52 Weekends in the Pacific Northwest - by Kara Patajo (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

52 Weekends in the Pacific Northwest is your year-round adventure companion, offering personally curated itineraries that reveal the region's hidden wonders through the eyes of a trusted local expert.

Experience the Pacific Northwest through the eyes of a local with this definitive guide to 52 perfect weekend getaways. From misty coastal retreats to sun-drenched eastern vineyards, snow-covered mountain escapes to vibrant urban adventures, this book offers a year's worth of curated itineraries organized by season.

Each weekend plan includes insider recommendations for where to stay, eat, and explore, with hidden gems and practical tips you won't find in typical travel guides. Beautiful photography captures the region's diverse landscapes and seasonal transformations, while personal anecdotes and local insights create an experience that feels like exploring with a knowledgeable friend.

Whether you're a longtime resident looking to rediscover your backyard or a visitor seeking authentic experiences beyond the tourist trail, this guide provides everything you need for unforgettable Pacific Northwest adventures all year round.

Review Quotes

"52 Weekends in the Pacific Northwest captures the heart of this region--creative stays, stunning landscapes, and experiences that just make you want to pack up and go explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest."
--The Half-Giant Hut team, Toledo, Washington

"Kara Patajo embodies the boundless curiosity and deep appreciation for the Pacific Northwest. She brings the region's wild beauty to life--from misty mountain trails to sunlit shorelines, reminding us that transformative connections are always just a weekend away."
--Brad Jones, executive director of Visit Bellevue

About the Author

KARA PATAJO is a lifelong Washingtonian and the creator behind Your Northwestie Bestie, a trusted resource for Pacific Northwest travel with over 30,000 followers across social media platforms. Her deeply rooted passion for the region stems from her multicultural heritage--her father's parents immigrated to Washington from the Philippines and South Korea, while her mother's European ancestors homesteaded in North Dakota before settling in Tacoma. A graduate of the University of Washington with degrees in Communication and Political Science, Kara has contributed to respected regional publications including 425, 425 Business, South Sound, and South Sound Business. She has served as an ambassador for Visit Bellevue since 2020, creating monthly travel vlogs showcasing outdoor adventures and hidden gems throughout the region. When not exploring new hiking trails or discovering cozy cafés, Kara can be found sharing her photography and travel recommendations from her home in the South Sound, where her mission is to help others experience the Pacific Northwest with the same wonder and appreciation of a local insider.