travel agents from burdensome regulations and ensure they are always in compliance.
Example of Regulatory Compliance
An example of regulatory compliance would be ensuring that all clients traveling internationally have valid passports and any required visas. This involves verifying the documentation before the trip and advising clients on any specific requirements for their destination.
By adhering to these legal and regulatory requirements, you can ensure that your travel business operates smoothly and ethically, providing a solid foundation for a successful career as a travel agent in Oregon.
Enrollment and Getting Started
Contacting Educational Institutions for Enrollment Information
To begin your journey as a travel agent in Oregon, it is essential to contact educational institutions that offer travel agent training programs. Institutions like Portland Community College, Mt. Hood Community College, and Clackamas Community College provide comprehensive programs that equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge for the travel industry. You can visit their websites or contact their admissions offices to gather information on enrollment requirements, course curricula, and start dates.
Costs and Duration of Training Programs
The costs and duration of travel agent training programs in Oregon can vary depending on the institution and the type of certification or degree you are pursuing. For instance, Portland Community College's Travel and Tourism Certificate program can be completed within 6 to 12 months and typically costs several thousand dollars. University programs, such as the Hospitality and Tourism Management degree at Oregon State University, may take four years to complete and incur higher costs.
Costs and Duration of Training Programs
Institution
Program
Duration
Cost
Portland Community College
Travel and Tourism Certificate
6-12 months
Several thousand dollars
Oregon State University
Hospitality and Tourism Management Degree
4 years
Higher costs associated with a university degree
It is important to consider not only the financial cost but also the time commitment and the potential return on investment in terms of career opportunities and earning potential.
Self-Paced and Open Enrollment Courses
For those who prefer flexibility in their learning schedule, self-paced and open enrollment courses are an excellent option. Online training programs, such as those offered by Portland Community College, allow you to complete the coursework at your own pace. These programs often include access to online recordings and live seminars, ensuring you can review material as many times as needed and still participate in interactive learning sessions.
Example of Self-Paced Course
An example of a self-paced course is the Travel Agent Training program offered by Fora, which includes over 40 hours of live, small-group training sessions and access to online recordings. This allows you to learn the foundational topics of the travel industry at your own pace while still benefiting from interactive learning sessions.
By choosing the right enrollment option, you can ensure a smooth and successful start to your career as a travel agent in Oregon.
Conclusion: Embarking on Your Journey as a Travel Agent in Oregon
Becoming a travel agent in Oregon is a rewarding and exciting career path that offers the opportunity to turn your passion for travel into a fulfilling business. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can set yourself up for success in this dynamic industry.
The journey to becoming a travel agent involves gaining the necessary education and training, whether through community colleges like Portland Community College, Mt. Hood Community College, or online programs offered by LuxRally Travel and other host agencies. These programs equip you with the skills to plan trips, use industry-specific software, and provide exceptional customer service.
Obtaining certifications such as the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) exam and advanced certifications like the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) can significantly enhance your credibility and career prospects. Membership in professional organizations like ASTA and NACTA also provides valuable resources, networking opportunities, and ongoing training to keep you updated with industry trends.
Key Takeaways for Becoming a Travel Agent in Oregon
Aspect
Description
Education and Training
Enroll in programs offered by community colleges or online host agencies.
Certifications
Pursue TAP, CTA, and other relevant certifications.
Host Agency
Join a host business for resources, support, and an IATA number.
Professional Development
Participate in ongoing training and join professional organizations like ASTA and NACTA.
As you embark on this journey, remember that your local knowledge and expertise can be a significant asset. Leveraging your insider intel on Oregon’s attractions and hidden gems can make your clients’ trips more enjoyable and memorable.
Example of Local Expertise
For instance, planning a trip to the Willamette Valley wine lands or organizing a tour of Portland’s unique landmarks can showcase your local expertise and differentiate your services.
With the right training, certifications, and support, you are well on your way to building a successful and fulfilling career as a travel agent in Oregon. Embrace the opportunities, stay committed to continuous learning, and enjoy the rewarding journey of helping others explore the world.
With its four National Historic Districts, Albany offers just about every major architectural style that has been popular in the U.S. since 1850, but the area's specialty is Victorian. There are more than 700 historic homes and buildings, and many of...
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Astoria is a city of 10,000 people on the Columbia River, just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean. It is surrounded by the beauty of the forest, mountains, 3 rivers and the sea. Astoria is part of a nationally significant historic region at the weste...
Surrounded by mountains, this town has a National Historic District with many Victorian buildings, highlighted by the 1889 Geiser Grand Hotel, which is still sparkling from its multimillion-dollar renovation in 1997. The town also has the Oregon Trai...
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Cannon Beach, Oregon, is a gorgeous beach located about 75 mi/120 km from Portland. It is best known for Haystack Rock, which juts up from the ocean and provides a magnificent view and photo opportunityVisitors to Cannon Beach will often be rewarded ...
