About

When you live in the Pacific Northwest, you don’t need to leave to take a vacation — there is so much to do and see right here. That’s why, several weekends each year, I travel locally. I visit the wine regions and fossil beds of Oregon, hike in the Cascades of Washington, and kayak in British Columbia.

My name is Lauren. I’m a midwestern transplant to the Pacific Northwest. Twelve years after moving here, I am still in awe of the natural beauty that surrounds us. My day job is for a non-profit, and I’m also a wife, a devoted mom, a vegetarian cook, and a traveler to great places near and far. As if all of that did not keep me busy enough, last year I started a bed and breakfast travel club called Casa Casa for folks who want comfortable, affordable places to stay, and really great people to stay with. Check it out at www.casacasa.org.

I am most passionate about traveling locally. A few years ago I decided to write about where I like to go, and the affordable places I find to stay along the way. Thus, Northwest Cheapsleeps was born.

Cheap sleeps are out there, of course. There are fine places to stay throughout Oregon, Washington and British Columbia that are friendly, clean, cozy and under $100 a night. It just takes a little work to find them. It also takes an avid market of budget travelers to support them.

I am so happy that Northwest Cheapsleeps has been a useful resource for budget travelers since 2008. Local residents and visitors alike who wish to explore and enjoy our moss-drenched coastal forests, stay in charming seaside towns and snuggle in mountain getaways can do so without breaking the bank.

So, what kind of accommodation qualifies as a “cheap sleep?” Some places are more expensive than others, but worth a slight splurge. Some are no-frills at all and small, but quiet and clean, and have great locations. Most are under $100 a night, and all are under $150 a night. In addition to our upcoming database of affordable places to stay, the blog highlights some of our favorites, suggest weekend itineraries for your tips, and covers trends in local affordable travel.

I know from first-hand experience that you can keep exploring the Oregon coast, Willamette Valley, North Cascades and Vancouver Island, and keep a little more of your money in your wallet. You just have to know where to look for the great bargains. I hope Northwest Cheapsleeps helps you find them!

Happy Northwest travels,

Lauren

Founder and Editor, Northwest Cheapsleeps