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Detroit is a small resort community in a beautiful mountain setting (on Highway 22, east of Salem). Nearby, you'll find fishing and boating at Detroit Lake State Park, rivers for fishing and white-water rafting, and wilderness trails for hiking.Year-...
It’s no wonder Eugene enjoys a national reputation as one of the most livable cities in the country. Nestled like a gem between the majestic Cascade Mountains and rugged Oregon coast, Eugene is that rare kind of place where small town charm and big ...
Located near the Columbia River, Fort Clatsop was the encampment of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The fort was named after the local Clatsop tribe of Native Americans. The National Memorial Park includes a replica of the original fort, museum, cano...
Gleneden Beach is located five miles south of Lincoln City and five miles north of Depoe Bay on the beautiful Oregon coast. Just off Highway 101 south of the Salishan Lodge and Golf Course, Gleneden Beach is a wonderful place to live, work and play.
Gold Beach is a beautiful town located on Oregon's coast, just 45 miles from California's border. Experience the natural and wild side of Oregon on the miles of secluded beaches, windswept headlands, or while rafting or fishing along the Rogu...
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John Day, a former frontier town 265 mi/425 km southeast of Portland, is located in the midst of ranching country. Visit the Kam Wah Chung Museum and state heritage site to learn about the Chinese gold miners who came to the area in the 1860s. The im...
Located 250 mi/400 km south of Portland, the Klamath Falls area provides lots of sunshine and hundreds of lakes and streams for hunting, fishing (including fly-fishing in local creeks), boating and waterskiing. From November to early spring the Lower...
East of Springfield, Highway 126 follows the beautiful, blue McKenzie River through little resort communities shadowed by towering Douglas firs. River guides can be hired for rafting or for steelhead, salmon and trout fishing. Those devoted to fly-fi...
Surrounded by the pear orchards of the Rogue River Valley, 245 mi/395 km south of Portland, Medford offers miles/kilometers of paved bike and running paths. While passing through, visit the Harry & David's homebase for flowers and delicious fruits to...
Mount Hood stays topped with snow year-round, and the Timblerline Lodge, set near the top, is one of the most iconic American lodges in the country. The historic 1937 lodge was built by the Works Progress Administration and dedicated by U.S. Presiden...
Newport is a beautiful town nestled on Oregon's coast between the coast mountains, Pacific Ocean and Yaquina Bay. Historically, the Bayfront and Nye Beach were the two distinct areas of town, attracting visitors since the late 1800's. Today, ...
Oregon City was the first incorporated city west of the Rockies, as well as the original capital of the Oregon Territory. For 300,000 early pioneers, it was the end of the Oregon Trail. You can relive that long and trying journey through audiovisual ...
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Portland is well known for its cutting edge rock'n'roll, though Shakespeare, Broadway shows, ballerinas, chamber music ensembles and full blown classical orchestrations exist here. Try one of many outdoor activities available year round with views o...
Amidst breathtaking views, green forests and magnificent waterfalls, Prospect and its surrounding areas is a treasure of beauty and recreational opportunity to be discovered in any season of the year.Visitors enjoy participating in various outdoor ac...
Salem, Oregon's capital city, is well-located: It's an hour south of Portland, an hour from the beach and less than an hour from the Cascade Mountains. One of the state's oldest cities, Salem also sits in the midst of a rich agricultural valley and i...
Sisters is a small city in Deschutes County, Oregon. Mountain biking, hiking and horse riding are popular activities in Sisters, with many trail systems in the area, as well ski resorts and snow parks nearby.
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Located at the northern border of Oregon, on the banks of the Columbian River, The Dalles was a major Native American trading center for thousands of years. The Fort Dalles Museum, housed in the only remaining building from the mid-19th ...
This region in far northeastern Oregon is known for its lovely mountain scenery, its outdoor sporting activities (skiing, hiking, backpacking and fishing) and its historical connection to the Nez Perce Indians. La Grande is known as the gateway to th...
It's home to loggers and environmentalists, ultraconservative voters and hippies, deserts and rain forests, beaches and volcanoes. There's a big city full of high technology and progressive ideas. There are throwback ranch towns that seem closer to the 19th century than the 21st.
Oregon's variety is especially good news for vacationers. Where else can you go skiing in the morning (even in the summer) and whale-watching or deep-sea fishing in the afternoon? Where else can you recover from a llama trek by doing a little windsurfing?
Oregon's countless opportunities for outdoor recreation top the list of reasons to visit, but you don't have to leave with sore muscles. Its cities and towns are rich with history, art, culture and shopping. Sightseeing is as near as the closest highway. And more than anything else, it's the feel of the place that makes Oregon special: It's a combination of West Coast laid-back and small-town polite. All that, and it's just plain beautiful.
Geography
Oregon is one of the most geographically diverse spots in the U.S. The state's western border is formed by the Pacific Ocean, and the seacoast is separated from the rest of the state by the rugged mountains of the coastal range. East of the coastal mountains is the fertile Willamette Valley, stretching from southern Oregon to the Columbia River and bordered on the east by the Cascade Mountains. North and east of the Cascades is the Columbia Plateau, a dramatic, high-desert environment punctuated with mountains and secluded lakes. South and east of the Cascades is the northern end of the Great Basin desert.
History
More than 80 distinct tribes were living in present-day Oregon before the first Europeans arrived. Those of the central and southern Oregon coast—including the Tillamook, Coos and Tolowa—generally shared traits with other groups along the northern Pacific Coast. They relied on a fishing economy but were far less elaborate in their architectural styles, art forms, woodworking and rituals than were the tribes farther north (in present-day Washington and British Columbia). East of the Cascades, where it is considerably drier, the Native Americans led a more nomadic lifestyle, following game as it moved between summer and winter ranges.
In the late 1700s, Spain, England, Russia and the newly independent U.S. all had an interest in the frontier that would become the state of Oregon. The Lewis and Clark expedition sailed down the Columbia River (Oregon's northern border) in 1805, strengthening the claim of the U.S. Though the trappers of Britain's Hudson's Bay Company remained a force in the area into the mid-1800s, it was the deluge of settlers from Missouri and points east that eventually established the area as a territory of the U.S. The first of these pioneers arrived in 1834. From then until the end of the 19th century, half a million more followed the Oregon Trail into the region.
The influx of white settlers led to conflict with the Native Americans who saw their lands being consumed. One of the most tragic struggles involved the Nez Perce tribe of eastern Oregon. After existing peaceably with settlers and establishing treaties that granted them the right to remain in the valley that was their ancestral home, the Nez Perce were ordered out of Oregon in 1875. In response, they clashed with white settlers and soldiers and eventually embarked on an epic, 1,700-mi/2,750-km running battle that ended when Chief Joseph was forced to surrender in northern Montana.
By 1859 Oregon gained statehood, but its true ties with the rest of the U.S. came with the completion of the Northern Pacific Railroad in 1883. Felling the forests for lumber became big business, and big business it remains: Today, Oregon produces more timber than any other state. Its rivers are also a valuable resource: Hydroelectric dams provide energy for cities and industry over a wide area. The Willamette Valley is also home to the state's high-tech sector, and the sports and recreation industries flourish as well. Not surprisingly, Oregon has been at the forefront of the environmental and livability movements, so even though it is firmly entrenched in the modern era, the pioneering spirit is still alive and well.
Snapshot
Oregon's main attractions include rugged coastal scenery, outdoor activities, forests, river and deep-sea fishing, Portland, clamming, crabbing, white-water rafting, windsurfing, bicycling, nautical exhibits, Crater Lake National Park, historic sites, Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, canoeing, skiing (both downhill and cross-country), hiking and backpacking in the wilderness, covered bridges, wildlife, rockhounding and camping.
Oregon is a perfect destination for those travelers who love the outdoors, beautiful craggy scenery, solitude, rural towns and an untouristy atmosphere. Those who are looking for a fast-lane pace—or who feel their vacation will be ruined if it rains—may find the state less to their liking.
Potpourri
Oregon is one of the few states in the U.S. to set limits on urban sprawl. Urban Growth Boundaries divide land into areas that can be developed and areas that must remain rural. Residents laud the concept for keeping the cities livable and aesthetically pleasing. In 2004, however, voters passed Measure 37, a controversial law allowing property owners to pursue government compensation or develop their land.
The only World War II casualties suffered within the continental U.S. occurred in Oregon. In May 1945, six people were killed when a Japanese balloon-bomb exploded where they picnicked on Gearhart Mountain, near the town of Bly. Riding the jet stream, the paper balloon was one of thousands sent aloft by the Japanese (only 369 of the balloons were ever found). The balloons' unfulfilled objective was to set fire to the western forests.
Oregon is the first state to institute vote-by-mail elections.
Oregon is the leading exporter of Christmas trees.
Oregon is a rock hound's Eldorado—while there, be sure to get a thunder egg (the state rock) for a souvenir.
Ninety percent of the nation's Easter-lily bulbs are grown on Oregon's south-coast farms.
The Oregon Coast stretches 362 mi/583 km. The Beach Bill, passed in 1967, guarantees public access to all Oregon beaches.
The hazelnut, also known as the filbert, is Oregon's state nut. The state grows 99% of the nation's commercial crop.
As someone hailing from the picturesque state of Oregon, my heart holds a special place for the magical world of Disneyland. Despite the distance, this enchanted park feels like my 'home' park, being ...
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